For most people, pulling out a traditional mop and bucket for quick cleanups isn’t practical. The best spray mops provide a faster, more convenient solution for messy floors, and can sometimes even replace the need for both sweeping and mopping. These mops use a spray mechanism that dispenses water or cleaner in front of a flat mop head, making it easy to tackle dirt and spills with minimal effort.
However, not all spray mops are created equal—some are designed to be more user-friendly and effective at removing tough grime. If you’re considering investing in one to keep your floors clean before guests arrive or doing a more thorough weekend scrub down, here are the best spray mops you can buy in 2024
Best Spray Mop Overall
A Multi-Surface Cleaner For Dust, Allergens And Bacteria
Rubbermaid Reveal Spray Mop Floor Cleaning Kit
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: No | Microfiber Yes; washable pads included | Floors: Safe for all floor surface types| Weight: 3.06 pounds
What you’ll love:
- No batteries required
- Washable, microfiber pads make it an eco-friendly option
- Cleaning solution can be customized to suit your flooring
Keep in mind:
- The squeeze handle may be challenging to operate for those with arthritis
- The mop’s longevity may be shorter due to the quality of the piston used
When it comes to everyday cleaning, ease of use is a major advantage, especially for mopping. The Rubbermaid Reveal Spray Mop meets—and exceeds—those standards. This eco-friendly option features washable microfiber pads that, according to the company, remove 99% of allergens and dirt. Another big plus is the ability to customize the cleaning solution, making it ideal for homes with various flooring types, from hardwood to vinyl. Weighing just 3 pounds, this mop is easy to maneuver under furniture and carry up and down stairs, allowing you to clean floors effortlessly without dealing with cords or heavy equipment. “Overall, the Rubbermaid Reveal combines practicality and efficiency, making it an excellent option for everyday cleaning tasks,” says Robin Murphy, founder of ChirpChirp, a house cleaning company based in New York.
Best Value Spray Mop
A Powerful Spray Mop At An Affordable Price
Swiffer WetJet Hardwood and Floor Spray Mop
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: Yes, 2 AAs included | Microfiber No; uses disposable pads| Floors: Safe for sealed floors | Weight: 3.23 pounds
What you’ll love
- Powerful cleaning solution for fast, efficient cleaning
- Easy assembly
- Pads effectively trap dirt, dust and grime and are disposable for convenience
Keep in mind:
- You’ll need to continually purchase replacement pads and cleaning solutions
- The cleaning solution may leave certain floors looking dull once dry
- Not an eco-friendly cleaning solution
Easy assembly, affordable price and powerful cleaning make the SwifferWetJet spray mop our top pick for the best value option. It offers a high-quality clean at an affordable price. In addition to cleaning the floor of grime, it also traps dust, making it an efficient cleaning tool. Plus, it’s easy to use and agile around furniture, making your cleaning less time-consuming. The one downside can be having to purchase replacement pads and cleaning solution on a fairly regular basis.
Best Spray Mop For Hardwood Floors
A Chemical-Free Solution That Leaves Wood Floors Sparkling
Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: No | Microfiber Yes; washable up to 500 times | Floors: Hardwood floors | Weight: 3 pounds
What you’ll love
- Concentrated cleaning solution leaves hardwood floors sparkling
- The pH-neutral formula is safe for use on unwaxed hardwood
- Easy to use and maneuver
Keep in mind:
- The spray mechanism can be slow at times
- Some consumers report concerns about the product’s longevity
Using cleaning products on hardwood floors can be nerve-wracking, as many can cause damage. However, this spray mop is specifically designed for hardwood, effectively refreshing their shine. “I normally will use them on wood floors where you only want to use minimal water,” says Claudia Meneses, founder and CEO of Avanti Green Eco Cleaning. While some reviewers note that it may not last for years, many find it worthwhile given its affordable price of just over $40. Plus, Bona’s reputation in the flooring and cleaning industry adds a level of trust, even for use on delicate, unwaxed surfaces.
Best Spray Mop For Tile Floors
An Ideal Solution For Stubborn Spots That Require More Muscle
OXO Good Grips Microfiber Spray Mop
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: No | Microfiber Yes; machine washable | Floors: All floor types | Weight: 2.6 pounds
What you’ll love
- The slide-out scrubber allows for easy spot cleaning of tough areas
- Super lightweight
- Trigger-activated, so no batteries required
Keep in mind:
- You’ll need to provide your own liquid soap, water or other cleaning solution
One common complaint with spray mops is that they often lack the power needed to tackle tough spots, like caked-on fruit roll-ups or crushed blueberries. OXO addresses this issue with its innovative slide-out scrubber. When you encounter a tough spot that the mop can’t handle, simply click out the smaller scrubber, apply a bit of elbow grease, and quickly clean the area. Then, pop the scrubber back into the larger mop and continue cleaning.
