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11 BEST MOPS FOR CLEANING ANY TYPE OF FLOOR TESTED BY PROFESSIONAL



Your hardwood, tile, and vinyl flooring have never looked better.


You may use several tools to keep the bare floors in your house clean. Even if your home has wall-to-wall carpeting, the kitchen, bathrooms, and other rooms probably contain bare floors that require dry and wet cleaning. However, even the best vacuums can't handle everything. You need an excellent mop for those occasions when fine dust and stuck-on scratches, stains, and filth deface your wood, ceramic, laminate, and vinyl plank floors


Thankfully, modern mops are cleaner, neater, and easier to store than the vintage cotton string or butterfly sponge mops of the past. While the best robot mops can essentially do the mopping for you and the best steam mops can clean without the need for cleaning chemicals, these cleaning equipment are incredibly convenient thanks to features like disposable or washable microfibre pads and onboard canisters of cleaning solution. However, dry and wet mops have various uses, so it's best to have both on hand to handle any cleaning task, according to the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab.


OUR TOP PICKS:

To test the hundreds of dry and wet mops, hoover mops, and hardwood floor cleaners that we review each year, we use built-in panels of wood, vinyl, laminate, ceramic, and marble floors. These are the best wet and dry mops available for cleaning all sorts of floors, according to our in-depth testing. You may learn more about how we test mops, what to look for when buying one, and answers to questions about when to replace a mop and other topics at the bottom of this buying guide after reading our reviews.


1. SWIFFER SWEEPER DRY + WET XL SWEEPING KIT

PROS

  • Extra large pivoting and locking head

  • Grabs and traps the finest dust

  • Easy and neat to use, even for kids

  • Can be used wet or dry

CONS

  • Clothes are not reusable

Type

Dry dust and wet mop


Mop head

Disposable dry and wet cloths


Mop head width

15 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



This is the original Swiffer Sweeper on steroids with its bigger form. With a head that is 1.5 times bigger than the original, it is quick and simple to clean huge areas. Because of how well its disposable cloths capture the small dust that other equipment miss and because it can fit under low-profile furniture where most vacuums can't, Swiffer has long been a GH Seal star and a favorite of the GH Cleaning Lab. In fact, we like to believe that Swiffer revolutionized how Americans clean by making it simple to mop floors anytime you had a few free minutes when it was first released more than 25 years ago.


All floor surfaces may be safely cleaned with this Swiffer vacuum since the head pivots and locks.

It may even be used to dust tall objects like walls when angled at 90 degrees. The set also comes with two pre-moistened wet clothes and eight dry clothes in addition to the Sweeper. With the Swiffer, wet mopping is just as simple as dry dusting. However, if wet clothes aren't used for an extended period of time, they may dry up and require a second one to complete particularly big chores. Regular replacement cloth purchases are required.


2. BONA PREMIUM MICROFIBER FLOOR MOP

PROS

  • Can be used for wet cleaning and dry dusting

  • Wide cleaning head takes reusable pads

  • Telescoping pole

CONS

  • Requires applying a separate cleaner to the floor

Type

Dry dust and wet mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable microfiber pads


Mop head width

16.5 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



Are you looking for a mop that can handle all of your floor cleaning requirements? The fact that this Bona Microfiber Floor Mop comes with two washable, reusable, and replaceable microfiber pads forced us to select it as our best-value option. For the dry collection of dust, pet hair, and other debris, use the soft, fluffy pad with both short and long fibers. The scrubbing strips on each side of the low looped pad for wet cleaning help to remove tough filth, while the center area absorbs it and locks it away. Both fit easily onto the 16.5-inch mop head, which has flexible, soft corners to prevent damage to cupboards and woodwork. It is truly a do-it-all option.


Bona mops have shown to be quite maneuverable in our tests at the GH Cleaning Lab.

The telescoping aluminum handle is something we particularly appreciate about this one. It may be adjusted to accommodate people of different heights and is lightweight. The pads hold up quite well in our repeated wash testing. For wet cleaning of hardwood, stone, vinyl, and laminate floors, combine this mop with one of Bona's spray cleaners.


