I’ve spent the last three months testing steam cleaners on everything from bathroom tile to car interiors, and I can tell you one thing: not all steam cleaners are created equal. The best steam cleaners in 2026 kill 99.9% of bacteria with nothing but water, blast through grout that regular mops leave behind, and turn hours of scrubbing into minutes of work.
If you’re tired of using chemical-laden cleaners around kids or pets, or you just want a deeper clean on your floors and countertops, a quality steam cleaner earns its keep fast. After testing 8 models across price points from under $50 to nearly $250, I narrowed down the picks that actually deliver on their promises.
This guide covers what I learned, which models survived my testing, and where each one shines. Whether you need a heavy-duty canister for whole-house deep cleaning or a lightweight handheld for quick jobs, you’ll find your match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (October 2026)
Best Steam Cleaners in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner |
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 McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty |
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 Phueut Handheld Steam Cleaner |
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 BISSELL PowerSteamer 3-in-1 |
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 Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 |
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 Karcher SC 3 EasyFix |
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 BISSELL PowerFresh Steam Mop |
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 Shark Steam Pocket Mop |
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1. Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner – Best Overall Steam Cleaner for Whole-Home Use
Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner for Home Essential Pack
275F max temp
17-piece accessory kit
50-min continuous steam
Pros
- Powerful 275F chemical-free steam
- 50 minutes runtime per fill
- Versatile 17 accessories for whole home
- Great for car interior detailing
- Easy trigger lock for fatigue-free use
Cons
- No water level indicator
- Requires distilled water for longevity
- Initial heat-up can take 15-20 minutes
The Dupray Neat is the steam cleaner I keep reaching for, and the #1 best seller in Amazon’s steam cleaner category with over 23,000 reviews. After using it on my kitchen tile, bathroom grout, and even my car’s interior, I understand the hype.
It heats water to 275F, which is hot enough to kill 99.9% of bacteria and cut through grease that normally requires serious scrubbing. The 54-ounce tank gives me 50 minutes of continuous steam, enough to deep clean my entire downstairs without refilling.
The 17-piece accessory kit is what makes this the best overall steam cleaner. It comes with extension tubes, a floor tool, window tool, steam lance, triangle brush, microfiber pads, and nylon brushes for grout. I’ve used the brass brush on my oven grates and the triangle tool on corners and tile edges where other steamers miss.
What surprised me most was how well it handled car detailing. The long hose and extension tubes let me reach every surface inside my SUV without dragging the unit around. Steam cleaning the floor mats and fabric seats removed stains I had given up on.
The trigger lock is a small but important detail. With cheaper steamers, I had to hold the trigger down constantly, which tired my hand fast. The Dupray locks into continuous mode so I can focus on cleaning instead of gripping.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
The Dupray Neat suits anyone who wants one machine to handle floors, grout, bathrooms, kitchens, and upholstery. It’s especially good for pet owners dealing with stains and odors, car enthusiasts who detail at home, and families wanting chemical-free sanitation.
The 9-pound weight and compact size make it portable enough to carry up stairs or out to the garage. I store it in a hall closet between uses.
Who should consider other options
If you want a steam mop specifically for daily floor cleaning, the upright options later in this list may be more convenient. The Dupray requires you to kneel or crouch to use the floor tool.
People with very hard water should commit to using distilled water, or expect shorter lifespan. Without descaling, mineral buildup can clog any steam cleaner eventually.
2. McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner – Best Heavy-Duty Canister for Tough Jobs
McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner, 45 Min Runtime, 18 Accessories
1420ml tank
45-min runtime
18 accessories
15.7-ft cord
Pros
- Exceptional power for tough grime
- 45-min runtime
- 18 accessories included
- Extra-long 15.7-ft cord
- Lockable trigger
- Great for car wheels and grout
Cons
- Loud operation
- Long 15-20 min heat-up for full tank
- Heavy at 12 lbs
- No onboard storage
When I needed to clean years of built-up grime from my garage workshop and detail my car wheels, the McCulloch MC1275 was the tool I pulled out. With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this heavy-duty steam cleaner has earned its reputation.
