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Steam mops (also known as steam cleaners) do exactly what they say on the tin – they’re mops which provide directed steam to produce a deep down, thorough clean.
While they perform great (and are typically used) on hard flooring, some steam mops can also be used on carpet or carpet tile, potentially replacing larger carpet shampoo machines.
Why Buy a Steam Mop?
If you have pets, young children, or both, a steam mop is an essential, ensuring that your floors are kept as hygienically clean as possible, with minimal effort on your part.
Steam cleaning kills 99.9% of bacteria and germs in your home, without the need for harsh chemicals. This makes it ideal for those who are sensitive to chemicals, or who have breathing issues that would make using them potentially dangerous.
The UK’s 5 Best Steam Cleaners
#5: G-Maxx 20-1
With a triangular head for getting into corners, and the ability to steam clean garments, the Ground Level steam cleaner is a handy little tool. It also features an extra long cable, great for those with larger or longer rooms.
Offer 20 cleaning modes, and a hefty dose of power, the Ground Level isn’t cheap as far as steam mops go, and does feel a little flimsy.
If you value functionality, and are prepared to make an investment, the Ground Level may well suit.
Pros
- Triangular head for corner cleaning
- 20 cleaning modes
- Can be used as a garment steamer
- Powerful
Cons
- Feels very flimsy
What Is It Good For?
The Ground Level might suit the executive, who would benefit from the dual household cleaning and garment steaming functionality.
Value For Money?
This is quite an expensive unit, and there are cheaper options with similar levels of functionality available.
- powerful 1500 watts of steam
- exclusive detergent relase function
- cleans floors , windows , tiles, ovens
Last update on 2025-05-14 at 15:38 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#4: Dirt Devil 5-in-1
Featuring five steam levels, and a concentrating nozzle for stain targeting, the Dirt-Devil lives up to its name.
It also comes with washable, reusable pads, saving you money on replacements, and offers affordable quality.
Pros
- Five steam levels
- Stain targeting
- Washable, reusable pads
- Incredible price
Cons
- None that we can see!
What Is It Good For?
All your household steam cleaning jobs can be handled by the Dirt Devil.
Value For Money?
Definitely. The Dirt Devil offers excellent functionality, and is well within most people’s budget.
- 0.33L Capacity
- 5 Steam Tools
- Effective Cleaning
Last update on 2025-05-14 at 14:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#3: Shark Multifunction
The Shark comes complete with dedicated glass and hard surface cleaning attachments, a carpet glider to refresh carpets, and a detachable hand held steamer for stairs, garments, and curtains.
The cleaning pads don’t seem to fit securely, however, and do have a tendency to come loose during use.
Pros
- Full range of dedicated cleaning attachments
- Detachable hand held steamer
Cons
- Cleaning pads come loose during use
What Is It Good For?
If you can be patient with the loose pads, this offers whole-house cleaning functionality at a fairly reasonable price.
Value For Money?
If you can be patient with the quirks of the pads, this is the only steam cleaning device you’ll ever need, for inside, at least, and is fairly reasonably priced, considering the level of functionality offered. It’s the best overall steam cleaner in this list, but our number 1 pick is half the price.
- Swivel Steering for Easy Maneuverability
- Contains Shark Steam Pocket Mop Technology
- Removable Handheld Steam Cleaner - Ideal for Glass and Tiles
Last update on 2025-05-14 at 14:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#2: Vileda Steam Mop
This is a lightweight steam mop which includes a carpet glider to refresh carpets, and the option to vary the heat and intensity of the steam produced.
It does seem a little flimsy, which might put some people off.
Pros
- Carpet glider
- Variable steam
- Lightweight
Cons
- Feels flimsy
What Is It Good For?
This is an excellent multi purpose steam mop for all around the house.
Value For Money?
Definitely a purchase worth considering.
No products found.
#1: Vax S7 Total Home Master
The Vax offers multi-function capability for cleaning hard floors, glass, and soft furnishings, and comes with a 16-item accessory pack. In addition, you can buy hard water filters or specially formulated pet detergent. You can buy replacement pads cheaply on sites like eBay, and by replacing the pads you don’t get the grotesque mess that is wringing out a traditional mop.
It has a top-end 1600 Watts of power which heats up in 20 seconds, while the charge lasts up to 15 minutes.
Pros
- Multi-function
- Accessory pack included
Cons
- Some reliability issues
What Is It Good For?
This would be good for occasional cleaning, and might be useful to have around for cleaning up after parties, for example.
Value For Money?
It is reasonably priced and backed by the Vax brand name is the current number 1 seller in the British steam mops charts. Click here for our full review.
- Multifunctional with integrated handheld for convenient above the floor cleaning. For steaming surfaces, tiles, taps, windows, mirrors and...
- Angular floor head gets into corners and other hard to reach areas for more thorough clean
- Quickly and easily converts into a handheld.
Last update on 2025-05-14 at 17:58 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Steam Cleaner FAQ
What Is The Best Steam Cleaner?
In our opinion, the best steam cleaner widely available in the UK is the Vax Total Home Master. It’s the right choice for most people and most uses.
Can You Put Floor Cleaner In A Steam Mop?
You can’t put floor cleaner in a steam mop. It’ll mess up the insides and there’s no need for it. The steam is hot enough to kill bacteria and get things really clean.
Are Steam Mops Worth It?
Yes, steam mops are worth it. Used correctly you’ll get good results and they are cheap and convenient.
Can a Steam Mop Replace a Vacuum Cleaner?
The short, simple answer is: unless your home is 100% hard flooring, no. Steam mops are best on your hard surfaces and for additional cleaning, to put a final finish on a vacuumed room, or for quickly refreshing a room in between main cleans.
How Effective Are Steam Cleaners?
Steam cleaners are very effective. Steam is boiling hot water, and it kills virtually all bacteria it comes into contact with.
Do Steam Mops Damage Tile Floors?
No, steam mops won’t damage tile floors. They aren’t recommended for ‘soft’ flooring like cork or some kinds of laminate where the steam might warp or melt some materials. But ‘hard’ flooring like tile, lino, marble won’t even notice the steam. Only the bacteria will!
What Water To Use In Steam Cleaner
Most companies recommend using distilled water in their steam cleaners. Using normal tap water, especially if you live in a hard water area, will leave small amounts of calcium in the tank that will build up over time. Eventually that will start causing blockages. Personally I keep a couple of Brita filters on the go and use that water in my steam cleaner, garment steamer, and for my indoor plants, too!