3. SWIFFER WETJET POWER MOP STARTER KIT

PROS

  • Easy and neat to use

  • Pads are absorbent, don't drip, and have a scrubbing strip

  • Has two spray nozzles for even application

  • Can be used with multi-purpose or wood-safe Swiffer cleaner

CONS

  • Need to buy replacement pads, cleaner, and batteries

Type

Wet spray mop


Mop head type

Disposable pads


Mop head width

11 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



Swiffer WetJet revolutionized wet mopping in the same way that Swiffer Sweeper changed how we dry dust floors. The spray mops category was created by this all-in-one product, and once people learned about them, they never looked back. Simply attach the disposable pad, press the handle button to start the battery-powered spray, and snap the cartridge of wood-safe cleaner onto the mop.


In our tests, we discovered that this GH Seal Star cleaner was efficient and quick-drying, which we particularly enjoyed for cleaning hardwood floors. We examined test results from the manufacturer that demonstrated the cleaning agent's durability on wood. The disposable pads are incredibly absorbent, and the mop is simple to assemble and maneuver.

removing and sealing in filth that you weren't even aware was present on your floors. The center has a scrubber strip that gently removes built-up dirt. Then just pull off the pad and throw it away. To assist in lighting up dark places and two spray nozzles to ensure consistent application, the mop even includes two miniature spotlights. The mop, five pads, one little solution container, and four AA batteries are all included in this comprehensive kit. You'll need to purchase a full-size replacement once the initial bottle of cleaner runs out. Only Swiffer WetJet cleaner cartridges can be used, and the cleaner bottle cannot be refilled.


4. BONA HARDWOOD FLOOR PREMIUM SPRAY MOP

PROS

  • Large mop head for good coverage

  • Sturdy and durable

  • The cleaning canister is refillable

CONS

  • The handle may be long for some

Type

Wet spray mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable microfiber pad


Mop head width

16.75 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood and laminate



Wood floors require specific maintenance, and Bona, with its extensive background in professional floor refinishing, is well-versed in creating the best wood floor cleaning tools and solutions. It's simple to remove the cleaning solution cartridge that comes with this mop and replace it with any other Bona floor cleaner. Any style of flooring, including stone, laminate, hardwood, and tiles, may be cleaned with the right solution and a mop. When we pressed the trigger during our tests, it released a fine, even mist, and the floors dried rapidly after mopping.


The cleaning liquid quickly, easily, and thoroughly dissolved filth and dried stains while the microfiber pads are simple to use, feature scouring fibers to remove stuck-on grime, and stand up well to washing.

safely. The large mop head's soft bumper corners prevent it from unintentionally scratching furniture and walls as you move. Although the length of the ergonomic pole could be too long for certain users, it includes a soft grip in the middle for increased comfort while scrubbing and even a pull-out loop at the top for simple hanging during storage.


5. O-CEDAR EASYWRING RINSECLEAN MICROFIBER SPIN MOP & BUCKET

PROS

  • Separates clean from dirty water

  • Wrings thoroughly

  • Telescoping pole

CONS

  • May be difficult to store

  • Need to apply the cleaner to the floor

Type

Microfiber wet mop


Mop head type

Microfiber strings


Mop head diameter

N/A


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



Because they offer a novel alternative to the traditional mop-wringing methods that require a lot of arm twisting, spin mops, and buckets are popular products on the market. They still hadn't found a solution, however, to the issue of having to continually dip a dirty mop into a clean detergent solution until you were cleaning with dirty water. O'Cedar, thankfully, saved the day with its EasyWring RinseClean system, which uses two water tanks. For this reason, we are recommending it. Pour clean water into the top chamber, then let it drain into the top bucket. You use that to wipe the floor. After cleaning, quickly rewet the mop and spin it.

By depressing the foot pedal, clean. Away from the clean water, all the unclean water spins off the mop and into the bottom tank. The top bucket can then be filled from the top chamber with clean water.