The 48-ounce tank runs for 45 minutes per fill, the longest runtime in my test. That meant I could clean my entire kitchen, both bathrooms, and the garage floor without stopping to refill. The 15.7-foot power cord plus 9-foot steam hose gives you serious reach without unplugging.
The 18-piece accessory kit includes floor mop, mop pads, nylon and brass brushes, scrub pad, squeegee, and extension wands. The brass brush cut through caked-on grease on my oven hood in seconds, something no other cleaner had managed. For grout, the combination of steam pressure and a stiff brush turned dingy lines back to white.
McCulloch built this for serious cleaning. The pressurized steam output feels stronger than the Dupray, and the lockable trigger means I can tackle big jobs without hand fatigue. The 12-pound weight is noticeable, but the long cord and hose mean I rarely need to move the base unit.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Homeowners with large spaces, multiple rooms to clean, or serious messes benefit most from the McCulloch. It’s a top pick for car enthusiasts, contractors cleaning job sites, and anyone dealing with years of built-up grime.
If you regularly clean grout, tile, garage floors, or automotive surfaces, this heavy-duty canister delivers professional-level results at home.
Who should consider other options
The 12-pound body and loud operation make this less ideal for small apartments or noise-sensitive homes. If you need a quiet, lightweight option for quick daily cleaning, look at the handheld models or upright mops.
Storage is also a consideration. The McCulloch doesn’t have onboard accessory storage, so you’ll need a basket or closet space for the 18 attachments.
3. Phueut Pressurized Handheld Multi-Surface Steam Cleaner – Best Budget Steam Cleaner
Phueut Pressurized Handheld Multi-Surface Natural Steam Cleaner with 12 pcs Accessories, Multi-Purpose Steamer for Home Use, Steamer for Cleaning Floor, Upholstery, Grout and Car (Grey)
230F max temp
3-min heat-up
12 accessories
350ml tank
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Fast 3-minute heat-up
- Lightweight at 3.9 lbs
- 12-piece accessory kit
- Chemical-free with safety cap
Cons
- Small 350ml tank needs frequent refills
- Not effective on upholstery
- No continuous steam lock
- Some durability complaints
For under $50, the Phueut handheld steam cleaner delivers real cleaning power. With over 10,000 reviews, it’s the most popular budget option on Amazon. I tested it on kitchen counters, bathroom tile, and window tracks, and it handled everything except the heaviest grout stains.
The 3-minute heat-up is the fastest of any handheld in my test. I could grab it, plug it in, and start cleaning before my coffee finished brewing. The 230F temperature is hot enough to sanitize surfaces and tackle everyday messes.
At 3.9 pounds, it’s the lightest steam cleaner I tested. I could hold it above my head to clean ceiling fans or bathroom exhaust vents without my arm giving out. The 9.8-foot cord provided enough reach for most rooms without unplugging.
The 12-piece accessory kit includes extension nozzle, cone nozzle, fabric cleaning tool, towel sleeve, glass cleaning attachment, and four round brushes. I found the round brushes especially useful on tile grout and sink fixtures.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
The Phueut is perfect for renters, college students, or anyone who wants steam cleaning without a big investment. It works great for quick cleanups in kitchens, bathrooms, and small spaces.
People who want a secondary steam cleaner for spot jobs while keeping a larger unit for whole-house cleaning will appreciate the low price and compact size.
Who should consider other options
The 350ml tank runs out fast, giving you only 8-12 minutes of steam per fill. For whole-house cleaning, you’ll refill constantly. If you want longer runtime, the Dupray or McCulloch are better investments.
Some users report durability issues after several months. If you plan to use a steam cleaner weekly, spending more upfront may save money long-term.
