Vicky Sanderson The shy and unassuming spin mop simply doesn’t get the respect it deserves. Given my own fondness for it, I find that a bit shocking, if I’m honest. How many of my loyal readers even know, for example, just how useful and convenient this multi-tasking cleaning tool is, and how much it can actually do? Okay, as your friendly cleaning diva, I’ll tell you.
A spin mop has a detachable string head (often microfiber these days) on a handle, which works with a pail with a mechanism that uses centrifugal force to wring dirty water out of the mop. It’s terrific for:
- quickly cleaning up liquid (oops, dropped a milk carton, or a bottle of vodka).
- used dry, scooping up even the biggest dust bunnies under the bed with just a few passes
- wet-cleaning large areas quickly
- getting to hard-to-reach spots, useful, unless you enjoy getting on your hands and knees to scrub behind the toilet or climbing into the bathtub to wash it
Ease of use
Libman has a new Tornado Spin Mop system that I’ve been testing as part of a partnership. This kit comes in a box with a wringer pail, reusable mop, and handle. (Hang on to the box until you’ve used it once—all the super-simple instructions are right on it. Or go to Libman for tips.)
Here’s what I like about the Libman Tornado spin mop:
The microfiber mop head is super absorbent and doesn’t make lint.
Microfibers are especially efficient at grabbing germs and allergens, as well as dirt and dust. Using one with just detergent and water can remove over 99 per cent of E. Coli and staphylococcus on ceramic and hardwood.
The handle is made out of both recycled and new steel, so it balances performance with sustainability.
The locking mechanism on the spin mop turns smoothly and the head spins evenly in the wringer.
There’s a well-placed drain opening on one end of the bucket, so I can pour dirty water in the sink without getting splashed (yuck).
BONUS: Mopping makes my Fitbit thinks I’m exercising
It’s also excellent value, given the quality of the materials and the design. About $50 for the boxed kit. For about $10, you can get a replacement head, but you won’t need one for a long time if you care for it properly. Remember that while the mop heads can be machine-washed, they don’t like fabric softeners, bleach, or dryers.
If my word isn’t enough, consider that the Libman Tornado Spin Mop turned up of Bob Vila’s list of fave mops. Now that’s legit.
NOTE TO READERS: I was paid to create content for Libman, but they did not direct or vet this piece. I work with them because I believe they’re a great brand with solid product and strong corporate values..
