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The best mop and bucket sets to keep your floors shining

September 6, 2024

Which mop and bucket set is best?

If you have hard floors, you need a mop to keep them clean from debris, dirt, spills and other grime. But cleaning the floors is much easier with a mop and bucket set since these tools are convenient, portable and highly effective. The best set is the O-Cedar Easywring Microfiber Spin Mop and Bucket since it’s easy to operate and can tackle any mess.

This article was reviewed and approved by Ketia Daniel, the BestReviews Cleaning Expert.

What to know before you buy a mop and bucket set

Floor type

Some sets are designed to handle commercial cleaning, while others are best for smaller areas such as a home kitchen or bathroom. Along with this, the type of floor you have matters when choosing a set. Most people have laminate, porcelain tile, wood or ceramic flooring.

If, for instance, you have wood flooring, the bucket should easily wring out the mop, so there’s minimal chance of water damage. On the other hand, if you have porcelain tile or ceramic flooring, a little extra water won’t cause much or any damage.

At the same time, if your home is primarily carpet, a smaller set will do. But if you mostly have hard floors, then you need a larger set.

Whatever the case, make sure you sweep the area with a broom before mopping to pick up any noticeable debris. This will make cleaning much easier.

Mop type

There are several types of mops, each with its own purpose. These include:

Cut-end mops or conventional string mops: These have a bunch of strings at the end and are generally inexpensive. Because of the strings, though, they tend to trap debris and dirt. This makes it difficult to keep them clean.
Looped-end mop: This type is similar to the conventional mop, but it’s more durable and, depending on the material, machine-washable.
Flat mops: Usually rectangular and narrow in shape, some flat mops feature a compartment that can store a cleaning solution. These mops also often come with replaceable or washable cleaning pads.
Spin mops: When combined with the right bucket, these make the process of wringing out water much easier, making them a great choice for those with wrist issues. They come with pads and can be washed after use, making them ideal for long-term use.

Bucket features

Most traditional buckets have one main compartment that contains the water or cleaning solution used to clean the floor. These models don’t have any bonus features or systems to make mopping easier, though they usually come with a carrying handle.

If you want something more modern, there are plenty of options. Some come with wheels, which is convenient for cleaning large areas. Most have a handle so you can carry the mop and bucket over carpeted areas or stairs.

Many buckets come with a wringer, a built-in system that keeps the mop head damp but removes excess water or dirt. These usually work by pressing a pedal or pushing and pulling a lever.

More complex buckets come with two or more sections, one for clean water and another for dirty water. To use these, use the clean water or solution on the floor, then wring out the used mop in the other section.

If you have a flat mop, you don’t need a bucket with a wringer. Instead, choose one that features separate compartments for storing new and used mop pads.

Finally, most buckets have a spout or narrow rim at one end, so you can empty out the contents without causing a mess.

What to look for in a quality mop and bucket set

Size

The size of the mop and bucket set affects its portability and weight, but it also influences where it can be stored.

For example, buckets with a larger capacity are often difficult to move around when filled because they’re heavy, and the liquid inside could easily slosh around.

Most buckets are measured in gallons or quarts, with a common size being 5 gallons. Some have measurements on the inside, which is convenient for anyone wanting to measure their cleaning solution and water directly in the bucket.

Mops vary in length and size based on the type you get. Some are extendible, which makes them ideal for taller people or those who don’t want to bend over while cleaning.

If you don’t have much storage space, get a mop with a removable mop head. That way, you can store each piece separately.

Material

The materials used in the mop and bucket affect the overall durability. Most modern sets combine plastic and metal, especially in the bucket and mop handle.

Consider the material of the wringer, too. Plastic ones are cheaper but aren’t as sturdy and could start to corrode over time. Stainless steel wringers are more reliable and resistant to water damage.

Mop heads are made of yarn, sponge, microfiber or cotton. Some materials, such as cotton, are usually machine-safe and good at absorbing water and trapping debris. Before buying a mop head, check the label to see if there are washing instructions.

Color

When purchasing a set, expect the mop and bucket to be the same color.

The aesthetic might not matter much for home use. But if you need it for commercial reasons, the colors play a more important role.

By getting a color-coded mop set, you can prevent cross-contamination in the environment, such as at a restaurant. The common system uses the following colors:

Red for restrooms and similar facilities
Yellow for gyms or some laboratories
Blue for all-purpose cleaning
Green for kitchen floors

How much you can expect to spend on a mop and bucket set

Most sets cost $30-$60, but you can find specialty sets around $120 or more.

Mop and bucket set FAQ

How do I sanitize a mop and bucket?

A. First, regularly clean any reusable mop head with warm water. This will help remove any remaining cleaning product or debris. If the debris won’t come off, let it sit in hot water for several minutes to loosen it.

If the mop head is machine-washable, put it in the machine and let it air dry. For the bucket, empty it out and wipe it down with a cleaning solution or wet wipes. Let it dry. Never leave a mop in dirty water; this can cause bacteria growth or damage to the mop head.

Where should I dispose of mop water at home?

A. Generally, it’s best to empty the bucket in a cleaning sink or toilet.

What’s the best mop and bucket set to buy?

Top mop and bucket set

O-Cedar Easywring Microfiber Spin Mop and Bucket

What you need to know: This spin mop and bucket set is reliable, simple and can easily handle most residential floors.

What you’ll love: The microfiber mop head absorbs dirty water and picks up debris. It comes with a refill and features a hands-free wringing solution. It’s adjustable, machine-safe and works great on any hard floor surface.

What you should consider: The handle and mop head materials aren’t as durable as they could be.

Top mop and bucket set for the money

Bosheng Mop and Bucket With Wringer Set

What you need to know: This flat floor mop cleans multiple surfaces using 360-degree rotation.

What you’ll love: With three microfiber pads, this mop is great for tile, hardwood and laminate flooring. The bucket features two compartments: one for clean water and one for dirty water. This compact set can also be used for wet and dry cleaning.

What you should consider: Some of the dirty water might mix with the clean water.

Worth checking out

Mastertop Spin Mop and Bucket With Wringer Set

What you need to know: This set is perfect for people who want extra microfiber mop head refills and an easy wringing system.

What you’ll love: This durable set features a stainless steel wringer and mop handle. It comes with five refills and five cleaning cloths. Plus, it’s machine washable and easy to set up.

What you should consider: The bucket handle is a little flimsy, so avoid filling it too much.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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