Tiles have a reputation for being sturdy, while steam is often seen as one of the harsher cleaning methods. Steam mops are taking the world by storm, and tiles, thanks to their resistance to water damage, are a favorite to use them on.
If you have tiles at home, it’s vital to know how you can take advantage of this satisfying combination.
Still, as powerful as steam may be, if you don’t use it properly, you could cause irreparable damage to your home. So, there are many factors to consider and precautions you should take. That’s why we’re also recommending the best steam mops for tiles and grout so you can clean perfectly, with no risk of ruining your floors.
Product Reviews
Check out these five steam mops to transform your tile.
Light ‘N Easy Steam Mop
Consumer Favorite Steam Mops for Tiles and Grout
Aptly titled, the Light ‘N Easy Steam Mop is compact and easy to use without compromising cleaning power. It’s a customer favorite in cleaning and sanitizing difficult stains and high-traffic areas.
An ergonomic handle and a flexible mop head emphasize ease of use, while its sleek design aids effortless storage. The water heats up within 30 seconds, and you control the steam with a handy pump. A washable microfiber pad is included with your purchase.
This multi-floor vacuum is suitable for tiles, ceramic floors, hardwood, marble, and even linoleum. It’s a versatile option with high value for money.
What We Like
League of Its Own
This model knocks the others out of the park in terms of customer satisfaction. Buyers are highly pleased with this steam mop’s form, and compliments abound regarding its function.
Each of our recommendations is held in high regard by buyers, but the Light ‘N Easy steam mop is in a class of its own.
Easy to Use With Swivel Steering
This mop has some fantastic and handy features that customers enjoy. Swivel steering makes cleaning tricky spots easier, while the ergonomic design improves operation. Customers note its design’s simplicity and effectiveness and say that it exceeds expectations.
Storage and portability are key in its build too. This lightweight steam mop takes almost no effort to lift at only four pounds and will take up little space in your home.
Value for Money
It may not be the highest-end model we’ve seen, but the value of this steam mop is impressive. Every feature emphasizes utility and simplicity. We consider this one a budget-friendly option.
Customers are happy with its quality and efficiency and say it’s an all-rounder to be used throughout your home.
What We Don't Like
Inconvenient Mop Head
Though buyers are satisfied with the machine’s ability, a minority of users criticize the mop head’s fit. According to these customers, the microfiber pad doesn’t fit as snugly as they hoped. There are a few reports of the pad coming loose or hindering the mop’s gliding.
Product Specs
| Water capacity | 7.4 ounces |
| Temperature control? | No |
| Heater speed | 20 – 30 seconds |
| Special features | Swivel steering, ergonomic build |
| Accessories | Washable microfiber pad |
Our Ratings
Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe
Most Refreshing Steam Mops for Tiles and Grout
If you’re looking for a steam mop that refreshes your home while it cleans, try this one from Bissell. Our favorite feature is its capacity for fragrance. You could use Bissell’s scented water or add a fragrance disc for an aromatic boost.
You can adjust your steam output by switching between its high and low settings. It’s got swivel steering and is balanced to stand upright unsupported. Multi-floor capacity enables use on various surfaces, including linoleum, marble, granite, wood, and of course, tiles.
Included is the nifty, detachable spot boost brush. Combined with steam control, it gives you a honed experience.
What We Like
Unique Accessories Increase Value
The spotboost brush and fragrance disc aren’t common components in steam mops. You’ll get an optimized experience out of them. These accessories significantly increase the product’s value for money.
Fresher Scented Home
You can opt to go with Bissell’s scented water if you like. Even if you don’t, the included fragrance disc is an excellent extra. It cleans, sanitizes, and deodorizes your home, refreshing your entire space.
It’s a money saver too, as you won’t have to spend extra on scented cleaners or air fresheners.
Steam Control Settings
We recommend this model if you need precision in your tile cleaning. Switch between its high or low setting whenever you need to for a boost in power or gentler clean. Use this function with the spotboost brush to target stains and optimize your operation.
What We Don't Like
Design Flaws
Some customers criticized the planning of this product, noting that Bissell overlooked certain inconveniences. An example is that though it stands upright, it doesn’t come with a tray to stow it on. The controls are ill-placed and heat up with the water tank too.
Even so, most customers are satisfied with both the operation and effect of this model.
Product Specs
| Water capacity | 16 ounces |
| Temperature control? | Yes: two settings, high or low |
| Heater speed | 30 seconds |
| Special features | Swivel steering, fragrance boost |
| Accessories | Detachable spotboost brush, 2 fragrance discs, microfiber pad |
Our Ratings
Shark Genius Hard Floor Cleaning System
Most Sanitary Steam Mops for Tiles and Grout
A high-end model, this Shark Genius is well worth investing in, especially if convenience is what you’re after. Its touch-free technology is handy and safer, too — quite literally eliminating dirty work.
