In the article
Last Updated on 26/05/2025 by Tony Abrahams
If you’ve been Googling “handheld steamer,” chances are you’re looking for something that works—fast. Whether it’s deep-cleaning your tiles, refreshing your clothes, or zapping bed bugs, a handheld steamer offers a powerful, eco-friendly solution without the fuss of chemicals. In this guide, we’ll cover exactly what the public wants to know when searching for this tool—and how to get the most out of it.
What Can a Handheld Steamer Be Used For?
These pocket-sized powerhouses are more versatile than you’d think. A quality handheld steamer can tackle:
- Fabric care – De-wrinkle clothes, curtains, and linens without dragging out the ironing board
- Mattress and upholstery sanitising – Ideal for dust mite and bed bug control in your bed, couch, or fabric chairs
- Grout and tile cleaning – Steam blasts grime from bathrooms and kitchens with minimal scrubbing
- Pet areas – Clean up pet beds, toys, and messes without harsh sprays or lingering smells
- Car interiors – Refresh seats, dashboards, and floor mats with ease
- Insect Infestations– Kill bed bugs and dust mites instantly
Bonus use: Handheld steamers are brilliant for allergy sufferers. They destroy allergens like dust mites, mould spores, and bacteria on contact—no toxins required. You can even use them to freshen up second-hand furniture before bringing it inside your home.
Best Handheld Steamers for Home Use
steamer images
When choosing a handheld steamer, look at these key features:
| Feature | What to Look For |
| Steam pressure | 3–4 bars or more for serious cleaning |
| Heat-up time | Under 2 minutes is ideal |
| Water tank size | At least 200ml for longer steam time |
| Attachments included | Nozzles, brushes, and upholstery tools |
| Cord length | 2+ metres or cordless for flexibility |
- Reaches bed bug-killing temperature
- Easy to handle and refill
- No chemical smell, perfect for bedrooms and kids’ rooms
- Trusted by hotels, Airbnbs, and homeowners across Australia
Handheld Steamer vs Other Cleaning Tools
Let’s cut through the noise:
- Steam vs Chemical Sprays: Steam wins for safety—no residue, no toxins, and it’s safe around kids and pets.
- Steam vs Ironing: Steamers work faster and are gentler on delicate fabrics like silk, satin, and blends.
- Steam vs Vacuuming: Steamers kill germs; vacuums don’t. Vacuuming just moves dust around. Steam sterilises.
Real talk: If you’ve got a bed bug or dust mite issue, no spray or vacuum can match the immediate effect of high-temperature steam. It’s the ultimate natural remedy.
How to Use a Handheld Steamer Safely and Effectively
Using a handheld steamer isn’t rocket science, but here are a few pro tips to make the most of it:
- Always use distilled water to prevent mineral build-up and extend the life of your machine
- Hold the nozzle 5–10cm from the surface for best heat penetration—closer for fabrics, a bit further for hard surfaces
- Steam slowly—don’t rush it. Let the heat saturate the surface to ensure bacteria, bugs, and germs are neutralised
- Let fabric surfaces dry fully before making the bed or using furniture to avoid musty smells or dampness
- Avoid using on waxed, polished, or unsealed wood as moisture can damage these surfaces
- Clean the steamer regularly to avoid clogging or mineral deposits in the nozzle
Do Handheld Steamers Kill Bed Bugs and Dust Mites?
Got Bed Bugs?
Absolutely. The key is temperature and technique. Bed bugs and dust mites die at temps above 50–60°C, and handheld steamers exceed that easily when used correctly.
Why our handheld steamer works:
- Reaches up to 130°C at the nozzle, which is hot enough to kill bed bugs instantly
- Designed for tight crevices, mattress seams, and bed frames where bugs love to hide
- Safer and more targeted than fumigation
- A completely chemical-free solution that gives peace of mind in bedrooms, baby cots, and lounge areas
🧠 Pro Tip: Use steam in combination with Diatomaceous Earth powder for long-term control. Steam kills instantly. The powder keeps killing for weeks and even months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use tap water in my handheld steamer?
A: You can, but it’s not recommended. Tap water contains minerals that can clog the steamer’s nozzle. Use distilled water to prolong its life and maintain consistent steam pressure.
Q: How long should I steam a surface to kill bed bugs?
A: At least 5–10 seconds per spot. Go slowly and methodically, especially around seams, buttons, and crevices.
Q: Can a handheld steamer clean windows?
A: Yes! Use the right attachment (often a rubber squeegee) and avoid steaming too long on cold glass to prevent cracking.
Q: Will a steamer damage my mattress or couch?
A: Not if used correctly. Always keep the nozzle a few centimetres away and allow time for the surface to dry. Test a small area first.
Q: Is a handheld steamer safe for children’s toys?
A: Absolutely. In fact, it’s one of the safest ways to sanitise without using bleach or detergents. Just make sure the toys are heat-safe and allow them to cool before use.
Final Thoughts
A handheld steamer isn’t just a cleaning tool—it’s a health upgrade, a time-saver, and in the case of bed bugs or allergens, a sanity-saver. Whether you’re zapping mites in your mattress, sanitising your sofa, refreshing your wardrobe, or prepping your Airbnb for guests, a proper steamer is worth every cent.
✅ Safe
✅ Fast
✅ Chemical-free
✅ Kills bed bugs, dust mites, and germs on contact
Want peace of mind? Get the Bed Bug Barrier Handheld Steamer and blast away your worries with steam.
How To Video: Use A Handheld Steamer To Kill Bed Bugs On A Bed Frame
Sources: Handheld Steamer
Tony pioneered a non-toxic, eco-friendly solution for bedbug infestations. His innovation won the ABC TV show “The New Inventors” in 2009. In 2012, he successfully registered Diatomaceous Earth for bedbug control in Australia.
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