01.Introduction
Test results for 12 steam mops and canisters, priced $99 to $429
Steam mops claim to make cleaning grimy floors (and other surfaces) easy and chemical free, using the power of steam to shift the stubborn dirt. Some claim that their steam also helps kill bacteria and mites. They’re suitable for most hard floors, including vinyl, tiles and sealed timber. But are they really that much better than an ordinary mop and bucket?
Like vacuum cleaners, steam mops come in stick and canister forms, but they don’t have suction power; if you need to clean up large amounts of spilled liquids, you’ll need a conventional mop or a wet and dry vacuum cleaner.
CHOICE put 12 steam mops (nine stick and three canister models) to the test to find which ones perform best and are easiest to use.
Findings
We found four to recommend above the rest. We found the better models are much more effective than ordinary hand mops (when using plain hot water), though much more expensive too. If you have lots of hard floor area and other surfaces to clean, and want to avoid using cleaning chemicals, these may be just what you need.
However, we also found two that were no better at cleaning than a hand mop.
For more information on Floors and surfaces, see Laundry and cleaning.
CHOICE's experts independently test a wide range of products and services to bring you unbiased reviews, product comparison tools and buying advice that is trusted by 140,000+ members.
Get access to all
CHOICE benefits.
$1.91
/week
*Billed quarterly
Purchase this
single report.
$10
Brands tested
- Bissell Steam Mop 90T1-F
- Bissell Steam Mop Max 65A8-F
- Danoz H2O Mop Ultra EP2120
- Hoover ProSteam
- Kenwood Steam Mop 2000 SC2000
- Kenwood Multy Steam Cleaner SC590
- Kenwood Floor Sweeper Steam Mop SC7000
- Monster Steam Booster EZ1
- Monster 60 Plus SC60
- Optim Steam Clean
- Pullman Steam Works SC388L
- Wertheim Steam Mop SM1000
These independent results are only available through membership with CHOICE Online. Arm yourself with our unique and exclusive information so you can make your next purchase with confidence. View other articles wthin the Floors and surfaces section for more tips on carpet cleaning and more.
Want more?
Get access to our independent testing reports and save yourself time and money.
