What Is The UK’s Best Steam Mop?
Are you looking for an easy and efficient way to keep your floors clean? A steam mop may be the perfect tool for you! Steam mops use hot water to clean surfaces, which helps eliminate bacteria and dirt. In this article, we’ll look at the top steam mops on the market and help you decide what to look out for.
Steam Mop Reviews
Steam Mop Buyer’s Guide
While traditional mops have their uses, they rarely pass the test when it comes to stubborn stains. Steam cleaners offer a far deeper clean, with the hot steam effortlessly lifting grime and killing bacteria. They can be used without chemicals, so they’re perfect for households with children and pets.
There’s a huge range of steam mops on the market and finding the right one can be tricky. Not sure what to look for when it comes to the best steam floor mop? Check out this buyer’s guide and FAQs!
Water Tank
The size of the water tank will determine how long you can clean for. The bigger the tank, the longer your steam will last. If you have a large area to clean, look for a mop with a larger water tank, although bear in mind that this will take longer to heat up.
Cleaning Pads
Cleaning pads usually come included with your steam mop. Most cleaning pads are machine washable, made from microfibres to capture water and spills. If you purchase cleaning pads separately, ensure they are compatible with the shape of your mop head.
Carpet Glider
A carpet glider is an additional attachment that allows your mop to clean carpets as well as hard floors. A carpet glider may come included with your steam mop alongside other attachments.
Steam Ready Indicator
A steam ready indicator will let you know when the mop is ready to use. Most mops are designed to heat up in just a few seconds, although those with a larger water tank may take longer. Many steam mops will also come with an empty light indicator so you’ll know when it’s time to refill the reservoir.
Size and Efficiency
If you have a lot of stairs, look for a lightweight steam mop. The mop should also be the right height for you to clean without straining your back.
Most electric powered steam mops will come with an energy rating. Look for a mop with an energy rating of A+ if you’re worried about your electricity bill!
Steaming Time
Steaming time is determined by the size of the water tank. The larger the water tank, the longer your mop will produce steam for. This tends to be around 30 minutes for a large water tank, and as low as 10 minutes for smaller mops.
Steam Mop FAQ
What is a steam mop and how does it work?
A steam mop uses steam to thoroughly clean hard floors, carpets and other areas such as windows, tiles and mirrors. These mops have a built-in water tank and, using electricity, heat the water to produce steam. The steam dampens the cleaning pad which loosens and lifts dirt and stains.
How to descale a steam mop?
Removing scale should be done on a regular basis. To descale your mop, purchase a descaling agent and mix your descaler with water (using the ratio given by the manufacturer). Fill your empty water tank with this mix and switch on the steam mop.
Leave the steam cleaner on for an hour, then use the mop for a few minutes. Turn off and unplug the steamer, allow it to fully cool and then drain the water tank. Finally, flush clean water through the tank.
How to steam clean a carpet?
To steam clean a carpet, you should first remove all obstacles and ensure the floor is well vacuumed. You won’t need to add any chemicals to your steam mop to clean your carpet, but you will need a carpet glider attachment.
Start with small sections of carpet. Older carpets may not respond well to steam, so make sure you test your cleaner an area that’s out of sight! Once you’re happy, clean the rest of the carpet, working in 1m sections. Start at the far side of the room so you won’t need to walk over your freshly cleaned carpet.
Once you have completed the room, leave it to dry for at least 24 hours.
How to unblock a steam mop?
Your steam mop may become blocked, especially if it hasn’t been descaled for a while. To clear the blockage, allow your steam mop to cool completely. Locate the spray tip, and insert a paper clip or another small, sharp object, into the tip. Move it back and forth to loosen debris. Next, pour a small amount of vinegar onto the mop head and into the tip.
If you find your mop is regularly getting blocked, you will need to descale it more regularly.