Are Steam Mops Safe for Timber Floors?
Published on Jul 24, 2024
So, let’s be honest. We all hate mopping floors, and we really hate it when we’ve gone to the effort of mopping the floor and left streaks.
Over the last 10 years, steam mops have become a popular tool for cleaning timber and timber-look-alike floors. But what is the combination of heat and moisture doing to your floor? And is the steam mop the right option?
Steam Mops Are Great for Some Floors but Can Really Damage Timber Floors
A recent experiment by Choice magazine showed that steam mops were more effective at cleaning floors than standard mopping. This is because the combination of heat and moisture will dissolve most sugars and oils that hold dirt to your floor.
What Choice failed to properly consider is the impact of steam mopping on the life of different types of flooring. This is what we will dive into today.
Floors That Are Ideal for Steam Mops
- Tiled Floors: Tiled floors are durable and safe for steam mopping.
- Bamboo Floors: These timber look-alike floors are made from compressed bamboo mixed with resin and will stand up to the heat of steam mops.
- Luxury Vinyl Tiles (Timber Planks): Steam mopping is a great way to quickly clean timber planks. Unfortunately, you may find that a steam mop won’t lift the dirt from the wood-like grain in the planks, and regular mopping may be required.
Floors Where You Should Avoid a Steam Mop
As all timber floor technicians will tell you, water is the enemy of wood. Too much moisture can cause serious damage to a floor.
We must also remember that the coating on a timber floor is a very thin layer of plastic and heat damages plastic.
This means the combination of moisture and heat can cause damage to a wood floor over time. Here are the floors where we do not recommend using a steam mop:
Sanded and Polished Timber Floors
The moisture and heat can affect the coating over time. When the coating degrades or softens, the floor is more likely to suffer micro scratches from general traffic, leaving the floor dull. A coating that has been subjected to regular steam mopping is likely to break down more quickly, reducing the life of the floor.
Laminate Floors
Laminate floors have an absorbent composite backing, a little like a chipboard. If the laminate is thin, the composite backing may swell, causing the board to buckle or bubble.
Timber Veneer Floors
Some pre-manufactured timber veneer floors have an aluminium oxide coating, and these floors will stand up to the heat and moisture of a steam mop. If you purchase a pre-manufactured timber veneer floor, we strongly recommend you consult the warranty to determine the best cleaning options.
Safer Alternatives to Steam Mopping
Maintaining the beauty and integrity of your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be difficult. By avoiding steam mops and choosing safer cleaning methods, you can keep your floors pristine for years.
To keep your hardwood floors looking their best without risking damage, consider these options:
Microfibre Mops
These are gentle and effective for hardwood floors. To thoroughly clean, dampen the microfiber pad with water or a hardwood-safe cleaner.
Hardwood Floor Cleaners
Many commercial cleaners are designed specifically for hardwood. They remove dirt and grime without harming the wood or finish. Always follow the instructions for the best results.
Trust the Experts for Professional Cleaning
When in doubt, turn to experts like Electrodry for a thorough restoration. From scratch removal to deep cleaning, our specialized equipment ensures your floors regain their pristine condition.
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