Choose Your Weapon
Step1
Examine your floor. Is the entire floor dirty, greasy or grimy? Is there a sticky residue? Or does the floor need only a light going-over to remove dust and germs?
Step2
Choose a mop with disposable pads and onboard cleaner to tackle light jobs.
Step3
Go for a string mop with a removable head for tougher jobs, and look for a good wringing system. A 360-degree twist is best.
Step4
Try a self-wringing sponge mop with a scrubber strip for an all-purpose choice and for sticky residue.
Clean a String Mop
Step1
Keep the rinse water clean. Refill your bucket as necessary, or rinse the mop under water in a sink, bathtub or shower.
Step2
Wring the mop head thoroughly while cleaning the floor, and get as much water out of it as possible when finished.
Step3
Remove the mop head and run it through your washer's delicate cycle after each mopping. Add chlorine or oxygen bleach to disinfect and whiten. Avoid using fabric softener because it will diminish the mop head's absorbency.
Step4
Dry the mop head in the dryer without a fabric softener or dryer sheet, which will make the mop less absorbent. You can also line dry the mop in the sun.
Clean a Sponge Mop
Step1
Change the rinse water often; don't let the water get gray. Better yet, rinse the mop head under running water.
Step2
Fill the rinse bucket, sink or bathtub with warm, soapy water. Then rinse the mop head and wring thoroughly. Stay away from bleach, which will eat away the sponge.
Step3
Store with the mop head up, which shortens drying time and prevents mold and mildew.
Step4
Remove any hair or particles stuck to the mop head with a lint roller after the mop is dry.
Clean Disposable Mop Pads
Step1
Replace mop pads frequently.
Step2
Plan on using three pads for a 15-foot by 15-foot room.
Step3
Use several squirts of cleaner for every 3-foot by 3-foot area.
Step4
Store the mop without a dirty pad attached to avoid marking your storage area floor or wall.
