So you’ve just finished steam mopping, but instead of shiny floors, you’re left with tiles that look cloudy. That’s a sign that your steam mop pad needs a good soak!
Not all pads are washable, though. Disposable types are designed for single use, so you need to throw them out once they’re muddy.
However, you should clean reusable mop pads — and luckily, the process is simple.
All you need is a mild liquid detergent and warm water. Then, run a gentle cycle on your washing machine or lightly scrub the pads by hand.
Below, we’ll walk you through how to clean steam mop pads, so your floors stay sparkling and streak-free!
How Often to Clean | Before Cleaning | Washing | Deep Cleaning | Drying | Maintenance Tips
Why Wash Steam Mop Pads
Steam mops are very effective at trapping dust and debris, since they use high heat (100°C–120°C) to loosen stains.
This also means that the mop heads or pads can get really filthy with each mopping session.
Unfortunately, a dirty pad reduces the mop’s cleaning efficiency. Instead of leaving you with clean floors, it’ll just spread grime around and cause streaks.
Letting the pads stay soiled and damp also invites bacteria and mould, so you’ll end up replacing them sooner than necessary.
Plus, any grit left on the pad can scratch your floors, making cleaning all the more important.
How Often to Clean Steam Mop Pads
Always wash steam mop pads right after each use. Otherwise, any stains can set and become harder to remove later!
Overwhelmed by how much effort it takes to keep your floors (and the mop itself) clean?
Leave the floor to domestic cleaning experts — they can handle the vacuuming and mopping, so you don’t have to!
They can also deep clean other parts of your house, like the bathroom and kitchen.
Before Cleaning Steam Mop Pads
Steam mop pads are usually made from microfibre or cotton blends. They’re generally durable, but can be damaged by strong cleaners.
It helps to know the right methods to use and what to avoid to keep your pads in great condition!
What you need to clean steam mop pads
The best way to clean steam mop pads is with mild liquid detergent and warm water.
Still, always read the care instructions for your steam mop.
Some brands recommend specific cleaning solutions to prevent damage, and using the wrong products could void your warranty.
What to avoid when cleaning steam mop pads
Skip anything that might leave a residue, like fabric softeners or dryer sheets. These can make your mop pad less absorbent and affect cleaning performance.
Do not use baking soda or powder detergent as well. Tiny bits might get trapped in the pad and scratch your floor the next time you mop.
Harsh chemicals, such as ammonia and bleach, are also not ideal. While they are sometimes effective on stubborn stains, repeated use may weaken the fibres over time.
Preparing steam mop pads for washing
After cleaning the floor, unplug your steam mop first. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, so you don’t risk burning yourself.
Once the mop is safe to touch, carefully peel off the pad. Bring it outside, and shake out any loose dust and dirt.
Check if there are any large debris or clumps of hair clinging onto the fibres, and pull them out by hand or with a soft-bristle brush.
You don’t want these to end up in the wash, since they can clog the sink or washing machine!
Then, pre-rinse the steam mop pad with warm water in a basin. This helps remove more loose dirt before washing the pad with detergent.
How to Wash Steam Mop Pads
Even the best steam mops rely on clean pads to work properly!
Fortunately, washing reusable steam mop pads is easy. Either use your washing machine or soak the pads in a basin with soapy water.
You can follow the same cleaning process for most models, including Bissell, Vax, and Shark steam mops. Still, confirm with the care label to be safe.
Cleaning steam mop pads in a washing machine
Machine-washing steam mop pads is a great option if you need to clean multiple pads.
Use a gentle cycle, with warm or hot water (40°C–60°C) and mild liquid detergent.
Be sure to follow the detergent packaging for the recommended amount, based on how many pads you’re cleaning.
Always wash the mop pads separately from other laundry. If your washer has an agitator, place the pads in a laundry bag first to prevent damage.
Cleaning steam mop pads by hand
Hand washing is a gentler way to clean mop pads. It can also help them last longer!