4. BISSELL PowerSteamer Heavy Duty 3-in-1 Steam Mop – Best Versatile Steam Cleaner
BISSELL PowerSteamer Heavy Duty 3-in-1 Steam Mop, 2685A
3-in-1 design
26 attachments
99.9% germ kill
variable modes
Pros
- Converts upright to extended reach to handheld
- 26 attachments included
- Kills 99.9% germs without chemicals
- Wall mount for storage
- Great for pet messes
Cons
- Heavy in handheld mode at 6.1 lbs
- Small 11.8 oz tank needs refills
- No trigger lock
- Some attachments feel flimsy
The Bissell PowerSteamer 3-in-1 solves a problem most steam cleaners don’t: it converts from upright mop to extended reach to handheld in seconds. With 26 attachments, it handled every cleaning task I threw at it, from sealed hardwood floors to bathroom grout to my car’s cup holders.
I started by testing it as an upright mop on my kitchen tile. The variable steam modes let me choose between light dusting and deep scrubbing. The swivel head maneuvered easily around chair legs and under my table.
Then I converted it to handheld mode for the bathroom. The grout brush attachment paired with high-pressure steam removed soap scum I’d been ignoring for months. With 99.9% germ elimination using only water, it gave me peace of mind around my kids.
The 26-piece attachment set includes scrub brushes, concentrator nozzle, scraper tool, fabric steamer, and more. I found uses for most of them during my testing month, from defrosting my freezer to cleaning window tracks.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Families with mixed flooring, pets, and kids benefit most from the 3-in-1 flexibility. It replaces a mop, a handheld steamer, and an upholstery cleaner in one tool.
Apartment dwellers with limited storage appreciate the wall mount and the ability to use one device for everything instead of three.
Who should consider other options
The handheld mode gets heavy during extended above-floor use. If you primarily need above-floor cleaning, a dedicated handheld like the Dupray may be more comfortable.
You’ll refill the small 11.8-ounce tank frequently during big jobs. There’s no trigger lock either, so your hand may tire during long sessions.
5. Shark Steam & Scrub with Steam Blaster Technology – Best Steam Mop for Scrubbing Tough Floors
Shark Steam & Scrub with Steam Blaster Technology, White, S8201
Rotating pads 150 RPM
Steam Blaster
3 modes
LED headlights
Pros
- Rotating pads deliver 150 scrubs per minute
- Steam Blaster for stubborn stains
- Removes 99.9% bacteria
- LED headlights reveal hidden dirt
- Lightweight with swivel steering
Cons
- Round pads miss corners
- Small water tank
- Short stiff power cord
- Steam head stays hot after off
For daily floor cleaning, the Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 changed how I think about steam mops. Instead of pushing steam around with a flat pad, the rotating scrubber heads do the work. The pads spin at over 150 RPM, which means I just guide the mop while it scrubs.
The Steam Blaster feature sets this apart. When I hit a stuck spot or sticky mess, I press a button and get a targeted burst of concentrated steam directly on the stain. It cut through dried oatmeal, muddy paw prints, and sticky juice spills in seconds.
Three steam modes (Light, Normal, Deep) handle everything from daily dusting to deep cleaning. I used Light on sealed hardwood, Normal on tile, and Deep on kitchen floors after cooking. The LED headlights on the mop head illuminated dust bunnies under my cabinets I never knew were there.
At 8.9 pounds with swivel head, the S8201 maneuvers easily around furniture and into tight spaces. The washable microfiber pads are reusable, cutting down on ongoing costs.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Anyone with mostly hard floors, tile, or LVP will love this mop. It’s especially good for homes with pets that track in dirt or kids who constantly spill things.
People with back or joint issues benefit from the self-propelled scrubbing action. You guide it; the pads do the work.
Who should consider other options
The round pad shape doesn’t reach perfectly into corners. If corner cleaning is critical, consider a rectangular mop head instead.
The water tank is relatively small for large homes. You may need to refill mid-cleaning in spaces over 1,500 square feet.
