Household chores should be fun. Those who immediately begin to dispute this statement simply do not have smart, modern, high-tech assistants. One of the latest inventions that will help you quickly, efficiently and easily clean your house is a steam mop. Like any gadget, it has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Why do you need such equipment, how to choose it and what is the best steam mop?
Types of steam mops
Many people think that a mop is a device exclusively for cleaning the floor. But in the case of a steam mop, everything is not so simple. What the miracle technology can do:
- Clean floor coverings - laminate, tile, linoleum, marble, parquet.
- Clean carpets (natural), including stubborn stains.
- Wash the bathroom, sink, toilet.
- Clean upholstered furniture.
- Disinfect children's toys.
- Clean the blinds.
- Steam curtains and clothes.
- If you have special attachments, wash the stove.
And all this without the use of chemicals.
A steam mop is not suitable for wax or vinyl flooring!
The steam mop is equipped with a reservoir in which water is heated to the boiling point (100 ° C), hot steam under pressure comes out of the holes in the nozzles, cleaning and disinfecting the surface. The device comes in three types:
- Classic - has a steam generator and a water container built into the body. The design is equipped with a long handle, a base and various attachments. Intended for wet cleaning only. Doesn't collect trash.
- Ergonomic - a compact device equipped with a triangular sole capable of rotating 180°C. Copes well with dirt in hard-to-reach places.
- Combined – devices with a built-in vacuum cleaner or electric broom. The base of the gadget has a built-in cyclone vacuum cleaner, a waste collection container, and a rotating brush. Designed for dry or wet cleaning.
Advantages of a steam mop:
- functionality – thanks to the removable sole and a combination of different attachments, the mop is indispensable for cleaning the entire house;
- maneuverability – the design of the gadget allows you to remove the most inaccessible places;
- environmental friendliness - no use of chemicals required;
- economical - to operate a steam mop effectively, you only need water and electricity;
- disinfection – bacteria, microbes, and dust mites are destroyed under the influence of high temperatures;
- compactness – the gadget will not take up much space, so it is suitable for small apartments;
- simplicity – the device is lightweight, ergonomic and easy to use.
Flaws:
- does not collect debris - to achieve perfect cleanliness, before using the steam device, you must use a vacuum cleaner, broom or robotic cleaners;
- leaves streaks – on some surfaces, after cleaning with a steam mop, visible streaks remain;
- cannot cope with persistent stains - the device cannot cope with atypical, stubborn stains;
- no self-cleaning function.
Which steam mop is best for laminate flooring?
Not all steam devices are suitable for cleaning laminate floors. When purchasing, your primary attention should be paid to the description of the model; the characteristics should indicate that it is intended specifically for this type of flooring:
- A steam mop should have low moisture release and uniform dispersion over the entire area of the nozzle. In other words, hot steam should not escape from the device in a strong and narrow stream that can quickly deform the laminate.
- The steam mop must have temperature control - it is impossible to process the floor covering at maximum temperatures of about 100 ° C, as its protective layer will quickly become unusable.
- Before purchasing, you need to make sure that the unit’s cord unwinds 5-7 m or more. Otherwise, you will have to use an extension cord to clean the entire house.
- The operating time of the device must be at least 40 minutes. In a large apartment, cleaning laminate flooring with a steam mop can take a long time, and it will be inconvenient to constantly add water.
- You need to decide on the optimal volume of the tank. You will have to constantly add water to a small container, but a large one will make the mop much heavier.
Steam mops with a triangular nozzle allow you to clean corners
Tip! When purchasing a unit, you should take your own height into account. Either a device that is too tall or too short will be uncomfortable.
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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Steam mop or vacuum cleaner?
The advertising of both gadgets makes you believe in their exceptional omnipotence in cleaning. But it is not so. Although both a steam mop and a washing vacuum cleaner perform the same mission - wet cleaning, there are many differences in execution:
- principle of operation - the mop pushes dirt from the floor surface with a powerful jet of steam, the vacuum cleaner is capable of both supplying and removing water along with washed contaminants;
- Dimensions – the vacuum cleaner has large dimensions and decent weight, it is problematic to store it in small rooms;
- noise level - a steam mop can be used at any time of the day, a vacuum cleaner is a noisy device;
- electricity consumption – the vacuum cleaner plays again;
- care after work - the vacuum cleaner must be disassembled and washed after each cleaning; a mop is much simpler in this regard.
