Are you looking for a new way to deep clean your laminate floors? Steam mops are an excellent way to clean and sanitize floors without the need for chemicals. But is it safe on laminate?
Laminate flooring is sensitive to moisture and should be handled with care. We are here to help you find the best steam mop for laminate floors.
We’ve reviewed steam mops and rounded up five safe and effective picks. We looked into what surfaces they were designed for, the pads included, the accessories they come with, the tank capacity, and more.
- Ready in no time
- Safe on multiple surfaces
- Reusable microfiberpad
- Spotboost brush
- Quick setup
- Easy maneuvering with swivel steering
- Multi-functional handheld option
- One-year quality assurance
- Multiple steam settings
- Double-sided pads
- Two-function Steam Blaster
- Remove and attach pads hands-free
- Powerful steam for grime
- Wide swivel steering
- Above floor cleaning
Product Reviews
After some input from experts and reviewing customer feedback, we found the best steam mops for laminate floors. The main criteria we considered was that it was specifically designed for laminate floors and had various heat settings (or a low heat output). Tank capacity, weight, and attachments were also important to us.
Ready to meet our favorite steam mops? Here are the top five.
Light ‘N’ Easy Floor Steamer
Best Lightweight Steam Mop
A lightweight steam mop is a perfect addition to a thorough cleaning regime. This mop has a light and slim design that easily fits between furniture and storage closets.
It comes with smart features, such as swivel steering, that help to make cleaning a breeze. To release the steam, you simply press the trigger — when you release it, the steam stops instantly.
You can use this mop no matter what type of flooring you have. It’s excellent on laminate floors due to the soft pad that glides effortlessly across the floor.
Thanks to the super quick heater, you can be ready to clean in no time. The powerful steam cuts through grease, dirt, and tough stains without the need to add chemicals.
What We Like
Ready in No Time
The extra quick heating time will have you ready to clean in 20 to 30 seconds. All you have to do is fill the tank with water and plug the mop into an outlet.
You won’t need to worry about water damage with this steam mop. It leaves no standing water, and the floor dries within 30 seconds.
Safe on Multiple Surfaces
We rarely have one type of flooring throughout the house. So it’s convenient to have one tool to clean multiple floor types. You can use the Light ‘N’ Easy steam mop on laminate, hardwood, ceramic, marble, and linoleum floors.
If you have carpets or rugs in your home, you can purchase a carpet glider. This can help you to get even more cleaning done in one go.
Effective on Dirt and Grime
We love a steam mop that eliminates the need for scrubbing. Thanks to the powerful steam in this mop, it can clean anything in its path.
Soap scum on the bathroom tiles? No problem. Greasy spots on the floor around the stove? Gone in no time. You simply press the trigger to release the steam and let go to give a good wipe with the pad.
Reusable Microfiber Pad
Some steam mops can be expensive and inconvenient because their pads need to be changed regularly. However, the pad you get with this mop can be washed in the washer and reused multiple times. This can save you money and time in the long run.
What We Don't Like
Small Tank
The reservoir won’t hold much water, which was a problem for multiple customers. They felt it was inconvenient to stop, refill, and reheat when cleaning. At 7.4 ounces, it’s the smallest tank on our list. You might want to choose a different option if you have a large home.
No On/Off Switch
The steam mop is supposed to stop emitting steam when you release the trigger, but customers found this wasn’t always the case. To completely turn the unit off, you have to unplug it, which adds extra time if you have to quickly answer the door or break up a fight between your kids.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4 pounds |
| Cord Length | 20 feet |
| Water Tank Capacity | 7.4 ounces |
| Attachments | None |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe 1806C Steam Mop
Best Luxury Steam Mop
For a burst of fresh scent in your home, we prefer the Bissell PowerFresh. It comes with two washable pads that provide a thorough clean.
The mop is easy to maneuver around furniture, thanks to the swivel steering. You can also reach underneath low cabinets and furniture because of the compact floorhead.
When treating spots or stubborn stains, remove the floorhead and use the SpotBoost Brush. It’s also excellent for grout cleaning.
You can easily fill the tank using the included measuring cup. You can also move around freely with the 25-foot power cord.
What We Like
Sanitizes Effectively
Homeowners choose steam mops because they’re excellent at sanitizing. The Bissell PowerFresh claims to remove 99.9 percent of bacteria without any chemicals. That sounds like a win to us!
An accessory kit with two specialized, washable pads is included. One is a soft pad, while the other is more scrubby, excellent for tough dirt and stains. You also get two Spring Breeze Scent discs, which you place into a tray on the steamer, releasing a fresh scent as you clean.
Quick Setup and Easy Cleaning
When you need to start, simply fill up the tank using the measuring cup. Plug the steamer into an outlet and allow it 30 seconds to heat up.
