Steam mops are a hybrid of a steam cleaner and a classic mop. This household appliance can significantly simplify cleaning and achieve absolute cleanliness with a minimum of effort. The versatility of these devices has made them indispensable in both small apartments and large houses. Today there are many models on the market, differing in price and technical characteristics, among which you can find the most suitable one.
Types of steam mop
Today you can find different steam mops on sale, differing in price and functional features.
Classical
Ideal for a standard medium-sized apartment. Devices are usually equipped with a full set of basic functions: washing, polishing, disinfection. The kit usually comes with various attachments.
With an electric broom
Equipped with rotating brushes, their rotation speed can reach 2.5 thousand revolutions per minute. The device is suitable not only for washing floors, but also for dry cleaning. It is indispensable if pets live in the apartment, as well as for cleaning rooms with a high degree of traffic. This device is more efficient, but more expensive and heavier than others.
Ergonomic
It differs from other models in its compactness and small size. Convenient attachments make it convenient for cleaning very small spaces.
Tips and tricks
When buying a steam mop, the following recommendations will be useful:
- Initially study the functions and capabilities of the selected technology. Don't be shy to ask the seller stupid questions. It is important to obtain a quality guarantee, because the purchase is made for several years, and not for 1 day.
- Buy models from well-known manufacturers who have proven themselves well.
- Explore the range of attachments.
- Choose a model that will fit well in your hand.
- Do not start work after connection. The steam mop should become hot.
- When buying equipment, ask the seller where you can buy a water filter. Equipment for some outdated models may no longer be produced.
- When choosing, you should pay attention to the thickness. A flat mop is better because the head will fit under your bed and sofa.
Attention! Do not direct the steam stream towards people or pets. You may get severe burns.
Advantages
The advantages of the device include the following:
- The most effective cleaning of any surface. The steam mop is suitable for any surface: linoleum, parquet, cork, carpet. At the same time, it is capable of removing both fresh and old stains;
- disinfectant properties. Such devices not only remove dirt, but also kill bacteria, insects and dust mites. In addition, they help get rid of larvae and parasites. Using a mop in the bathroom can remove mold and mildew from the tiles. This is why they are ideal for allergy sufferers and families with small children;
- no need to use detergents. To clean the floor you only need hot water. There is no need to buy chemical detergents, so steam mops are considered the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly devices;
- ease of use. In order to use the device, just pour water into the device and turn it on. After cleaning, there is no need to wipe the floor; very little liquid remains on the surface, and it dries quickly on its own.
Inexpensive
Budget options for devices do their job well, but are not functional enough and will not last long.
The best inexpensive steam mops:
- ENDEVER Odyssey Q-606 is suitable for any surface. The device is easy to disassemble and simple to maintain. It releases a powerful jet with a temperature of up to 103 degrees, which kills negative microflora. Among the shortcomings, users highlighted the poor quality of the material and the difficulty in finding a replacement rag.
- Kitfort KT-1002 is convenient because the water tank can be removed with light pressure. It can be washed and soaked in citric acid if scale has accumulated inside from using tap water. This model is easy to assemble and has a function for adjusting the steam power, which is important if you need to clean parquet, linoleum or tiles. The only significant drawback is that the device cannot be used in a horizontal position, that is, it will not be possible to clean the tiles on the wall or even the area just above the baseboard. The steam supply simply stops.
Such devices will last for many years if you handle them carefully. Budget options tend to wear out quickly.
Flaws
Despite the large number of advantages, a steam mop also has its disadvantages:
- does not remove all contaminants. So, a steam mop will not be able to cope with spilled liquid or paint stains. It also usually does not allow the surface to achieve shine;
- high price. A steam mop is much more expensive than its more traditional counterparts. Although this disadvantage is quite relative, because the device allows you to save on detergents;
- Not all models are equipped with self-cleaning systems. If there is no such system, then you will have to clean the mop manually.
Leading manufacturing companies
Kitfort. A Russian company that has been producing household appliances since 2011. Steam mops from this company went on sale in 2012. Production is located in China. All products have quality certificates and a guarantee.
Bradex. A steadily growing, successful international company. The consumer is guaranteed high quality products, affordability and ease of use.
Bissell. Private American manufacturer of household appliances. Specializing in household cleaning devices since 1876. Considered a leader in the production of vacuum cleaners.
Euroflex. An Italian company known for its excellent quality. The products of this company have reliable functionality, low energy consumption, and modern design. All household appliances are equipped with first-class components, and the cost pleases any consumer.
Tefal. King in the household appliances market. A leading brand that enjoys well-deserved love among the masses. The French company strictly observes the guaranteed quality of its products, constantly introducing innovative developments and interesting design solutions.
