6 Best Steam Mops for Hardwood – 2022 Buying Guide

By Maria Hernandez / February 8, 2022 / 5 Comments

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Put down the mop and sponge and make your life easier with a steam mop for hardwood floors. Keeping your hardwoods looking their best can be one of the most difficult chores. We reveal our picks for the best hardwood steam mops.

Why not make it easier on yourself (and your knees and back) by purchasing a steam mop?

Steam mops use water to create steam for cleaning your floors. This eliminates the need for chemicals.

You can eliminate 99.9% of bacteria just by using water directly from your tap. This is a wonderful choice for any household, particularly those with children, pets, or who suffer from allergies.

Steam mops can easily remove dust, dirt, and grime from hardwood floors, as well as other hard flooring. You’ve invested a lot of time and money into your beautiful hardwoods. Isn’t it time to invest in keeping them beautiful for years to come?

Our Top Picks

  1. Best Overall: Shark Genius Steam Pocket Mop
  2. Best Multipurpose: Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop
  3. Best for Pets: Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop
  4. Best Lightweight: Shark S1000A Steam Mop
  5. Best Compact: O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop
  6. Best Basic: Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop 1940

Hardwood Steam Mop Buying Advice

Best Overall: Shark S5003D Genius Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.9):

  • Weight: 5.78 pounds
  • Clean Settings: 3
  • The High points: This product offers three steam settings for customized cleaning. A feature providing a burst of steam helps tackle the toughest messes. The no-touch pad removal feature gives you the convenience of disposable pads with the cost-efficiency of reusable pads. Its cleaning pads are dual-sided. They feature “dirt grips” for efficient and effective cleaning of your hard floors.
  • The Low Points: The design of the mop’s head creates an extra-wide zone. It is ideal for allover floor cleaning but can be difficult to clean corners or hard-to-reach spots. The unremovable water tank can be inconvenient and time-consuming for larger jobs. There is no power switch, so mop must be unplugged frequently while in use. The location of the setting button has proven to be an inconvenience for users.
Shark S5003D Genius Steam Mop
Shark S5003D Genius Steam Mop

Shark has easily become one of the biggest names in steam mops. The company has revolutionized the industry once again with the release of the Shark S5003D Genius Steam Pocket Mop Hard Floor Cleaner. This product offers multiple settings and features to tackle even the most caked-on messes.

The S5003D is perfect for use on hardwood floors, but that’s not all. It can also easily mop over your tile, vinyl, and other hard flooring using the power of steam to clean and sanitize. When used properly, you can eliminate 99.9% of household bacteria just using the power of steam.

There are three settings available so you can customize your level of clean. Need extra cleaning power? This mop features the Steam Blaster to blast away the stickiest, greasiest, most stuck-on messes in your home. New water added to the mop heats up in just 30 seconds, so there are never any delays when tackling your biggest messes.

The S5003D offers a double-sided pad with Dirt Grip Pads. They maximize cleaning power and reduce the need for scrubbing your floors.

The dual-sided pads are absorbent and dry easily, allowing you to use just one pad for even the largest homes. The product’s Direct Steam Channeling technology gives you an extra wide cleaning area with each swipe. That reduces the time spent cleaning your floors.

And when you’re done? You don’t have to worry about ever touching the pad. Touch-free technology allows you to remove the pad right into your washing machine without ever getting your hands dirty. This provides an eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to disposable pads.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers of this Shark steam mop say that the S5003D’s lightweight and ergonomic design is a major selling point for this mop. These consumers say that the Shark mop performs at the level of larger floor cleaning systems without the weight or the bulk.

Reviewers were impressed with the streak-free cleaning provided by this mop. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to maneuver, and most reviewers were pleased with the length of the power cord.

The adjustable heat settings and Steam Blaster also ranked highly among reviewers. They say that these features picked up the toughest messed without the need for scrubbing or using other cleaners.

Features & Considerations

The mop features a 22-foot power cord that makes it easy to maneuver around larger rooms without having to switch outlets. It also comes with two reusable Dirt Grip pads that are quick to dry and can be washed in any washing machine.

There are a few minor design flaws to address when considering this product. This model comes with a 350 ml water tank that is a bit smaller than the tanks found on other Shark products such as the S3501.

The water tank is also fixed, so it cannot be removed to be refilled. This could be a burden for some users.

The mop does not have an on/off switch, so it will need to be unplugged when not in use, which could be a hassle while cleaning large spaces. The settings button to adjust the level of steam is also located near the bottom of the unit and not on the handle, which could prove to be a minor inconvenience while using this mop.

