After 40 hours spent researching the best steam mops, we think Shark Lift-Away Pro Pocket Steam Mop is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: dimensions, type, steam control, tank capacity, cord length, pad type, heating time, color, ergonomic handle, stains / grease / mold, hard surfaces, fabric / carpets, handheld conversion, weight, and warranty, among other things.
| Product | Price | Overall Rating | Quality | Ease of Use | Maneuverability | Maintenance | Value for Money | dimensions | type | steam control | tank capacity | cord length | pad type | heating time | color | ergonomic handle | stains / grease / mold | hard surfaces | fabric / carpets | handheld conversion | weight | warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Lift-Away Pro Pocket Steam Mop | Check Price | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | Corded | 3 levels | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 22 feet | Dirt grip pad | 30 sec | Gray | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 4.8 lbs | 1 year |
| Light-N-Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop | Check Price | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in | Corded | Adjustable | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L | 20 feet | Cloth pad | 30 sec | Gray | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 6.3 lbs | 1 year |
 | Bissell 19404 Powerfresh Pet Steam Mop | Check Price | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 9.5 x 13 x 43 in | Corded | Adjustable | 16 oz / 0.47 L | 23 feet | Microfiber pad | 30 sec | Purple | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 6.2 lbs | 2 years |
| Shark Genius S5003D Multi-Purpose Steam Mop | Check Price | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 47.1 x 11.8 x 11.8 in | Corded | 3 levels | 11.8 oz / 0.35 L | 22 feet | Dirt grip pad x2 | 30 sec | Black | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 5.78 lbs | 5 years |
 | O-Cedar Professional Microfiber Steam Mop | Check Price | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 27 x 10 x 6 in | Corded | Adjustable | 14 oz / 0.4 L | 22 feet | Microfiber pad | 20 sec | Red / Black | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 7.4 lbs | 1 year |
Deep cleaning tile or wood floors can be a tough chore, but the best steam mop can help you get your floors spotless with ease.
By using the power of steam, you’ll be able to make your hard floors shine.
Cleaning your home is a whole lot easier when you have the right tools. A quality vacuum cleaner, whether an upright vacuum, a canister model, or a corded or cordless stick vacuum, along with a carpet cleaner will serve to keep carpeted homes tidy and clean. The amount and type of carpets you have, as well as the need for cleaning upholstery, will help you determine whether you want a canister vacuum, an upright, a cordless or corded stick vacuum, or even a robot vacuum.
A handheld vacuum is thoroughly convenient for quick cleanups of kitchen messes or pet hair off the couch cushions, and a portable carpet cleaner will allow you to reach those tight corners of your carpeted floors.
One tool that is often overlooked, however, is the steam mop. These mops are much easier to use and maintain than traditional floor mops, and there’s far less hassle because you won’t have to deal with buckets of water and wet floors.
Due to the convenience, more and more people are finding that cleaning their hard floors with steam is the way to go. These products allow people to throw out their dirty old mops and replace them with something more sanitary.
Although the tougher jobs might require a little more cleaning power, regular use of a steam mop will help you to easily maintain your floors.
Selection Of The Best Steam Mops
Here are the best steam mops for most people according to Outlinist:
Shark Lift-Away Pro Pocket Steam Mop
In today’s eco-sensitive world using chemicals for cleaning is becoming a bit of a no-no. But when you want to be certain the floor is clean, is there an alternative?
Steam cleaners are one answer to the chemical-free cleaning demon.
Steam mops have the advantage of being eco-friendly but still have a reputation for cleaning deeply and sanitizing as well.
When looking for a good steam mop the goal is to get one which provides great cleaning, is easily portable and will do a variety of cleaning jobs.
Is this Shark model one of the industry segment’s best hard floor steam cleaners?
Information
The cleaner is easy to use with a single button which cycles through the cleaning modes and a steam jet feature for an extra blast of hot steam where needed on sticky patches.
The Shark Lift-Away Pro Pocket Steam Mop is a categorized as a steam cleaner for hard floors. The product is not designed to work on carpets and so it is a candidate for best steam mop for hardwood floors.
The team at Shark has though of much more than floors though. The mop has a lift out unit which allows it to be converted in to a hand held cleaner.
The unit needs to be assembled on arrival although it is easy to do and comes with detailed instructions in a quick-start guide and the user manual. At 11.8 lbs. the unit is relatively light and the Lift Away unit not at all heavy at 2.4 lbs., meaning most people can use it comfortably.
| dimensions | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in |
|---|---|
| type | Corded |
| steam control | 3 levels |
| tank capacity | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L |
| cord length | 22 feet |
| pad type | Dirt grip pad |
| heating time | 30 sec |
| color | Gray |
| ergonomic handle | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes |
| handheld conversion | Yes |
| weight | 4.8 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
The cleaner is easy to use with a single button which cycles through the cleaning modes and a steam jet feature for an extra blast of hot steam where needed on sticky patches. The addition of a 3-foot hose which attaches directly to the hand-held part gives even more length and capability. Think of the top of the fridge!
