If you’ve started to notice that your floors aren’t as clean after mopping or there’s a stinky smell coming from your trusty mop, it’s time to clean it! However, a simple rinse is not always enough. Here, you’ll learn how to wash your mop so it’s truly clean for your next mopping session!
Step #1. Choose the right spot to wash your mop
When washing a mop, splashes are almost guaranteed. Since your mop might be harboring dirt and dust, it’s best to clean it outdoors in your backyard or on your front lawn to avoid spreading the grime.
If outdoors isn’t an option, select a well-ventilated room indoors. Place some mats or newspapers underneath to catch any spills or dirt.
Step #2. Shake off the loose dirt
Start by giving your mop a good shake over a trash can to dislodge loose dirt, hair, and debris. Doing this before wetting the mop is key, as wet fibers make some particles cling even more stubbornly.
Step #3: Rinse with warm water
A firm shake gets rid of surface dirt, but deeper grime needs more than that. Use warm water to thoroughly rinse your mop, washing away the dirt and grime it has accumulated. Tackling this step will save you from extra scrubbing later.
Pro-tip: If your mop isn’t too dirty, you can skip to the next step.
Step #4. Add detergent to a bucket
Next, fill a bucket with enough warm water to cover the mop head and add some mild detergent. Using a mild detergent is important as harsh chemicals can damage the mop’s fibers and leave residues that could end up on your floors the next time you mop.
Pro-tip: Check the ingredients to ensure the detergent is mild.
Step #5. Scrub the mop head
Soak the mop head in the soapy water and give it a good scrub with your hands. Focus on any stubborn spots. This hands-on approach cleans better than soaking alone.
If your mop head is detachable, you can toss it in the washing machine on a warm cycle unless it’s made of cotton or string, which might get damaged.
Step #6. Rinse thoroughly
Rinse the mop head under a strong stream of water from an outdoor hose or your bathroom sink. Ensure it’s at full power so the pressure helps you remove all the detergent and dirt. For string mops, make sure to move the strands around to get them fully rinsed.
Step #7. Dry the mop head completely
Proper drying is crucial to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in your mop. The best method is to leave it hanging in the sun for about an hour.
If leaving your mop outdoors isn’t possible, dry it in a well-ventilated room with the mop head facing up. For string mops, hang them so the strands are free to move.
Once your mop is dry, it’s ready to get back to work without a problem!
We have even more useful cleaning tips for you!
The number of cleaning chores in which you can save time and effort is higher than you think—washing your mop is only one of them! In our blog, you’ll find the best methods to go through your to-do list in a breeze; you just need to take a look!
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