What are the best Shark steam mops?

If you have hard floors, you can imagine yourself as Cinderella every time you have to get on all fours to scrub a stain that your mop failed to pick up. While this buying guide can’t introduce you to a fairy godmother, we might just have the next best thing for those dirty floors. Steam mops eliminate the friction of mopping by using steam to loosen dirt, so all you have to do is glide your mop gracefully across the floor for a clean surface.

Replacing your old mop with a steam mop can speed up the chore process. Shark steam mops are high quality, reliable and offer a variety of options for your household needs. Read on to find out how to choose the right Shark steam mop for you. For a smart mop with a functional design, consider the Genius model.

What to know before buying a Shark steam mop

There are plenty of features to consider before buying a Shark steam mop. For more information on steam mops, check out BestReviews’ buying guide.

How a Shark Steam Mop Works

Steam mops work by adding water to the reservoir, which is then converted to steam via this mop’s internal water boiler. Steam is then pumped into the mop head as you move it across the floor. The steam loosens dirt and other residue on the floor so the mop head can pick it up without any friction.

Benefits of a Shark Steam Mop

By loosening dirt and stain residue, steam mops make cleaning floors a breeze. The water tank saves you from having to carry a mop bucket or use harsh chemicals. The steam also kills bacteria and germs on the surface of your floors for a deep clean. Plus, because they use steam instead of water, your floor will dry faster with steam mops than with a traditional mop.

Lifespan of a Shark steam mop

Like most products, the life of your steam mop will largely depend on the quality of the model you buy and how well it is maintained. A high-end mop can last five years or more, while a less expensive model can wear out after a year. Be careful though, time is not always synonymous with use. If you use your steam mop every day, it’s likely to wear out sooner than if you use it once a week or once a month.

What to Look for in a Quality Shark Steam Mop

Height and weight

You want your steam mop to be comfortable to handle, so you need to consider the size and weight of your mop before making a purchase. Some mops weigh up to 15 pounds even without water, while others can only weigh 5 pounds with water. Also be aware of the size in terms of storage. Some models are detachable or have telescopic handles for easy storage.

Water reservoir

The water tank is one of the most important features of a steam mop. The size of the tank will affect the weight of the steam mop and how often you need to refill the tank. Some models have a reservoir that detaches, so you can carry it to the sink to fill instead of using jugs or a funnel. Also be aware that some models require you to turn the mop off and let it cool completely before refilling, which can be a pain.

Settings and controls

If you can, opt for a Shark steam mop with multiple steam settings and digital controls. Mops with only one setting can run out of water faster because they will use the same amount for small spots as they do for large ones. If your steam mop has trigger controls, the mechanism can wear out and it can be uncomfortable for your hands.

Accessories

Many Shark steam mops come with attachments and attachments to customize the cleaning experience, such as a squeegee for windows or a brush designed for grout cleaning. Some also come with mat-specific accessories.

How Much You Can Expect to Spend on a Shark Steam Mop

Smaller, less multi-functional Shark mops will cost around $60, while larger Shark steam mops with a variety of features range from $100 to $200.

Shark Steam Mop FAQ

What is the best way to maintain my Shark Steam Mop?

A. Your steam mop’s tank can develop a build-up of limescale, especially if you fill it regularly with tap water. So be sure to empty and wipe out the tank after each use. Also be sure to clean the steam wand regularly with a pin to remove any deposits that have built up on it and keep the wand working properly.

Are the fabric pads of the Shark steam mop reusable?

A. Shark uses reusable cloth pads in most of its steam mops, but some may not. Check the product information before making your purchase.

On what type of floor can I use a Shark steam mop?

A. Always check your product manual to be sure, but you can generally use your steam mop on marble, stone, linoleum, vinyl, laminate, ceramic, and sealed wood floors.

What is the best Shark steam mop to buy?

Top Shark Steam Mop

Shark Genius Steam Pocket Mop

What do you want to know: This customer favorite offers reliable performance and user-friendly custom operation.

What you will love: Called a genius for a reason, this steam mop features smart steam controls, a touchless release button for hands-free removal, and a direct steam feature that targets messes and stains.

What you should consider: The water tank is not removable, which some customers consider a drawback.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon.

Best Shark Steam Mop for the Money

Shark Steam Pocket Mop

What do you want to know: Affordable, efficient and easy to use, this pivoting head steam mop is a favorite among busy parents and caregivers.

What you will love: This single steam mop features an extra-large reservoir so you can cover all your surfaces in one fill, a pivoting head for easy maneuvering, and reusable double-sided mop pads that cover more area . The cleaning pads are also machine washable for easy care.

What you should consider: The power cord is a little shorter than other products, which may interfere with cleaning.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon.

Worth checking out

Shark Lift-Away Pro Steam Pocket Mop

What do you want to know: If you are looking for a multi-function steam mop, this two-in-one steam mop can clean your floor and de-wrinkle your curtains just by detaching.

What you will love: Equipped with three levels of smart steam control and machine-washable pads, this steam mop features a detachable handheld steam cleaner that uses smart no-touch attach-and-release technology.

What you should consider: The cord is quite short and requires some pushing for cleaning the floor.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon

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Collette Bliss written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.

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