Why Upgrade From a String Mop to Microfiber? (Explained)

Using the right mop makes all the difference when it comes to effectively cleaning floors. String mops have been a cleaning staple for years. However, microfiber mops are revolutionizing floor care with superior dirt and dust pickup.

Upgrading from a basic string mop to a microfiber mop offers many benefits:

More Thorough Cleaning

Microfiber mop heads are made up of extremely fine fibers that are split into even tinier strands. This creates more surface area to attract and trap dirt, dust, hair and other debris that string mops often push around. With more contact points, microfiber mops grab and hold 50% more dirt and bacteria than regular string mops.

Faster Drying

Microfiber mop heads are highly absorbent, yet they dry very quickly. The microfiber material wicks moisture away faster than string mops. Damp mop heads left sitting promote mold and mildew growth. Microfiber’s faster dry time helps prevent this.

Reusable Pads

Microfiber mop pads can be washed and reused over and over. Just toss them in the washing machine when dirty. No more wasting money on endless rolls of string mop heads or dealing with the hassle of wringing out filthy mop water.

Versatile Cleaning

Microfiber mops work great on all hard floor surfaces – wood, tile, vinyl, laminate, etc. They can be used dry or wet with just water or cleaning solution. Microfiber glides easily over floors without scratching. The pads also come in a variety of sizes and textures to tackle any cleaning job.

Cost Effective Over Time

While the initial investment in a microfiber mop system might be more than a basic string mop, the amount of money saved over time makes it worthwhile. With reusable microfiber pads, there’s no need to keep buying replacement mop heads. A good microfiber mop can last for years with proper care.

How Microfiber Mops Work Better Than String Mops

Microfiber mops are able to clean floors so much more effectively due to the structure and composition of the microfiber fabric itself:

Microscopic Fiber Structure

The microfiber used in these mops is made up of minuscule wedge-shaped fibers that are split into even smaller strands. When magnified, the fibers resemble tiny starbursts. This creates an electrostatic charge that attracts and traps dirt, dust, bacteria and grime that evade old-fashioned string mops.

High Absorbency

Microfiber fabric can absorb and retain 7-8 times its weight in liquid. These mops effortlessly soak up spills and cleaning solution from floors. The microfiber material also wicks moisture away quickly, leaving floors fast dry and streak free. No wet mop heads sitting around breeding mold and mildew.

Gentle But Tough

The fine fibers and soft texture of microfiber mops are gentle enough for polished wood floors. Yet the fabric is extremely durable and abrasion resistant. Microfiber mop pads stand up to heavy use on all floor types without falling apart or losing effectiveness.

Lint & Fuzz Free

Unlike some fabrics, microfiber does not produce lint. Even when the pads are washed repeatedly, they won’t leave behind fuzzy lint residue. Microfiber mops leave floors pristine with no annoying debris.

Versatile Use

Microfiber mop pads come in a wide variety of sizes and styles to fit any mop handle. Pads with scrubbing strips tackle tough dried on spills. Delicate pads clean polished floors without scratching. The mops can be used dry or wet with water or cleaning agents.

Microfiber Mop Buying Considerations

With so many microfiber mop options on the market, it helps to know what to look for when choosing one:

Mop Head Size & Style

Standard mop heads range from 18″ to 24″ wide. Good for general floor cleaning.
Large mop heads span 36″ to 48″ wide. Cover more floor space at once.
Small mop heads get into tight spaces like bathrooms.
Scrubbing mop heads have strips for stuck-on messes.
Delicate mop heads are ultra soft for glossy floors.

Handle Length & Style

Adjustable handles telescope out for users of different heights
Fixed length handles like 36″, 48″, 60″ options
Angle of handles for comfort ergonomic mopping

Mop Head Attachment Method

Hook & Loop (Velcro) pads for easy on/off
Clamps lock mop pads in place
Screw-on attachments hold pads tighter

Weight & Balance

Choose lighter mops if mobility is an issue. Heavier mops can feel sturdier. Weight toward the mop head puts pressure on floors.

Durability

Look for solid construction that will withstand falls and heavy use without breaking or loosening.

Machine Washable Parts

Being able to toss dirty mop pads directly into the washing machine is a huge plus for convenience.

Top 5 Best Microfiber Mops

With so many microfiber mops to choose from, here is a comparison of top rated options:

1. O-Cedar ProMist Microfiber Spray Mop

Key Features: Super absorbent microfiber pad, flip down scrubber, telescoping handle, spray bottle with micro-mist nozzle, machine washable pad
Great For: Spray mopping all hard floors, scrubbing capability
Cost: $User Rating: 4.5 stars (2,300+ reviews)

This affordable spray mop allows you to damp mop and lightly scrub floors. The micro-mist sprayer evenly distributes solution without dripping. Flips to dry mode to remove excess liquid. Easy to maneuver and assemble.

2. Bona Premium Spray Mop

Key Features: Extra large rubberized grip, quick drying microfiber pad, smooth glide swivel head, fillable cartridge spray bottle, machine washable pad
Great For: Large open floor spaces, stone, tile, sealed hardwoods
Cost: $$
User Rating: 4.7 stars (15,000+ reviews)

Lightweight spray mop great for large floor spaces with easy push/pull directional cleaning. Smooth swiveling head gets into corners. Big grip makes it easy to use.

