How do steam mops work? What’s the point of steam cleaning? Can steam mops really be better than old-fashioned mopping?
Join us as we take a look at the benefits of steam cleaning and find out why steam mops are so popular.
Benefits of Steam Cleaning
Steam mops don’t use harsh chemicals
Steam mops clean using water alone. Unlike regular mops or spray mops, there’s no need for cleaning solutions or chemicals. Water is added to the tank, heated into steam, and that hot steam helps lift greasy marks and everyday grime from sealed hard floors without leaving chemical residues or strong scents.
This can be especially useful if you are cleaning around young children, pets, or anyone who prefers a simpler, chemical-free clean.
It can be better for the environment
Cleaning floors without harsh chemicals means fewer cleaning products being washed into waterways, which can help reduce potential harm to wildlife and the environment.
It can also reduce the amount of packaging you buy, store and throw away. If you usually purchase floor sprays, disposable wipes or multi-surface cleaners, switching to steam can be a small change that adds up over time.
Steam mops help sanitise
One of the biggest benefits of steam cleaning is the reassurance it provides. Shark’s steam floorcare range includes models designed to clean and sanitise up to 99.9% of household bacteria using steam alone.
This allows you to enjoy a chemical-free clean while knowing your floors are sanitised — ideal for homes with children, pets or allergy sufferers.
They’re great on sealed hard floors
Steam mops can be used on most sealed hard floors, including tile, stone, marble and sealed hardwood.
If your floor is unsealed or sensitive to moisture, avoid steam cleaning. Steam mops should not be used on unsealed wood, unglazed ceramic floors or wax-treated surfaces. Always check the flooring manufacturer’s care instructions if you are unsure.
A helpful tip: sweep or vacuum the floor first to remove loose debris before steam cleaning.
They’re not just for floors
Some steam mops can transform into handheld steam cleaners for use around the home. For example, the Shark Floor & Handheld Steam Cleaner S6005UK can be used in handheld mode to clean areas above the floor using steam.
With the right accessories, steam cleaners can help tackle dirt in areas such as:
- Bathroom taps and tiles
- Glass shower screens
- Grouting
- Kitchen surfaces and splashbacks
Tidying up is easy
There’s no need to empty dirty mop water or buy disposable floor wipes. Shark steam mops use reusable microfibre Dirt Grip pads designed to be machine washable, allowing you to clean, wash and reuse them.
This can make steam cleaning a practical option for quick daily floor refreshes.
Steam Cleaning Tips
- Let the steam do the work. Move the mop steadily and allow extra time for stubborn patches.
- Change cleaning pads when they become dirty to avoid spreading grime.
- Use the appropriate steam level for the task — light cleaning often requires less steam.
- Always check your floor finish and follow the flooring manufacturer’s care guidance.
From automatic steam mops to simple manual models, browse the full range of Shark steam mops and steam cleaners to find the right option for your home.
*Sanitisation studies were conducted under controlled test conditions. Household conditions and results may vary. See instruction booklet for instructions.