Best Multipurpose: Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.6):

  • Weight: 6.3 pounds
  • Clean Settings: 3
  • The High Points: More than just a steam mop, this product offers five different functions in one household tool. Its lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it easy to glide from room to room. The mop comes with multiple settings for customized cleaning. The company backs the product with a guarantee.
  • The Low Points: The cleaning pads are thin and can roll up after heavy usage. The thinner pads can rip more easily than thicker pads found on other mops, leading to more frequent replacement. It doesn’t perform as well on tile and grout.
Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop
Light ‘N’ Easy Steam Mop

The Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop is true to its name by performing five different functions. In addition to being able to clean your floors using the power of tap water, you can also use one of the tools and attachments included to clean and sanitize your furniture, steam the wrinkles out of your clothing, and clean your windows and mirrors without using chemicals.

This product is extremely versatile, providing you with multiple heads, a lift-off steamer, and a hose for cleaning and steaming your home from top to bottom. Like other steam mops, this Light ‘N’ Easy model eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, giving you a cleaner, healthier home.

When using this mop, you’ll have your choice of three different settings to give you the cleaning power you need for most jobs. In addition to being safe for use on hardwood flooring, it’s also safe for laminate, tile, and other types of hard floors.

One of the great things about Light ‘N’ Easy’s products is that they are made by a company which has been in the flooring industry for over 60 years. In addition to this industry experience, you can also have peace of mind with a 1-year replacement warranty at no cost to you.

The Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop is also one of the lightest mops, making it easy to mop from room to room or up and down your stairs. Its ability to tackle jobs beyond just floors and the many attachments that come at no additional cost are the biggest selling points for this model.

What Reviewers Say

Overall reviews for the Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop are positive, Many users stating that it outperforms the bigger name brand products they’ve purchased in the past.

While most reviewers were extremely pleased with the mop’s performance on hardwood floors, others found that it didn’t hold up quite as well when tackling tile grout. Some say that a higher temperature is required to really get stuck-on messes out of grout.

Reviewers also liked the pivoting head, making it easy to glide into hard-to-reach areas. However, there were complaints when it came to the thickness and the quality of the cleaning pad, which is thinner than the pads that accompany other models on this list.

Features and Considerations

If you’re looking for a multifunctional tool that goes beyond just floors, this could be the right product for you. It performs well when cleaning hardwoods, mirrors, or windows, and it also performed well when refreshing clothing and sofas. However, it did fall flat with cleaning grout.

The power cord on this model is 20 feet long, which is about standard when compared to other models. It has a water tank that holds 340ml of water, which lasts for approximately 20 to 25 minutes on the lowest setting and about 10 to 15 when used on the highest setting. The water tank is also detachable, which is convenient for refilling and takes about 30 seconds to heat up.

The biggest problem reported with this model was the quality of the cleaning pad. Only one is provided, and it is thin, so it may rip easily or fold under while in use, which could be an inconvenience. However, at a fairly affordable price point with all accessories included, this product overcomes this minor issue to prove that it’s a strong competitor among other steam mops.

Best for Pets: Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.5):

  • Weight: 9.74 pounds
  • Clean Settings: 2
  • The High Points: The Bissell Symphony 1543A provides steam mop and vacuuming power for cleaning up pet hair and other messes. It can be used with reusable and disposable cleaning pads. Scrubbing pads are available to tackle heavier messes. Tank emptying system lets you keep your hands clean when dealing with the dirtiest messes.
  • The Low Points: While odor removers are available to help with smells left behind by pets, these are sold separately and can get expensive. A trigger is required to be held down when steaming the floors, which could be a hassle for some users. The price point is also on the higher end.
Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop and Steam Vacuum Cleaner
Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop

The Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop and Steam Vacuum Cleaner is a pet owner’s dream. Instead of sweeping or vacuuming and then mopping, you can do it all with one tool by using this product.

One of the great things about this mop is that different pads are available for different tasks. If your pet makes a terrible mess, you can put on the disposable pads and throw them away after using them.

For everyday cleaning, there are reusable, washable pads, and for tougher jobs, a microfiber scrubbing pad is available and comes with your purchase.

The vacuum portion of this model has a dirt tank that is completely separate from your water tank, so there’s no moisture or mess. You don’t even have to get your hands dirty when emptying the dirt tank because of Bissell’s hands-free emptying system.