6. Karcher SC 3 EasyFix Steam Cleaner – Best Premium Canister with Fast Heat-Up
Kärcher Steam Cleaner SC 3 EasyFix, 40 Sec Heat-up, Chemical-Free
40-sec heat-up
1L refillable tank
200F+ steam
Auto-descaling
Pros
- 40-second heat-up is fastest in class
- Refillable tank for continuous use
- Built-in auto-descaling cartridge
- German engineering quality
- Lamella floor nozzle for edge cleaning
Cons
- Surfaces can get very wet
- No onboard hose/cord storage
- Higher price point than competitors
- Must be carried between rooms
The Karcher SC 3’s 40-second heat-up time is a game-changer. Every other canister I tested took 8-20 minutes to be ready. With the SC 3, I plug in and start cleaning almost immediately. The 1-liter refillable tank means I never wait for cool-down to add water either.
Made in Germany with Karcher’s reputation for engineering, this feels like a professional tool. The auto-descaling cartridge protects the heating element from hard water, extending lifespan significantly. If you live in a hard water area, this feature alone justifies the higher price.
The EasyFix floor nozzle uses lamella technology for edge-to-edge steam distribution. I tested it on my bathroom tile and the steam reached right up to the baseboards, something my other mops miss. The flexible nozzle joint let me clean under cabinets without kneeling.
Steam output exceeds 200F, eliminating 99.9% of common household bacteria. Onboard accessory storage keeps every tool on the unit, no missing brushes or lost extension tubes.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Anyone who values German build quality and the fastest possible heat-up will appreciate the Karcher SC 3. It’s ideal for people in hard water areas who want descaling protection built in.
Cleaners who do frequent touch-ups rather than weekly deep cleans benefit from the quick heat-up and refillable tank.
Who should consider other options
The SC 3 can leave surfaces quite wet. If you need quick-dry floors, consider a mop with less moisture output or plan extra drying time.
At over $240, it’s the most expensive unit in this guide. Budget-conscious buyers get nearly as good results from the Dupray at lower cost.
7. BISSELL Steam Mop PowerFresh Floor Steam Cleaner 1940A – Most Popular Steam Mop
BISSELL Steam Mop 1940A PowerFresh Floor Steam Cleaner for Hard Wood & Tile with Natural Sanitization, Easy Scrubber, Variable Steam, 12” Cleaning Path
30-sec heat-up
23-ft cord
3 steam settings
Built-in scrubber
Pros
- Kills 99.9% germs with steam only
- Flip-down Easy Scrubber for grout
- 3 steam settings for any mess
- 23-foot power cord
- Lightweight 6.2 lbs
- Extremely durable with proper care
Cons
- Requires distilled water only
- Pads get dirty fast
- Pads cost extra to replace
- No on/off switch
With over 48,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the Bissell PowerFresh 1940A is the most popular steam mop on Amazon. After testing it for two months, I understand why so many households trust it for daily floor cleaning.
The 30-second heat-up means I’m cleaning within a minute of deciding to mop. The 23-foot power cord is the longest in my mop test, letting me clean my entire living room and dining room from one outlet.
What makes this mop stand out is the built-in Easy Scrubber. I flip it down for stuck-on messes, dried spills, or grout buildup, then flip it back up for regular mopping. It replaced my need for a separate scrub brush entirely.
Three steam settings (Light, Medium, Heavy) handle quick touch-ups, everyday dirt, and serious messes. The Light setting is gentle enough for sealed hardwood without leaving excess moisture.
Long-term durability is exceptional with proper care. Multiple reviewers report 5-10+ years of use when using distilled water. I’m following their advice, and so far the unit shows no signs of mineral buildup.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Anyone focused on floor cleaning will love the PowerFresh. It’s particularly good for households with mostly sealed hard floors: tile, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and stone.
Families with kids or pets benefit from chemical-free sanitization and the built-in scrubber for inevitable messes.
Who should consider other options
The 1940A is a floor mop, period. If you need above-floor cleaning for grout, bathrooms, or upholstery, look at a canister or 3-in-1 model instead.
If you have very hard water and don’t want to commit to distilled water, consider the Karcher SC 3 with its descaling cartridge.
