Hardwood floors are a beautiful addition to any home. They add warmth and elegance to a room and can last for decades with proper care. However, keeping them clean can be a challenge, especially if you have pets or children. That’s where a hardwood floor steamer comes in.
It’s a great alternative to traditional mopping, which can leave floors wet and take a long time to dry. A hardwood floor steamer can also remove dirt and grime that a mop might miss, and it’s environmentally friendly since it doesn’t require any chemicals.
After researching and testing several hardwood floor steamers, I’ve identified the top models that are safe for use on hardwood floors and have features that make them stand out from the competition.
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Best Hardwood Floor Steamers
Bissell Power Fresh Steam Mop
I highly recommend the Bissell Power Fresh Steam Mop for anyone looking to clean their hardwood floors effortlessly.
What I Like
- The natural power of steam eliminates 99.9% of germs and bacteria without the use of harsh chemicals.
- The flip-down easy scrubber brush makes it easy to power through tough, sticky messes.
- The smart set digital steam control allows you to choose from high, medium, or low steam based on your cleaning needs.
What I Don’t Like
- The mop head is a bit bulky, making it difficult to clean in tight spaces.
- The water tank is not very large, so it needs to be refilled frequently.
- The microfiber pads can be difficult to attach and remove.
Shark Steam Pocket Mop
If you’re looking for a quick and effortless way to clean your hardwood floors, the Shark Steam Pocket Mop is definitely worth considering.
What I Like
- The super-heated steam easily removes everyday dirt and grime, leaving floors looking clean and shiny.
- The mop heats up quickly, so you can start cleaning in just 30 seconds.
- Since the mop uses only water to clean, there are no chemicals or residue left behind.
What I Don’t Like
- The mop head is a bit small, so it may take longer to clean larger areas.
- The cord can be a bit cumbersome to maneuver around furniture.
- The microfiber pads need to be washed regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Shark S1000 Steam Mop
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use hardwood floor steamer, the Shark S1000 Steam Mop is a great option.
What I Like
- The power of steam makes it easy to clean and sanitize floors without the need for chemicals.
- The lightweight design and maneuverability make it easy to clean tight spaces and around furniture.
- The large water tank means you can clean more floors without having to stop.
What I Don’t Like
- The steam may not be strong enough to remove tougher marks on floors.
- The cord length is a bit short.
- The steam mop doesn’t come with additional accessories for cleaning other surfaces.
Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe Steam Mop
If you’re looking for an easy way to sanitize your floors without using harsh chemicals, then the Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe Steam Mop is a great option.
What I Like
- The detachable SpotBoost Brush makes it easy to tackle tough, stuck-on messes.
- It sanitizes floors, eliminating 99.9% of germs and bacteria without harsh chemicals.
- You can insert the included Spring Breeze Fragrance Disc into the built-in tray to leave behind a refreshing scent.
What I Don’t Like
- The steam mop may leave streaks on some floors.
- The cord could be longer.
- The water tank may need to be refilled frequently for larger cleaning jobs.
Schenley Steam Mop Cleaner
This is a great hardwood floor steamer that is perfect for daily household chores. I highly recommend it.
What I Like
- The high-pressure steam mop can deal with dirt, stain, grease, or mold.
- The sleek and streamlined design allows for effective use of high temperatures, enabling the steam mop to provide continuous steam for 12-25 minutes.
- 13 accessories included to meet most indoor scenarios. Other than hardwood or laminate floors, marble tiles, and grout, switch to the detachable handheld steamer for windows, stoves, grills, and more.
What I Don’t Like
- The mop head and washable mop pads are great, but the attachments pop off too easily if you are putting pressure on them.
- It worked great until I went to use it for the 5th time and it already broke.
- The product became a little faulty and wasn’t releasing enough steam.
Shark S7000AMZ Steam Mop
If you’re looking for a hardwood floor steamer that can scrub and sanitize your floors, then the Shark S7000AMZ Steam Mop might be the right choice for you.
What I Like
- This Steam Mop has powerful steam and rotating pads that provide up to 2x better stuck-on stain removal vs. traditional steam mops.
- The automatic scrubbing mop head with rotating pads delivers over 150 scrubs per minute, providing an effortless glide and a smooth cleaning experience.
- Designed for all sealed hard floors, including hardwood, marble, tile, and stone.
What I Don’t Like
- Sanitization studies were conducted under controlled test conditions, so household conditions and results may vary.
- This Mop is somewhat expensive compared to other steam mops on the market.
