Steam Mop: Which Is The Best - Rating, Characteristics, Advantages And Disadvantages, Instructions, Reviews

2024 Author: Bailey Albertson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 12:53

Steam mop: what is it, what is it for and how to choose the right model

Household appliances are becoming more sophisticated, versatile and efficient. It reduces cleaning time and other daily tasks to a minimum. The steam mop is one such device. Relatively recently, it has become available to a wide range of buyers. So what are its advantages and how to choose the most suitable one?

Content

• 1 What is a steam mop

  • 1.1 Design and principle of operation
  • 1.2 Advantages and Disadvantages
• 2 Types of steam mops
• 3 How to choose a steam mop for your home

• 4 Best steam mops

  • 4.1 Kitfort KT-1001

    4.1.1 Video: review on Kitfort KT-1001

  • 4.2 H2O X5
  • 4.3 BLACK + DECKER FSM1630
  • 4.4 Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active
  • 4.5 Ariete Steam Mop 4164
  • 4.6 Table: comparison of the listed models

• 5 How to use a steam mop

  • 5.1 Video: Cleaning the House with a Steam Mop
  • 5.2 Precautions when working with the steam mop

What is a steam mop

A steam mop is a device that looks like a regular mop, but has a more massive body. This technique allows for wet cleaning of rooms without using household chemicals. It cleans surfaces using a stream of hot steam. It is able to not only remove visible dirt, but also get rid of most harmful microbes and allergens. For this reason, the steam mop is especially useful in homes where children or allergy sufferers live.

The steam mop not only speeds up the cleaning process, but also makes it safer for children and allergy sufferers

In addition to cleaning the floor, the steam mop can be used to clean glass or help remove grease in the kitchen. The functionality depends mainly on the configuration.

Device and principle of operation

The principle of operation of the steam mop is extremely simple. Clean water is poured into a special reservoir located near the handle for washing. It is fed to a heating element that evaporates it. The hot steam from the heating element enters the mop head, from where it is supplied to the floor at the intensity set by the user. The operating mode is adjusted using the control panel located on the handle.

The design of the steam mop is a bit like a steam cleaner.

Most steam mops are equipped with several interchangeable nozzles, which greatly expand the functionality of the device. Of these, the most common:

• mop nozzle for smooth floors. It is usually made from microfiber;
• steam cleaner for carpets;
• narrow spout for spot steam. This nozzle largely imitates the operation of a steam cleaner;
• glass cleaning nozzle.

Advantages and disadvantages

Steam mops have important advantages:

• effective cleaning without the use of household chemicals. Other appliances (such as a vacuum cleaner or steam cleaner) cannot remove germs and allergens without special products. The steam mop does this with its high steam temperature;

  

  Since cleaning takes place without the use of household chemicals, the floor becomes safe even for the smallest family members.

• the ability to operate on a laminate. The cleaning vacuum cleaner cleans the floor by pouring water over it and then sucking it back. At the same time, if the suction power is insufficient, then puddles may remain on the floor covering, which is unacceptable for a laminate. The steam mop does not have this disadvantage. Its use for low intensity steam supply is permissible even on class 33 laminate;
• ease of cleaning. The vacuum cleaner must be washed after each use - it draws in dirty water. The steam mop uses only one tank of clean water, which can be simply rinsed;
• ease of management. Steam cleaners are activated by pressing and holding the power button. This makes them very inconvenient when cleaning large areas. The steam mop does not require constant pressing, so the user is less tired;

• removable reservoir. Most steam cleaners have a non-removable water container, which makes it difficult to operate. A steam mop is almost always equipped with a removable reservoir;

  

  The removable reservoir is easy to clean and fill with water

• lightness and compactness. The body of the steam mop weighs about 3-5 kg, while the weight of the vacuum cleaner reaches 10 kg. The first device is, of course, easier to store.

Among the disadvantages of steam mops, compared to other similar household appliances, it is worth noting:

• inability to use on linoleum. Unlike a vacuum cleaner and steam cleaner, the steam mop only produces hot steam and is therefore not suitable for all types of surfaces. Linoleum with constant exposure to such temperatures can swell;

• no function of suction of impurities. Before using the steam mop (especially if you don't plan to turn it on every day) it is worth sweeping or vacuuming the floor. Unlike a washing vacuum cleaner, this device does not combine wet cleaning and collection of dry dirt. Often you will have to perform two steps separately;

  

  Sweeping or vacuuming may be required before using the steam mop

• Unlike a steam cleaner, a steam mop is not suitable for effectively removing dirt in the kitchen. Despite the fact that some models are equipped with special nozzles for a point supply of steam, it will not work to achieve the same efficiency as from a steam cleaner. Under the influence of the device, greasy spots will soften, but you will have to remove them yourself with a sponge and a rag;
• The steam mop must not be used on protein stains (blood, milk, egg yolk and white). From exposure to high temperatures, they only eat into the surface more strongly and it will be difficult to remove them.