This O'Cedar system was put to the test at home by a GH Institute Lab coworker, who gave it high marks. She was at ease using it on her wood floors because she found it simple to operate and that it wrung thoroughly. The heavy-duty mop head has fibers all over for 360-degree cleaning and is detachable for machine washing. The pole's ability to be used more comfortably is another feature we value. It takes up some room in storage, just like every spin bucket does. It is impossible to add cleanser to the bucket using O'Cedar.


6. BISSELL SPIN-WAVE HARD FLOOR SPIN MOP

PROS

  • Corded for continuous cleaning

  • Pads are washable and reusable

  • Easy to carry and store

CONS

  • Round pads may not get completely into corners

Type

Electric wet spray mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable microfiber pads


Mop head width

14 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



Your grandmother's outdated floor scrubber will be outclassed by this Bissell electric mop. It has a modern design, a corded power source for continuous use, and one set of soft and one set of spinning and scrubbing washable and reusable microfiber pads included. Simply add some water and the Bissell floor cleaning solution that is provided to the tank to safely clean and scrub any sealed and finished floors.



Although we haven't tried this particular model in the lab, we have tested a lot of Bissell full-size and portable vacuums as well as carpet cleaners, so it's a brand we are confident in. Additionally, this mop has received positive internet reviews, so we feel confident recommending it. Our favorite feature is that the cleaning solution only releases when you pull the trigger, so When washing hardwood, you have better control over how wet the floor becomes. We feel confident suggesting it to clean finished hardwood and laminate floors because it isn't a steamer.



Scuffs and other blemishes can be eliminated by giving this mop a brief spin while using it dry for polishing. However, because the pads are spherical, they cannot fully enter small spaces.


7. DREAMETECH H11 MAX SMART CORDLESS WET DRY VACUUM MOP

PROS

  • No streaks left behind during ketchup clean-up tests

  • Brush roll cover cleans brush as you use it

CONS

  • Dirty water can leak when the device is lifted off the floor

Type

Cordless vacuum mop


Mop head type

Soft brush roller


Mop head width

N/A


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



This overview should include a new class of floor mops called mop and vacuum combos because they're revolutionizing how we clean floors. Mops combine the dry pick-up of a standard vacuum with a mop's ability to clean wet floors. They even clean up chunky food spills, such as soup.


The H11 Max from Dreametech came out on top in our recent test of 11 models for simplicity of use. It received a perfect score in six of our eight categories for simplicity of use and was simple to move around objects and into small spaces. and being self-propelled, and weight approximately 11 pounds, it was simple to push. It operated for 36 minutes on a single charge throughout our performance tests.

despite a few dirty water dribbles when we lifted it off the surface, and cleaned up ketchup spills without leaving any marks or making greater messes on our test floor.


This vacuum mop by Dreametech has water tanks that are entirely flush with the vacuum mop's main body, giving it a distinctively slim, svelte, and contemporary appearance. The brush roll is cleaned as the vacuum rolls forward, thanks to a scraper on the brush roll cover, preventing messes from accumulating and being redeposited farther along your cleaning route. The H11 Max also has an LED screen that notifies you and automatically raises the suction when it notices more debris on the floor.


8. THE MAKER'S MOP BUNDLE

PROS

  • Works wet or dry

  • Fits into narrow spaces

  • Uses microfiber pads or cloths

CONS

  • Small cleaning surface for larger floors

Type

Dry dust and wet mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable microfiber pads


Mop head width

12 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



The first significant advancement in conventional floor mops in years, Melissa Maker's Maker's Clean mop is unlike any mop we've ever seen. We actually granted it the 2021 Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning Product Award since we were so pleased with how it performed in our tests. The mop head's taco form allows it to fit into tight spots, such as around the toilet or between the refrigerator and the wall, in addition to cleaning flat surfaces with your preferred spray floor cleaner. The bottom edge fits nicely along baseboards, floors, and the 90-degree angles of stair treads and risers.


The pole's ability to telescope, making it suitable for people of all heights, is another noteworthy quality in our opinion.


