Before you plug in the steam mop, take time to fill the water reservoir, unwind the cord, and attach the mop cloth. Plugging it in should always be the last step. If the water reservoir needs to be filled during the cleaning process, take the time to unplug the mop before refilling. Heat builds up very quickly—a few seconds with some models. If the steam mop is left in one spot for too long, it can apply too much steam and heat to a small area and possibly damage the flooring. It’s similar to washing a window with a dirty cloth. Mopping without vacuuming also means you’ll have to change the mop cloth more frequently. Always read the manual on your mop model thoroughly for complete use guidelines. For this reason, it’s a good idea to have one or two spare mop cloths on hand, so you can put on a fresh one when needed. When changing the mop cloth, remember to unplug the mop first. Most hardwood floors are finished with polyurethane, a moisture-resistant finish. However, even hairline gaps between boards are not bridged by the finish, thus leaving the wood exposed to moisture and especially steam. Laminate flooring is made up of prefinished planks, and the seams between the planks are not sealed. The seams can let steam reach the core of the flooring material, which is highly vulnerable to moisture. It’s fine to add a clean cloth if you want the mop to be ready to roll the next time you need it. Just wait until the mop head is cool and dry.