A special triangular head makes tricky corners easy to clean. This Shark Lift-Away works well in bathrooms and is rated by many critical reviewers as one of the best hand-held steam cleaners for grout. The mopping head can work on either side; simply flip it over.
The Shark company is headquartered and based outside Boston. Their products are manufactured in China and come with a limited one-year warranty.
Pros
At 22-feet long, the cord is long enough to clean most rooms without unplugging and starting over.
Answering the question what is the best steam mop on the market is almost an impossible task, but this Shark steam mop is up for consideration. Here are six of the best features which help it stand out against the competition.
- Lift Away unit cleans more than just hard floors: It ships with a hose and steam nozzle which provide cleaning power on hard surfaces which are difficult to get to such as the top of the fridge and also allows for cleaning softer materials such as drapes or blinds.
- Gentle enough to steam and deodorize clothing: The concentrator nozzle which sits on the top of the Lift Away unit provides a steady stream of steam which is soft enough to be used on clothes and delicate fabrics. For quicker results stretch out the fabric while steaming.
- 3 levels of cleaning power gets you clean, cleaner, cleanest: The unit has three cleaning levels: dust, mop and scrub for all types of cleaning and the documentation provides a handy guide to what level to use on which surface type.
- The cord is a satisfyingly long 22 feet fully stretched: At 22-feet long, the cord is long enough to clean most rooms without unplugging and starting over. The cord connects into the hand-held segment which can be further extended by an additional 3 feet with the extension hose which is helpful in bathrooms.
- Machine washable mop head has a touch-free release mechanism: When you have finished cleaning, simply click the release mechanism and the mop cloth can be released directly into the washing machine without touching it. Cloths can also be bought separately as replacements when needed. The standard mop is reversible.
- 100% chemical free for sanitized cleaning: Steam cleaning is sanitized by the heat, which is hot enough to scald. You can treat the surfaces with a spot cleaner or an essential oil and water solution if you wish, but this is not necessary to ensure thorough cleaning.
Cons
Everything has its yang or so they say. Here are some of the less positive aspects of this Shark floor steamer. These may or may not be issues that bother you personally, but they are good to know before making a purchase.
- Use only distilled water in the steam cleaner’s built-in reservoir: Do not use tap water within the Shark steam cleaner. Distilled water is the only type of water which can be used and Shark is very clear in the documentation too. Using tap water will permanently damage the unit.
- Need to hold the steam button on the Lift Away: When you pull the Lift Away unit off, you need to hold down the steam button to get a continuous stream of steam. It would be optimal to have a locking mechanism in order to use both hands for cleaning and scrubbing.
- The mop cannot stand on its own: This Shark steamer is not designed to stand firmly upright. Although that does mean that you’ll never leave it standing and steaming an area of your precious hardwood floor too long by accident, it does mean that you’ll have to lean it up against a wall or table if you need to stop cleaning.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in | 9.5 x 13 x 43 in |
| type | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| steam control | 3 levels | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L | 16 oz / 0.47 L |
| cord length | 22 feet | 20 feet | 23 feet |
| pad type | Dirt grip pad | Cloth pad | Microfiber pad |
| heating time | 30 sec | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| color | Gray | Gray | Purple |
| ergonomic handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| handheld conversion | Yes | Yes | No |
| weight | 4.8 lbs | 6.3 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years |
Summary
The cleaning heads are machine washable and can also be bought separately. A triangular shaped head allows cleaning right into the corners.
The Shark Lift-Away Pro Pocket Steam Mop is a 100% chemical-free cleaner for hard surfaces including marble, hardwood and laminate floors. It comes with a convenient Lift Away unit which allows it to convert into a steam cleaner for fabrics and clothes.
It has a twenty-five-foot reach when the hose is added to the 22-foot cord and so provides a good reach for most rooms in the average house. It works well on any hard surface including grout and stainless steel.
Some online reviews suggest it is heavy for a steam mop, but it weighs the same or less than most vacuums. The cleaning heads are machine washable and can also be bought separately. A triangular shaped head allows cleaning right into the corners. All in all, this is a cleaning appliance that deserves serious consideration.
Light-N-Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop
Most people would admit that mopping is the most effective way to clean a bare floor.
But mopping can be a tedious, frustrating experience, taking hours and sometimes resulting in an even bigger mess. What if there was a simple and affordable alternative?
A steam mop is the perfect cleaning device for homeowners who have a lot of non-carpeted floors in their house.
Using a steam machine delivers much better results than typical mopping in much less time and without all the mess.
These mops work perfectly on hardwood, tiles, marble and other hard floor surfaces. Using one will revolutionize your home cleaning experience.
Information
For particularly tough stains, users may want to pre-treat the surface with a cleaning agent, but it is important not to add detergent into the water tank.
The Light-N-Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop is one of the best products in its category. Not only is it an excellent floor steamer but it can also quickly transform into a handheld steamer. Many handheld steam cleaner reviews have this product near the top of their list because of its superior cleaning ability as well as its versatility.