You have three steam settings to choose from for optimized sessions. Shark’s Steam Blaster Technology gives you a boost as and when needed, adding to this product’s precision.
You can use both sides of the included dirt-grip pads, saving you money in the long run.
What We Like
More Hygenic Option
The mop head can be attached or released with the push of a button. You don’t have to touch it, so this mop is an excellent sanitary choice. It’s safer, too, as less contact with the mop head reduces the risk of burns.
Steam Blaster Technology
It’s great that you can choose from three steam power settings, but to top that, you get a booster too. The Steam Blaster Technology adds bursts of extra force to your cleaning and is useful when battling stubborn dirt or grit.
Dirt-Grip Pads
Shark gives you its unique dirt-grip pads designed to cling to dirt, unlike the traditional microfiber pads. They’re extra special since they’re double-sided, so you get more for your money. You won’t have to spend as much on replacement pads, and your maintenance is cut in half.
What We Don't Like
Hefty and Hard to Maneuver
It only weighs six pounds, but some customers note that they struggled to push it around when starting. Though it’s high-powered and most buyers don’t dispute its efficiency, it may require a little elbow grease to get it going.
Product Specs
| Water capacity | 11.8 ounces |
| Temperature control? | Yes; three settings |
| Heater speed | 30 seconds |
| Special features | Steam Blaster Technology, touch-free release, double-sided pads |
| Accessories | Dirt-grip pad, water fill flask |
Our Ratings
Shark Steam Pocket
Budget Choice Steam Mops for Tiles and Grout
Shark is a leader in cleaning machines, so it’s no surprise we’ve picked them twice. While the Genius is a fantastic high-end choice, the Steam pocket appeals to our wallets. This is an impressive machine with high value, considering its budget-friendly status.
A soft-grip handle and swivel steering make this one comfortable to use. It also features a quick-release cord for fast, hassle-free assembly and storage. Though basic in its build, this product is designed for ease of use.
Further proving that this one is a money saver, Shark throws in two microfiber pads for you.
What We Like
Fantastic Maneuverability
Swivel steering, a soft-grip handle, and a 25-foot cord make this product easy to control. You get a wide range from it and don’t have to strain while operating the mop. Customers compliment the mop’s smooth gliding and praise its simplicity.
Money Saver With Two Included Pads
It’s the most affordable of our recommendations, so choose this one if you’re looking to save. It doesn’t sacrifice any power, quality, or efficiency by being a budget option, and you get high value for money.
We also think it’s nice of Shark to include two washable microfiber pads. You’ll save money and time on maintenance.
Simplified Storage
The quick-release cord is an underrated feature we like. It’s satisfying, saves time, and makes stowing your mop more efficient. You won’t have to fuss over wrapping its cord or tangles. The cord is 25 feet long — this won’t go unappreciated.
What We Don't Like
Manual Effort Required
One discrepancy is that you have to continuously pump the steam to keep it flowing. This won’t use up too much of your energy but might prove frustrating if you’re cleaning larger areas or deep cleaning.
Product Specs
| Water capacity | 15 ounces |
| Temperature control? | No |
| Heater speed | 30 seconds |
| Special features | Soft-grip handle, swivel steering, quick release cord |
| Accessories | Two washable microfiber pads |
Our Ratings
PurSteam ThermaPro 10-In-1
Most Versatile Steam Mops for Tiles and Grout
Are you looking for a steam mop that goes above and beyond in utility? This model has several impressive, noteworthy features. Our favorite is that it easily converts into a handheld steam cleaner for usability.
With multi-floor functionality, it’s not just tiles you can clean. This product is suitable for hardwood, carpets, and even glass surfaces.
It has a comprehensive set of accessories, including a straight nozzle, bent nozzle, and window squeegee. You also get a set of nylon brush attachments and two mop pads.
What We Like
Comprehensive Accessories
Steam mops don’t usually come with a full package of attachments. The extras you receive upon purchase push this product’s value for money above and beyond all our other recommendations.
This is a prime example of a multi-purpose steam mop. It’s easy to optimize and adjust this one to suit your exact needs.
Converts to a Handheld Device
The detachable handheld component is our favorite part of this product. Think of all the possibilities. You can use it to target problem areas on your tiles or as a general-purpose steam cleaner in your home.
Multi-Surface Ability
This model does everything from your tiles to your carpets to your windows and mirrors. We like that it includes a window squeegee for safe and effective glass steaming.
Most other steam mops are only meant for floors, but this one takes multi-surface to a whole new level.
What We Don't Like
No Attachment Storage
Don’t get us wrong. We adore this machine and praise how comprehensive it is. One problem is that the attachments are not accounted for in storage. It does not have onboard storage, and there is no bag or case included with the mop.
