Shark steam mop has revolutionized floor washing. Instead of using a wet Swiffer mop, you can clean more effectively within the same time using a steam mop. Although steam mops are more costly than non-electric mops, they are quickly growing popular and proving that performance, cleanliness and convenience make them worthwhile. Once you use a steam mop to clean your floors, you’ll not possibly want to revert to the routine of getting down on your knees and hands with a cleaner to mop corners, baseboards and tight areas. Using steam mops does not pose any environmental hazard, as there are no chemicals used and no residue on the floor.
Features to consider before buying a Shark Steam Mop
Originally posted at [Amazon]
Steam Mop Styles
Basically, there are two steam mop styles; models with one-sided cleaning and those that have a two-sided cleaning – you can turn over the mop head and then clean using the other side. The two-sided type is more practical because if one side gets dirty, there will be no need of unplugging and changing the cloth, just flip it over. Most steam driven mops are similar in terms of use, handling and care, except for a few design differences.
Weight and Handling
Generally, a steam mop requires very little effort; unless you buy a large and bulky model which can make it difficult to handle. The position of the water tank may also affect handling. Therefore, take your time to check the mop you want to buy for features and accessories, particularly lift and handling. Many Shark steam mops come with swivel heads, which make them easy to move around cabinets and corners.
Performance
Generally, steam mops are fairly similar in terms of wattage or steam intensity, but choose models with the highest wattage. The major difference relates to the number of bursts ejected. If steam covers the entire mop pad, performance will increase.
Cord length
The length of a cord plays an integral role in the convenience of a steam mop. Having to change power outlets in the same room can be a bit inconvenient for most people, particularly if they have to walk on the freshly cleaned floor to reach the power outlet. Therefore, ensure you buy a steam mop with a longer cord that will not necessitate switching of power outlets. Moreover, some steam mops have an inbuilt holder that keeps the cord off the wet floor and makes it easier to handle.
Type of switch
Another important factor that you need to consider is the type of switch. Although machines with triggers will offer you more control, they may be a bit tiring to use. On the other hand, an on-off button is easy to use but may leave the floor too wet. Pumping the handle may be tiring when cleaning a large floor. But a floor pedal on-off switch is easy to use.
Indicator Lights
Check if the steam mop has indicator lights showing when water reaches the correct temperature. Another important indicator light you should consider is one that shows when the water runs out.
Mop Head Fabric
Ensure the fabric of the mop cloth that comes with the machine is sufficiently thick and absorbent to handle any challenging tasks. Opting for a cheaper steam mop would not offer you a durable fabric that can tackle complicated cleaning tasks. It is better to spend the extra money to buy a machine with thick and absorbent material which can allow thorough cleaning.
Adjustable Steam Levels
In most cases, you will need less or a lot of steam depending on the job at hand. Therefore, ensure you buy a steam mop with adjustable steam settings that can allow you control the level of steam released.
Conclusion: Make the right choice
Shark steam mops with good ratings will ensure you don’t spend many hours in cleaning the floor. The water should heat up in less than 3 minutes. If you follow the aforementioned tips, you will be able to choose the best steam mop for your house. A lot of people who own steam mops think that they are only for cleaning floors; well, guess again. Check out carpet cleaning tips.net and learn the different uses of a steam mop that people don’t know about.