How to Properly Mop a Floor

Let's discuss how to properly mop that dirty floor. Having the right kind of mop is the key here.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mop
• Bucket
• Floor Cleaner
• Elbow Grease

1. 
   Suggested mop

   Step one is to find the proper mop for the floor you need to clean. Most linoleum or tile floors require a cut end mop. This is the mop with all the "strings" hanging down. You need a good heavy one. Some of these can be quite costly. You don't need the best on the market, but definitely don't settle for one from a dollar store. You will just be buying a new one each time you need to use it.

2. Step 2 is to have the proper bucket for the mop you are using. The bucket needs to be small enough for you to handle, but large enough to completely submerge the mop head in the water. You also want to have room to slosh the mop around a bit inside the bucket. Now add your cleaning solution and your water. Use a mild cleaner such as Mr. Clean or Lysol. Only add the recommended amount of cleaner listed on the bottle.

3. Now, finally we are ready to mop. Be sure the floor is swept very good before mopping. Trying to mop a floor that has any loose debris laying around is very difficult. You are just moving the dirt around, not picking it up. Start mopping at one end of the floor. You want to "mop yourself out of the room" so the floor will dry without any foot prints on it.

4. After mopping the entire floor, allow ample time for it to dry. Now with clear hot water, go over the floor quickly again to rinse. This will bring out the floor' s natural shine and eliminate any soap residue that could end up making the floor sticky.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only mild cleaners. Strong cleaners and cleaners with Ammonia, will damage the floor over time.
• Use as hot of water as you can, especially for rinsing the floor.
• Use the mop head to clean the ledge under the counters.
• Be careful not to strain your back when mopping. Try to get a mop that is the proper height for you.

[tachic]

on 6/22/2009 A great green way to mop your floor is with vinegar. Works better than household cleaners!

[reydar76]

on 6/16/2009 Very nice.. I didn't know that you should go back over it with clear water... Guess I missed that day in "home-ec" :) Good article though...

[cherylphillips]

on 6/5/2009 it's true that is hard to find the old fashioned mops! good article 5*

[ttbirdie]

on 5/30/2009 Excellent article on how to properly mop a floor, 5*

[tlooney]

on 5/29/2009 I tried one of those sponge ones and all it did was leave streeks all over the floor.