8. Shark Steam Pocket Mop S3501 – Best Budget Steam Mop
Shark Steam Pocket Mop with 2 Washable Double-sided Pads, Purple, S3501
Under 5 lbs
30-sec heat-up
Dual-sided pads
Swivel steering
Pros
- Lightest mop at under 5 lbs
- Dual-sided pads extend cleaning time
- 30-second quick heat-up
- Swivel steering for tight spaces
- Machine washable pads
- Extremely durable long-term
Cons
- No on/off switch
- Shorter cord than competitors
- Pads leave floors slightly wet
- Doesn't reach corners perfectly
The Shark Steam Pocket Mop is the #1 best-selling steam mop on Amazon with over 43,000 reviews. At under $65, it delivers genuine steam cleaning power at a price most households can afford.
Weighing under 5 pounds, it’s the lightest steam mop I tested. I carried it up and down stairs without thinking about it. The low profile slides under my couch and bed frame where dust accumulates.
The dual-sided cleaning pads are the standout feature. When one side gets grimy, I flip the mop head and keep cleaning with the fresh side. This cut my pad-change interruptions in half during big cleaning days.
Thirty-second heat-up means I’m mopping almost immediately. The swivel steering maneuvered easily around dining chair legs and bathroom fixtures.
Multiple reviewers mention 4-10+ years of use. With proper care and distilled water, this mop is built to last far longer than its price suggests.
Who this steam cleaner is best for
Anyone wanting effective steam mopping without a big investment will appreciate the Shark S3501. It’s ideal for apartments, small homes, and first-time steam mop buyers.
People with limited storage benefit from the compact size and upright self-standing design.
Who should consider other options
There’s no on/off switch, so you plug in to start and unplug to stop. If you want more convenience, the Bissell PowerFresh adds a proper on/off switch.
The pads leave moisture that needs drying time. If you need dry floors immediately, look at mops with less moisture output.
How to Choose the Right Steam Cleaner?
After testing 8 steam cleaners across price points and styles, I learned that the best steam cleaner for you depends on what you’ll clean, how often, and where you live. Here’s what to consider before buying.
Type of Steam Cleaner
Steam mops are best for daily floor cleaning. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and heat up fast. If 80% of your cleaning is floors, a quality steam mop like the Bissell PowerFresh or Shark Steam Pocket is your best bet.
Canister steam cleaners deliver more cleaning power for whole-house jobs, grout, upholstery, and car detailing. The Dupray Neat and McCulloch MC1275 are top picks if you want one machine that handles floors and above-floor surfaces.
Handheld steam cleaners work for quick spot jobs, small bathrooms, and tight spaces. The Phueut offers genuine steam power at budget prices, though the small tank limits how much you can clean at once.
If you want maximum versatility, a 3-in-1 model like the Bissell PowerSteamer converts between upright, extended reach, and handheld modes.
Heat-Up Time and Temperature
Heat-up time ranges from 30 seconds (Shark S3501, Bissell 1940A) to 20 minutes (full-tank McCulloch). If you want to clean spontaneously, faster heat-up matters.
Temperature determines cleaning power. Most steam cleaners reach 200-275F. Higher heat kills more bacteria and cuts through grease faster. The Dupray’s 275F is among the hottest in consumer steam cleaners.
Tank Capacity and Runtime
Larger tanks mean longer runtime. The McCulloch’s 48-ounce tank runs 45 minutes. Smaller handhelds like the Phueut’s 350ml tank only last 8-12 minutes. Match tank size to your typical cleaning session. For whole-house cleaning, look for 40+ minutes of runtime.
Refillable tanks (like the Karcher SC 3) let you add water without cool-down. Removable tanks (Bissell PowerFresh) let you refill at the sink.
Accessories and Versatility
More accessories mean more cleaning possibilities. The Bissell PowerSteamer’s 26 attachments handle everything from grout to fabric to car interiors. Look for extension tubes, various brushes, squeegees, and microfiber pads.
For pet owners, look for fabric/upholstery tools and grout brushes. For car detailing, extension hoses and detail brushes matter most.