Types of steam mops

Since the steam mop is a fairly simple device, there are not many variations of it:

• classic steam mop. This is a device equipped with the usual set of soft floor nozzles, and sometimes - special nozzles for cleaning glass and carpets, as well as for a point supply of steam. Works from the network;

• mop with electric broom. The design of such models is equipped with a special drive that makes the brushes move on the nozzle. Such a mop cannot suck up dirt like a vacuum cleaner, but it is quite suitable for dry pre-cleaning. It replaces the usual broom and scoop;

  

  The electric broom collects fine particles of dirt well during dry cleaning

• ergonomic mops. Their main difference is their compact size. Such devices are designed specifically for use in small apartments and studios. An ergonomic mop, as a rule, has a triangular nozzle that allows you to clean the floor even in hard-to-reach corners.

How to choose a steam mop for your home

When choosing a steam mop for your home, it is important to pay attention to the following parameters:

• power. The maximum intensity of steam supply, the speed of preparation for work, as well as energy consumption depend on this parameter. The more power, the faster the device heats up and cleans up dirt more effectively. However, too high a figure will noticeably increase your electricity bills. Choose devices with power from 1000 to 1700 W;

• tank volume. This parameter affects how long the mop can run without additional refueling. The larger your apartment is, the more voluminous the tank will be required in order to wash all the floors at one time. On average, a 350 ml tank is enough for a one-room apartment, from 450 ml for a two-room apartment, and a tank of at least 600 ml is needed to wash a "three-ruble note";

  

  The volume of the tank affects how long you can continue cleaning without "refueling" with water

• steam pressure. This parameter affects the quality of cleaning, removal of stubborn dirt, as well as the flow of water from the tank. The higher the maximum pressure, the more water will be required to work without refilling;
• weight. The weight of the device determines how much you will get tired when using it. Try to choose a model that you can comfortably hold upright for more than five minutes. If necessary, "try on" the device in the store, walk around with it, simulating cleaning;
• food. Steam mops can be wired or cordless. The latter are easy to use, but have lower power. As a rule, their purchase is impractical. Despite the low power ratings, these mops are expensive. If you decide to opt for a wired device, then pay attention to the length of the cable. It should be such that you can easily and without tension get to any corner of your apartment, dispensing with the minimum switching of equipment from one outlet to another. The most common cable length is 5 m. For most apartments this is sufficient;
• time of continuous work. Since the steam mop is equipped with a heating element, it has a limited uptime. After that, it turns off and cools down. Please note that this time is sufficient for a complete cleaning of the apartment. For odnushki, studios and small two-room apartments, 15–20 minutes is quite enough. If you have a spacious home, choose a model with a continuous operation time of at least 25 minutes;
• equipment. Choose a set of attachments based on your wishes for the device. If you want to use the steam mop exclusively for cleaning the floor, then two standard nozzles are enough for you. If your home has a carpet, choose models with a steam carpet cleaner.

Best steam mops

In order not to get confused in all the variety of the market, pay attention to the overview of the most popular models of steam mops. These devices have been recognized by buyers and have very high ratings.

Kitfort KT-1001

Kitfort KT-1001 is the most popular and best-selling steam mop. It is distinguished by an affordable price and a large number of reviews, coupled with efficiency and wide functionality.

Kitfort KT-1001 is the most popular and bought steam mop

The maximum steam pressure is 1 bar. This is sufficient to remove most dried stains and dirt. The model is equipped with a steam regulator. Kitfort KT-1001 is powered from the mains. Maximum power - 1,300 W. The length of the cord is 5 meters. This is not enough for comfortable cleaning of large rooms, but if you have a standard one- or two-room apartment, then this length will be enough. The volume of the tank is 350 ml. This is enough for cleaning a room with an area of 30–50 m ² without topping up.

An important advantage of the model is its large equipment. The device is supplied complete with nozzles for cleaning floors, carpet, for steaming clothes and linen, for cleaning windows, for a point supply of steam.

Video: review on Kitfort KT-1001

H2O X5

The H2O X5 is a model that has become popular because of the “shopping on the couch”. It belongs to the ergonomic and differs in rather compact dimensions (120x27x20 cm) and a triangular nozzle.

H2O X5 has a great package

Despite its small size, this steam mop is not lightweight. Its weight is 4 kg, and with a filled tank with a volume of 400 ml - almost a pound more. If you have a fragile build, it is better to refuse to buy this model. H2O X5 is characterized by ease of use, which is achieved due to the triangular working surface. However, the cord is only 3 meters long. Another important drawback is the non-removable water tank. The mop comes with a point nozzle, a brush and a fine-fleecy pad for thorough cleaning of the floor and glass. In general, the model is an excellent representative of its price segment. If you haven't decided yet if you want to buy a steam mop, you should consider buying the H2O X5. She will give you an idea of this type of household appliances for a fairly low price - from 2,250 rubles.

BLACK + DECKER FSM1630

BLACK + DECKER FSM1630 is a quality steam mop that represents a higher price segment. The cost of the model starts at 9,000 rubles, but it is an order of magnitude more efficient and more convenient than the devices presented in the economy segment.