In fact, the Light-N-Easy mop functions as a great steam mop, a portable steamer for cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms or kitchens, a handheld clothes steamer, a steamer for windows, glass and mirrors and even a carpet cleaner if the separate carpet glider is purchased.
Want to steam clean the windows in your home? This product will get the job done. It is equally effective at removing dirt, bacteria and germs from hard floors, couch cushions and other upholstered furniture.
| dimensions | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in |
|---|---|
| type | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L |
| cord length | 20 feet |
| pad type | Cloth pad |
| heating time | 30 sec |
| color | Gray |
| ergonomic handle | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes |
| handheld conversion | Yes |
| weight | 6.3 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Steam cleaning is a lot easier and more effective than other cleaning methods. The hot steam provides a much more thorough clean than any vacuum could, plus a steamer works on shower tiles, glass doors and can scour out the crud from tile grout.
Simple tap water is all that’s needed as the steaming will remove dirt, bacteria and germs. For particularly tough stains, users may want to pre-treat the surface with a cleaning agent, but it is important not to add detergent into the water tank.
This Light-N-Easy steamer will make your life so much easier. Whenever you notice some mildew on the shower tiles or have a pet stain on the couch, you can easily whip out this lightweight tool and quickly steam away the mess. And keeping all the bare floors throughout the house will be a straightforward, no fuss process!
Pros
There is no need to buy separate floor and handheld steam cleaners, as this product can do both.
Among hand held steam cleaners reviews, the Light-N-Easy mop is often near the top – and for good reason. It is affordable, multifunctional and very handy when cleaning different parts of the house. Here are the six biggest advantages of this handy appliance that our research revealed.
- Weighs only a little over six pounds: The lightweight design of this steam cleaning mop is one of the reasons why it is so useful. Most users will find the mop easy to carry up and down the stairs and into different rooms.
- Works without needing to add any detergent: The best part of steam cleaners is that there’s no need to use harsh detergents. While you can pre-treat surfaces if needed, most of the time the steam produced by this powerful little machine will make your floors sparkle with just water.
- Heats up tap water to a sizzling temperature within thirty seconds: Worried that using this mop would mean sitting around for ages until the water gets hot enough? It is not an issue, as the machine will heat up water to a high sanitizing temperature within thirty seconds.
- Provides true two-in-one functionality as both a floor and handheld steam cleaner: There is no need to buy separate floor and handheld steam cleaners, as this product can do both. And it is very easy to attach and detach the components to switch from floor to handheld modes – and vice versa.
- Cleans up to 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs: Being able to effectively remove most bacteria and germs from different surfaces without using chemicals is very helpful to homeowners. It is especially useful for people who may have allergies and for families with young children to stop the school-germs from spreading.
- Manufacturer offers a one year warranty: Buyers who are worried this machine will stop working after a few months can rest easy. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty that includes a free replacement policy if the mop stops working.
Cons
When a single device can be used in so many different ways, some of the functionality is bound to suffer. The Light-N-Easy steam mop is a quality product, but it is not perfect. There are some drawbacks that were revealed in our research. Here are the top three.
- May not be the best steam mop for tile grout: Although most users found the Light-N-Easy to be effective cleaning tile floors, a few noted that it doesn’t do the best job on grout as it doesn’t fit well into the grooves. If you’re in need of a steamer with extra tools designed to handle tile grout, this machine may not be for you.
- 11oz water tank could have been larger: Per the manufacturer, the water tank is good for 20-25 minutes of steaming. If you are cleaning one part of the house, a single fill is sufficient. But if you clean multiple rooms at the same time, the reservoir may need to be refilled a few times.
- Better for casual cleaning as compared to a deep scrubbing: While this mop does do a good job at cleaning various surfaces and is durable, it is designed to streamline regular cleaning chores. It is not a heavy-duty steam cleaner.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | 9.5 x 13 x 43 in |
| type | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable | 3 levels | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 16 oz / 0.47 L |
| cord length | 20 feet | 22 feet | 23 feet |
| pad type | Cloth pad | Dirt grip pad | Microfiber pad |
| heating time | 30 sec | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| color | Gray | Gray | Purple |
| ergonomic handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| handheld conversion | Yes | Yes | No |
| weight | 6.3 lbs | 4.8 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years |
Summary
The product is affordable, comes with plenty of useful features, is praised for its durability and will make life easier for homeowners everywhere.
The Light-N-Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop is one of the most versatile steam mops on the market. Not only is it one of the best mops for ceramic tile floors, but it works as a handheld for upholstery, kitchen and bathroom counters, steaming and deodorizing clothes, even for cleaning up the car’s interior.
This machine will ensure the hard floors in your home sparkle with minimal effort, and will rid almost any surface of bacteria and germs.
The product is affordable, comes with plenty of useful features, is praised for its durability and will make life easier for homeowners everywhere. It is the perfect addition to your collection of cleaning tools and probably will replace some of them. The process of cleaning hard surfaces has never been easier thanks to the best steam cleaner for floors around.
Bissell 19404 Powerfresh Pet Steam Mop
Get your eco-cleaner on! If you want to have the cleanest shiniest floor and a zero-impact carbon footprint, then you need a steam mop.