The advantages of a washing vacuum cleaner include high quality cleaning, good cleaning of upholstered furniture and carpets, humidification of indoor air, and reliable design.
Ideally, it is advisable to buy both devices. If this is not available, carefully study the reviews of each device and find the best option for you.
Steam or electric mop?
The electric mop can be called the little sister of the steam gadget. It is equipped with a rather bulky base on which cleaning rags are attached and water is poured. When turned on, the mop sprays water in front of it and rubs almost simultaneously, leaving no streaks. Particles of dust and dirt remain on the base, the cloth is easy to remove and wash.
The device runs on battery power, allowing you not to think about the length of the cord and the nearest outlet while cleaning. The charge lasts approximately 40-60 minutes of continuous operation.
The disadvantages include the large dimensions - the mop will ideally wash the center free of furniture and will have difficulty moving around the corners.
A high-quality electric mop has a noticeably high price (6000-8000 rubles), and in many qualities it is inferior to its steam sister.
Steam mop or steam cleaner?
A steam cleaner is a device designed to effectively clean the entire home. This is a compact device consisting of a steam boiler, a gun and a flexible hose with different caliber nozzles. The device heats water to 120-150 degrees and produces a powerful jet of steam, which removes dirt, grease, and old stains, simultaneously disinfecting the surface.
Thanks to various attachments, the steam cleaner:
- removes grease and dirt in the kitchen - stove, oven, microwave, pots and pans, kitchen furniture, hood and even refrigerator;
- washes radiators and batteries;
- effectively cleans plumbing fixtures from rust and limescale;
- removes grease and abrasions from upholstered furniture, carpets and clothing;
- cleans windows, glass and mirrors;
- fights dust mites in bedding and soft toys;
- can be used as a steamer;
- Suitable for cleaning car interiors;
- can clean the floor, but the process will take a long time.
A steam cleaner only dissolves and dislodges dirt, but does not collect it; at the same time, you must use a sponge or napkin.
According to reviews on the forums, a steam cleaner is more functional than a steam mop, but requires significant physical effort, storage space and a sufficient amount of time for cleaning.
A steam mop is considered a cross between a vacuum cleaner and a steam cleaner. It will allow you to clean the room efficiently, takes up little space, and has good functionality. The main thing is to choose your right assistant. We present the top 10 best steam mops for every taste and budget, according to experts and buyers.
To wash or not to wash?
Having analyzed all the features of a laminated floor covering, we can draw the following conclusion: you can wash laminate flooring with a steam mop, but only a certain one - class 32 and above, which must be moisture-resistant and sealed. At the same time, you should follow a number of important cleaning rules and take a responsible approach to choosing household appliances.
Which laminate can be washed?
So, the use of a steam mop is allowed if the laminate class is 32 or higher. In addition, it is desirable that it have water-repellent properties (this is indicated by the “aqua” marking). Finally, the third important condition for safe steam treatment is the installation method and high-quality sealing of joints. The locking method of fastening better protects the seam, and deep impregnation with wax cannot be removed even with a fingernail and reliably protects the laminate from exposure to wet steam.
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It should be borne in mind that the characteristics stated on the packaging do not always correspond to reality. In fact, the laminate may be of lower quality. Chinese materials are especially guilty of this. And the method of installation is of great importance.
Before you steam mop your floor, it is recommended to do a small test in an inconspicuous place (under the bed, behind a closet).
TOP 10 best steam mops
Inexpensive models
The rating opens with budget models with rather limited functionality, but capable of efficiently cleaning the room.
H2O Mop X12
Price: 2600 rub.
A modern gadget from the Bradex company that will cope not only with cleaning the floor, but also bring order to almost the entire house. The package includes 10 functional attachments that can be used in various cleaning options. The triangular base will allow you to clean all the corners, and the price for such a high-quality and convenient gadget will pleasantly surprise you.
H2O Mop X12
Advantages
- many attachments;
- a light weight;
- compactness;
- low price;
- high-quality assembly.
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Disadvantages
- short cord;
- fragile body.
Kitfort KT-1010
Price: 3790 rub.
Combined 2 in 1 model from a Russian company. Combines a steam mop and an electric broom. Equipped with a built-in filter and frame for steaming carpets. The set includes three floor rags, which are enough for a cleaning cycle.
