How to Use a Steam Mop to Disinfect Tiles

Steam mops are great for disinfecting tiles and removing dirt, grime and other messes.  It is also convenient and easy to use!

Steam mops work by heating water in their reservoir to high temperatures.  That steam is sent into the mop pad, which allows it to efficiently remove dirt and grime.

Steam mops are more effective than traditional mops because they quickly absorb dirt.  They also only use water, so you do not need to use any fancy cleaners or chemicals.

A steam mop can be used on a number of surfaces, including tiles, grout, ceramic and more.  Steam mops should not be used on wooden floors, since that may warp the wood.

It is recommended that tiles are cleaned using a steam mop at least once a week.  Of course, this will depend on how much use the area gets and how dirty it becomes.

Benefits of a Steam Mop

There are many benefits to using a steam mop, including:

  • It is non-toxic.  Steam alone kills 99.9% of bacteria without using harsh chemicals.
  • It is good for those with allergies.  Since it only uses steam, it removes dirt without triggering allergies or respiratory problems.
  • It removes mould buildup, which, if left untreated, could cause health problems. Steam mopping removes mould from hard to reach areas.
  • It is cost-effective.  While there is an initial cost to purchase the steam mop and pads, it only requires water to use.

 

steam mop tile

How to Use a Steam Mop on Your Tiles

Of course, before using any new piece of equipment, you want to make sure that you read the instruction manual.  Make sure you understand how it works and how to use it safely.

1. Prepare Your Floors

You want to make sure your floor is prepared before you set out to use a steam mop.  Make sure you move any obstacles that might get in your way.

This includes vacuuming or sweeping the tiles to get rid of the surface dirt and dust.  This will lengthen the lifespan of your steam mop.

2. Get your Steam Mop Ready

Have a couple of mop pads ready in case you need to change these in the middle of mopping.  Make sure you change your mop pads when it gets dirty so that your tiles get fully clean each time.

Attach the mop pad to your steam cleaner BEFORE you plug it in.  Steam mops can heat up quickly and you do not want to get burned!

Fill up the water reservoir.  Since some tap water is harder than others, it is best to use diluted water for your steam mop.

Finally, plug in your steam mop. Wait for it to reach its required temperature (usually around 250 degrees Fahrenheit).

3. Steam Mop your Tiles

Keep your steam mop constantly moving.  If it sits idle on one spot too long, it can damage that area of tile.

You want your tiles to be thoroughly cleaned.  Make light passes over the entire area more than once to thoroughly clean your tiles.

Change your pad if it becomes dirty so that you are not spreading dirt on your tiles.

4. Wash your Mop Pads

After you have finished mopping, you can machine wash your mops pads with other white materials.

DO NOT PUT MOP PADS IN THE DRYER. Drying mop pads in the dryer will damage the microfibers so you need to hang dry them.

As you see, a steam mop is easy-to-use and convenient.

Time to get rid of that old mop and bucket.  Disinfecting your tiles with a steam mop is the best way to keep it sparkling clean!