You can use this model with Bissell’s Odor Eliminating Scent Discs, which help remove the smells pets leave behind. For additional freshening power, Bissell’s Scent Waters can be used in place of regular tap water. Unfortunately, these items are sold separately.

This mop is ideal for use on all flooring types. This includes sealed hardwood, granite, marble, ceramic tile, and linoleum, making it a great choice for allover cleaning for pet-friendly flooring.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers overall liked the performance of the vacuum and the versatility with the different types of pads. The adjustments for high and low steam are conveniently located on the handle, which users liked. Using steam requires holding down a trigger, which some users didn’t like.

The mop was said to perform well when picking up pet hair, dirt, and dust. Reviewers report that larger crumbs or debris were not picked up by the vacuuming feature, so additional sweeping or vacuuming would be required for larger messes.

Weight was also an issue for some users. At almost 10 pounds, this is significantly heavier than other models, which could make it a bad choice for those with stairs or who are looking for a lightweight model.

Features & Considerations

The Bissell 1534A comes equipped with everything you need to get started on your way to a cleaner home. This includes one reusable pad, one reusable scrubbing pad, and four disposable cloths for pet messes. It also features a 378ml water tank, and new water heats up in less than 30 seconds.

This product comes with a cord that is 25 feet long, making it easy to maneuver around the room without switching outlets. However, the heavy and bulky design may be an inconvenience for those with stairs or larger homes.

Anyone looking for just a steam mop may not need the extra vacuuming feature and would be better suited with a different model. With a higher price point, this model is priced on the higher end and would likely not be a good choice for those who want a basic steam mop.

Best Lightweight: Shark S1000A Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.6):

  • Weight: 4.6 pounds
  • Clean Settings: 1
  • The High Points: This basic, lightweight model is one of the lowest-priced on the market, so it’s perfect for those on a budget. It’s compact and easy to store and maneuver.
  • The Low Points: It doesn’t come with additional features or attachments, so anyone looking for a high-end model would be disappointed.
Shark S1000A Steam Mop Hard Floor Cleaner
Shark S1000A Steam Mop

Shark has become synonymous with steam mops, and the S1000A is no exception. This lightweight yet durable product is small and compact, but it’s designed to do the hardest jobs with ease.

The Shark S1000A is easy to use and when you’re done, it is easy to store it because of its compact design. It comes equipped with two reusable mop pads. It also features a removable tank for easy refills.

The Shark S1000A may not have the frills of more expensive models, but it is able to perform. It cleans up messes with ease and produces steam hot enough to kill 99.9% of household bacteria.

It’s easy to assemble and is ready to use in just minutes. With no additional settings, it’s essentially “plug and play,” making it a great entry-level steam mop.

The large mophead makes it easy to clean large spaces more efficiently. In addition to hardwood flooring, you can safely use it on other hard floors in your home.

What Reviewers Say

Users of this steam mop were pleasantly surprised by the cleaning power of such a lightweight device. Most users reported no streaking while cleaning and that the mop was very easy to use almost right out of the box.

Some users have suggested adding a dial or other option that would allow you to control the level and heat of the steam. Others reported that while pumping the handle to produce steam was a minor inconvenience, it was quick and easy to do.

Features & Considerations

The Shark 1000A comes with an 18-foot power cord which is slightly shorter than average, which could be an issue in larger rooms. Weighing in at just 4.6 pounds, though, it is easier to move and maneuver as needed.

The product comes with a removable water tank that’s easy to fill and replace. New water added to the mop heats up in less than 30 seconds.

The Shark S1000A is a good choice for anyone on a budget who wants a basic no-frills steam mop. It’s one of the most affordable on the market that delivers cleaning power comparable to more expensive models.

Best Compact: O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.7):

  • Weight: 5 pounds
  • Clean Settings: Variable
  • The High Points: It heats up quickly, making it easy to clean larger rooms and homes. The mophead design is ideal for fitting in hard-to-reach places. It comes equipped with a carpet glider for refreshing your carpets.
  • The Low Points: Pad does not make full contact with the floor. The higher positioning of the water tank may make it difficult to maneuver.
O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop
O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop

The O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop is an affordable tool for those who want to save money while also getting added features that high-end models have. This mop packs a lot of features into a small, compact design at a budget-friendly price.

One of the standout features of the O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop is the design of its mop head, which is made to easily maneuver into corners and hard-to-reach spots that bulkier versions can’t tackle. It also features variable settings to fully customize your level of cleaning.

This mop heats up faster than many others on the market at around 20 seconds. While a bit heavier than other models on the market, it’s still quite lightweight at 5 pounds.

