How To Use Sweeper Mop Tools Properly

Swiffer has inspired a change in the cleaning industry. Other companies have followed suit in offering easy alternatives to conventional cleaning tools. While some of these ideas can be helpful, it is important to understand in what role these new found tools should be used in a healthy living space.

The Swiffer Sweeper and tools like these are meant to be replacements of the broom. In order for them to work properly, they must have a clean pad. We've seen cases where one pad is used for a large space. By the end of the job, however, it is not getting up dust and hair anymore because the pad had been filled many strokes back. When covering a large space keep in mind you may need to replace the pad more than once.

This brings up the common complaint that comes with this tool: the high cost of pad replacements. A more affordable option is to use a washable, resusable microfiber floor tool. Since convienience is important, have several reusuable heads on hand to use throughout the week and then launder them all at once.

Main Take Away: Swiffer Sweepers and the like are meant to be used like a broom - in between more thorough vacuuming and only for light dust, small dry debris, and hair pick up.

Spray mops are another floor "cleaning" tool that Swiffer and like companies have put on the market. While these may be useful for small clean-ups and for light sprucing up in between proper floor cleaning, they do not qualify as the right tool to get any floor thoroughly cleaned.

The structure of this type of mop only allows for the dirt to be push around. It may pick up dirt for the first couple of feet but after that the padding cannot absorb anymore. In fact it's been noted by professionals and some users that a residue is left on the floor after use. This is a result of applying the chemical solution that these mops come with on areas that are not clean or are being re-soiled from the dirt collected on the padding. This makes the floor sticky and a magnet for even more dirt.

Another downside to using these types of mops for cleaning is that because it pushes whatever is on the floor around - dirt, debris, and bacteria collect in the grout or crevices. Spray mops are not an effective tool for getting grout clean and definitely not effective in cleaning out crevices.

According the homeflooringexperts.com a proper mop will have these features:

• Cleans both smooth and rough surfaces

• The ability to buff the floor to absolute dryness

• Ergonomic handle for optimum efficiency

• Tough & durable cleaning surface

• Clean both microscopic dirt & large debris

Main Take Away: Spray & Mop tools are good for touch ups - Not for thorough floor cleaning & sanitizing.

What is the best way to get your floors thoroughly sanitized, cleaned, and looking great? Hire a professional cleaner - preferrably one that features eco-friendly methods and solutions - so that your floor will look great, last long, and be a healthy part of your environment.

Additional benefit of hiring a pro: they have expert knowledge on cleaning different types of flooring. They know what solutions to use and which to avoid, best techniques, and can advise on cleaning frequency.

A professionally cleaned and sanitized floor will reduce your exposure to hidden allergens, bacteria and mold. You and your family will be protected from these sometimes unseen dangers to your health that results from improper floor cleaning.

When considering hiring a cleaning service always hire accordning to your circumstances. If you are someone who practices safe and effective cleaning habits then a periodic cleaning may be all you need. If, however, your home has a lot of traffic from pets, children, and busy adults - then more frequent cleaning will be optimal.

Keep on "swiffering" - but don't stop cleaning. Use these tools for touch ups and in between proper cleaning routines.

Resources: homefloorexpert.com; Clean LLC | Seth Mc Neely