So you’ll have to make room for each of its components. This might be problematic if you have limited space or live in a smaller home.
Product Specs
| Water capacity | 11.5 ounces |
| Temperature control? | Yes; three settings |
| Heater speed | 30 seconds |
| Special features | Handheld adjustable, multi-surface |
| Accessories | Two mop pads, straight nozzle, bent nozzle, window squeegee, set of nylon brushes |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Water capacity | Temperature control? | Heater speed | Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light ‘N Easy Steam Mop | Consumer Favorite | 7.4 oz | No | 20 – 30 seconds | Washable microfiber pad |
| Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe | Refreshing | 16 oz | Yes: two settings, high or low | 30 seconds | Brush, fragrance discs, microfiber pad |
| Shark Genius System | Sanitary | 11.8 oz | Yes; three settings | 30 seconds | Dirt-grip pad, water fill flask |
| Shark Steam Pocket | Budget Choice | 15 oz | No | 30 seconds | Two washable microfiber pads |
| PurSteam ThermaPro 10-In-1 | Versatile | 11.5 oz | Yes; three settings | 30 seconds | Mop pads, nozzle, squeegee, brush |
What Is a Steam Mop?
Steam mops are a relatively recent invention, but their history is so fascinating that we can’t resist sharing it.
Back in 1999, Romi Haan, a Korean entrepreneur, grew tired of scrubbing hard floors. So much so that she set out to free homemakers everywhere of this labor by innovating a new way to clean.
As the story goes, she wondered if a mop that could harness the power of steam would make her life easier. Sorely overestimating how quickly her new invention would take form, she mortgaged her home to fund her idea. In 2004 — five years later — she had a product to show for it (1).
Once she perfected the technology, it didn’t take long for it to rise in popularity. Romi’s simple idea grew into a staple device that eliminates hard work and saves homemakers immense time and energy. But how exactly do steam mops do this for you?
How Do Steam Mops Work?
Steam mops are built with reservoirs that can heat water up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit (2). To reach your floor, produced steam travels through the mop and is emitted from a cloth (often microfiber) pad.
These soaked pads absorb dirt better than standard mops will, while the steam sanitizes your floor as you go.
The heat kills the germs in your home. Steam is a powerful disinfectant because it alters the structure of bacteria. This process, called denaturation, incapacitates and obliterates pathogens (3).
Another huge benefit of steam mopping is its ability to cut through grease and caked-on dirt.
You’ll also find that using a standard mop just doesn’t cut it in this area. It won’t release as much heat or do so as efficiently.
Warning
Will Steam Not Ruin Your Tiles?
Tiles, rigid as they may be, aren’t indestructible. Water stains, warping, cracking, and heat damage are all still possible and will ruin your tiled floor if given a chance. The difference is that compared to wood floors or carpets, tiles have a much higher tolerance for destruction.
Still, regardless of your type of tile, none are 100 percent water-resistant. Porcelain tiles shine in this regard as an insignificant amount of water will make it through. But even then, water can still loosen tile grout, and excessive water could destroy your floor’s layout (4).
With heat, it’s much the same. Tiles are not entirely heat-proof, but they are considered heat resistant.
Porcelain tiles can withstand heat up to 4352 degrees Fahrenheit — well beyond what a steam mop emits (5). Likewise, ceramics can bear temperatures up to 3725 degrees Fahrenheit (6).
It’s all about timing, though. If you were to completely soak tiles in hot water for extended periods, you’d ruin them. On the other hand, steam evaporates quickly so that it won’t be absorbed into your floor.
FYI: Steam Mop Precautions
Steam is not intended to soak tiled floors but rather to skim their surface. That said, there are a few instances where it’ll be no good. As a precaution, keep the following in mind:
- Steam and wax don’t mix: Wax isn’t oil, but it behaves like it, meaning heat breaks it down. Tile wax isn’t extremely common, but if you use it, steam mopping could be problematic. If you don’t know whether or not your floor is waxed, rub the edge of a coin alongside it, and see if it picks up waxy residue.
- Don’t consider them multi-floor machines: Even if your steam mop is designed for all hard floors, do your research before using it on other surfaces. Your tiles may be super-resistant to heat, but others like wood, linoleum, or bamboo may not be.
- Beware of grout: While you don’t have to worry about wrecking your tiles with steam, grout is a different story. Steam is effective at cleaning grout, but excessive moisture can deteriorate its form and function. So focus on the tiles themselves rather than what’s in between them.
- Best for glazed tiles: Tiles’ strength and heat resistance only applies if they’re glazed. Therefore, raw, natural tiles are vulnerable to water and heat damage. In this case, it’s better to use a standard or dry mop.
