However, to get that streak-free shine and avoid damaging your floors, you need to use the machine correctly. In this guide, we break down exactly how to use your Shark Steam Mop like a pro.
Key Takeaways
- Prep properly: Always vacuum or sweep your floors thoroughly before steaming to prevent scratching the surface with loose debris.
- Choose the right setting: Use “Dust” for light cleaning, “Mop” for everyday maintenance, and “Scrub” for stuck-on messes or durable tile.
- Protect your floors: Use distilled water to prevent buildup and never let a hot mop sit idle in one spot to avoid heat damage.
- Skip the chemicals: Shark recommends using only water; adding vinegar or cleaners can damage the internal components and void your warranty.
How To Use a Shark Steam Mop
1. Assemble the Mop
Getting your Shark Steam Mop ready is a quick process, but ensure everything clicks into place securely.
Start by inserting the handle into the main body of the mop until it pushes past the line on the pole. Secure it with the provided large screw and tighten it with a screwdriver.
Next, attach the mop head. Slide the head into the pad pocket, look for the lavender loop on the side of the cleaning pad to guide you, and use the quick fasteners to lock it in. Snap the mop head into the base of the unit.
2. Fill the Tank
Water quality matters for the longevity of your machine.
Turn the water cap counterclockwise to remove it. Use the provided filling flask to pour water into the tank. We highly recommend using distilled water instead of tap water to prevent mineral buildup in the steam vents.
Be careful not to overfill the tank, as this can cause dripping. Replace the cap and turn it clockwise to tighten.
3. Prep the Floors
Steam mops are for cleaning, not for picking up debris.
Before you plug in the mop, sweep or vacuum the entire area. If you skip this step, you risk dragging sand, dirt, and crumbs across the floor, which can scratch the finish.
4. Select a Setting
Most Shark Steam Mops feature three distinct settings to handle different soil levels. Press the “On/Standby” button to cycle through them.
Dust Setting
- Activate: Press the button once.
- Best for: Laminate, bamboo, hardwood, and marble.
Use this for light cleaning and dusting. It provides a gentle steam that lifts light dirt while sanitizing, without soaking sensitive floors.
Mop Setting
- Activate: Press the button twice.
- Best for: Sealed hardwood, marble, tile, and stone.
This is your go-to setting for everyday cleaning. It tackles moderate traffic areas and loosens small messes effectively.
Scrub Setting
- Activate: Press the button three times.
- Best for: Tile, stone, linoleum, and carpet (with glider attachment).
Reserve this for deep cleaning tough, stuck-on stains. It cuts through grime easily but produces high heat and moisture, so avoid using this continuously on delicate wood floors.
5. Steam and Clean
Once plugged into a 120-volt outlet, the light will flash blue. Select your setting, wait about 30 seconds for the steam to generate, and begin mopping.
Move the mop in a forward and backward motion. This push-and-pull action pumps the steam through the pad. If you are cleaning laminate or hardwood, always move with the grain of the wood to prevent streaking.
If the pad gets dirty, simply flip the mop head over to use the clean side. If the tank runs dry, unplug the unit before refilling.
Extra Tip
6. Cool Down and Store
Proper aftercare ensures your mop doesn’t develop mold or odors.
Press the button until the light flashes blue to stop the steam, then unplug the cord. Let the mop cool in an upright position for 2 to 3 minutes.
Once cool, release the quick fasteners and pull the lavender loop to remove the dirty pad. Never store the mop with a wet or dirty pad attached, as this encourages mildew growth. Empty the water tank completely before hanging the mop on a storage hook.
Can You Use a Shark Steam Mop on Laminate Floors?
Laminate flooring is sensitive to moisture, so many people hesitate to use steam. However, you can use a Shark Steam Mop on laminate if you are careful.
The key is moisture control. Always use the “Dust” setting, which provides the least amount of steam and the highest temperature for quick evaporation. Move with the grain and work in sections to ensure the floor dries almost instantly. If you see standing water, wipe it up immediately.
Can You Use a Shark Steam Mop on Hardwood Floors?
You can use steam on hardwood floors only if they are fully sealed.
If your hardwood has a worn finish or is unsealed, the moisture can penetrate the wood, causing warping or graying. For sealed floors, use the “Dust” or “Mop” setting with a clean, absorbent microfiber pad. Never leave the mop sitting in one spot, as the concentrated heat can leave a permanent white mark on the wood finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To keep your machine running and your floors safe, avoid these common errors:
- Don’t plug it in too early: The mop heats up in seconds. Don’t plug it in until you are completely ready to start cleaning.
- Don’t idle: Never leave a hot steam mop sitting in one spot. The heat buildup can damage flooring finishes or crack porcelain tiles.
- Don’t use chemicals: Avoid putting cleaning solutions, perfumes, or vinegar in the tank. These can damage the internal heating element and void your warranty.
- Don’t ignore the pad: Wash your pads regularly, but do not use fabric softener or dryer sheets. These leave a coating on the microfiber that causes streaks on your floor.
- Don’t handle the plug with wet hands: Safety first; dry your hands completely before plugging or unplugging the device to avoid shock.
Steam Mop FAQs
How Long Does It Take for a Shark Steam Mop to Heat Up?
It usually takes about 30 seconds for the Shark Steam Mop to generate steam once you select a setting. If you are using it for the first time or after a long break, it might take slightly longer to prime the pump.
Can I Add Vinegar to My Steam Mop?
Shark explicitly advises against adding anything other than water to the tank. While some users add a vinegar solution, doing so can damage the internal components and will void your warranty. If you want to use vinegar, spray it directly on the floor lightly before going over it with the steam mop, rather than putting it inside the machine.
Why is My Floor Sticky After I Steam Mop?
Sticky floors usually happen for two reasons. First, you might be using a cleaning chemical on the floor that the steam is re-activating. Second, you may have washed your mop pads with fabric softener. Fabric softeners leave a residue on the microfiber that transfers to the floor, creating a sticky or streaky mess.
How Do You Refill the Shark Steam Mop Cleaner Bottle?
Turn the water cap counterclockwise to remove it. Use the filling flask provided with your mop to pour water into the tank. Shark recommends using distilled water to prevent mineral buildup. Replace the cap and turn it clockwise to seal it.
Do You Put Hot or Cold Water in a Shark Steam Mop?
You should use cold or room-temperature distilled water. The mop has an internal heating element that rapidly heats the water to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit to create steam. Putting already boiling water in the tank can damage the plastic reservoir.
Why Does My Shark Steam Mop Leave Streaks?
Streaks often occur if the mop pad is too wet or dirty. Try changing the pad more frequently during your cleaning session. Additionally, if you used a traditional mop with chemical cleaners previously, the steam mop might be lifting old chemical residue. It may take a few steam sessions to fully remove this buildup.
How Do I Wash Shark Steam Mop Pads?
Wash your microfiber pads in the washing machine using warm water and liquid detergent. Do not use bleach, powder detergent, or fabric softeners. Air dry the pads or tumble dry them on a low setting to preserve the microfiber’s absorbing ability.
