Dry Steam or Pressure Washing? Choosing the Best Industrial Cleaning Tool

When it comes to industrial cleaning, choosing the right tool can make or break efficiency, hygiene, and long-term surface integrity. 

For years, wet pressure washers have been the go-to for tough jobs, but dry steam cleaners are emerging as powerful, eco-friendly alternatives. 

So, which one is better suited for your needs?

Let’s break down the key differences and see why more industries are turning to dry steam for smarter, safer cleaning.

Cleaning Power: Heat vs. Force

Wet pressure washers use high water pressure to blast away dirt, grime, and grease. While effective, this brute-force method can damage sensitive surfaces and leave excess moisture behind, especially in environments that demand sanitisation.

Dry steam cleaners, like the Pure I6-SO and I6-SV, use superheated steam to loosen and dissolve dirt at the molecular level. The combination of heat and low moisture makes them ideal for deep sanitisation without water damage, particularly in food processing, healthcare, and precision manufacturing settings.

Water Usage and Sustainability

Here’s where dry steam shines. A typical wet pressure washer uses hundreds of litres per hour, contributing to waste and runoff issues, especially in regions with environmental regulations.

Dry steam systems operate with minimal water, using just a fraction to create high-temperature vapour. That means less cleanup, lower water bills, and reduced environmental impact, without sacrificing performance.

Chemicals: Less is More

Wet pressure washing often requires degreasers or disinfectants to be effective, which can raise safety concerns and increase operational costs.

Dry steam, on the other hand, kills bacteria, viruses, and mould with heat alone, minimising the need for harsh chemicals. This not only creates a safer workplace for staff but also helps meet hygiene standards in industries like food, hospitality, and healthcare.

Ideal Applications: Which Tool for Which Job?

Wet Pressure Washers Are Best For:

• Outdoor concrete and paving
• Vehicle and equipment washing
• Heavy-duty construction clean-up

Dry Steam Cleaners Are Ideal For:

• Food and beverage facilities
• Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories
• Manufacturing equipment and conveyors
• Hotels, gyms, and spas

Reduced Downtime, Better Efficiency

Another overlooked advantage of dry steam cleaners is how they help reduce downtime during industrial cleaning. Unlike pressure washers, which often require extended drying times and cleanup of runoff water, steam leaves minimal residue. 

Equipment and workspaces can return to operation more quickly, boosting overall productivity. This matters especially in sectors where every minute of downtime impacts output. 

Dry steam’s efficiency saves time and extends the lifespan of machinery by avoiding corrosive water exposure. In environments that demand both speed and safety, steam proves to be a smart long-term investment.

Why Choose Pure Steam Cleaners?

At Pure Steam Cleaners, we provide industrial-grade steam machines engineered for real-world demands. Our models, like the I6-SO and I6-SV, are compact yet powerful. 

They deliver continuous steam, high sanitisation performance, and eco-friendly operation with minimal training required.

Whether replacing outdated cleaning systems or seeking a more sustainable option, our team is here to help you find the best solution for your facility.

Ready to Switch to Steam?

Ditch the water waste and chemical reliance.Explore our professional range of dry steam cleaners today and find the model that matches your industrial needs.