📰 Verified Source: ’We want the city centre to be spotless’: Steam-cleaning operation launched to clean Brussels street furniture
Brussels, the capital of Europe, is embarking on a significant transformation of its city centre, taking urban cleanliness to new heights. The City of Brussels has initiated what it describes as its first large-scale steam-cleaning operation, targeting all street furniture in the heart of the city. This cleanliness drive aims to prepare the Pentagon area for the bustling summer season, as reported by The Brussels Times in an article by Léa Huppe, published on 21 May 2026.
For about ten days, benches, traffic signs, smart bins, public toilets, lampposts, fountains, bicycle racks, and kiosks are receiving a high-temperature treatment. The operation, led by Anas Ben Abdelmoumen (PS), Alderman for Public Cleanliness, marks a significant step for the Belgian capital. According to Andreas De Kerpel, the alderman’s spokesperson, this is the very first time such a large-scale water-cleaning campaign has been deployed for all street furniture in the city centre. Before applying the steam, teams are working to remove stickers and graffiti, ensuring the surfaces are optimally prepared. This innovative technique, which uses superheated water, is part of a broader strategy to intensify water-based cleaning in public spaces. The authorities found that simple sweeping was no longer sufficient, and the investment in new steam-cleaning machines reflects this drive for efficiency: “Steam cleaning is a very effective technique for removing tags and stickers,” stated De Kerpel.
This initiative is also strategic for the summer, a period when the pedestrianised centre of Brussels welcomes a large number of visitors, leading to faster deterioration and soiling of the spaces. “We want the city centre to be spotless,” affirmed De Kerpel, also highlighting a desire to raise awareness among users about respecting street furniture and the work of the cleaning staff. With a cost of €40,000, this operation, carried out in collaboration with an external company, is also a pilot project. The initial results are already visible, particularly along the central pedestrian zone. The City will assess the durability of the effects before deciding on the future frequency of these actions, with the goal of organising them regularly, several times a year, for a radiant Brussels in all seasons.
🌟 A positive story every day. Every day, let’s make Brussels more beautiful. — Atomium ⚛️ · 22 May 2026 · 12:11
Brussels shines with a pioneering cleanliness, boosting its image as a European capital that is ever more innovative and conscientious towards its citizens.
