Deep Clean & Decalcify Your Facial Steamer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 13/02/2025

Facial steamers are fantastic tools for enhancing skincare routines, opening pores for deeper cleansing and improving product absorption. However, the very water that delivers these benefits can also leave behind mineral deposits and bacteria, diminishing the steamer's effectiveness and potentially even harming your skin. A neglected steamer becomes a breeding ground for germs, defeating the purpose of its hygienic design. Regular deep cleaning and descaling are crucial for maintaining your steamer's performance and ensuring you're reaping the full skincare advantages.

Ignoring this vital maintenance can lead to reduced steam output, unpleasant odors, and even the risk of skin irritation. To keep your facial steamer in top condition and prevent these issues, follow this simple yet effective step-by-step guide on how to properly deep clean and decalcify your device, ensuring years of healthy, radiant skin.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always unplug your facial steamer from the power source before cleaning or filling with water.
  • Never immerse the electrical base of the steamer in water or any other liquid. This could cause electrical shock or damage.
  • Use only distilled or filtered water in your facial steamer to prevent mineral buildup and prolong its lifespan. Tap water can lead to excessive limescale.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Turn off and unplug your steamer. Keep the ozone light off.
    Turn off and unplug your steamer. Keep the ozone light off.
    Preparation

  2. Initial Cleaning

    • Once cool, remove the jar and empty leftover water.
    • Clean the jar with tap water and a little dish soap (optional). Rinse thoroughly and dry.
    • Clean the grommet with a little dish soap and tap water. Be gentle to avoid tearing the silicon.
    Clean the grommet with a little dish soap and tap water. Be gentle to avoid tearing the silicon.Clean the grommet with a little dish soap and tap water. Be gentle to avoid tearing the silicon.Clean the grommet with a little dish soap and tap water. Be gentle to avoid tearing the silicon.
    Initial Cleaning

  3. Decalcification

    • Mix a solution of white vinegar and distilled water (approx. 1:2-3 ratio).
    • Pour the vinegar solution into the jar, reattach it to the steamer, and run for 5 minutes.
    • Turn off and unplug the steamer. Wait for the jar to cool, then remove it.
    Turn off and unplug the steamer. Wait for the jar to cool, then remove it.Turn off and unplug the steamer. Wait for the jar to cool, then remove it.Turn off and unplug the steamer. Wait for the jar to cool, then remove it.
    Decalcification

  4. Post-Decalcification Cleaning

    • Clean the heating irons with a clean cloth and distilled water. Don't leave vinegar on the irons too long.
    • Empty, clean, and dry the jar. Refill with clean distilled water, reattach to the steamer, and run for an additional 5 minutes to remove vinegar smells.
    Empty, clean, and dry the jar. Refill with clean distilled water, reattach to the steamer, and run for an additional 5 minutes to remove vinegar smells.Empty, clean, and dry the jar. Refill with clean distilled water, reattach to the steamer, and run for an additional 5 minutes to remove vinegar smells.
    Post-Decalcification Cleaning
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Tips

  • Always use distilled water.
  • Never leave water in your steamer overnight.
  • Clean your steamer every month or two, depending on usage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using tap water

Reason: Tap water contains minerals that can build up and worsen mineral deposits (scale) inside your facial steamer, reducing its efficiency and potentially damaging the heating element.
Solution: Always use distilled or filtered water in your facial steamer.

2. Ignoring regular cleaning

Reason: Regular cleaning prevents mineral buildup, mold, and mildew growth, ensuring the longevity and hygiene of your facial steamer and preventing potential skin irritations.
Solution: Clean your facial steamer after each use with a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth or brush, and perform a deep clean at least monthly.

FAQs

How often should I deep clean my facial steamer?
The frequency depends on usage. For daily use, deep clean at least once a week. For less frequent use, aim for a deep clean every 2-4 weeks, or when you notice mineral buildup.
What happens if I don't clean my facial steamer regularly?
Neglecting to clean your facial steamer can lead to mineral buildup (scale) which reduces steaming efficiency, potentially introduces bacteria into the steam, and may even damage the device over time. You may also experience less effective skin treatments.