Steam cleaning has been gaining traction in the car detailing world — but is it really as effective as people claim? Or is it just another trend that sounds good on paper?
We spoke with detailing professionals and looked into real-world results to break it down for you.

Why Steam Cleaning Is Making Noise in the Industry

For years, detailers have relied on extractors, brushes and buckets. Then came steam. Unlike traditional methods, steam delivers high heat with minimal moisture, cutting through grime, bacteria and odours — all without soaking the surface.

It’s a method once reserved for industrial cleaning, but now it’s everywhere from mobile car wash vans to luxury detailing studios. Why?

Because it works.

The Benefits Experts Keep Mentioning

1. Dry Fast, Move Fast

Time is money, especially when detailing multiple vehicles a day. Steam uses very little water, so interiors dry quickly, sometimes within minutes. That means no waiting around, no soggy seats and no callbacks.

2. Safe for Most Surfaces

From dashboards to door trims and even leather seats, steam is gentle but effective. It’s especially useful in cleaning tight spaces — air vents, gear knobs, cup holders — without leaving residue behind.

3. Kills Bacteria Without Chemicals

One of steam’s biggest advantages is natural sanitisation. High-temperature vapour eliminates germs and odours without needing heavy chemical sprays. That’s a win for both the environment and sensitive customers.

4. A Professional Finish

Steam lifts embedded dirt, restores fabric brightness and gives interiors a fresh, like-new feel — all without drenching them. It’s that clean look clients instantly notice.

But It’s Not Perfect: What to Watch Out For

Steam cleaning isn’t a silver bullet. It’s less effective on deep, set-in stains in carpets and seats — especially those soaked in over time. For these, extractors or pre-treatment may still be needed.

And while steam can dislodge dirt, you still need a vacuum or wipe-down afterwards to remove loosened grime.

What Professionals Are Actually Using

We asked several car detailers across Australia what they’re currently using. The majority had shifted toward hybrid machines — those that offer both steam cleaning and vacuum extraction.

Why? Because flexibility wins. When you’re dealing with different car interiors, stain types and materials, being able to switch between steam and extraction is a massive time-saver.

Machine like the Jetvac Junior are leading this space, offering professional-grade steam and built-in vacuum in one compact unit.

So, Is Steam Cleaning Good for Car Detailing?

Absolutely — when used for the right tasks.

Steam cleaning is ideal for:

• General interior sanitisation
• Leather and vinyl surfaces
• Hard-to-reach spots like vents and crevices
• Light to moderate fabric cleaning

It’s not a replacement for everything, but it’s a powerful addition to any serious detailer’s toolkit. And with machines that combine both steam and extraction, like the Jetvac range, you no longer have to choose between speed and power.

Q&A

Q: Does steam cleaning damage car interiors?
A: Not when used correctly. Steam is safe for leather, vinyl and plastics. Just avoid long exposure to delicate electronics.

Q: Is steam better than an extractor?
A: They serve different purposes. Steam is great for sanitisation and hard surfaces, while extractors are better for deep fabric cleaning.

Q: Do I need both?
A: If you want to offer full detailing services, yes. That’s why hybrid machines like Jetvac are so popular — they give you both in one.

---

Want help choosing the right machine? Check out the Jetvac cleaning range for commercial steam and vacuum options tailored for professional car detailing.