The latest trend in appliances is as old as the earth: steam.
Tiny droplets pack a lot of power. Not only can steam kill germs, eliminate the need for chemical cleaners and remove odors and wrinkles, it can also cook food more thoroughly.
"People like steam because it's a natural way to do tasks that we used to do with chemicals or heat," says Victoria Hill, spokeswoman for Haan Corp., a Lancaster, Pa.-based company that produces an array of steam appliances.
So how does this mist add a miraculous touch to so many different appliances, from mops to microwaves?
Here, manufacturers tell their steamy tales:
A load of benefits
Both washing machines and dryers are available with steam features. When steam is introduced, less water and energy is needed in a wash cycle. Because steam particles are smaller and hotter than water, they penetrate fabric more easily to remove dirt and allergens, contends Ellis Mass, director of brand communications for LG Electronics USA, which he says was the first company to introduce the steam washer in 2006, followed by the steam dryer.
Of course, when you toss laundry into any dryer, the heat mixing with wet clothes will form some vapor, but steam dryers add the mist at certain times, allowing laundry to emerge wrinkle-free. In addition, says Mass, the steam dryer can be used to sanitize items that aren't washable, like stuffed animals and also can be used to freshen clothes and eliminate wrinkles.
It's a hot trend, but "there are a few things to consider before purchasing a washer or dryer with steam," adds Mary Zeitler, consumer scientist for Whirlpool Corp.'s Institute for Fabric Science. "Generally, these appliances cost more, so make sure you will utilize this special feature. Also, steam isn't a cure for all laundry woes, some delicate fabrics may not be able to withstand the high temperature, so use discretion."
More than a Mop
Using a steam mop doesn't require any soap or chemical cleaners, Hill says.
At 212 degrees, says Hill, steam kills bacteria. Many choose steam for the sanitizing effect, she says, but they also like that they can kick the bucket. Using a steam cleaner feels more like vacuuming; you fill the canister with water and plug it in.
Smooth Out the Situation
Irons have long been equipped with steam, but fabrics can also be rendered smooth with the steam alone.
Steaming is a perfect way to smooth delicates and also heavy fabrics, like draperies, without removing them from the rod, says Neil Tobin of Boca Raton, Fla.-based Sunbeam. The company recently introduced a convertible iron and steamer, which can be used on its own, without an ironing board.
A healthy cooking method
When deciding between traditional versus steam ovens, more consumers are opting for steam. It cooks food quickly and studies show food retains higher levels of vitamins, says Paul McCormack, spokesperson for Miele USA. Every food, including pasta, poultry and eggs can be prepared in the steam oven, says McCormack, "the only item you can't do in a steam oven versus a microwave is popcorn."