You can use this product on all types of flooring, including hardwoods and tile. A carpet glider comes with it to easily freshen up your carpets and kill bacteria using just tap water.

The O-Cedar mop comes with two reusable mop pads. You can reuse each pad can up to 25 times each. That gives you with an eco-friendly and cost-efficient way to keep your floors their cleanest.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers were happy with the overall performance, weight, and design of the mophead of this unit. These users found that it performed well on all types of flooring, including hardwoods.

There were a few negative aspects of the mop, however. Some users didn’t like that they could not remove the tank and found that it was difficult to determine when more water was needed. Others also complained that the high positioning of the water tank made the mop more difficult to maneuver.

Another complaint from reviewers was that the full surface of the mop pad didn’t touch the floor due to the design. Because of this, they had to mop some areas more than once to be fully cleaned.

Features & Considerations

This mop is easy to use, efficient, and quiet. It heats up quickly and can tackle two medium-sized rooms using just one tank of water.

This mop is a good choice for anyone who wants a few high-end options without the high price. This is one of the more affordable steam mops currently on the market.

Best Basic: Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop

Floor Critics Rating (4.7):

  • Weight: 6 pounds
  • Clean Settings: 3
  • The High Points: This mop offers multiple levels of steam for deeper cleaning. It comes with a carpet glider and you can use it on all hard surfaces. You can use it with fragrance discs for a clean, refreshing scent.
  • The Low Points: Users have reported that the cap for the water tank can break easily. The bulky design makes it difficult to maneuver in tight places.
Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop
Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop 1940A

The Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop offers three levels of cleaning power. A flip-down easy scrubber combined with the high heat make it easy to get up the most stubborn messes.

This steam mop is ideal for use on all types of flooring from hardwoods to marble and ceramic tile. It also comes equipped with a detachable carpet glider for freshening up carpet.

The mop features a pivoting head that makes it easy to maneuver. It also comes with two washable cleaning pads.

You can use the PowerFresh steam mop with Bissell’s fragrance discs, which come with it. Scent Waters designed to bring even more freshening power. You can also use those in this mop but you need to buy them separately.

This mop is easy to assemble and easy to refill. Even though the wide mop head doesn’t fit easily into tighter spaces, it does a great job for overall floor cleaning

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers had overall positive things to say about this steam mop, particularly in terms of performance. Many reported that the mop did well on all types of hard flooring, with no streaks or mess left behind.

Some reviewers did complain about the weight and the bulk of this machine, which made it difficult to get corners and against walls. Others complained that the design of the microfiber pad causes it to bunch while in use and required readjustments.

Users noted that you should take care when using the highest steam setting on wood floors. That setting left some moisture behind, and this could lead to damage if you don’t mop it up immediately. Reviewers say that they used the lower settings when cleaning wood floors.

Features & Considerations

The Bissell PowerFresh weighs in at 6 pounds, so it’s lightweight enough to tackle the biggest jobs. Its two included cleaning pads do a great job at scrubbing, but they can roll over, making it slightly inconvenient while cleaning your floors.

The water tank holds over 473ml of water so it can easily clean from room to room and you won’t need to refill it. It also features a 23-foot power cord and has a heating element that heats the water in 30 seconds.

The Bissell PowerFresh is a mid-range priced product. While it doesn’t have quite as many features as high-end models, it has enough that the average person would be happy with both the performance and the price.

Side by Side Comparison

ProductOur RatingWeightClean
Settings
Shark S5003D Genius Steam Mop
Shark Genius Steam Mop
View on Amazon –>
View on Kohl’s –>
Best Overall

Overall: 4.9
5.78 lbs.3
Light ‘N’ Easy Multifunctional Steam Mop
Light ‘N’ Easy Steam Mop
View on Amazon –>
View on Walmart –>
Best Multipurpose

Overall: 4.6
6.3 lbs.3
Bissell Symphony 1543A Pet Steam Mop and Steam Vacuum Cleaner
Bissell Symphony Pet Steam Mop
View on Amazon –>
View on Walmart –>
Best for Pets

Overall: 4.5
9.74 lbs.2
Shark S1000A Steam Mop Hard Floor Cleaner
Shark S1000A Steam Mop
View on HSN –>
View on Amazon –>
Best Lightweight

Overall: 4.6
4.6 lbs.1
O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop
O-Cedar Microfiber Steam Mop
View on Walmart –>
View on Amazon –>
Best Compact

Overall: 4.7
5 lbs.Variable
Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop
Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop
View on Bissell –>
View on Amazon –>
Best Basic

Overall: 4.7
6 lbs.3

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The Complete Hardwood Steam Mop Buyer’s Guide

If you’ve worked your fingers to the bone to scrub your hardwood floors or you’ve invested hundreds or maybe thousands in purchasing specialty cleaners for your flooring, you’re not alone.

