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Types of Mops

By , About.com Guide

Flat Mops:

Flat mops are a type of mop with a flat head that usually has a disposable or reusable pad that attaches to it. Disposable types include the Clorox Ready Mop and Swiffer Wet Jet, as well as other brands that may include a spray mechanism to wet the floor being mopped. Reusable flat mops usually have a microfiber or other type of cleaning pad that is washable.

Flat mops are great for cleaning, especially as a daily mop. They are easy to use and require little effort to set up and use. Flat mops work well at cleaning corners, although they may have trouble scrubbing stuck-on food particles without pretreatment.

Sponge Mops:

Sponge mops consist of a spongy mop head that usually has an attached wringer. Sponge mops may have removable heads that allow them to be rinsed more easily and replaced when necessary. Sponge mops are great for cleaning tile and other uneven surfaces. Sponge mops need to be properly maintained and cared for to avoid the spread of bacteria. When the sponge on the mop begins to break apart, or if the mop begins to smell or discolor, replace the mop head.

Dust Mops:

Dust mops can be used to clean floors, walls, ceilings, and light fixtures. Usually they have a long handle allowing you to reach corner cobwebs and dusty fans. Dust mops can be made from a variety of materials including, lambs wool, microfiber, and synthetics. Dust mops are used with dry cleaning and aren't usually meant to be a wet cleaning tool.

Wet Mops:

There are many kinds of wet mops. From sythetic strip mops with built in wringers to traditional cotton mops, there's something for every taste. Traditional cotton string mops are great to use because of their absorbency and scrubbing power. Traditional string mops make getting into corners a cinch, but can often be more difficult to wring out. They are also more difficult to maintain than many other mops.

Synthetic head wet mops are often in strips with a built in wringer. These mops are not as absorbent and able to scrub as a cotton mop, but they are more convenient and easy to care for.

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