Kitfort KT-1010
Advantages
- powerful steam flow;
- collects small debris;
- Includes three sex attachments;
- water filter.
Flaws
- wide base;
- low efficiency of the turbo brush.
Endever Odyssey Q-606
Price: 2500 rub.
A simple and convenient model with a power regulator, fast heating and high maneuverability. The gadget can work without interruption for up to 45 minutes and does not require additional chemicals.
Endever Odyssey Q-606
Advantages
- does not leave streaks;
- long cord;
- quiet operation;
- simple controls.
Flaws
- it is necessary to use purified water;
- low quality plastic;
- There is no steam regulator.
Middle price segment
Ideal ratio – price and quality.
BLACK+DECKER FSM1616
Price: 5600 rub.
The steam mop is equipped with an AutoSelect system, which independently regulates the steam supply depending on the surface being cleaned. The device is highly maneuverable thanks to the articulated sole.
The working cycle varies from 5 to 20 minutes. The water tank has built-in anti-scale protection, allowing you to use tap water.
BLACK+DECKER FSM1616
Advantages
- sole design;
- automatic steam adjustment;
- scale protection;
- removable water tank.
Flaws
- short operating time;
- lack of additional functions.
Tefal VP6557
Price: 6600 rub.
An elegant mop with a Dual Clean & Steam attachment can perform both dry and wet cleaning. The device has a built-in filter, power adjustment and a spacious water tank.
According to reviews, this is the best steam mop in the mid-price category, designed for cleaning large spaces. The kit includes a mat for vertical storage of the device.
Tefal VP6557
Advantages
- simultaneously washes and vacuums;
- long power cord;
- scale protection;
- power adjustment;
- compact storage;
Flaws
- no additional attachments.
Kitfort KT-1001
Price: 4290 rub.
Popular model with multifunctional equipment. With this mop you can not only thoroughly clean the floor, but also iron clothes, clean upholstered furniture, and tidy up curtains. The tank volume is small, but completely removable. Continuous operation of the device is up to 30 minutes.
Kitfort KT-1001
Advantages
- many attachments and additional functions;
- steam supply regulator;
- convenient design;
- loyal price.
Flaws
- average power;
- no water filter;
- small tank.
Rovus 7326
Price: 5990 rub.
The compact cleaner works in two directions at once - dust suction and steam cleaning. The device is low-power, but effective in cleaning. The block rotates 360°C, and the telescopic handle will allow even a child to control the mop.
Rovus 7326
Advantages
- two operating modes;
- economical energy consumption;
- adjustable handle.
Flaws
- non-demountable design.
Premium steam mops
The best steam generators among their colleagues that will put your house in perfect order from floor to ceiling.
Polti Vaporetto SV450 Double
Price: 11,400 rub.
The compact device combines a steam mop and a portable steam cleaner. Capable of treating up to 15 different surfaces and scenting the room. The water heats up in 15 seconds. The design of the sole allows you to reach the most difficult to reach places in the house.
Polti Vaporetto SV450 Double
Advantages
- brush with brass bristles;
- compartment for liquid flavors;
- removable water tank;
- a large number of attachments;
- quick warm up.
Flaws
- no critical deficiencies were identified.
Black&Decker FSMH13101SM
Price: 10900 rub.
11 in 1 steam mop with innovative SteaMitt steam glove. The device can clean even small children's soft toys and tabletop items. It has a removable steamer, a built-in filter and a 4 in 1 brush with replaceable bristles. Continuous operation – up to 20 minutes. Buyers talk about the high build quality.
Black&Decker FSMH13101SM
Advantages
- steam glove;
- equipment;
- built-in filter;
- modular design;
- build quality.
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Disadvantages
- short continuous work cycle.
2 Bissell 1977N
Price: 18,740 rubles.
The universal steam cleaner combines the capabilities of a vacuum cleaner with a cyclone operating principle and a steam mop. Equipped with a convenient control panel, a spacious water tank and an ergonomic telescopic handle.
The steam supply can be adjusted independently. In dry cleaning mode, small debris is collected in a container with a volume of 0.95 liters.
2 Bissell 1977N
Advantages
- dry and wet cleaning;
- high power;
- built-in filter;
- telescopic handle.
Flaws
- tangible weight.
How to properly clean?