Steam cleans at temperatures of over 200°F. That is hot enough to sanitize and clean too.
Floor steam cleaners are green naturally. They clean all hard, sealed floor surfaces without the need for any cleaning materials or chemicals.
The concept rests on water turned to steam as being the mechanism to clean and simultaneously sanitize.
The extra hot temperatures mean that surfaces are left 99% germ-free and are safe for children pets and people with allergies.
Information
Shipped in the box is the unit itself and two mop pads; a regular one and deep cleaning pad. Both are machine washable and can be bought on their own if needed.
The Bissell 19404 Powerfresh Pet Steam Mop takes room temperature water and turns it into steam to clean hardwood floors, tile, grout and any other surface which can be categorized as a sealed floor.
This Bissell steam mop is ready to go within 30 seconds from your plugging it in. It is a lightweight 6.2-pound machine which means that it is useable by most people, and not too heavy to take upstairs as needed. Shipped in the box is the unit itself and two mop pads; a regular one and deep cleaning pad. Both are machine washable and can be bought on their own if needed.
The unit has a flip down easy scrubber which allows you to add foot pressure to tough spots on the floor and make sure they are wiped away – like using a special tool on a traditional vacuum cleaner.
| dimensions | 9.5 x 13 x 43 in |
|---|---|
| type | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 16 oz / 0.47 L |
| cord length | 23 feet |
| pad type | Microfiber pad |
| heating time | 30 sec |
| color | Purple |
| ergonomic handle | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No |
| weight | 6.2 lbs |
| warranty | 2 years |
Scent discs can be used to rid the air of lingering odors which, taken together with scrubber and deep cleaning pad, makes this Bissell a terrific option for pet owners.
There are three levels of steam intensity available which can be adjusted according to the floor sensitivity, the area traffic and if there are special cleaning needs in a given area. This is one of the rare manufacturers who point to the cleaner’s capability on grout.
Steam mop reviews consistently rank the Bissell 19404 as a top choice and given that Bissell has been making vacuums and other cleaning machines since the late 1800’s, you can bet on their expertise.
Pros
Some steam mops can leave floors too damp and slick. Not so with this Bissell. Many users have made a special note on how quickly the floors dried.
Here are some of the features that make the Bissell Powerfresh worth a look if you’re seeking the best hard floor steam cleaner. Some of these might not be relevant for your product needs, but may help you making decisions.
- Comes with fresh air, odor eliminating discs: Though not necessary for sanitizing purposes, some people like to add fragrance to their cleaning, and this steamer allows you to add a disc which steam activates for a fresh, clean smell.
- Water tank lifts out: The removable water tank is easy to fill and also easy to dry properly away from the machine. The last thing you need is water vapor turning back to cool water and rusting the inside of the steam cleaner.
- Tank capacity lasts for about 20 minutes before refill: You can clean about 800 square feet or so before you need to refill the tank. Note this may vary according to the power level and how much you’re changing from surfaces. But it should be enough to clean a good-sized room without having to stop.
- Floors dry quickly: Some steam mops can leave floors too damp and slick. Not so with this Bissell. Many users have made a special note on how quickly the floors dried. Even areas which had two or three passes were cleaned quickly and didn’t need a long time before they could be walked on.
- The steam really does get hot – it even heat floors: Though you would expect high heat from a steam cleaner many don’t produce the really hot steam users are looking for to get a thorough sanitizing clean. Bissell steam mop reviews report the level of steam and the temperature to be exactly what they were expecting.
- The foot scrubber brush makes grout look (almost) new: The combination of steam and the foot scrubber is effective on grout, even without taking the steam level to the very highest possible. There’s no point having the best tiles if the grout surrounding them is grey or perhaps worse.
Cons
The Bissell 19404, like all other products on the market, has some nit-picks. Bear in mind that what some consider to be a deal breaker may not be that important to you. Nevertheless, it always pays to know potential downsides.
- Cap on the water bottle may not be solid enough: The cap on the top of the water bottle may be a little too fragile for the task. Some users report leaks and occasionally the cap shears off the bottle preventing use. Note that only some users reported problems and it can be replaced if needed.
- Distilled water only recommended: Most steam cleaners work much better using distilled water which reduces the build-up of mineral deposits. Although tap water does work, distilled or filtered water is recommended.
- Be aware that the steam from this unit is hot: It is supposed to be so, but if you leave it on any floor areas the spot will become too warm to touch. This may be risky for babies and pets. On the bright side you can be sure it’s sanitized.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 9.5 x 13 x 43 in | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in |
| type | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable | 3 levels | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 16 oz / 0.47 L | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L |
| cord length | 23 feet | 22 feet | 20 feet |
| pad type | Microfiber pad | Dirt grip pad | Cloth pad |
| heating time | 30 sec | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| color | Purple | Gray | Gray |
| ergonomic handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 6.2 lbs | 4.8 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| warranty | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
This Bissell 19404 ranks right up there with the best, plus it has features that make it particularly useful for pet owners.
