Does the Shark steam mop need cleaning solution?

Author: Miss Vickie Pagac DVM  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Shark Steam Mops are designed to deliver effective, chemical-free cleaning and sanitization with just ordinary tap water. Using any type of cleaning solution, perfumed oils or other chemical cleaner with your steam mop is not recommended.

Can you put anything besides water in Shark steam mop?

Do not put anything in the reservoir other than pure water, you will inevitably wreck your steamer and cause more problems than it's worth. Shark is pretty strict about this in their user's manual as well. I am not sure what model you're referring to, so consult the manual.

Do you use cleaning solution with steam mop?

No, steam cleaners work with water alone. Using a cleaning solution can cause a build-up that will eventually damage the product.

What liquid to put in Shark steam mop?

Shark recommends using distilled water in your steam mop. Shark's water filtration bottle is also recommended to extend your mop's life and reduce the potential build-up of hard water residue in the unit which may contribute to steam performance issues.

Can you put fabuloso in Shark steam mop?

Yes, spray some pinesol or fabuloso right on the mop pad.

Shark Steam and Scrub Hard Floor Cleaner Mop Review & Demonstration

Does Shark steam mop need cleaner?

Shark Steam Mops are designed to deliver effective, chemical-free cleaning and sanitization with just ordinary tap water. Using any type of cleaning solution, perfumed oils or other chemical cleaner with your steam mop is not recommended.

Is it OK to put vinegar in Shark steam mop?

To prolong the life of your steam mop, we recommend using distilled water in the tank. Make sure you only add water to the tank – chemicals or cleaning solutions (including vinegar) may damage the steam mop and could be unsafe. For best results, sweep or vacuum your floors prior to cleaning with your steam mop.

Why is my floor sticky after steam mopping?

If too much cleaner is used, or if it's not suitable for your floor type, it leaves a sticky film that attracts more dirt. Another common reason is the mop itself. Using dirty water or not changing it frequently enough while mopping can spread grime rather than remove it, which leads to that unwanted sticky floor.

Can you put Lysol in a shark steam mop?

A: Anything other than water will likely burn itself onto the heater elements making them less efficient and eventually burning them out. Also, turning cleaning agents into steam will possibly change their chemical nature and could become harmful to your floors and dangerous to you.

Can I use tap water in a steam mop?

That probably depends on the quality of your tap water. Bissell strongly recommends using distilled water. If you have "hard" water, mineral deposits will most likely accumulate (eventually) in the machine and cause it to stop steaming.

Can I put a little cleaner in my steam mop?

There are multiple warnings throughout the User's Guide that comes with the mop that plainly says: "Never put descaling , aromatic, alcoholic or detergent products into the steam cleaner, as this may damage it or make it unsafe for use." That means no white vinegar, no essential oils, no cleaners like Pinesol.

Can I put pine sol in my steam mop?

Q: Can I use the Pine-Sol® product in a steam cleaner? A: Pine Sol® products were not designed to be used in steam cleaners.

What detergent can I put in my steam mop?

The Pro+ Steam Detergent by Pro-Kleen thoroughly cleans and rejuvenates all types of hard floors and is safe to use with all types of steam mops.

Should I use distilled water in my Shark steam mop?

-DO NOT add cleaning solutions, scented perfumes, oils, or any other chemicals to the water used in this appliance as this may damage the unit or make it unsafe for use. We recommend using distilled water in your Steam Mop.

Can you use pine sol in Shark Vacmop?

We would like to let you know that it is not recommended to use other cleaners in the Vacmop. Our cleanser has been specially formulated to provide a residue-free, streak free finish. Using other cleaning solutions may result in streaking and residue and depending on the cleaner it may be too thick to spray.

What can I put in my steam mop to make my floor smell good?

Lemon Oil. Lemon oil is a popular choice due to its bright, citrusy scent and grease-cutting abilities. This essential oil can help remove tough stains and leave your floors smelling fresh and clean.

Can I use cleaning solution in my Shark steam mop?

Adding chemicals can cause a number of issues. Most manufacturers including Shark actually tell you not to use any cleaning solutions, detergents, or chemical cleaners in their steam mops.

What are the disadvantages of a steam mop?

Cork Tiles and Unsealed or Waxed Timber: Steam mops can damage these surfaces. Timber and Laminate Flooring: Manufacturers often warn that steam can seep between boards, potentially causing expansion and damage over time, including delamination and buckling.

Can I use Dawn to mop floor?

Safe Cleaning

It's important to dilute these substances properly. Too much vinegar can potentially dull the wood finish over time due to its acidity, while too much Dawn can leave a slippery residue. The ideal mixture typically involves a mild solution of diluted vinegar with just a few drops of Dawn.

What floors should not be steam mopped?

Hardwood floors that are not sealed or improperly sealed are highly susceptible to moisture damage. Steam is likely to seep into the interior of the wood, causing the floor to swell, warp, and even cause long-term damage. For this type of floor, we recommend using dry or wet mop cleaning method.

What is the best liquid for steam mopping?

A commonly recommended ratio is 1:1, meaning equal parts vinegar and water. However, this can vary depending on your specific steam mop model. Filtered Vinegar: Always use filtered and clear vinegar with your steam mop, as the unfiltered vinegar may contain particles that can clog your steam mop.

Can you put Murphy oil soap in a steam mop?

nothing but water. You run the risk of having the mop plug up and stop steaming if you add anything to the tank...and voiding the 2 year warranty. If you feel you must use some type of cleaner in conjunction with the steam, add a little directly to the floor so it is not going through the working components of the mop.

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