Steamer Maintenance:
First of all, never put essential oils or herbs directly into the water. When dropped into a closed jar with boiling water, they can cause spitting of water, clog the steamer or even break the jar from pressure. Some steamers are equipped a wick-type apparatus at the mouth of the nozzle. A couple of drops of essential oil can be placed here. Other models make use of a special container. These specialized steamers are normally more expensive; however, this provides the esthetician with the added benefit of incorporating therapeutic herbs into the steaming process. You can also put a few drops of essential oils on your hands or a cotton pad and hold it close to the steamer for aromatherapy.
Following these guidelines will keep your machine in peak working condition for years. At night, empty the jar and let it dry. Make sure that the rubber seal along the rim of the jar is clean. Refill the steamer with fresh distilled water each morning. Turn it on to give it a chance to warm up. This will save valuable time when receiving your first client of the day. To adequately maintain your facial steamer, follow these guidelines.
~Always use distilled water.
~Do not leave water in the steamer overnight.
~Neglected steamers have a tendency to spit hot water because of the build-up of mineral deposits that occur with daily use. Use a cleaning solution of plain vinegar and water.
General cleaning guidelines for the steamer:
1. Add two tablespoons of white vinegar and fill to the top with water.
2. Turn on the steamer and let it heat to steaming. Do not turn on the ozone!
3. Let the machine steam for 30 seconds or until the water level is low, but make sure it stays above the low-level line.
4. Turn off the steamer and let the vinegar solution rest in the unit for 15 minutes. Because vinegar tends to have a pungent smell, clean the steamer in your utility room or in an area away from the treatment rooms.
5. Drain the steamer completely and then refill with water. Again let the steamer heat to steaming and operate for approximately 10 minutes. If there is still an odor, drain the unit and repeat the process.
6. Do not allow the caustic vinegar and water solution to sit on the heating coil without steaming immediately. If left overnight, it will totally corrode the copper coils.
7. Note that there is usually a reset button on steamers for additional safety in the event the steamer runs out of water. If the steamer in not running, check the reset button before you call for help. The steamer should be trouble free if you follow this cleaning procedure.
See our complete line of facial steamers.
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