The Bissell 19404 Powerfresh Pet Steam Mop is a lightweight steam floor mop which will provide approximately 20 minutes of cleaning for each full tank of water. The unique scent discs add the ability to freshen the air at the same time as cleaning the floors.
The machine comes with a limited one year warranty which is relatively average for this type of product. But the storied Bissell name comes with a reputation for performance and reliability that is hard to ignore. The easy scrubber allows use of the feet which is nice feature.
For a thorough cleaning of hard, bare floors, it’s hard to beat the efficiency of a steam mop. This Bissell 19404 ranks right up there with the best, plus it has features that make it particularly useful for pet owners. It’s definitely belongs on anyone’s short list.
Shark Genius S5003D Multi-Purpose Steam Mop
Steam mops have a reputation as tough on dirt and grime but easy on the environment.
If you want to get away from chemical cleaning products, the power of water heated to the point of steam is what you need.
When you have a house full of children or pets, it is essential to find time-saving and effective ways to clean, yet you don’t want to use chemicals or have them around, just in case.
Steam is the perfect answer as it cleans deeper than the good old-fashioned mop and bucket.
Plus, a steam mop is safe to use on sealed hard floor too.
Information
Control of the unit is achieved through one button only which is pressed multiple times to up the steam level making it easy for anyone to use.
The Shark Genius S5003D Multi-Purpose Steam Mop is one of a range of steam mops from Shark. This one is aimed at sealed surfaces which includes floors from marble to hardwood. It is intended as a floor cleaner only and does not come with any upholstery tools. Shark states that the product will kill 99.99% of bacteria.
The unit is a sleek nicely designed single unit with an almost circular handle which is intended to make it easier to use with one hand. It comes with two washable cleaning pads which are also sold separately if you want extras. The unit comes in a grey color that is jazzed up by the water reservoir which glows when the unit it on; all very high-tech and spacey new-age.
It comes partially assembled, but the Shark steam mop instructions are clear and easy to follow and it does not take long to put together. The feel is of a good steam mop – it is sturdy and has a solid touch which doesn’t feel plastic-y or unpleasant.
| dimensions | 47.1 x 11.8 x 11.8 in |
|---|---|
| type | Corded |
| steam control | 3 levels |
| tank capacity | 11.8 oz / 0.35 L |
| cord length | 22 feet |
| pad type | Dirt grip pad x2 |
| heating time | 30 sec |
| color | Black |
| ergonomic handle | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No |
| weight | 5.78 lbs |
| warranty | 5 years |
Once plugged in the cleaner only takes 30 seconds to warm up before it is ready to go. The extension cord reaches for 22 feet which will clean most average sized rooms without needing to unplug and move it around.
Control of the unit is achieved through one button only which is pressed multiple times to up the steam level making it easy for anyone to use.
Surfaces can be treated directly with cleaners if required.
Pros
At just less than 6lbs most people would be comfortable taking the unit up and down stairs and into the basement if needed.
Is the Shark Genius, like its name suggests, an industry marvel at deep cleaning hardwood floors? There’s no doubt it’s a solid choice for a floor cleaner. Here are some of the positive features which highlight why the Genius stands out from the others in its class.
- Steam Blaster provides an efficient jet for tough spots: There are always sticky spots; those patches that need a little extra oomph. The Steam Blaster provides a concentrated stream of hot steam directly to the area where you need a little extra power, but still provides deep cleaning chemically free.
- Touch Free Technology means dirty mop pads are a breeze: The Genius includes Touch Free technology which means you can drop the used mop pads straight into the laundry without having to touch them. Some users pre-treat treat spots before washing for a deeper clean and longer lasting mop pads.
- One button controls every feature: All the cleaning levels are controllable with one single button. There are three levels of cleaning, indicated by LED lights. You can cycle through the levels based on what you are cleaning – add steam or take it away as needed.
- One tank of water can clean an entire room easily: A single tank of water converts into enough steam to clean about 1,000 square feet, or the floor of a 10 x 10 room. The capacity of the tank is a big 11.8 oz. which translates to about 20 minutes of cleaning.
- Weighs only 6lbs so is easy to move: For its power, the Genius weighs relatively little. At just less than 6lbs most people would be comfortable taking the unit up and down stairs and into the basement if needed. It’s a nice combination of weight and deep cleaning power.
- Will work on all sealed floors: The Shark Genius gets top marks for cleaning wood, laminate and stone floors and most professional floor steam cleaner reviews place it in the best steam mop for tile and grout category. Although strictly speaking, grout is not sealed, users report a very satisfactory experience when cleaning bathrooms and tiled floors.
Cons
What follows is some of the less positive aspects of the Shark Genius to try and create a balance. Online reviews are more slanted towards the positive but every product has its ups and its downs. Here are three downs, do they matter to you?
- Built-in water tank can’t be removed from the unit: Emptying the tank is not totally easy, and the instructions specifically require the tank to be emptied before storage. The options are to shake the whole unit upside down or leave off the lid and let air circulate.
- Control button is situated lower on the water tank: Some users reported that having the control button on the water tank rather than under the thumb on the handle was a little problematic. This may be a problem for people with back issues.
