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.
Steam mops: review of the most popular manufacturers
When choosing the best steam mop for your home, you should pay attention not only to the technical parameters of the product. An important aspect is the authority of the manufacturer. There are several companies that have proven themselves to be the best in the global market. They produce high-quality, certified devices, constantly improve their characteristics, and increase the functionality of the models.
The Italian company Eurofleх offers a wide selection of steam mops
The products of the Russian manufacturer (according to reviews) Kitfort are in great demand among consumers. Steam mops come in a wide variety. Each model meets the stated needs. The company regularly replenishes its range with new and improved models, following global trends and consumer demands. Steam mops have an ideal price-quality ratio.
An international manufacturer that produces household goods is the company Bradex. She pays great attention to the quality of her product, using an original and unique approach when developing each new model, which is multifunctional and easy to use.
The Italian company Eurofleх offers a wide range of household steam systems. Steam mops come in a wide range of prices, allowing you to choose a device to suit any budget.
Important! Steam mops are manufactured using a unique patented Clean Boost technology, thanks to which the surface being cleaned is disinfected by 99.9%.
Bradex electric mops are characterized by their versatility
Bissell is considered one of the leading specialists in the field of home cleaning, producing innovative cleaning devices for 5 generations. The invention of each new model is based on a detailed study of the features of the home environment and the approach to cleaning the room. The company produces electric cleaning mops in both the budget and premium segments.
The world-famous manufacturer of household appliances for the home is Tefal, which regularly expands its product range, improving models, adapting them to the modern consumer.
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.
Power, weight and water tank
The larger the power and water tank, the longer the steam mop will last. With average performance, it can wash continuously for 15-20 minutes. This option is suitable for an apartment with a small area. In this case, choose a product with a power of 1200-1500 W and a tank volume of up to 0.4 liters.
For cleaning a large apartment or house, models with a power of over 1500 W and a water tank with a volume of over 0.5 liters are suitable. Then you can easily clean for 30-40 minutes without a break. However, such a large tank makes the mop heavier and complicates the process. In this case, you can choose a model with a reservoir into which you can add water directly during cleaning.
When choosing, pay attention to the weight of the product. It weighs between 2.5-4.5 kg. The lighter the weight, the easier and faster the cleaning will be. The weight is especially noticeable when you wash windows, walls or other surfaces while holding the device in your hands. But models that are too light have a small water tank. Therefore, you will have to take breaks during the process to allow the device to cool down and to fill up with water.
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.
What to look for when purchasing
When comparing models, consider:
- power (affects the steam heating time and the wait for the start);
- pressure (affects the power of the jet, and therefore the speed of cleansing and cleanliness);
- operating time without adding water (affects cleaning time);
- adjusting the temperature of the steam and its supply (affects the safety of various surfaces being cleaned, otherwise they can be damaged);
- weight (models that are too heavy risk getting boring quickly);
- cord length (affects ease of use);
- functionality (dry cleaning as a vacuum cleaner, combining the functions of a steam generator, windshield wiper, steamer, etc.);
- options (anti-scale protection, removable water tank, convenient filter for debris, steam boost, garbage collection, cord rewind, backlight, water level indicator in the tank, shutdown when there is no water).
Analyze reviews based on the overview of these parameters, and do not just look at the position in the ranking (any review may not be completely objective).
It is important
- At first, try the steam mop on inconspicuous areas of surfaces so as not to risk damaging them.
- Do not use hard tap water unless there is built-in anti-scale protection.
- Most steam mop models require pre-cleaning of debris.
- If you already have a robot vacuum cleaner at home, then it is better to buy a lightweight, powerful model.
- Don't expect instant miracles for very heavy stains, but repeated use of steam will remove even stubborn dirt.
- Be careful when cleaning around small children and pets. Steam has a temperature of over 100 degrees!
- If there is high humidity at home, then it is necessary to ventilate while using the steam mop, since it greatly humidifies the air.
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.
Kitfort KT-1004
Price – 3600 rubles. Power consumption compared to ENDEVER Odyssey Q-606 is low - 1500 W. There is an overheat protection sensor. The steam brush comes with 13 nozzles; it is possible to adjust the diameter of the steam jet and its power.
Advantages:
- Suitable for cleaning windows. It is important to set the power correctly: too high will lead to the formation of streaks.
- Removable water tank (its capacity is only 0.35 l).
- Telescopic handle: you can adjust the household appliance to your height.
Flaws:
- Difficulty attaching a cloth to the floor mopping nozzle. Enterprising users attach a loop with a clip to the base of the mop handle.
- Low quality material. With frequent cleaning, the cloth wears out very quickly. Washing even at low temperatures does not return the rag to its original appearance.
Compared to the Kitfort KT-1009 model, where the water tank is not removable and the capacity is similar, the KT-1004 model definitely wins. But, this design feature and higher power are reflected in the price.
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.
We recommend:
Robot vacuum cleaner for carpets: main selection criteria
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.
Additional options
When choosing, check the steam supply and regulation. Modern models are equipped with double feed - main and additional. The second is used for preliminary steaming. This function is suitable for heavy dirt and stains.
It is important that the supply level can be adjusted - reduce or increase steam. After all, some surfaces do not tolerate strong moisture well. These are parquet and laminate, wooden furniture and products. A device with three steam levels would be a suitable choice.
The kit may additionally include a water filter. It purifies and softens water, which protects the device from scale and extends the service life of the product. If you have hard water in your home, it is better to choose a model with a filter. Pay attention to the length of the cable and whether the handle is adjustable.
The adjustable handle will allow you to select the appropriate height of the device, and the long cord will allow you to work throughout the apartment with the device turned on without having to look for a free outlet and switch the device. To determine what is best to choose, we offer a rating of steam mops.
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.
ENDEVER Odyssey Q-606
Price – 3050 rubles. Power - 1700 W, which, compared to Tefal VP6555 (1200 W), significantly speeds up work. The set includes only two attachments: for floors and carpets, but the manufacturer focused on cleaning and disinfection without advanced functionality.
Advantages:
- Continuous operation – 45 minutes. According to real estimates, this time is somewhat overestimated.
- The length of the power cord is 6 meters. An extension cord is not needed, which makes the steam cleaner more maneuverable.
- Suitable for any floor coverings. The manufacturer's assurances have been repeatedly tested in practice.
- Easy. When fully assembled, the ENDEVER Odyssey Q-606 model weighs 2 kg.
Flaws:
- One removable microfiber cloth is not enough for frequent cleaning and large areas.
- Difficulties with purchasing replacement accessories. Users complain that they have to make do with improvised means.
Compared to the H2O mop X5 model, the ENDEVER Odyssey Q-606 steam mop does not have a set of additional functions, but the 1700 W power speeds up cleaning. When purchasing, you need to purchase removable rags.
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.
Application
The product is used in accordance with the instructions and technical specifications.
There is also a general algorithm suitable for any device:
- Disconnect the tank from the mop body. Fill the tank with clean filtered water. Then put the container in place.
- Put on the appropriate attachment for the type of surface.
- Turn on the device and wait for steam to dispense.
- Regulation of steam supply intensity.
- Start tidying up.
Do not stay in place for a long time, so as not to damage the surface with high temperature. Start cleaning from the corners of the far rooms and move towards the center. When cleaning the carpet, use the nozzle to create several wide parallel stripes. Start washing windows from top to bottom in small stripes.
