How long does it take steam to kill bacteria?

**ShineTimeDetail** · 02-11-2012, 12:34 AM

Just curious how long do you need to hold steam on an item to kill the bacteria on it?

**Bates Detailing** · 02-11-2012, 12:55 AM

Originally Posted by ShineTimeDetail

Just curious how long do you need to hold steam on an item to kill the bacteria on it?

Good question - I figured somewhere between 1.5 sec and the time when the surface melts.

**ShineTimeDetail** · 02-11-2012, 12:56 AM

Lmao good logic!

**pickles** · 02-11-2012, 03:20 AM

Steam will denature the protein in bacteria pretty quickly.

**Robert8194** · 02-11-2012, 11:14 AM

Depends on the bacteria. But most need temps less than 140 F. To survive. Your Optima should be putting out 300 F plus and temp at 4-6 inches is still around 160. You should be able to kill a lot of bugs in a short period of time.

**ShineTimeDetail** · 02-11-2012, 11:19 AM

Originally Posted by Robert8194

Depends on the bacteria. But most need temps less than 140 F. To survive. Your Optima should be putting out 300 F plus and temp at 4-6 inches is still around 160. You should be able to kill a lot of bugs in a short period of time.

Do you have an optima?

**mark58** · 02-11-2012, 11:33 AM

Steam will kill bacteria on contact. Most of bacteria will be killed at 180F for 3 minutes. These are the specs required for commercial dishwashers. For household dishwasher If I am not mistaking Kitchen Aid Superba model is the only one that brings final rinse cycle to 180F. or at least it was few yrs ago.

**Robert8194** · 02-11-2012, 05:49 PM

Originally Posted by ShineTimeDetail

Do you have an optima?

No. I have the Dupray Hill Injection. But, when you got the Optima, I did a lot of research. I have the VX5000 but I wanted something that could steam the exterior. The Optima looked great but a little pricey for an enthusiast. So, I went with the Dupray. I have steamed the exterior of two cars and tires and wheels on three. Steam is amazing.

**ShineTimeDetail** · 02-11-2012, 05:53 PM

What's your process on the exterior?

**Robert8194** · 02-11-2012, 07:16 PM

Originally Posted by ShineTimeDetail

What's your process on the exterior?

I hit a panel with low pressure steam, spray Optimum Opticlean, let dwell. Hit with steam again and wipe with MF turning frequently. On the wheels and tires I have started using Mother's and steam with a little brushing. Then use the hot water injection to rinse.