One of the newest products in the Euro-Pro lineup, the Shark Steam Mop S3101W is generating a buzz. It cleans any type of floors (except unsealed wood and no-wax floors) using steam. At first we were skeptical that simply using steam could both clean and sanitize flooring surfaces -- particularly in our testing area, which is prone to food and juice spills, as well as muddy footprints. By the time we'd steam-cleaned a small portion of the floor, however, we knew we'd found a workhorse of a steam mop.

When used on a hard floor surface, the Shark Steam Mop loosened and removed sticky messes and soiled stains, even those that had become dried on. The steam was so effective, in fact, that we were able to clean the floor in a matter of minutes -- much faster than using a traditional mop-and-bucket method or even a mop system that requires reusable pads. And, the floor dried almost instantly. The lightweight Shark Steam Mop didn't leave behind streaks or a residue (we'd wondered if there might be a residue from the sticky messes), and left hardwood floors shining. The same was true for ceramic tile and linoleum floors.

The Shark Steam Mop comes with a carpet attachment, which allows the steam mop to glide over thick pile, and we were anxious to try out this feature. We were pleased to find the Shark Steam Mop also performed well on carpet, loosening soil particles. It worked effectively and it didn't dowse the carpets; they were dry to the touch within several minutes.

The Shark Steam Mop comes with two thick microfiber pads. To use the Steam Mop, a pad is secured to the bottom of the mop using a simple hook-and-eye method. It was so simple to attach, in fact, that we initially wondered if we'd secured it correctly. The reusable pads are easily removed for washing (a helpful customer service representative told us that for the best result, we should machine wash the pads alone so they don't pick up lint from other items).

Unlike the pads used on other steam mops, the Shark Steam Mop pads stay put. They don't slip off as the mop is pushed back and forth, a motion that is necessary for the mop to create and release more steam. Pushing the mop handle creates a pumping action for steam release, which comes out through the bottom of the mop and the attached pad. The built-in tank holds 8 ounces of water (distilled water is best, but tap can be used) and we find it is more than enough to clean a large room. The verdict? We give the Shark Steam Mop our highest marks for performance, ease of use and affordability.


Pros: Use on multiple surfaces, powerful steam, lightweight
Cons: No on/off button

Warranty
1 year, limited