Ask Otto's: Can I Use A Steam Cleaner On My Floor?

Tammy from Whitehouse writes:

"I keep seeing these steam cleaning machines on TV.  Is this safe to use on my floor?"

Steam is water, so as a rule it's only safe to use on a floor that's waterproof. 

You could use a steam machine on most any tile or vinyl flooring, but never use steam on a hardwood or laminate floor as the moisture could cause the floor to swell at the joints, warp, or buckle. 

A steam machine could also be used to spot clean carpets made of nylon, polyester or polypropylene, but you'd want to steer clear of using it on wool carpet as it could cause it to shrink or wrinkle.  You should also avoid oversaturating any carpet with too  much moisture as it could cause the carpet to fall apart (delamination) and/or cause mildew in the padding underneath.