- Use on sealed floors only: This is not really a negative in that it does exactly what it says it will. However, do compare it with other units which provide a little more cleaning flexibility and will reach areas off the floor with additional hoses or accessories.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 47.1 x 11.8 x 11.8 in | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in |
| type | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| steam control | 3 levels | 3 levels | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 11.8 oz / 0.35 L | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L |
| cord length | 22 feet | 22 feet | 20 feet |
| pad type | Dirt grip pad x2 | Dirt grip pad | Cloth pad |
| heating time | 30 sec | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| color | Black | Gray | Gray |
| ergonomic handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 5.78 lbs | 4.8 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| warranty | 5 years | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
It is a relatively light unit which provides enough cleaning power for up to 1,000 square feet per tank and works across all sealed floors, including tile and grout.
Steam mops are one of the best ways to clean hardwood floors. The Shark Genius S5003D Multi-Purpose Steam Mop does a thorough job cleaning floors and kills bacteria without the use of chemicals, although some people like to treat the surface in advance.
It is a relatively light unit which provides enough cleaning power for up to 1,000 square feet per tank and works across all sealed floors, including tile and grout. Three levels of steam power give flexibility to the user across the various surfaces and the Steam Blaster adds power when needed.
The Genius is a solid machine that is highly rated and comes with the reliable Shark name. For an easy way to clean and sanitize hard floors, you won’t do much better than this Shark mop.
O-Cedar Professional Microfiber Steam Mop
Love having clean floors in the kitchen, living room and bathrooms but tired of the tiresome process of scrubbing those floors?
A steam mop will change your life, especially if you are a neat freak!
Using this O-Cedar steam mop is so much easier than using a regular mop with a bucket of water.
While both methods are effective at surface cleaning, the steamer will remove bacteria and germs without using any detergent or special cleaning formulas.
It is why the best hardwood floor steam mop is a “must buy” for many homeowners.
Information
This floor steamer also comes with a “snap on carpet glider,” which makes it effective as a carpet steam cleaner.
The O-Cedar Professional Microfiber Steam Mop is a fantastic product for anyone who wants an easier way to clean their tile, hardwood, laminate or stone floors. It is very effective at removing germs, bacteria and dirt from these surfaces.
The process of using this mop is one of the reasons why it is a must buy. All it requires is filling up the water tank, turning on the mop so it begins steaming the water, and then using it on the surface that needs cleaning.
There is no mess, which is definitely not the case with a regular mop. Your days of needing to rinse dirty water out of a mop, refilling a large bucket and then dumping out the dirty water outside are now over!
| dimensions | 27 x 10 x 6 in |
|---|---|
| type | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 14 oz / 0.4 L |
| cord length | 22 feet |
| pad type | Microfiber pad |
| heating time | 20 sec |
| color | Red / Black |
| ergonomic handle | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No |
| weight | 7.4 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Since this mop can heat up water in less than 30 seconds, it is not even time consuming to use. Even if you need to refill the water tank, you will be back to steaming in less than a minute. And it comes with an extra microfiber pad, while you can buy more as a separate product through various online retailers.
This floor steamer also comes with a “snap on carpet glider,” which makes it effective as a carpet steam cleaner. The glider enables the machine to move easily over carpets. Although this O-Cedar model is not designed to be a heavy-duty carpet steamer, it does give a nice surface clean which freshens the look of your carpets plus it will help to get rid of bacteria and germs.
Floor steamer reviews this year have the O-Cedar mop among the very top. It has all the features you need in a steam cleaning mop, with very few negatives.
Pros
It takes 20 seconds to take room temperature tap water to the necessary temperature for steam cleaning.
The O-Cedar microfiber steam mop is one of the most impressive mops on the market. These six features are what impressed us the most during our research.
- Kills 99.9 percent of bacteria on floors without any chemicals: Homeowners who do not like to use detergents or other chemicals to clean surfaces will be happy that this steam cleaning machine can remove bacteria with just steamed tap water.
- Weighs five pounds: Anyone who is worried about this product being hard to carry or move around can rest easy. It is only five pounds, which means that most people will have no issues moving it around or even carrying it up and down the stairs.
- Comes with two reusable microfiber pads: The pads on the mop are an important part of the steaming process. Users will be delighted to know they can be put through the washing machine 25 times before they are unusable.
- Steam levels on the cleaning mop are adjustable: There is an easy-to-use dial that users can adjust if they want to change the steam level. For instance, more steam may be required when deep cleaning the kitchen floor or cleaning carpets, while a lower level is acceptable for routine cleaning of hardwood floors.
- Very easy to put together and use: The O-Cedar mop is one of the easiest steaming mops to assemble and use. It is designed as one sleek unit – there are no attachments to keep track of and the steam controls as well as the water tank release button are conveniently located midway up the handle. The triangular swiveling mop head makes it particularly easy to get into corners too.
- Heats water in less than 30 seconds: It takes 20 seconds to take room temperature tap water to the necessary temperature for steam cleaning. The quick turnaround time is helpful for those with a lot of floor space that requires multiple refills to finish the job.
