Shark Steam Mop: 12 Things to Know Before You Buy
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Before buying the super popular Shark steam mop, you may want to review some of the most frequently asked questions about the cleaning machine. Use the quick navigation tab to jump into a specific answer.
1. How long does a Shark steam mop last?
On average, a Shark steam mop produces 15 to 25 minutes of steam on a single refill. Because a Shark steam mop has no water level indicator, the only way to know that you need to refill the water tank is when the machine stops releasing a lot of high pressure steam.
As for the unit itself, a Shark steam mop lasts between 1 to 3 years, depending on how often you use the steam mop and how well you maintain it, including decalcifying the steam mop and unclogging the nozzles.
2. How does a Shark steam mop work?
A Shark steam mop works by heating the water inside the tank. Once it is ready, the nozzle near the mop head will produce steam. The Shark steam mop allows you to pump the handle a few times in a downward motion to release steam as you mop and allows you to customize the amount of steam you want.
All you have to do is mop with a back and forth motion. The natural motion of mopping will produce steam.
3. How long does a Shark steam mop take to heat up?
Once the Shark steam mop has been plugged into a 120-volt electrical outlet, the ON/STANDBY switch will flash blue. It takes approximately 30 seconds for the mop to heat up and the steam to be ready.
But, when you are using a Shark steam mop for the first time, it might take longer than the normal 30 seconds to start steaming. Pump the handle a few times in a downward motion to prime the pump and get it ready.
4. How hot does Shark steam mop get?
A Shark steam mop typically reaches a temperature of about 248 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius). The Shark steam mop heats up the water inside the reservoir. Once it’s hot enough, it is ready to steam.
5. How much water to put in a Shark steam mop?
A Shark steam mop has a water capacity of 500 ml (16.9 oz.). Always use the filling flask to pour water into the Shark steam mop’s water tank to add a precise amount of water. Please don’t overfill the water tank.
6. Does Shark steam mop sanitize and disinfect?
A Shark steam mop sanitizes and disinfects by using steam (no harmful chemicals).
While the term "sanitize" is ambiguous and is not defined by the Shark manufacturer, a Shark steam mop reaches a temperature of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature that will kill most microbes.
7. What can you clean with the Shark steam mop?
You can use a Shark steam mop to clean many types of floors such as laminate, bamboo, hardwood, marble, tile, stone, linoleum, and carpet. Never use a Shark steam mop on leather, wax polished furniture or floors, synthetic fabrics, velvet or other delicate, steam sensitive materials.
8. What to put in a Shark steam mop?
Shark recommends adding distilled water into a Shark steam mop only, especially if you live in a hard water area. Adding cleaning solutions, scented perfumes, oils or any other chemicals (including vinegar) to the water used inside a Shark steam mop’s water tank may damage the unit or make it unsafe for use.
9. Can you use tap water in your Shark steam mop?
You can use tap water in your Shark steam mop, although distilled water is recommended and preferred. Using tap water will shorten the life of a Shark steam mop, although how much it will be shortened depends upon the mineral content of your local tap water. If you live in a hard water area, use distilled water.
10. Does a Shark steam mop need distilled water?
While it is not a requirement, it is recommended to use distilled water as a precaution and to extend the life of your Shark steam mop, especially if you live in an area with naturally hard water. However, if you have soft water at home, you should be able to use a Shark steam mop with regular tap water.
11. How long do Shark steam mop pads last?
The Shark steam mop pads are washable. They last for up to 20 washes. After 20 washes, please replace the Shark steam mop pad with a new one to prevent streaky or cloudy floors.
12. Is the Shark steam mop worth it?
Overall, a Shark steam mop is worth it because of its quality and ease of use. For a simple steam mop, it has three unique steam settings so you can use the perfect amount of steam for the cleaning task at hand. A Shark steam mop produces a very good pressure that cleans and disinfects. You won’t regret buying it.