Warning
Tips for Steam Mopping Tiles
There are practices you can put in place to reduce the risk of damage even more. We’ve got some words of wisdom for you to consider before you apply steam to your floor.
1. Never Leave Water to Stand
Remember this even when you’re not steam cleaning. If water puddles on tiles, it could slowly penetrate the grout. The effect of water puddles is worse on unglazed hardware, as the tiles will absorb it, resulting in unsightly stains.
So if you ever spill any liquid on your tiles, clean it up immediately. Use a dry mop, absorbent towel, or soft microfiber cloth to soak it up.
2. Sweep or Vacuum First
Before you go in with a steam mop, remove as much dirt from your floor as possible. If you’re sweeping, use a soft-bristled broom or a microfiber head to prevent scratches. When vacuuming, make sure you use a multi-floor machine or hard floor attachments.
This is so that you won’t push the dirt around your floor when mopping. Not only will this create a bigger (and wet) mess, but wet dirt could eventually cake on your floor.
Vacuuming is best for picking up large debris, as sweeping it around might have an abrasive effect.
3. Don’t Overdo Your Steam Cleaning
Once you witness its powerful effect, you may be inclined to steam your tiles often. In reality, this isn’t necessary, and it’s best not to because of the risks (small as they are). Tiles will do fine with frequent sweeping, vacuuming, or running with a tile cleaning solution and a standard mop.
Steam should be reserved for deep cleaning. So if you don’t have built-up grease, or caked on dirt, save time and energy by skipping the steam mop. In doing so, you’ll protect your floors from over-exposure to heat and moisture.
Keep your steam cleaning down to once a week at most for the best effect and reduced risk.
4. Check Your Warranty
It’s most common with wood, but hard floor manufacturers may bar steam cleaning. So before you buy a steam mop, revisit your paperwork to see if it’s allowed.
This is not to say that steam mopping is ill-advised — just that floor manufacturers are aware of the risks of accidents. Whether or not you take that risk is up to you.
5. Manufacturers Know Best
If your floor manufacturer explicitly advises against steaming your tiles or grout, listen to them. The same applies to the manufacturers of the mops. Follow the instructions strictly to prevent unnecessary damage, accidents, or even burns.
We know it sounds tedious but read through your product’s manual thoroughly. You’ll know how to operate it to its best effect, and you’ll keep both you and your floors safe.
Benefits of Steam Mopping Tiles
Steam mopping tiles is one of the best ways to keep them in tip-top shape. Beyond the excellent results you’ll get from this method, there are a few bonus benefits you can look forward to.
- Chemical-free: Steam mops require water only. So you can save money on tile cleaning solutions, and you’ll reduce your exposure to potentially toxic chemicals. This is better for the environment, too, as you won’t have to worry about VOCs being released into the air.
- Faster: Standard mops require a fair amount of effort and elbow grease to operate. Steam mops, thanks to the heat used, cut through dirt, grime, and grease while eliminating the need to scrub. This saves time and prevents strain on your part.
- More thorough: Steam can penetrate all sorts of nooks, crannies, and crevices. You’ll get seamless cleaning along your walls, under furniture, and in corners. This compliments the time-saving perk.
- Healthier homes: Remember that steam cleaning destroys pathogens. This is especially beneficial in areas that are likely to be tiled, like bathrooms and kitchens. You’ll have a cleaner, safer living space if you use one.
FAQs
Are Steam Mops Worth Buying?
Steam mops are worth buying because they clean multiple surfaces without harmful chemicals. They are pet and child-friendly and pose zero threat to the environment.
Is Steaming Floors Better Than Mopping?
Steaming floors is better than mopping because the heat from the steam cleans and disinfects the flooring without harsh chemicals, and is more efficient.
How Often Should You Steam Clean Tile Floors?
You should steam clean tile floors at least once a week. You may need to do this more frequently if you have pets or children or your floor is in a high-traffic area.
Can You Put Soap In a Steam Mop?
You can put soap in a steam mop, but look for enzyme-based products because they sanitize and clean better, thanks to the active ingredients. You can use dish soap in your steam cleaner, but it won’t deliver the same results.
How Do You Keep Tile Grout Clean?
The way to keep tile grout clean is to mix oxygen bleach with water until it forms a thick paste. Apply with a cloth to the grout and scrub with a stiff brush. You will see the grout change color and restore to brilliant white as you work.
Melt Dirt Away
Tiles aren’t difficult to clean, and that’s why they work so well with steam mops. So long as your tiles are glazed, you don’t have to worry about heat or water damage as you do with other types of floors.
A steam mop can cut an immense amount of time and energy from your cleaning. It can also leave your floors — grout included — sanitized and shining.
There’s something for everyone in our recommendations of the best steam mops for tiles. They’re affordable, versatile, and simple tools to improve your quality of life. We hope you see one you like.