Fill a basin with warm water. About 40°C–45°C is enough, so you don’t burn your hands. Add 1 teaspoon of mild laundry detergent per 3L of water, and mix well.
This is enough for 1 or 2 pads, but you might need more soap and water if you’re washing multiple pads.
Let the mop pads soak in the soapy water for around 30 minutes. You can leave them in longer if they’re very grimy.
Then, gently rub the fabric together, focusing on any stained areas. You can also scrub tough dirt with a soft brush.
Once the mop pads are stain-free, it’s time to rinse out all the soap.
Discard the dirty water, and replace it with clean water. Swish the pads through to remove any remaining suds.
Keep draining and refilling the basin until the water is clear. Any residue left on the pads can make them less effective!
Squeeze out the excess water from the steam mop pads before letting them air dry.
How to Get Your Steam Mop Pads White Again
If your white mop pads are starting to look grey, you can deep clean them with oxygen bleach. This method also works for all colours, not just white!
Pre-treat any visible stains with oxygen bleach, following the product’s instructions carefully.
Next, dissolve the recommended amount of oxygen bleach in a bucket of warm water.
Fully submerge the steam mop pads in the solution. Wait a few hours, or overnight for stubborn stains.
After the soaking time, gently rub the fabric together or use a soft brush on any remaining stains. Rinse the pads well, and wring them out before air drying.
How to Dry Steam Mop Pads After Washing
A tumble dryer can damage any Velcro strips or strings on a steam mop pad, so air drying is usually safer.
Lay the pad on a flat surface or hang it on a line outside. Steam mop pads usually dry quickly, so you don’t have to wait too long.
If you prefer to tumble dry, check first if the steam mop’s care instructions allow this and follow the recommended settings.
Always make sure that the mop pad dries completely. Otherwise, it can develop mould or transfer bad odours onto the floor!
TIP: Next time you clean the floor, you can add a few drops of your preferred essential oil onto the pad (not the tank!) to make your steam mop smell nice.
More Tips to Keep Your Steam Mop Pad Clean
Before steam mopping the floor, always sweep or vacuum first!
This reduces the amount of grime that ends up on the steam mop pad and prevents dirt from getting tracked all over the floor.
It’s also worth using distilled water for your steam mop, especially if you’re in a hard water area. Excess minerals in tap water can damage your mop and leave stains on the pad.
Once they’re clean, store your steam mop pads in a dry place — a damp environment encourages bacteria and mould.
You can also place the pads in a sealed bag to keep out dust.
FAQs About Cleaning Dirty Steam Mop Pads
Clean floors start with clean mop pads.
Here are more tips to keep your steam mop pads fresh and hygienic!
How to remove bad smells from steam mop pads
If your steam mop pad still smells funky even after washing, there’s an easy fix: vinegar!
Vinegar not only eliminates lingering odours; it can also help break down soap residue or soften a crunchy mop pad.
Mix 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts warm water in a basin, and let the pad soak for about 30 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly with plain water, and wring it out well.
If you’re machine washing, just add half a cup of vinegar to the final rinse cycle.
Don’t forget to let the mop pads dry completely to avoid bad smells!
How to disinfect steam mop pads
You can disinfect steam mop pads using a laundry sanitiser. Dilute it in a basin or add it to the wash cycle, following the instructions on the packaging.
Another option is to mix 1/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1L of warm water. Submerge the steam mop pad in the solution for 15–30 minutes.
Afterwards, rinse the pads, press out any excess water, and let them air dry.
When should you replace a steam mop pad?
Once the steam mop pad gets dirty, swap it out for a clean one. That way, you’re always wiping the floor with a fresh pad.
However, you might need a brand new mop pad after 3–6 months.
If you notice signs of damage, like thinning or clumped fibres, these can affect the steam mop’s cleaning performance.
A poor quality pad can leave cloudy streaks on the floor, so don’t wait to buy a replacement!
