A household sterilizer for disinfecting fabric material that has become soiled. The unit involves an upright tub containing an electric heating element at its base. A suspension bar extends generally across at least part of the tub interior, for hanging clothing to be treated. An electric cord for the heating element has a switch and timer module in series, to control current flow to the heating element. The arrangement is such that a wide variety of garments, including miscellaneous fabrics in general, can be readily steam cleaned with a minimum of water being required. The tub occupies a minimum of space, suitable for a conventional home or apartment.