No matter how electronic and technologically advanced we become, there will always be a need for a good broom and mop. That's because some things can't be automated. But, if you think that all mops and brooms are created equal, think again. They're not.
Brooms and mops are made of different materials, which means they're used differently (think of a string mop versus a sponge mop). They're also made of different widths, so some will make you work harder to cover the same amount of territory. Lastly, their handles are also made in different lengths, which means some will hurt your back more than others.
What to look for in mops and brooms
Look at it this way: a typical mophead is about 8 or 9 inches wide. A typical floor tile is 12 inches wide. So by choosing a mophead with a 12-inch wide head, for example, you'll be able to clean a whole floor tile in one pass instead of two passes needed for the 8 inch head.
Choosing the right mop
The right mop depends on the floor and having the right mop will make all the difference in the end result.
Tile, lineoleum, and vinyl floors. For tile, a sponge mop will allow you to get behind the mop and really scrub the floor. It's harder to scrub floors with a string mop and messier, too.
Wood floors. Wood floors can't handle regular mopping, yet they need mopping because they get dirty just like any other floor. However, cleaners and wet mops will damage wood floors. The best way to clean wood floors and to make them sparkle is with a microfiber mop. Sprayed lightly with water, a microfiber will glide over the surface of the wood and will make quick work of any smudges or drips and keep your floor looking beautiful.
Choosing the right broom
There are some who prefer a corn broom to a nylon or plastic bristle broom. This is strictly a personal choice. However, one thing to consider is that some plastic bristled brooms have "split tips." These allow you to pick up really tiny particles that corn brooms miss. Again, look for a wide head, a tall handle, and split tips at the end.
Give your back a break by selecting a good quality broom and mop. Because you must "put your back" into sweeping and mopping, it's a good idea to select a mop and broom that won't make it ache. If that means spending a few more dollars, isn't it worth it to save yourself the cost of a sore back? What's more, a better quality mop and broom is usually larger, so you'll be finished sooner -- and getting house cleaning done more quickly is the best way to save your back.
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Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Everydayclean.com Calender -- the calendar that helps you end the power struggle with your house. Keeping a clean home is about knowing what to clean when. Virtually everything that needs to be cleaned is on this calendar in a year-round cleaning schedule that helps you keep your house clean easier and faster. Click here for more information.
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