These are just a few of the reasons that steam mops are growing in popularity. Perhaps this is why you’re reading this guide right now.

You’ve made up your mind to try a steam mop, but what product should you purchase? Before pulling out your wallet and spending your hard-earned cash, the next step is to consider what you need to look for in a product to ensure you buy the right one.

Before you make your purchase, ask yourself the following questions:

  1. What is your budget?
  2. Do you want a cordless or corded version?
  3. Will you be cleaning many corners or other tight spaces?
  4. What cleaning pads would be most suitable for your household?

What Is Your Budget?

As with any purchase, it’s important to consider your budget before selecting a steam mop. When setting your budget, it may be tempting to try to set it as low as possible.

While this is understandable, you could be overlooking key features. Good performance could save you money over the long run.

As you’re creating your budget, make sure to shop around by price. Get an understanding of the additional features that come with more expensive models.

For example, Shark is a leading manufacturer of steam mops. They have models that range from around $60 to over $100.

While you may want to immediately choose the cheaper model, consider what you’re getting for the higher price, such as more options, a larger water reservoir to save time, and multiple heads and pads.

Do You Want a Cordless or Corded Version?

Cordless and corded versions of steam mops each have their own sets of pros and cons.

A corded model can be more inconvenient when maneuvering around a large room with furniture or while working in a room with very few power outlets. However, it’s also a better choice if you have a larger home and need to use the hardwood mop for longer periods of time.

On the other hand, a cordless model is easy to maneuver up and down flights of stairs or around furniture. It’s also a great choice for rooms with limited outlets.

However, you have to remember to keep the battery charged. The battery power will only last for a limited period of time. That means that your steam mop could have its battery fully discharged before you finish your entire home.

Will You Be Cleaning Many Corners or Other Tight Spaces?

Most steam mops come with a rectangular head. It works perfectly when cleaning large, open spaces.

However, if you have tight corners or other smaller spaces, you may want to consider purchasing a steam mop that comes with interchangeable heads or attachments.

Some models come equipped with triangular heads that glide easily into tight crevices. Others have smaller, pull-off steamers that you can use in small spaces or to steam garments. It’s important to note that the more features a model has, the more expensive it will be.

What Cleaning Pads Would Be Most Suitable for Your Household?

When purchasing a steam mop, you’ll encounter two main types of cleaning pads: reusable and disposable. Each of these has their own pros and cons. You can weigh those when making your final purchasing decision.

You can wash the reusable pads. With proper care, you can use them hundreds of times before replacing them.

This is the most cost-efficient option. However, it can be messy. You have to remove the pad and launder it in your washing machine after each use.

Also, if you don’t care for it properly, mold and mildew can destroy your pad and spread throughout your home.

Others find that disposable pads are more convenient. You throw these away after each use, so there’s no worrying about mold, mildew, funky smells, or running the pads through your washing machine.

However, this is an ongoing expense that can get costly depending on the type of pads you have to purchase and how frequently you mop your home.

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How We Ranked the Best Hardwood Steam Mops

Now you may have an idea of what to expect when purchasing a steam mop. However, when you start your search online, the brands, features, and pricing can blur together, making it difficult to weed out the great products from the not-so-great.

That’s why we’ve done the research for you to find the best steam mops on the market.

Using our expertise, we’ve reviewed the pros, cons, and consumer feedback to present you with the six best and most highly-rated steam mops available.

Our experts have used the following criteria to pick the best of the best. You can feel confident that you pick a winning product:

  1. Weight
  2. Settings
  3. Accessories
  4. Price
  5. Best Uses
  6. Heating Time
  7. Reservoir Size

Weight

If you have stairs, you’re not going to want to lug a heavy steam mop up, down, and all around your house. You’ll be winded before you finish. However, if you have a single-level home or a smaller home, you may not mind a little extra weight for added features and accessories.

Settings

If you have one type of flooring, one setting may be sufficient. However, if you have multiple types of hard flooring throughout your home or need extra cleaning power, you may want to consider a mop that offers multiple settings.

Accessories

If you just want to mop your floors, a basic model may be just fine. However, some consumers may want to get the most out of their mop with added accessories, interchangeable heads, or additional cleaning pads. It’s also important to know whether these accessories come with the item or if they’re only available for an additional cost.