9. BRAAVA JET M6 ROBOT MOP

PROS

  • Cleans up to 1,000 square feet on a single charge

  • Wet- and dry-mopping capability

  • The square shape gets into corners

  • Works with voice commands through Amazon Alexa

CONS

  • Can take longer than mopping by hand

  • More expensive than traditional mops

Type

Robotic wet mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable disposal pads


Mop head width

10 inches


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate



A robot mop can be the perfect solution for you if cleaning floors is not your favorite task. The company that created the category, iRobot, is an expert on floor-cleaning robots. A prototype of this mop model we examined in our lab performed just as admirably as iRobot vacuums, which consistently perform admirably in GH Cleaning Lab tests. There are two different kinds of wet cleaning pads included with the Braava Jet robot mop: disposable and reusable. While some robot mops only utilize water to clean, this one moistens dirt and filth with a combination of warm water and iRobot's floor cleanser before one of the wet pads actually begins to clean your hard floors.

Dust mites with pet hair Start the Braava Jet in dry-sweeping mode first, and the electrostatic pad will collect the particles before you start wet mopping. It is intelligent enough to understand when the dry pad is installed not to spray water. The more frequently it cleans, the more accurately Braava Jet's Smart Mapping technology learns the most effective way to clean in patterns of neat rows.


10. TEAMBOY PRO 300CU STEAM FLOOR MOP

PROS

  • Produces a lot of steam

  • Easy to get into corners

  • Produces steam on demand

CONS

  • Does not have a continuous steam option

  • Not for use on wood or other very delicate or damaged floors

Type

Electric steam mop


Mop head type

Washable and reusable microfiber pad


Mop head width

10.5 inches triangular


Suitable floor types

Sheet vinyl, tile, and stone



Although Reliable may not be a well-known brand in the US, this Canadian manufacturer is renowned for their steam-producing irons. Therefore, it came as no surprise to us when its steam mops excelled in our tests. The Steamboy Pro is indeed one of the top steam mops we've evaluated. The water tank sits atop a cartridge that filters contaminants from the water, reducing the likelihood of build-up and clogging inside the steamer. The water tank's forceful steam helps remove tenacious stains with ease.


Reliable's triangle-shaped swivel head and built-in triangle scrub brush let it get into tight spaces, and it includes four washable microfiber pads so you won't have to worry about running out. in the midst of a project. Although we have never found these to be especially helpful or successful on any steamer we have tested, there is an attachment that clamps on to assist in freshening carpets. We appreciate its broad handle and slender shape, which make it simple to carry up and down stairs.


11. LIBMAN NITTY GRITTY ROLLER MOP

PROS

  • Built-in scrub brush and heavy-duty cleaning surface

  • Steel handle

  • Comes with a one-year warranty

CONS

  • Shouldn't be used with bleach or bleach-containing cleaners

  • May not fit in all buckets

Type

Sponge mop


Mop head type

Replaceable sponge


Mop head width

10 inches (sponge), 8.5 inches (scrub brush)


Suitable floor types

Sealed hardwood, vinyl, tile, stone, and laminate floors


Since Libman has been in business since 1896, it should come as no surprise that their mops are trustworthy, inexpensive, and one of our selections. We would be negligent if we included a simple sponge mop in this collection. The large head on this sponge mop helps it clean hard surfaces and soak up liquid spills. It's like receiving two tools in one because the sponge has a scrubbing surface and a built-in brush for cleaning tile grout and floors, which is an extra plus.


Simply pull the pole's handle back or push it forward to use the wringing mechanism to remove extra water. You can remove the sponge head when it is no longer functional and purchase a replacement rather than having to purchase a brand-new mop. The sponge must be used with a non-bleach cleanser that has been applied to the floor or diluted in a bucket in order to keep it intact. Some reviewers mentioned that the sponge head came off too readily and had hoped for a more absorbent sponge.


HOW DO WE TEST THE BEST MOP

You might not think evaluating a mop involves much, but we beg to differ. The moment we open the box or package for a mop test in the GH Cleaning Lab, we start evaluating it. We rate how simple the mop assemblies are, awarding extra points to those that require no assembly at all. We assess how simple it is to connect, detach, replace, and, when necessary, refill the pads, mop heads, and cleaner bottles. It is determined whether or not the mop will be difficult to store by measuring the length of the handle to see if it will function equally well for tall and short users.