Bissell offers its Scent Waters which you can add to the tank. It’s demineralized water that won’t cause any buildup or clogs within the machine.
You can also fill it with tap water, although distilled water is best to avoid mineral buildup.
Easy Maneuvering
Going around the house is super easy due to the swivel steering. You can quickly move around furniture and corners by twisting the handle as you go.
SpotBoost Brush
For small, sticky messes, detach the floorhead and use the SpotBoost Brush. It has small bristles that effectively cut through dirt and grime with the help of the hot steam.
What We Don't Like
The Tank Isn’t Removable
Unfortunately, the tank isn’t removable on this model, which was a point a few customers brought up. Filling the tank is easy using the measuring cup, but emptying it is another story. Customers have reported that they had to lift the entire device over the sink to drain.
Not the Most Durable
A few customers noted that this steam mop didn’t have the lifespan they hoped for. It’s under a two-year warranty, but many customers had to utilize that after one year, which is inconvenient.
Mop Pads Quickly Dirty
The mop pads included with this steam mop aren’t the most absorbent. They can easily spread dirty water around, so you must swap them out often. It’s a good idea to buy a few replacements.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5.7 pounds |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Water Tank Capacity | 19 ounces |
| Attachments | SpotBoost brush |
| Warranty | Two-year limited |
Our Ratings
Light ‘N’ Easy 7688ANW All-In-One Steam Mop
Steam Mop With Best Attachments
If you’re looking for a steam mop that can do more than clean your laminate, this is it. This mop from Light ‘N’ Easy comes with three types of steam tools for you to clean every area of your home.
It glides effortlessly across the floor and can even be used on carpets. You don’t have to press a trigger to release the steam — simply tilt it as you go, and it will begin to steam.
When using it as a handheld, a Smart Sensor point detects when you need it to steam. It heats up quickly, and you can choose between three settings to suit your task.
What We Like
Multi-Functional Handheld Option
Not only can you use the steam mop to clean your laminate floors, but you can also use it for other purposes. Detach the handheld steamer and attach one of the tools.
You get a flexible hose with an upholstery attachment. You can use this tool on couches, chairs, and even clothing. There’s also a small steam head that you can use to clean more compact areas such as around the sink.
Smart Switch Protects Floors
As you glide the steamer across the floor, tilt it to release steam as you clean. When you put it in the upright position, it will stop.
Customers have had problems with other steam mops that didn’t stop steaming when in the upright position. Reports of ruined finishes and floors are common. However, this function will make sure your laminate floors are safe.
Multiple Steam Settings
You can choose between three settings to better suit the steamer for the task ahead. This is an excellent feature for laminate floors since you do have to be careful when cleaning them with steam.
Light ‘N’ Easy also offers a carpet glider so you can clean your carpeted floors as well.
One-Year Quality Assurance
Light ‘N’ Easy provides its customers a year of 24-hour service. You also get a one-year quality assurance warranty and a free replacement if your device is defective or breaks.
What We Don't Like
Handheld Steamer Isn’t as Powerful
The handheld steamer let down a few customers. They felt it wasn’t as effective as expected.
Inconsistent Steam Output
Because of the smart switch design, this only releases steam when you tilt it. Steam doesn’t come out if you don’t tilt it at the right angle. When you stop to move a piece of furniture and put the steam mop in an upright position, it cools down. Then you have to wait a little while for it to heat up again. Overall, this can interrupt your cleaning flow.
Product Specs
| Weight | 6.4 pounds |
| Cord Length | 20 feet |
| Water Tank Capacity | 11.5 ounces |
| Attachments | Three tools |
| Warranty | One-year quality assurance |
Our Ratings
Shark Genius S5003D Pocket System Steam Mop
Best Pads
This Genius steam mop from Shark has created great hype, and we can’t disagree with love. It’s easy to use and features a special pocket pad that distributes steam evenly on the floor.
You can quickly attach the pad without the need to use your hands. Once you’re done, the pad can be thrown in the washer and reused clean the next time. This saves you money and time compared to having to purchase multiple pads.
Weighing a little under six pounds, this steam mop is also light and easy to carry around. The slim and compact design makes it simple to store in any closet or any tight space available.
What We Like
Double-Sided Pads
The dual-sided pads are highly effective at gripping dirt and dust while cleaning small crevices in the floor. Absorbent strips woven into the pads also remove excess water from the floor and prevent damage.
Two-Function Steam Blaster
Depending on the area you’re cleaning, you can set the mop to clean the whole floor or spots.
