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How do I love steam mops? Let me count the ways. First, I live in the countryside, with an untrainable dog, a cat that brings in unmentionables, two kids who prefer to consume, construct and paint with highly-spill-able substances, and a husband whose carpentry workshop is attached to the main house. Reader, that’s a lot of different types of grime being trafficked, daily, through the sitting room. Only the best steam mop stands a chance of tackling it.
Also: two years ago, on Christmas Eve no less, my entire house was flooded. Water came gushing off the fields and into the kitchen, sitting room, loo and more. And with the water: mud, gravel, and a myriad other sticky, unsightly substances. None of the floors were carpeted, which meant finding the best steam cleaner became my new, near-full time occupation. Borrowed Sharks, Kärchers and Bissells became my best friends.
While this is a tragic tale on my many levels, it has taught me some valuable lessons. Everyone should have a steam mop. And not all steam mops are created equal. I’ll explain why shortly – but if you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at the best out there:
Which are the best steam mops in 2024? At a glance
What’s the difference between a steam cleaner and a steam mop?
“A steam cleaner is usually a compact, handheld device which emits an intense, targeted spray of steam onto a surface in order to loosen dirt particles,” explains Emily Barron, cleaning expert at Rezigo. “These versatile devices can be used to clean a number of different surfaces and fabrics, including clothing. A steam mop is generally only used to clean floors and takes the shape of a traditional mop or floor cleaner but with the added oomph of jets of steam which more effectively clean floors.”
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How I tested the best steam mops
First, this technologically and spatially challenged reviewer assembled each model and rated it for ease of construction. Then I tested each on tiled and stone floors, cleaning a variety of substances from dried wellington boot prints to orange juice spillages and vegetable oil splatterings.
I took notes on speed, ease, efficiency and handling (especially in tight corners and under low furniture). I used all the accessories and laundered and refitted all the pads to check that it was a straight-forward process.
Best steam mops
1. Kärcher SC 5 EasyFix Premium
Best overall, 10/10
We like: the infinitely multi-tasking nature of this carthorse
We don’t like: twice the price of the others