BLACK + DECKER FSM1630 - easy-to-use and compact steam mop

BLACK + DECKER FSM1630 features a compact and stylish body, which is not much different in size from a conventional mop. The model comes with attachments for hard-to-reach places and for cleaning carpets. Cleaning efficiency is ensured by high maximum steam supply - up to 70 g / min. The mop is equipped with an adjustable steam intensity. The model also has a steam boost function for tough dirt. The mop will automatically shut off when installed vertically (90 degrees to the floor). The device can stand upright without additional supports for easy storage. Also the model is equipped with a 6 meter cord.

Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active

Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active is an expensive steam mop designed for cleaning floors. Unlike most previous models, this mop does not have the functions of a steam cleaner or steamer.

Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active - the representative of the high price segment of the steam mop

The model is powered from the mains, the length of the cord is 6 meters. The volume of the water tank is slightly less than that of BLACK + DECKER - 450 ml. Despite the relatively low steam intensity (maximum is 55 g / min), Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active copes with most dirt without problems. In this she is helped by high-quality replaceable microfiber nozzles. An important advantage is ease of use. The body shape and weight have been designed so that most users can easily use this mop for more than 15 minutes. Among the minuses, it is worth noting the not the most universal shape of the nozzle. It is not well suited for narrow rectangular areas.

Ariete Steam Mop 4164

The Ariete Steam Mop 4164 is a versatile steam mop at an affordable cost. The price of the model starts at 4,600 rubles.

Ariete Steam Mop 4164 - a strong representative of the middle segment

The model is positioned as a "10 in 1" device. The manufacturer notes that the mop is suitable for cleaning any flooring, glass, carpets, furniture, as well as for removing grease stains with a point nozzle. The length of the power cord of the model is 5 m and the volume of the tank is 350 ml. This is enough for comfortable cleaning in a one-room or small two-room apartment. The case weighs only 1.9 kg. Among the advantages of the model, it is worth highlighting its wide functionality and efficiency when cleaning floors. Among the disadvantages is low performance when implementing additional functions. The model, as you would expect from the middle price segment, does not have enough power to quickly remove difficult dirt, including using a point nozzle.

Table: comparison of the listed models

Model	Price	Power	Tank volume	Maximum steam supply	Food	Weight	Equipment
Kitfort KT-1001	from 3 940 rubles	1300 Wt	350 ml	60 g / min	Mains, cord length 5 m	2.7 kg	floor brush; microfiber floor cloth; a rag for the floor; frame for fastening a rag; vertical bristle brush; auxiliary nozzle; a rag for steaming; measuring glass for water.
H2O X5	from 2 250 rubles	1300 Wt	400 ml	55 g / min	Mains, cord length 3 m	4 kg	point nozzle; nozzle with a fine-fluffy pad; brush attachment.
BLACK + DECKER FSM1630	from 9,000 rubles	1600 Wt	500 ml	70 g / min	Mains, cord length 6 m	2.9 kg	2 standard nozzles; 2 deltoid nozzles; glider attachment for carpets; protective mat.
Philips FC7028 / 01 SteamCleaner Active	from 12,000 rubles	1500 watts	450 ml	55 g / min	Mains, cord length 6 m	3 Kg	3 microfiber nozzles; carpet nozzle; washable microfiber pad.
Ariete Steam Mop 4164	from 4 600 rubles	1500 watts	350 ml	55 g / min	Mains, cord length 5 m	1.9 kg	point nozzle; nozzle with a fine-fluffy pad; brush attachment.

How to use a steam mop

Use the steam mop in accordance with its instructions. However, there is a general algorithm of operation that applies to all devices in this category.

To get a mop to do its job well, follow these steps:

1. Detach the reservoir from the body. If it is non-removable, unplug the mop from the power supply. Fill the container with clean boiled water up to the MAX mark. Replace the reservoir.
2. Put on the chosen attachment.
3. Switch on the appliance and wait for the steam to flow.
4. Adjust the intensity to the point you want.

5. Start cleaning. Do not stay in one place for a long time, so as not to damage the coating by exposure to high temperatures:

   • when cleaning the floor, move from the far corners of the room to the exit, so as not to stomp on the clean and damp floor;
   • if you are cleaning the carpet, sweep the nozzle in wide parallel stripes;
   • you need to wash the windows from top to bottom, cleaning the glass in short parallel strips.

Video: Cleaning the House with a Steam Mop

Steam Mop Precautions

The steam mop releases hot steam, the temperature of which reaches 100 degrees, so when working with it, be careful:

• do not point the mop head at people, animals or plants, even if you are sure that it is turned off;
• Wait until the mop has cooled completely before cleaning;
• fill the tank with clean water only. Do not add household chemicals, aromatic oils or decoctions to it;
• If the squeegee reservoir is not removable, fill it only with the device turned off.

Of course, do not forget about the precautions common to all household appliances:

• be careful with the power cord. Do not pull it, do not pull on the cable, make sure it is working properly;
• do not immerse the device in water;
• avoid heating the cord. Keep it away from radiators and direct sunlight.

A steam mop is a handy household appliance that greatly facilitates wet cleaning at home. It is able to keep the flooring safe, protect it from germs and dirt, and remove most of the allergens and protect your child from infections. If you choose the right device for your home, then the purchase will delight you for a long time.