When it’s on the whole-floor setting, the steam will be directed through the pad fibers and distributed evenly on the floor. As you encounter stubborn stains, use the Steam Blaster to create a powerful burst of steam directly to the stain. This helps to dissolve dirt and grime.
Hands-Free Attach and Remove Pads
Attaching and removing the pad is super straightforward — you don’t even have to touch it. To attach it, place the pad flat on the floor, place the mop on top, and it will grip onto the pad.
When you’re done cleaning, release the pad by pressing the button on the handle. It can easily be washed and reused.
Easy Assembling
Assembling a steam mop is sometimes dreaded. However, customers were pleased with how easy and quick it was to get the Shark Genius up and running.
What We Don't Like
Can’t Stand Alone
If you want to pause mid-clean, you’ll have to lean this mop against the wall as it cannot stand on its own. Though it’s not a dealbreaker, it can get annoying when you need to stop to move some furniture to make space for cleaning.
Pliable Swivelling Mop Head
Who would have thought that a mop head could be too flexible? Customers tend to dislike the swiveling mop head. It’s difficult to keep it straight, which is inconvenient when you want to steam clean in horizontal and vertical movements.
Hard to Fill Tank
The tank isn’t removable. So to fill this up, you have to fill a cup first, then pour it into the reservoir, which adds extra time. The small opening makes it easy to spill water down the steam mop.
Product Specs
| Weight | 6 pounds |
| Cord Length | 22.4 feet |
| Water Tank Capacity | 11.8 ounces |
| Attachments | None |
| Warranty | One-year warranty |
Our Ratings
Bissell PowerFresh 2075A Slim Steam Mop
Best for the Whole House
If you’re looking for a steamer that can do more than just clean your laminate floors, this is it. The Bissell PowerFresh Slim is a three-in-one power steamer that can clean and sanitize every part of your house.
The slim design makes it easy to carry around and store. You can clean close to baseboards and walls, and the swivel steering makes maneuvering around the rooms a breeze.
You get nine accessories and attachments to clean the various areas of your house, including your laminate floors. The powerful steam is ready within 30 seconds after plugging the device into an outlet.
What We Like
Powerful Steam Tackles Grime
After heating for only 30 seconds, the PowerFresh Slim will be ready to take on your house. It glides easily over a variety of floors such as hardwood, laminate, and marble. The steam removes 99.9 percent of bacteria and grime, while the scrubby pad will help to remove extra grimy spots.
Wide Swivel Steering Mop Head
The steam mop will follow your every move as you clean your way through the house. It fits easily under furniture and close to walls. With a width of 13 inches, the floorhead has good coverage.
Above Floor Cleaning
When you need to clean other parts of your house, you can choose between nine attachments. Remove the stick and use the steamer as a handheld — just attach the appropriate tool for the task.
Use the Bristle Scrub Brush to effectively clean grills, countertops, and ovens. The Flat Scraper Tool is excellent at removing stuck substances from any flat surfaces without causing damage.
Cleaning grout lines is also easier with the steaming Grout Tool. Finally, you can steam your clothes quickly using the Clothing Steamer.
The uses for this device are endless, which is why it’s the top choice for many homeowners.
On-Hand Storage
Small attachments are easily lost. However, this steamer allows you to store every little tool close at hand. Attach them underneath the steamer handle and carry them with you to use whenever needed.
What We Don't Like
Cumbersome to Hold
Because everything is stored in the handle (tank, motor, attachments), it can feel heavy to hold. A few customers found it cumbersome when cleaning because everything was in one place.
Inconsistent Steam Output
One of customers’ biggest complaints about this steam mop was the inconsistent steam output. You have to hold the trigger down continuously, which can become tiring. Plus, every 30 seconds, the water has to heat up a little, which means you don’t get it consistently hot.
No Cord Storage
A cord wrap on a steam mop is a huge bonus, but this device comes without one. This makes it hard to store since the cord can get tangled up with everything else in your storage closet.
Product Specs
| Weight | 6.4 pounds |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Water Tank Capacity | 11.8 ounces |
| Attachments | Nine tools |
| Warranty | Two-year limited |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Cord Length | Water Tank Capacity | Attachments | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light ‘N’ Easy Floor Steamer | Lightweight | 4 lbs | 20 ft | 7.4 oz | None | N/A |
| Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop | Luxury | 5.7 lbs | 25 ft | 19 oz | SpotBoost brush | 2-year limited |
| Light ‘N’ Easy All-In-One Mop | Attachments | 6.4 lbs | 20 ft | 11.5 oz | Three tools | 1-year |
| Shark Genius Pocket System Mop | Pads | 6 lbs | 22.4 ft | 11.8 oz | None | 1-year |
| Bissell PowerFresh Slim Mop | Whole House | 6.4 lbs | 25 ft | 11.8 oz | Nine tools | 2-year limited |
What Is a Steam Mop?