Cons
If you are considering the O-Cedar Professional it is important to know the good and bad qualities of the product. It is an excellent steam cleaning mop, but it does have a few issues. Here are three of the most noticeable cons our research revealed.
- Carpet snap-on device tends to come off too easily: When steaming carpets, you may have to snap on the carpet glider a few times. It can come off the bottom of the mop if you apply a little bit too much pressure.
- Very lightweight and portable, but not heavy-duty: Some users have noted that the O-Cedar feels a little too flimsy. Of course this mop is not designed as a heavy, commercial-grade steamer and shouldn’t be compared to one. When used for its intended purpose with proper care, it will work just fine.
- No way to tell how much water is left in the tank: The water tank is not transparent and there’s no indicator light to tell you when the reservoir is almost empty. You will just have to keep using the mop until it is out of water, then refill it.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 27 x 10 x 6 in | 12 x 12 x 51.2 in | 11.8 x 6.8 x 46.4 in |
| type | Corded | Corded | Corded |
| steam control | Adjustable | 3 levels | Adjustable |
| tank capacity | 14 oz / 0.4 L | 16.9 oz / 0.5 L | 11.5 oz / 0.34 L |
| cord length | 22 feet | 22 feet | 20 feet |
| pad type | Microfiber pad | Dirt grip pad | Cloth pad |
| heating time | 20 sec | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| color | Red / Black | Gray | Gray |
| ergonomic handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| stains / grease / mold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| hard surfaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| fabric / carpets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| handheld conversion | No | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 7.4 lbs | 4.8 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
If you are tired of having dirty floors around the house and you hate the process of using a mop and bucket, a floor steamer mop is the ideal product for you.
The O-Cedar Professional Microfiber Steam Mop is one of the best steam mops available today. It is lightweight, multifunctional and makes the process of cleaning any type of bare floor so much easier. Plus it can also be used as a light carpet cleaner.
If you are tired of having dirty floors around the house and you hate the process of using a mop and bucket, a floor steamer mop is the ideal product for you. It will help you keep your home cleaner in an effortless way.
Simply fill up the water tank, turn on the machine and begin cleaning your floors. It is that simple! O-Cedar has made the best steam mop this year. We see it as a solid purchase for most homeowners with hard floors.
Buying Guide
How big is the water tank?
The best hard floor steam cleaner is likely going to come with a large water tank. The more water the unit holds, the longer you’ll be able to clean with it before it has to be refilled. These products will generally hold anywhere from 10 to 20 ounces of water at one time.
Some mops will have to be refilled in as few as 15 minutes of cleaning time, whereas others can be used for as long as 45 minutes without any issue.
Is there an add-water light?
Regardless of how much water the unit holds, it’s always an added convenience to have some sort of add-water light or indicator to tell you when it’s time to refill the unit. Such a feature adds to the convenience of using the appliance.
The last thing you want is to be in the middle of deep cleaning your hardwood floors only to find that the unit isn’t producing any steam. This feature will help to keep that from happening.
Is it easy to fill?
Some cleaners will require you to use a funnel to fill the reservoir, which can be a pain. However, a good steam mop will come with a removable water reservoir, which will let you easily fill it up in your kitchen sink.
Because convenience is the name of the game with these types of products, making sure that you find one that is easy to fill up will help to save you time and effort.
Can you control the steam?
Most mops will provide you with some sort of steam control, providing you with certain settings to control how much steam is being used. If the model you’re considering has no steam control settings, you might want to find another product.
The best machine to clean tile floors and grout will always give you at least three different steam settings, which allows you to control both cleaning power and the amount of time you can clean before the unit needs to be refilled.
Design and maneuverability
As with all mops, the best steam cleaner for floors is going to be designed in a way that makes it easy to maneuver. From the size, weight, and design of the head, you want something that you won’t have to struggle with.
A swivel head is preferable in any steam floor scrubber you’re looking to buy, especially if you have tight corners that you want to reach. Overall, you just want to avoid products that are unwieldy.
Length of the power cord
The longer the power cord, the more slack you’ll have, and the larger area you’ll be able to cover. These cords are generally between 15 and 30 feet long. The best floor steamers are likely to give you at least 25 feet to work with.
Of course, you’ll also have to wrap up the cord every time you put the cleaner away, so if you have only a small area that you need to clean, you might want to find a product with a shorter cord.
Is there a power switch?
Many of these products won’t have any sort of power switch. Basically, they turn themselves on the moment you plug them in. But, there are a few that do have built-in power buttons or switches, which allows you to turn the unit on only when you’re ready to clean.
In many cases, not having a power switch isn’t a huge inconvenience, but if you want to be able to pick up the mop and use it somewhere else without wasting water, a power switch is necessary.
Does it heat quickly?
The water will have to become heated before the unit can produce steam. You ‘re looking for the best way to clean hardwood floors and tile, so the last thing you want is to have to wait for ten minutes before you can start cleaning.
The best of these products are going to be ready to go within about 20 seconds of plugging it in, which will significantly reduce your overall cleaning time, making your chores much easier.