3. Turbo Microfiber Mop Floor Cleaning System

Key Features: 55” wide microfiber pad, heavy duty cotton blend, aluminum handle, machine washable head
Great For: Large floors, commercial cleaning, high traffic areas
Cost: $$$
User Rating: 4.6 stars (9,800+ reviews)

This heavy duty mop can cover large open floor areas quickly with its huge mop head. The pivoting head gets into corners and under furniture. Rugged construction for frequent commercial use.

4. Libman Freedom Spray Mop

Key Features: Machine washable microfiber pads, powerful cleaning solution sprayer, easy push/pull cleaning, low profile mop head, sturdy metal handle
Great For: Multi-surface cleaning, ceramic tile, finished hardwood
Cost: $$
User Rating: 4.5 stars (6,700+ reviews)

Convenient pump sprayer requires less bending and delivers cleaning solution right to the floor. Easy glide head for light scrubbing. Handle folds down for compact storage.

5. Shark Deluxe Floor & Hard Surface Cleaner

Key Features: Dual-sided mop pads, direct spray pockets target dirt, swivel steering, adjustable handle, machine washable pads
Great For: Versatile floor cleaning, stuck-on messes, grout lines
Cost: $$$
User Rating: 4.6 stars (5,200+ reviews)

Dual sided pads tackle stuck on dirt with scrubber side, and polish floors with plush side. Spray pockets loosen dirt so microfiber can grab it. Converts to steam mop.

Tips For Making the Switch From String to Microfiber Mops

Transitioning from string mops to microfiber takes a bit of adjustment. Here are some top tips:

Use a Light Touch: Let the microfiber pad do the work of attracting and trapping dirt. Scrubbing or pressing too hard can push grime around rather than lifting it.
Sweep First: Get rid of loose debris with a broom or vacuum so microfiber can grab the remaining dirt. String mops tend to just push larger stuff around.
Use Proper Cleaning Solution: Mix solution according to package directions based on floor type. Too much can leave residue. Too little won’t clean properly.
Work in Sections: Tackle small sections at a time to prevent re-soiling cleaned areas while liquid is still on the floors.
Rinse Pads Frequently: When pads get saturated with dirt, give them a quick rinse to keep them working efficiently. Machine wash after complete use.
Let Floors Fully Dry: One advantage of microfiber is faster dry time. But don’t walk on floors until completely dry to prevent slipping or residue.
Replace Pads Regularly: While microfiber pads are reusable, they do wear out over time. Replace them every 3-6 months with heavy use.

Microfiber Mopping Technique

Proper Mopping Technique Helps Get Floors Truly Clean:

Dry Sweep First

Use a broom or vacuum to remove loose dirt and debris before mopping. This allows the microfiber mop to grab the remaining ground-in grime instead of just pushing stuff around.

Fill Spray Bottle

Fill spray bottle with appropriate cleaning solution and water mixture. Shake well to mix. Make sure to use proper ratios for floor type. Too much or too little solution won’t clean properly.

Secure Pad To Mop

If using a system with removable/replaceable pads, attach pad securely to mop head according to manufacturer instructions.

Mist Floor Section Lightly

Working in 3′ x 3′ sections, use side-to-side sweeping motion to lightly mist floor area with cleaning solution. Avoid over-wetting.

Let Solution Sit Briefly

Give sprayed solution 30-60 seconds of dwell time to start breaking up dirt and stains before mopping.

Mop Section with Light Pressure

Using a gentle zig-zag motion, mop floor area evenly but without scrubbing hard. Let microfiber do the work. Overlap passes slightly to prevent streaks.

Rinse Mop Pad if Needed

Check pad frequently. When saturated with dirt, give it a quick rinse in sink to keep it working efficiently.

Repeat Steps Over Entire Floor

Continue misting and mopping in small sections until entire floor area is clean. Change pad if too dirty.

Rinse Floors if Needed

For heavily soiled floors or cleaning solutions that leave residue, do a final rinse with clean mop and water only.

Allow Floor to Dry
- Let floor dry completely before walking on surface to prevent slipping or residue. Microfiber speeds up dry time vs. string mops.

Microfiber Mop Care & Maintenance

Caring properly for microfiber mops helps them last and retain cleaning power:

Machine Wash Pads Frequently: Toss dirty pads directly into the washing machine. Wash in warm water with mild detergent.
Avoid Fabric Softeners: Softeners coat microfiber fibers reducing their dirt grabbing ability.
Air Dry Pads: Tumble dry low or hang to air dry. High heat can damage microfiber.
Spot Clean Mop Handles: Wipe down handles frequently with disinfecting wipes or diluted vinegar solution.
Check Hardware: Make sure screws, rivets, Velcro, levers, and other parts are secure. Tighten or replace if needed.
Store Upright: Hang mop upside down or standing on end to air dry thoroughly between uses. Laying flat traps moisture.
Replace Old Pads: Discard worn out microfiber pads every 3-6 months for best cleaning performance.

Proper care makes microfiber mops last for years while maintaining top cleaning performance.

Microfiber Mop FAQs

Still have some questions about upgrading to microfiber mops? Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions:

Are microfiber mops better for hardwood floors?

Yes! Microfiber is gentle and won’t scratch polished wood floors like some string mops. The fine fibers grab dirt rather than pushing it around to prevent scratches. Microfiber also dries fast to minimize water marks and warping.