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Rules for choosing a steam mop
Before purchasing the model you are interested in, you need to study its technical parameters and characteristics. It is important to evaluate how well the mop matches a person’s height and whether the length of the handle can be adjusted. If the handle is too short, you will have to constantly bend over and it will be uncomfortable to use. Also, the device should not be too heavy, otherwise it will be inconvenient to clean with it.
It is better to opt for a device with a higher engine power. The higher the power, the faster and more intense the steam is supplied. Powerful models heat up faster than their weaker counterparts and are able to work longer without interruption.
It is also worth asking in the description of the device which water is best to use when cleaning with a particular mop. If the model involves the use of only purified water, then you need to make sure that it has a built-in filter. It will allow you to use tap water for cleaning and will extend the life of the device, protecting it from the formation of scale and plaque.
The size of the water tank will determine how long you can use the device without stopping to add water. For small rooms, a tank with a volume of about 0.3 liters may be enough, but for spacious apartments it is better to purchase a model with a volume of about 0.6 liters. As for the material for the container, it is better to take models with tanks made of high-strength plastic.
It is worth paying attention to what attachments come with the device. The more there are, the more opportunities there are for using the device and the higher the degree of usefulness of the mop. The set may include attachments for cleaning furniture and washing the sink, scrapers for washing windows, and steamers for curtains. For floors, it is better to take a mop with a triangular attachment; it allows you to reach those places where attachments of other shapes cannot reach.
Another criterion for selection is the presence of several microfiber pads in the kit. It does a good job of removing dirt, and most importantly, it is easy to wash.
How to best use a steam mop
It is recommended that you sweep or vacuum the floor before you start steam mopping. You can also purchase a mop with a built-in vacuum cleaner or electric broom function.
After this, you need to pour water into the container and press the power button. After some time, steam should form. After the steam has gone, you can start cleaning. If the water runs out while washing the floor, you need to unplug the device and wait until it cools down. After this, add water again and continue cleaning. Some models provide the ability to add water without having to turn off the device. After completing cleaning, drain the remaining water and, if necessary, clean and rinse the mop.
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If you plan to clean upholstered furniture with a steam mop, then before using it, it is advisable to thoroughly vacuum the furniture and treat it with a suitable detergent. After this, you can clean the furniture with a mop. Removable furniture elements, such as covers or pillows, must be cleaned separately. After completing cleaning, you should wait until the furniture is completely dry.
FAQ
What types of steam mops are there?
The market offers lightweight, lightweight models, classic steam mops, multifunctional ones with a large number of attachments, and universal ones with the ability to remove debris with electric brushes or a vacuum cleaner.
Which is better: a vacuum cleaner or a steam mop?
A steam mop has more advantages:
– disinfects surfaces; – copes better with pollution; – has greater functionality (fabric steaming, glass cleaner, steam generator).
Which mop is better: reliable but simple or cheap but multifunctional?
Depends on what you expect from the model. If you just take it for cleaning the floor, then it’s reliable. If it is also for steaming, disinfecting mattresses and furniture, etc., then it is multifunctional.
Where can I order replacement rags?
From suppliers, on the manufacturer’s website, or select analogues from other models, try universal rags.
The best steam mop models
To avoid disappointment with your purchase, it is better to take a device that has already been appreciated by other buyers. The best rating includes devices that have collected the largest number of positive reviews.
Morphy Richards Supersteam Pro 720512
This device comes with 12 attachments, thanks to which it has many functions: with a mop you can clean windows, furniture, tiles and other surfaces. All nozzles have a very convenient shape, allowing you to clean the most difficult to reach places. The mop is quite powerful and turns water into steam in 30 seconds. One of the disadvantages is the lack of space for storing attachments.
HAAN SC-2000
In the production of this model, especially durable plastic is used, which makes it resistant to impacts and damage. Microfiber cloths included. The mop is great for getting rid of bacteria, mold and various microorganisms. The device has a stylish minimalist design and is compact in size, which allows it to be used in small apartments.
Kitfort KT-1012
Suitable for washing any surfaces. The set includes microfiber cloths that are easy to wash. The device is quite powerful, it heats water in 30 seconds and can work autonomously for 15 minutes, the capacity of the container is 320 ml. The only significant drawback of the mop is the difficulty in cleaning the seams between the tiles.
Kitfort KT-1012
BLACK+DECKER FSMH13101SM
This mop's convenient brush helps you reach dirt even in the most difficult to clean areas. A large number of replaceable attachments makes it convenient to wash mirrors, steam curtains and clean the bathroom. Can work without additional charging for up to 20 minutes. A large water tank (500 ml) allows you to not add water for a long time.
Vileda Steam Mop
Vileda Steam Mop
The triangular head of this model allows you to wash corners well. The mop is suitable for all types of flooring. It does a good job of killing microorganisms. The disadvantages of this device include the need to use distilled water and a non-adjustable handle.