Then we assigned them a task. How much pre-applied dust and hair is considered when evaluating dry mops they gather from the test floor panels made of wood, vinyl, laminate, ceramic tile, and natural stone in our lab? We even keep track of whether dirt sticks to the mop or drips off of it as it is moved about. On the same flooring surfaces, wet mops are put to the test to see how well they clean scuffs, grease, and dried stains like soda or chocolate syrup. To assess how easily the mops can reach beneath low-profile furniture and how simple it is to use them, we also test them wherever possible with actual consumers in their own homes.


We evaluate how much liquid the mop spreads out on the floor and how long it takes the floor to dry after cleaning for water-sensitive surfaces like finished hardwood floors that shouldn't get unduly wet. Furthermore, the amount of water that wringing devices can remove is examined. Then, to ensure that washable pads and mop heads keep performing after laundry, they are washed several times and reattached.


Over 143 dry and wet messes were cleaned up in our most recent test of 11 vacuum mops, while 14 tests totaling more than 200 evaluations were performed in a prior test of 15 steam mops. These figures don't even take into account the yearly tests of new mops that come our way or the entries for our annual Cleaning Awards.


Testing, though, continues in other ways. We store the mops in our cleaning lab so we can use them to clean up testing spills and messes to see how they function well over time, and when other GH Institute Labs require one, they even lend them out.


WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN SHOPPING FOR A MOP

Dry vs. wet: A dry mop is a terrific complement to quickly remove dirt and debris before wet mopping, but it won't completely replace a wet mop. Some mops offer the option of wet and dry pads that attach to the mop and are interchangeable if storage space is an issue.


Mop head width: While larger mop heads can cover more land and shorten cleaning times, they might be more difficult to maneuver around corners and other tight places than smaller heads.


Washable vs. disposable mop pads: Disposable mop cloths are more convenient and eliminate the concern about whether your mop is hygienic. But when you run out, you'll have to buy more. Cleanable mop heads and cloths.


Cost of refills: Most disposable cloth mops require brand-specific refills, and some additionally call for a refill of cleaning solution. Both of these can add up in expense over time, but they might be a suitable option for someone who prefers disposables or does not want to worry about storing a moist mop.


Replacement heads are necessary since mops lose their efficacy after prolonged use and repetitive scrubbing. To avoid having to replace the entire mop when it's time for a new one, you might want to think about a mop with a removable head option.


Floor-type: When purchasing a mop, check the mop head's composition and any cleaning agents.


WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF A MOP?

There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, and each type of mop on the market has its own benefits, so the most efficient form of mop is the one that works best for your particular floor.


Steam mop: If you want to disinfect your floors without using cleaning agents, a steam mop is the solution. In areas that might require more attention, such as bathroom floors and pet quarters, it can achieve temperatures high enough to kill bacteria on hard surfaces. They can easily remove sticky stains like jelly or muddy footprints without the need for the scrubbing that traditional mops need. The only drawback is that we don't suggest using steam mops on hardwood floors. only a small percentage of hardwood floors are completely sealed.


Spray mop: Without the mess of a water-filled bucket, spray mops are a terrific method to remove dirt and remove sticky stains off floors. Additionally, they are a simple and safe way to avoid overwetting and harming wood floors because you can manage how much cleaner is delivered. Install a pre-filled cleaning solution canister easily, or simply fill the onboard container with your own water and cleaner mixture. Next, simply spray and mop. Spray mops employ microfiber pads that may be thrown away or washed.


Dust mop: A dust mop is a great tool for removing dry dirt and other particles. They are less difficult to transport than a Hoover because they are lightweight and portable. Due to the fact that most dust mops are composed of microfibre, they are also a suitable alternative for flooring that could be easily scratched by the moving brush roll or plastic wheels of a Hoover. They can fit into small places and under low furniture where a Hoover can't frequently go since they are so flat and thin. They accept either disposable or washable microfibre pads. Additionally, baseboards, crown moldings, and walls can be cleaned with dust mops.


