Having trouble deciding whether a steam swab is best for cleaning your kitchen or bathroom? A vapor mop might be the perfect solution for people who frequently spill things on ceramic floors or for pet owners who frequently clean muddy paw prints, even though it isn’t advised for all floor types.
Germ-Killing Claims
All steam mops feature claims that, in controlled test environments, they can sterilize floors and other surfaces. Given that the majority of the models can generate steam, those statements might hold some water, but your specific home’s circumstances may change the outcome. While many can provide temperatures beyond 175 °F, which is hotter than you can attain with tap water, few can reach temperatures as high as 212 °F, which is water’s boiling point and the temperature required to kill bacteria.
Risks of Floor Damage
Many manufacturers state that different hard floors can be cleaned with vapor mops. Even a wood floor that seems to be sealed may contain cracks where water might get in and hurt things. Additionally, some waxes or older wood treatments may haze over time. Consult the manufacturer if your flooring is still covered by a guarantee to ensure that using a steam mop won’t void it.
Cleaning the Mop Pad
A vapor mop’s replaceable bottom pad can only contain so much dirt before it simply pushes the extra dirt aside. Place the device on a flat surface, like a countertop or the floor, before removing the soiled swab head to stop any water in the tank from pouring out. Empty the water tank first if you need to raise the mop head above the level of the tank.
Types of Mops
Generally speaking, there are two primary categories of vapor mops, both of which provide the best cleaning results:
- Steam Mops: With a head like a mop, these upright, lightweight devices are very maneuverable.
- Vapor canisters: The canister type of steam swab is bigger and can store more water in its reservoir.
Steam Mop Features
- Most of the models we examine have this option, which allows you to regulate the quantity of vapor that is delivered.
- A light on some vapor mops alerts you when the reservoir needs to be filled when it is empty.
- Swivel head: This feature on some steam mops may make it easier to move in small places.
- With some variants, you may separate the working end from the base and utilize the vapor generator as a handheld steamer.
Conclusion
Steam mops are excellent for dislodging and sucking up hard-to-reach dirt, pathogens, allergies, and mold. Additionally, they work wonders in cleaning up messy messes like dirt, dust, food or liquid spills, pet stains, scuff marks, stains, and stickiness.