A steam mop is a unique device that utilizes hot steam to blast and dissolves dirt, grime, and, most importantly, bacteria away. A typical steam mop consists of a handle with a trigger. There’s also a long stick and a floorhead usually fitted with a microfiber pad.
The most desirable fact about these cleaners is that they will sanitize without needing any chemicals.
You simply fill the reservoir with tap or distilled water, plug it into an outlet, and allow it to heat. As you’re cleaning, press the trigger to release steam. Then the microfiber pad will remove dirt and absorb excess moisture, leaving your floors nearly dry.
Are Steam Mops Safe on Laminate Flooring?
Whether or not steam mops are safe to use on laminate flooring is often debated. But, it is perfectly safe as long as you do it correctly.
Cleaning different types of flooring requires different methods, tools, and products. Laminate is sensitive to moisture since it can cause the planks to warp and swell.
Steam mops use a significant amount of water and heat while cleaning and should be used carefully. You can effectively clean and sanitize your laminate flooring using the correct technique.
Experts advise that you follow the natural grain of the floor. Going against it can cause moisture to penetrate the tiny cracks and crevices and cause damage (1). Choose a low setting to avoid excessive heat if your steam mop isn’t specifically made for laminate.
Test First
It’s also crucial that you don’t make steam cleaning a part of your everyday cleaning regime. The hot steam can weaken the seal on your laminate floor. Some floor manufacturers will even void warranties if cleaned with steam.
Things to Consider
Buying a steam mop for laminate flooring isn’t as straightforward as it might be for tiles. So you must take the proper precautions to ensure you won’t cause any damage to the floor. You should consider a few things when choosing the best steam mop for laminate floors.
1. Heat Settings
High temperatures and moisture can damage the seal on laminate floors. So once the seal is broken, the material is at risk. To avoid this, you should try to pick a steam mop designed for laminate floors.
Sadly, some brands choose to steer clear of this area due to the risks. In this case, you should choose a device with heat settings.
These will usually have two or three settings, ranging between low, medium, and high. To make sure your floors are safe, always start at the lowest setting and only use the “high” for stains and grime.
2. Pad Material
It’s crucial to choose a gentle pad material, such as microfiber, which is simultaneously an effective cleaner. It’s also very absorbent, which is excellent at minimizing water on your floors. Last but not least, you can wash microfiber pads and reuse them again and again.
3. Tank Capacity
A mop with a small tank capacity could quickly become inconvenient if you have a large area to cover. Having to stop to refill and reheat can be frustrating — especially if you still have a lot to cover.
However, it’s important to remember that steam mops aren’t the same as their steam cleaner cousins.
Steam cleaners resemble a vacuum — some even work similarly to vacuums. But steam cleaners typically have more space to store a large tank due to the canister. On the other hand, steam mops are lightweight, slim, and easy to carry around.
On average, steam mops have a tank capacity between seven and 20 ounces. Anything less than seven will be super inconvenient, but the average tank capacity is 12 ounces.
4. Tools and Attachments
Some of our favorite steam mops are those with the ability to convert into a handheld. These enable you to clean multiple areas around your house. They also reduce the need to spend on additional cleaning equipment.
Steam mops can come with a variety of attachments and tools. Smaller brushes can help you to target tiny areas such as around the faucet, corners, and grout lines. Some mops come with an upholstery and fabric tool that allows you to deep clean your sofa or iron your shirt.
FAQs
What is the Best Way to Clean Laminate Floors?
The best way to clean laminate floors is to use a steam mop, like this Light ‘N’ Easy model. Set it on the lowest heat and work with the laminate grain to avoid water penetrating between the gaps.
What Should You Not Put on Laminate Floors?
You should not put abrasive cleaners on your laminate floor because they will strip the top layer of lamination and fade the floor. Also, avoid excess water because it will penetrate deep into the laminate backing and swell the floor.
Why Does My Laminate Floor Look Dull?
Your laminate floor looks dull because it is scratched and scuffed. You may have used an abrasive cleaner that has faded the lamination, or there is a residue of detergent clouding the floor surface.
How Do I Know If My Laminate Floor is Sealed?
The best way to know if your laminate floor is sealed is to check an inconspicuous area with the water bead test. Place a few drops of water on the floor and wait to see if the water soaks in. If it beads and runs off, your floor is sealed.
Why is My Laminate Floor Sticky After Mopping?
Your laminate floor is sticky after mopping because you have used too much detergent, and it has left a thick residue.
Alternatively, it could be sticky because you have failed to sweep or vacuum the dirt before mopping. When you add water to dust, it creates a gloopy mess that dries tacky.
