Electric steam mops are gaining popularity not only as time-savers, but as efficient cleaning tools. This particular Shark steam mop model S3501 has an edge over other brands - you can flip it over to the other (clean) side as needed. But does it really work? Learn more about how this steam mop performed.
Shark Steam Mop Product Description
- Shark Steam Pocket Mop S3501 comes with five microfiber pads: 2 rectangular pads, 2 triangular pads and 1 steam duster
- Lightweight
- Pivoting heads
- Steam clean and sanitize with both sides of the mop head
- Chemical free
- 2 Quick release mop heads
- Safe for all sealed hard floor surfaces
- 2-sided cleaning
- 30' cord
- XL water tank (fill cup enclosed)
- Swivel steering
- Carpet glider
- Learn more from Shark Steam Pocket Mop S3501
- MSRP: $119.99
How the Shark Steam Pocket Mop S3501 Performed
July 21, 2009
Set-up was a breeze as was using this steam mop - there's no mess, no controls and it's simple to use. It's lightweight, even when the reservoir is filled. The handle seems sturdy and length is adjustable. The cord is extra long; I was able to do an entire kitchen, adjoining dining area and hallway without disconnecting. The mop pads are well made, wash up well and are easy to apply to the tool with velcro-type tabs.
I was very surprised at how fast the mop heats up - immediately after plugging it in, I reached down and touched the pad - it was already hot. As you mop (forward motion), the handle pumps and releases steam. It glides along well, with only a slight more effort than with a regular mop. With the extended handle length - there's no back discomfort, nor is the whole process tiring. The floor dries quickly - you can lift small chairs, mop and replace them.
One pass on newer vinyl floors was sufficient, but the true test for this steam mop was a cottage's older kitchen vinyl that had ground-in dirt. It performed extremely well, requiring another pass on very tough stains to get it clean. A job that would have likely taken a lot of wringing and washing with harsh cleaners if done with a regular mop.
What was very handy, was being able to turn the mop over to a clean side when dirty. The triangle mop head was used for the second go-round and it went into corners and tight spots (especially bathroom floor) easier than the larger attachment. The water reservoir did not need re-filling for the entire cleaning.
Set-up was a breeze as was using this steam mop - there's no mess, no controls and it's simple to use. It's lightweight, even when the reservoir is filled. The handle seems sturdy and length is adjustable. The cord is extra long; I was able to do an entire kitchen, adjoining dining area and hallway without disconnecting. The mop pads are well made, wash up well and are easy to apply to the tool with velcro-type tabs.
I was very surprised at how fast the mop heats up - immediately after plugging it in, I reached down and touched the pad - it was already hot. As you mop (forward motion), the handle pumps and releases steam. It glides along well, with only a slight more effort than with a regular mop. With the extended handle length - there's no back discomfort, nor is the whole process tiring. The floor dries quickly - you can lift small chairs, mop and replace them.
One pass on newer vinyl floors was sufficient, but the true test for this steam mop was a cottage's older kitchen vinyl that had ground-in dirt. It performed extremely well, requiring another pass on very tough stains to get it clean. A job that would have likely taken a lot of wringing and washing with harsh cleaners if done with a regular mop.
What was very handy, was being able to turn the mop over to a clean side when dirty. The triangle mop head was used for the second go-round and it went into corners and tight spots (especially bathroom floor) easier than the larger attachment. The water reservoir did not need re-filling for the entire cleaning.
Overall Impression
I have to admit that I was rather skeptical going into this test but I'm very impressed with results, how well it performed and how easy it is to use. The number and quality of attachments are excellent. It's very lightweight to use - a senior neighbor had no problem cleaning with it and was impressed with its performance.
Not having to use smelly cleaners, wring out a mop or trail a bucket, was wonderful. And the unique 2-sided cleaning design saves having to unplug and cool the mop, in order to change to a clean pad. The carpet glide attachment worked well for a rug steam dusting (not a cleaning).
I have no hesitation recommending the Shark Steam Pocket Mop to anyone, it performs very well and as advertised. As recommended by the manufacturer, it's only for sealed floors. For this reason, I did not use it on my unsealed laminates and woods, but rather on linoleum, no-wax vinyl and tile.
I do find the cost of this steam mop a little high, but it has a good assortment of mop heads and pads, which adds a lot of value and function to this steam mop. The 2-sided cleaning is definitely its best feature and a time-saver.
Update May 2010:
Almost a year later and I still love this steam mop.
Not having to use smelly cleaners, wring out a mop or trail a bucket, was wonderful. And the unique 2-sided cleaning design saves having to unplug and cool the mop, in order to change to a clean pad. The carpet glide attachment worked well for a rug steam dusting (not a cleaning).
I have no hesitation recommending the Shark Steam Pocket Mop to anyone, it performs very well and as advertised. As recommended by the manufacturer, it's only for sealed floors. For this reason, I did not use it on my unsealed laminates and woods, but rather on linoleum, no-wax vinyl and tile.
I do find the cost of this steam mop a little high, but it has a good assortment of mop heads and pads, which adds a lot of value and function to this steam mop. The 2-sided cleaning is definitely its best feature and a time-saver.
Update May 2010:
Almost a year later and I still love this steam mop.
Related Resources
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Read the Shark Steam Cleaner Review
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What you Shouldn't Do With a Steam Mop
Read more about floor care products
Read the Shark Steam Cleaner Review
Compare prices of steam mops
Compare prices of Shark steam cleaners
Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