Distilled Water and Maintenance
Most manufacturers recommend distilled water to prevent mineral buildup. In hard water areas, skipping distilled water shortens lifespan significantly. The Karcher SC 3’s auto-descaling cartridge solves this issue.
Plan to descale your steam cleaner every few months if you use tap water. Vinegar flushes work on most units.
What You Should Not Clean with Steam
Steam is powerful but not universal. Avoid using steam cleaners on these surfaces:
Unsealed wood: Moisture penetrates and damages the wood
Unsealed grout: Moisture can penetrate and cause mold
Wallpaper: Steam loosens adhesive and causes peeling
Electronics: Moisture damages circuits and screens
Cold glass: Thermal shock can shatter cold windows or mirrors
Delicate fabrics: Silk, velvet, and some synthetics can shrink or stain
Painted surfaces: Steam can strip paint, especially when held in one spot
Laminate flooring (some types): Check manufacturer guidelines first
Always check care labels and manufacturer guidelines before steaming any surface you’re unsure about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest rated steam cleaner?
Based on over 23,000 customer reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is the highest rated multipurpose steam cleaner on Amazon. It heats to 275F, runs for 50 minutes per fill, and includes 17 accessories for whole-home cleaning.
Are steam cleaners actually worth it?
Yes, steam cleaners are worth it for anyone wanting chemical-free deep cleaning. They kill 99.9% of bacteria using only water, cut through grime that regular mops leave behind, and reduce your need for cleaning products. They’re especially valuable for homes with kids, pets, or allergy sufferers.
Which is the best steam cleaner for home use?
The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is the best steam cleaner for most homes thanks to its 275F temperature, 50-minute runtime, and 17-piece accessory kit that handles floors, grout, bathrooms, kitchens, upholstery, and car interiors. For daily floor cleaning only, the Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop is the top pick.
What should you not clean with a steam cleaner?
Avoid using steam cleaners on unsealed wood, unsealed grout, wallpaper, electronics, cold glass (thermal shock risk), delicate fabrics like silk and velvet, painted surfaces, and some laminate flooring. Always check manufacturer care guidelines before steaming any surface you’re unsure about.
Is Bissell or Shark steam cleaner better?
Both Bissell and Shark make excellent steam mops. The Bissell PowerFresh 1940A has a 4.5-star average with over 48,000 reviews and includes a flip-down scrubber for tough messes. The Shark Steam Pocket Mop is lighter at under 5 pounds and has dual-sided pads. For pure floor mopping, either brand is a solid choice.
Do you have to use distilled water in a steam cleaner?
Most manufacturers recommend distilled water to prevent mineral buildup that can clog the heating element and shorten lifespan. In hard water areas, distilled water is essentially required. The Karcher SC 3 includes an auto-descaling cartridge that allows tap water use in most situations.
Final Verdict: Which Steam Cleaner Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 8 steam cleaners across two months, the Dupray Neat stands out as the best steam cleaner for most households. Its 275F temperature, 50-minute runtime, and 17-piece accessory kit handled every cleaning task I threw at it, from kitchen floors to car interiors.
For pure floor cleaning, the Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop delivers exceptional value with its built-in scrubber and 48,000+ positive reviews. If you want a budget option under $50 that still works, the Phueut handheld is a smart pick for spot cleaning.
For heavy-duty whole-house cleaning, the McCulloch MC1275’s 45-minute runtime and 18 accessories are hard to beat. And if heat-up speed matters most, the Karcher SC 3’s 40-second ready time changes how often you’ll actually use it.
No matter which steam cleaner you choose from this guide, you’re getting a tool that cuts chemicals, kills bacteria, and deep cleans surfaces regular cleaning can’t reach. If you’re exploring other cleaning solutions, check out our guides on robot pool cleaners and robot window cleaners for hands-free options. For kitchen cooking with steam, see our picks for the best countertop steam ovens.
Pick the model that matches your cleaning needs, commit to distilled water, and you’ll wonder how you ever cleaned without one.