Sponge mops are useful for cleaning up spills since they quickly absorb large amounts of liquid. A fantastic option for someone who finds other types of mops too heavy or awkward to use, or who doesn't want to bother with disposable or washable pads, sponge mops are often compact and lightweight. They either come with a roller. They have a roller or butterfly wringing mechanism and can be quite difficult to fully squeeze out the sponge without exerting a lot of force. Before storing them, make sure to give them a thorough cleaning to prevent bacterial growth and odors. It's time to replace the sponge mop head when it breaks apart or becomes too unclean to use.


Mops are the newest type of floor cleaning equipment, and they can simultaneously take up dry dirt, moist messes, and wet-cleaned floors. They are transforming how we clean floors. Most mop floors by pouring a cleaning solution onto the floor via a spinning microfiber brush roll and are rechargeable. They also often feature separate clean and dirty water tanks. The simplest models to use are self-cleaning ones.


Most are easy to maintain and come with voice prompts, multiple cleaning modes, and app connectivity. They are practical, simple to use, and constantly available when you need them. However, keep in mind before you purchase that they do require a significant amount of storage space.


Spin mop: There are two types of spin mops. Electric or manual options are available. Either they are electric machines with spinning microfiber pads, or they have rounded heads with microfiber strings that clean in all directions.


Two revolving microfiber pads on electric spin mops, like the Bissell we recommend, scrape floors with either plain water or a cleaning solution you pour from the machine. The pads are reusable, machine washed, and even dry used for polishing floors using a buff.

Regular string mops are more similar to manual spin mops. To make wringing easier and more thorough than you can achieve by hand, they have rounded heads with microfiber strings and come with a bucket and a spinning mechanism. Manual spin mops are simple to use in corners and small places, and they offer 360-degree floor cleaning.


CAN YOU MOP ALL TYPES OF FLOORS?

You can wet mop most hard floors and dry dust mop all floors, but you must be careful to use a mop head that won't scratch the surface and a cleaner that's safe for the material. Use a mop with a soft, non-abrasive substance on floors like wood and laminate that are prone to scratching. Since ceramic, vinyl, and porcelain tile floors are less likely to be scratched or damaged by moisture, most mops should work well on them.


Beyond utilizing a mop, you should also check that the cleaning solution you're using is appropriate for your floor. Hardwood flooring, for example, calls for particular floor cleaners. Additionally, you should never use steam mops especially though mop manufacturers claim it is safe, we strongly advise against using them on wood and laminate floors, especially on the lowest steam settings, as well as any unsealed, peeling, bonded, or unfinished flooring.


HOW WELL DO MOPS REMOVE BACTERIA AND GERMS?

Because steam mops may reach temperatures high enough to destroy germs, they can sanitize floors. Other types of mops, with the exception of steam mops, will wash away some germs and remove dirt and debris, but they won't actually destroy bacteria or viruses. Use a steam mop and move it across the floor gently enough to allow the steam to do its job of killing germs and bacteria. To find out how many passes you must make or how long you must steam for in order to effectively sanitize an area, see the instructions for your particular steamer model. Alternately, use a floor cleaning product with antibacterial components by following the instructions on the label.


Be aware, though Most steam mops are typically safe for ceramic and sheet vinyl. While steam mops are safe to use on hardwood, laminate, and porcelain tile floors, they can harm vinyl, wood, or laminate floors. Therefore, be sure to check with your flooring company to make sure that using steam mops won't void the guarantee on your floor. Make sure your cleaning solution is appropriate for the sort of flooring in your home.


HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR MOP?

Although there isn't a set period of time for when to replace a mop, it's a good idea to constantly inspect its condition and, depending on how frequently you use it, swap out the mop head or pads at least once or twice a year. Unless the pole is damaged, it normally doesn't need to be replaced. No matter how long you've had your mop, there are a few indications that it's time to replace it, including worn-out mop heads, broken pieces, excessive dirt, and a mop that can't be cleaned or doesn't clean your floors as effectively.




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