Best Microfiber Spray Mop
Because A Two Sided Pad Is Better Than One
O-Cedar ProMist MAX Microfiber Spray Mop
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: No | Microfiber Yes; washable pads suitable for over 100 washes| Floors: All floor types | Weight: 2.01 pounds
What you’ll love:
- Double-sided microfiber cloth that lasts through 100+ washes
- Easy-to-remove water container
- No batteries required
Keep in mind:
- Some users find the handle to have a flimsier construction
Some mop pads wear out quickly, often lasting only through a few dozen washes and losing effectiveness on one side. This brand tackles that issue with a dual-sided microfiber pad that can be flipped for extended use and promises to hold up for over 100 washes. The mop also features a no-fuss, removable water or solution dispenser, allowing you to choose your own cleaning solution. However, some reviewers have noted that the handle feels a bit flimsy and would prefer a sturdier design.
Best Lightweight Spray Mop
A Lightweight Mop With An Added Spray Solution
NileHome Microfiber Spray Mop
Type: Spray mop | Batteries: No | Microfiber Yes; washable | Floors: Multi-surface | Weight: 1.4 pounds
What you’ll love:
- Lightweight design that doesn’t sacrifice stability and function
- Includes replacement pads
Keep in mind:
- The refill bottle can be tricky to remove
Sometimes, cheaper doesn’t always mean lower quality, and that’s the case with this budget-friendly, tall and exceptionally lightweight spray mop. Reviewers praise its sturdy design, and taller users especially appreciate the height, which helps prevent back strain. It comes with replacement pads, and an included multi-purpose scraper makes it easy to clean off debris from the pads.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team has extensive firsthand experience testing vacuums and other cleaning tools. We’ve tested the best vacuum cleaners on the market, as well as specialized products like handheld vacuums, robot vacuums, electric scrubbers and soap scum removers.
- The author of this story, Alexandra Frost is a Cincinnati-based freelance writer and longtime Forbes contributor with over a decade of experience. With five young children, she brings a family-oriented perspective to her work.
- This story was assigned and edited by Sholeen Damarwala, a home and kitchen editor on the Forbes Vetted team.
- For this story, we spoke with three expert: Robin Murphy, founder of ChirpChirp with over 27 years of experience in the cleaning industry; Claudia Meneses, founder and CEO of Avanti Green Eco Cleaning, a residential and commercial cleaning company with a focus on sustainable practices; and Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage with offices in London and Sussex.
How We Chose The Best Spray Mops
We prioritized functionality, user-friendly design and a product’s ability to deliver on its promises—all at an affordable price. Here’s how we chose the best spray mops on the market right now.
- We focused on top-selling and highly rated products, particularly from reputable brands known for their durability and quality.
- We incorporated insights from three cleaning experts, noting the products they trust and use regularly.
- We evaluated each mop’s weight, height and sturdiness, considering factors like battery requirements and the quality of the cleaning pads. Special features, such as pull-out spot cleaners, were also taken into account. We also included a range of products to cater to different budgets and needs.
- Lastly, we thoroughly combed through customer reviews and only chose products with a 4+ star rating
What To Look For In The Best Spray Mops
Here are a few key factors to keep in mind as you shop for a spray mop for your home.
Sturdiness
Your spray mop should feel well-constructed and sturdy, capable of withstanding some serious effort—because, no matter how great your mop is, tough messes often require a bit of muscle. Look for a durable build rather than a flimsy feel, ensuring that all components securely click into place and the pole doesn’t buckle or waver under pressure.
Functionality
Above all, your spray mop should effectively remove dirt, grime, hair and pet fluff from your floors. We prioritized products that excel in cleaning performance, with reviewers noting their satisfaction with the cleanliness and shine of their floors.
Extra Features
Some mops come with added features, such as cleaning solutions, extra replacement pads or convenient functions like a removable scrubber. We evaluated which extras were genuinely beneficial and which ones didn’t add significant value for consumers seeking a simple, efficient cleaning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is It Worth Investing In A Spray Mop?
A spray mop is a worthwhile investment if you frequently need to touch up your floors without the hassle of setting up a larger mop. It’s especially convenient for smaller, tight areas like bathrooms, as spray mops are compact and always ready for use. When deciding if a spray mop is right for you, consider how often you’ll use it and where it will be most helpful.
Which Type Of Spray Mop Is Most Effective?
The best spray mops are versatile enough to work on multiple floor types, making them useful throughout the entire house. You’ll also want a model that cleans efficiently without requiring excessive physical effort; otherwise, it won’t offer much advantage over a traditional mop or even scrubbing on your hands and knees.
How Long Does A Spray Mop Last?
The lifespan of a spray mop depends on the model you choose and how often and vigorously you use it. Some may last for years, while others might require replacement parts, like pads, within a few months. To extend your mop’s longevity, avoid applying excessive pressure, clean it after each use and replace the pads regularly.