Price

Price is by no means the only criteria that you should consider when making your purchase. However, it is an important consideration. After all, no one wants to pay top dollar for a model that just doesn’t offer the performance or features as similar products.

Best Uses

You’re buying a steam mop to keep your hardwoods looking their best, but do you want to get the most out of your purchase? We’ll evaluate other uses for each product. These include different types of flooring or even steam options for furniture and clothing.

Heating Time

Cleaning your hard floors will take forever if you have to wait for the next batch of water to heat up. We searched for models that heat in just seconds, so you can be more efficient when cleaning your floors.

Reservoir Size

One of the biggest selling points about a steam mop is the time that it saves by doing the work for you. However, if you’re continuously filling your mop with water, this adds time to your chores. We want to save time – not waste it – so we took the water reservoir size into account when ranking the best steam mops on the market.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you use steam mops on other types of flooring?

One of the great things about steam mops is that you can use them on all types of hard flooring. These mops can easily get up the dirt, dust, and grime on most types of flooring, including hardwoods, laminate, tile, and vinyl.

Even if you have just one room with hardwood flooring, a steam mop could be a great investment if you have other types of hard floors throughout your home. Many consumers that have purchased steam mops tout how easy they are to use, picking up dirt, mud, and other messes without the need for scrubbing.


Why should I spend money on a steam mop when I can buy a traditional mop at a fraction of the price?

A “regular” mop can be a lot cheaper than a steam mop, which can cost upwards of $200 for the most high-end models. However, there are many advantages that make them well worth the investment.

For starters, steam mops can easily last for years with little maintenance other than replacing the pad. How many “regular” mops do you purchase in a year or two? When looking at it this way, you can see that over the long-term, a steam mop may be a better investment.

Beyond durability, steam mops are also a great choice for homes with allergy sufferers or any home that’s eliminating potentially harmful chemicals. The steam cleans and sanitizes without the need for harsh cleaners. That also results in additional cost savings.

Steam mops are also ideal for use on any type of hard flooring. That includes laminate or hardwood which you can’t clean using a traditional mop.


What do more expensive steam mop models have that basic models don’t?

The answer to this question varies depending upon the model that you purchase. Generally, you can expect to receive pads and accessories, and other “extras” when purchasing a top-of-the-line steam mop.

Some models include a handheld steamer that can be used for furniture or clothing, while other models also feature a vacuum feature that eliminates the need for sweeping or using a separate hardwood vacuum while cleaning your floors.

Performance is also a key differentiating factor when considering the price. More expensive options often have multiple settings, extra-large water tanks, and other options that make cleaning your floors faster and easier than a basic model.


How do I maintain my steam mop?

Want to get the most bang for your buck and keep your steam mop running like new? You will need to do some maintenance. The great news is that maintenance is very minimal and easy to complete.

When using your steam mop, make sure that water is always in the reservoir and it never runs dry. Failure to do so can result in damage to the heating element or other parts. On that note, make sure to only use water in your steam mop, never detergents or cleaners.

If you have a reusable pad, make sure to wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions after each use. Also, make sure to empty the reservoir and wipe down the body of the mop after you have finished using it.

Finally, make sure to check the steam nozzle from time to time to ensure it does not get clogged from mineral buildup. If you find that you have a lot of buildup, using distilled water can help reduce this problem.

About Maria Hernandez

Senior Floor Critic, 25 years of experience in residential and commercial cleaning

Maria Hernandez has 25 years of experience in residential and commercial janitorial and cleaning services. From hardwood to carpet to marble floors, Maria has developed a deep expertise in cleaning and maintaining many different flooring types. Visit Website.

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5 thoughts on “6 Best Steam Mops for Hardwood – 2022 Buying Guide”

  1. It is important to note that most, if not all, hardwood flooring manufacturers do not recommend the use of steam mops to clean hardwood flooring – engineered or solid.

      1. To CYA and so that they can sell their own proprietary liquid cleaners.

        I’ve steamed my prefinished 3/4″ solid Oak tongue and groove flooring, the kind you angle nail to the subfloor for the last 10 years with no issues.

      2. It’s not recommended because steam is vaporized water, and water and wood don’t mix well. Long term overuse can damage the finish and wood. It forces moisture into the seams between boards and causes greying and discoloration, and in extreme cases, warping. Plus it voids pretty much every wood flooring manufacturers warranty as well.

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