How to Clean Your Mop Head

Store mops in a dry area.

The best method for cleaning mop heads depends on the mop materials, as the process differs among dust mops, string mops and sponge mops. Whether your mop head is machine washable or disposable, follow its accompanying care instructions for best results. Otherwise, use basic cleaning supplies and preventive care to remove dirt, inhibit odors and extend the life of your mop head. Replace mop heads when the materials wear thin and if they develop an irremovable foul odor.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Laundry detergent
• Bucket
• Rubber gloves
• Disinfectant solution

Instructions

Cleaning Dust Mops

1. Shake the mop outdoors after each use to release dust and dirt from the fibers.

2. Soak the mop head overnight in a bucket of warm water mixed with a few drops of laundry detergent.

3. Swish the mop head around in a bucket of warm, clean water to rinse it, or work your fingers through the fibers to rinse it under running water from a spigot.

4. Slide a rubber-gloved hand over the mop head to pull any excess lint and hair from it.

5. Squeeze and wring the mop head until water no longer drops from it, and hang it to dry outdoors or in a dry area.

Cleaning String Mops

1. Rinse the mop head thoroughly in clean water after each use.

2. Wring excess water from the mop strings, and comb through the strands gently with your fingers to separate them.

3. Hang mop head to dry in a well-ventilated area.

4. Rinse the strings in a disinfectant solution periodically to control bacterial growth and hang them to dry afterward, as recommended by HousekeepingChannel.com. Because you use soaps and detergents with a wet mop during use, rinsing is usually sufficient for keeping them clean.

Cleaning Sponge Mops

1. Rinse sponge mops under clean running water after each use. Press out excess water.

2. Wipe the sponge with a rubber-gloved hand to roll lint and hair off the sponge.

3. Hang sponge mops in the shade to dry, as recommended by the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service.

4. Dip cellulose sponges in a mild solution of diluted household bleach to disinfect them, as needed, and rinse thoroughly afterward.

Tips & Warnings

• Libman recommends soaking its mop heads in a solution of one cup of hydrogen peroxide to one gallon of hot water for 10 minutes.

• Shake your dust mop head inside of a paper or plastic bag to catch dirt.

• Do not store wet mop heads; this contributes to mold growth and foul odors.

References

• University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service: Household Cleaning
• Housekeeping Channel: Damp Mopping
• Libman: Mopping Tips

Resources

• O-Cedar: Frequently Asked Questions