Heat indicator light
If the unit heats the water quickly, this feature won’t matter quite as much. However, if it is going to take a few minutes before the unit is ready to clean, a heat indicator light can be extremely convenient.
Rather than just waiting a few seconds and guessing when the mop is ready to go to work, a heat indicator light will ensure that you always know when the water is hot enough and will provide enough steam.
How well/fast does it sanitize?
The best steam mop for tile will always have a sanitization setting, but the quality and length of time necessary for sanitization will vary. Generally speaking, the more heat the product uses, the less time it will take to sanitize.
The floor will have to reach 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and those that work at a lower temperature will take longer to do this. If you want to quickly sanitize your floors, find a product that works at higher temperatures.
Is there a cooling mat?
It’s never a good idea to leave one of these products resting on the surface of your floor after you’re done cleaning. This is because the remaining heat could end up burning your floor and causing discoloration or other damage.
Thankfully, there are a number of units that come with cooling mats so that you can let it cool before you store it away. If there is no cooling mat, you’ll want to find a spot for it to cool.
Included attachments
The best steam mop comes with attachments, and the quality and quantity of the attachments will determine just how useful the product will be. Some will even have a detachable steam generator, providing the ability to use it as a handheld steam cleaner.
What’s even better is if the unit comes with other tools that allow you to clean windows, carpets, countertops, or other surfaces. The product that comes with the most attachments will be the one that’s the most versatile.
What type of flooring?
Finding the best steam cleaner for tile and grout is much easier than finding one that works well on hardwood. There’s generally some sort of moisture left behind by steam mops, and excessive moisture can cause serious damage to hardwood.
Before you even attempt to use one of these products on hardwood, make sure that the manufacturer has indicated that it is safe for your floors. In fact, always make sure that the product is safe for your floors before you buy.
Cleaning and maintenance
The pads on these mops will have to be replaced or cleaned regularly. Many of them come with washable pads, which could save you some money in the long run because you won’t have to buy disposable pads. All you have to do is throw the pad in the washing machine.
Many might find it wasteful to run a full washing machine cycle just for a pad or two; in this case, you can wash the pads by hand.
Guarantees and warranties
As with any product, guarantees and warranties will help to ease your mind regarding the quality of your mop. A full money-back guarantee or multi-year warranty ought to give you confidence that the product will work well for years to come.
In your search for the best steam mop, always make sure that you are protected by some sort of guarantee or warranty so that you’re never stuck with a dud of a product and out a lot of money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are steam mops used for?
Steam mops are generally used on hard floors, including a number of types of tile and hardwood, but they can also be used to clean carpets or upholstery if you have the right attachments. While normal mops require you to use some sort of cleaning agent, a steam mop doesn’t.
Many people choose to use these types of mops because they don’t want to deal with the hassle of using bleach or some sort of detergent on their floors.
Do they kill germs and sanitize?
Yes. Utilizing the power of heat and steam, these products are able to fully sanitize the surfaces that you use them on. For full sanitization, and to kill the most common germs found on your floors, you will need to heat the surface to at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Every steam mop you find on the market will have a sanitization setting, but some might take a little longer to reach the proper temperature than others. Check your owner’s manual.
Should I add a cleaner to the water?
You can add a small amount of a cleaning agent to the water reservoir if you’re looking to get a little bit more cleaning power, but you don’t have to. The heat and steam itself is generally going to be enough to clean and sanitize any floor.
Some people have also found that adding a couple drops of vinegar to the water reservoir during cleaning will also help to disinfect better, but, again, this is not a requirement.
Do these products work on vinyl flooring?
While you can use a steam mop on a vinyl floor, it’s generally not recommended. This is because the amount of heat that one of these mops produces could be enough to warp certain vinyl floors.
If you are going to clean vinyl, be sure that you can control the heat of the mop so that you don’t warp your vinyl tiles. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before using on a vinyl floor in order to avoid causing any damage.
Can I use one to clean my carpets and upholstery?
On their own, most of these products are designed strictly for cleaning and sanitizing hard floors. However, there are certain models that come with attachments that allow you to clean carpet and upholstery, and others have attachments like this that you can buy separately.
To be safe, always check the specifications and included attachments before you buy one of these products if you are hoping to be able to clean softer surfaces like carpet and upholstery with them.
Sources
- Steam Cleaners Recalled by Thane International Due to Shock, US Consumer Product Safety Commission, July 16, 2009
- The use of domestic steam cleaning for the control of house dust mites, US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, January 1, 1995
- Steam Sterilization | Disinfection & Sterilization Guidelines, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, February 27, 2018
- The best steam mops from the Good Housekeeping Institute and our cleaning experts, Good Housekeeping Institute
- How Steam Cleaning Your Rugs Can Prevent Disease, Central Methodist University
- Steam cleaning, Wikipedia
- Green steam cleaning, The University of The West Indies
- Steam mop, Wikipedia
- Steam Mop Buying Guide, Consumer Reports, April 4, 2016
- Carpet cleaning, Wikipedia
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