A steam mop can do more than just clean floors from dust and dirt. Its undoubted advantage is the disinfection of the premises. Hot steam kills most germs and bacteria. However, to prevent the laminate from deteriorating during cleaning, you should follow 5 important rules:
- It is allowed to carry out wet cleaning no more than once every 3 days.
- If there is large debris and dirt on the floor, it must be vacuumed first (a steam mop does not replace a vacuum cleaner).
- Complex stains and stains require the use of special detergents.
- When using each new detergent, it is important to make sure that it does not spoil the laminated surface (does not contain abrasive particles, does not have a high alkaline or acidic environment).
- If, after washing the floor with a steam mop, wet stains remain, the laminate should be immediately wiped dry with a napkin or rag.
If, after cleaning, individual boards still become deformed and swollen, there is no need to be sad or panic. In most cases, the problem can be solved simply - you need to remove the baseboard, open the windows and let the laminate dry with natural air circulation.
Undoubtedly, a steam mop will make cleaning the floor covering easier, making it better and more convenient. This household appliance has a built-in water tank, which allows you to forget about buckets and basins. Reviews advise choosing a device of medium size and weight, with a long cord and a steam generator that is removable. This will allow you to wash not only the laminate, but also vertical surfaces: windows, bathroom tiles, upholstered furniture and much more.
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Comparative characteristics of steam mops
Model | price, rub. | Power | Tank volume | Cord length | Weight | Customer ratings |
Polti Vaporetto SV450 Double | 11400 | 1500 W | 300 ml | 5 m | 2.4 kg | 5,0 |
Black&Decker FSMH13101SM | 10900 | 1300 W | 500 ml | 6 m | 2.8 kg | 4,9 |
2 Bissell 1977N | 18740 | 1600 W | 600 ml | 7.6 m | 4.4 kg | 4,9 |
Tefal VP6557 | 6700 | 1200 W | 600 ml | 7 m | 2.8 kg | 4,8 |
Kitfort KT-1001 | 4290 | 1300 W | 350 ml | 5 m | 2.7 kg | 4,6 |
Endever Odyssey Q-606 | 2500 | 1700 W | 370 ml | 6 m | 2 kg | 4,5 |
Kitfort KT-1010 | 3790 | 1300 W | 350 ml | 5 m | 1.65 kg | 4,5 |
Rovus 7326 | 5990 | 650 W | 130 ml | 5 m | 2.8 kg | 4,5 |
BLACK+DECKER FSM1616 | 5900 | 1600 W | 460 ml | 5 m | 2.6 kg | 4,2 |
H2O Mop X12 | 2600 | 1259 W | 450 ml | 4.5 m | 2.65 kg | 4.0 |
If you are a connoisseur of cleanliness in the house, but are tired of cleaning in a half-bent state, a steam mop will become a real lifesaver. It will turn cleaning into a fun activity and keep your back and arms in perfect condition. Try it - and your life will become a little easier!
Recommendations for selection
Like any modern gadget, a steam mop has a set of specific functions and options that vary greatly in each model. What exactly should you pay attention to when choosing a steam mop:
- Power is the main parameter on which the speed of boiling water and the strength of steam supply depend. The stronger the device releases steam, the faster and cleaner the room will be cleaned.
- Intensity of steam supply - a powerful jet cleans dirt better, but leaves streaks and drops. It is better to choose a mop with a steam regulator.
- Tank volume - a large tank allows you to avoid interruptions for adding water longer, thereby stopping cleaning, but it makes the structure heavier.
- Continuous operation time - it should be noted that the gadget can be operated without stopping for only a short time (10-15 minutes), after which it needs a break (20 minutes). Continuous operation time directly depends on power, steam intensity and tank volume.
- Water filter – given the quality of water supplied to apartments and houses, to prevent scale formation, it is worth paying attention to the presence of a filter.
- Microfiber nozzle - this material absorbs dust well and removes dirt. Plus it's easy to clean.
- The length of the cord is an important point for ease of use; it should be selected based on the dimensions of the room and the location of the outlets.
- Weight – varies between 0.9 – 4 kg. If you plan to use a steam mop suspended (cleaning ceilings, walls, curtains), it is better to take a closer look at compact models.
Many users complain about the fragility of the device. This is due to the fact that many fakes enter the market, and young companies that have not mastered the technology have a high percentage of defects. When choosing a steam mop, focus on well-known brands and proven models.