- Some users have reported issues with the mop breaking after a few uses.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best hardwood floor steamer, there are a few key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Steam Output
The steam output of the hardwood floor steamer is an important factor to consider. A higher steam output will generally mean that the steamer is more effective at cleaning and sanitizing your floors. Look for a steamer with a steam output of at least 100 grams per minute.
Water Tank Capacity
The water tank capacity of the steamer will determine how long you can use it before needing to refill it. A larger water tank will mean that you can clean for longer periods without interruption. Look for a steamer with a water tank capacity of at least 500ml.
Heating Time
The heating time of the steamer is also an important factor to consider. A shorter heating time will mean that you can start cleaning your floors more quickly. Look for a steamer that heats up in less than 30 seconds.
Weight
The weight of the steamer is also important to consider, especially if you have a large area to clean. A lighter steamer will be easier to maneuver and use for longer periods without causing fatigue. Look for a steamer that weighs less than 6 pounds.
Cord Length
The cord length of the steamer is another important factor to consider. A longer cord will give you more flexibility and allow you to clean larger areas without having to switch outlets. Look for a steamer with a cord length of at least 20 feet.
By considering these factors, you can choose a hardwood floor steamer that is best suited for your needs and will provide you with the best cleaning results.
FAQs:
Is it safe to use a hardwood floor steamer on all types of hardwood floors?
While many hardwood floor steamers are safe for use on most sealed hardwood floors, it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations before use. Some hardwoods, especially untreated or engineered wood, may be more sensitive to moisture and heat, and using a steamer on them could cause damage.
Can I use a hardwood floor steamer to remove tough stains or pet messes?
Yes, a hardwood floor steamer can effectively tackle tough stains and even pet messes. The high-temperature steam helps to break down stains and sanitize the area, making it ideal for cleaning up spills and accidents.
Do I need to use any cleaning solutions or chemicals with a hardwood floor steamer?
In most cases, you don’t need to use any additional cleaning solutions or chemicals with a hardwood floor steamer. The steam alone is usually sufficient to clean and sanitize the floors effectively. However, if you prefer to use cleaning agents, make sure they are specifically recommended for use with steamers and hardwood floors.
Are hardwood floor steamers eco-friendly?
Yes, hardwood floor steamers are generally considered eco-friendly. Since they primarily use water and steam for cleaning, they reduce the need for chemical cleaning agents, which can be harmful to the environment. Additionally, the steam helps eliminate germs and bacteria, promoting a healthier living environment.
How often should I use a hardwood floor steamer on my floors?
The frequency of using a hardwood floor steamer depends on the amount of foot traffic and dirt accumulation in your home. Generally, using it once every two weeks or as needed should suffice for regular maintenance. Avoid excessive use, as excessive moisture on hardwood floors can lead to damage over time.
Can I use a hardwood floor steamer on laminate or tile floors?
No, it’s not recommended to use a hardwood floor steamer on laminate or tile floors, as these surfaces are not designed to handle the moisture and heat produced by steamers. Instead, check for steamers specifically designed for use on those types of flooring.
Are there any safety precautions I should take while using a hardwood floor steamer?
Yes, safety is essential when using a hardwood floor steamer. Some precautions include:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for proper usage.
Use caution when handling hot steam and keep the steamer away from children and pets.
Allow the floor to dry completely after steaming to prevent slips and falls.
Before using the steamer, ensure that the floor is free of loose debris and large particles that could scratch the surface.
Can I use tap water in my hardwood floor steamer?
Using tap water is generally fine in hardwood floor steamers, but it’s best to consult the product’s manual to check if it has any specific requirements. Some manufacturers may recommend using distilled or filtered water to prevent mineral buildup and prolong the life of the steamer.
How do I maintain and clean my hardwood floor steamer?
Regularly clean the steamer by emptying any remaining water and allowing it to dry thoroughly after each use. If the steamer has reusable pads or mop heads, follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. Also, perform any recommended maintenance, such as descaling or filter replacement, to ensure the steamer continues to work effectively.
Conclusion
In my research for the best hardwood floor steamers, I have come across several options that can help you keep your hardwood floors clean and sanitized. While each steamer has its pros and cons, some stood out as the best in terms of performance, ease of use, and value for money.
The Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop and the Shark Genius Pocket Mop System are two of the top contenders in this category. Both models offer excellent steam power and come with multiple attachments to tackle different cleaning tasks.
The Bissell PowerFresh has a larger water tank and a longer power cord, making it more convenient for larger rooms. The Shark Genius, on the other hand, has a unique touch-free pad system that eliminates the need to touch dirty pads, making it a more hygienic option.
Overall, when choosing a hardwood floor steamer, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize steam power, convenience, or value for money, there’s a model out there that can meet your requirements.
