Different Types of Mop Heads and Best Uses for Each

Different Types of Mop Heads and Best Uses for Each

Learn more about finding the right cleaning equipment to maintain a safe environment.

Keeping your kitchen floor clean and spotless is an essential part of running an efficient and profitable restaurant. However, like most such tasks, you need the right equipment. When it comes to mops, there is no one right answer. The truth is there are a number of different types of mop heads, each designed for a specific job. We'll start with the very basics: what is the difference between a wet mop and a dry mop? The answer is pretty simple: dry mops, also called dust mops, are not used with any water or liquid cleaners. They are not necessarily designed to be super absorbent to clean up spills. Wet mops are meant to be used with water and/or cleaning chemicals and are typically more absorbent for easy spill clean up. 

Which mop head do I use?

Loop-End Mops: The sturdy strands that loop around are great for heavy-duty mopping. The looped ends add weight that helps to pick up and remove dirt and grime from the floor surface. This type of commercial mop head comes in a variety of colors, so you can color-code your equipment to match the job (green for floors, blue for bathrooms, etc.)

Cut-End Mops: Cut end mops are typically made of cotton and designed for all-purpose wet mopping, such as cleaning floors or mopping up spills. These mop heads come in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. 

Microfiber Mops: The flat surface of a microfiber mop is ideal for picking up larger debris such as hair, dust bunnies, and dirt. The fine synthetic fiber attracts that mess and traps it so you're not just pushing it around - you're actually picking it up. 

Dust Mops: A dust mop, which is flat and rectangular in shape, is designed for general purpose dry, dust mopping and can swivel on a handle, allowing it to clean those difficult-to-reach areas, such as under equipment and coolers. Its lightweight also makes it a good choice for getting cobwebs out of ceiling corners and overhead shelving.

What are the different mop head materials? 

Rayon Mops: Standard, all-purpose mop heads are made of 100 percent rayon will resist that dank mildew smell. These mop heads are affordably-priced, quick-drying and are one of the best mop heads to use for disinfecting a floor and applying a wax or other floor finish.

Cotton Mops: Cotton is a relatively inexpensive material, but it is super absorbent so it's ideal for light-duty and all purpose cleaning. It is one of the most common option for mop heads in commercial kitchens because of the usability and versatility.

Sponge / Cellulose Mops: Made a super absorbent materials, sponge mops are ideal for sopping up spills and light scrubbing.

Synthetic Mops: These are constructed of a man-made material, so they are among the most durable and effective types of mop heads. They are easier to clean and are more resistant to mildew, so they are an excellent choice for a variety of fast-paced foodservice, healthcare and retail establishments. 

Poly Cotton Blend Mops: A polyester and cotton blend is specially formulated to provide the best commercial cleaning results. While they may not always be machine washable, they are typically more durable than just cotton.

 What are the different mop head absorbencies?

You will see in our mop head collection, each items is marked with an ounce or # sign to distinguish the size. This is an easy way to quickly determine how much liquid a mop head will hold and decide which one is best for your desired application. Here is a quick mop head size chart to make it easy to decide: 

Small: 8 oz to 10 oz 
Medium: 16 oz to 20 oz 
Large: 24 oz to 32 oz
Extra Large: 32 oz to 40 oz 

Professional Floor Cleaning Accessories

Of course, finding the right mop head is only the first step in putting together all of the items you'll need to keep your kitchen spotless. You'll also need a mop bucket, wringer and/or mop handle. For buckets, you can choose from a simple 10-quart round bucket to a mop bucket/wringer combination. Handles are available in a variety of lengths in both wood and plastic.

Also, if you are cleaning a commercial location, especially one that has a lot of foot traffic, it is imperative you warn your guests with wet floor signs. This not only prevents potentially dangerous situations, but it also help cover you legally if there was an accident. 

Tips for mopping your commercial kitchen floor

Make sure that you sweep the area well before you mop.
Removing all of the dirt and loose particles from the floor will not only make it easier to mop but will keep your mop and mop water from getting clogged with debris. Limiting the amount of debris on the mop head will make clean-up a lot easier also.

Use warm water and submerge the mop head completely.
Warm water will loosen the dirt on the floor as you mop and keep you from having to go over the same area multiple times. Also, you'll want to submerge the mop head totally in the water so that you get maximum coverage. If you mop head is dry when you begin, soak it in the mop bucket for a couple of minutes before you start mopping the floor.

Divide the floor into sections.
The most efficient way to mop a large floor is to divide the floor into sections and move clockwise around the room. Ideally, you should only have to wipe each section a maximum of three or four times to let the cleaner do its job and wipe away the grime. Wring your mop well and change the water, if necessary, as you finish a section.

Rinse out and clean your bucket after you finish.
Mop buckets can be a great breeding ground for germs and bacteria, and a wet mop bucket can smell rather unpleasant. Rather than just stowing the bucket away in the closet after you are finished mopping, clean it with a vinegar/water solution and dry it thoroughly.

Take good care of your mop.
Your mop can also harbor bacteria and germs. Maximize the life of your mop head and prevent spreading germs by rinsing your mop head thoroughly after each use with a vinegar/water solution. Store the mop upside down over the mop bucket, so any excess water has a chance to drain away from the mop.

 

Where to buy mop heads for your business? Dean Supply!

Keeping your kitchen floors clean and safe doesn't have to be complicated or difficult. Knowing what mop heads and other equipment you need will go a long way towards making your job a lot easier.

Dean Supply Company has been outfitting commercial kitchens like yours for more than 65 years. From sponge mops to dust mops, we can help you find the mop head you need. We invite you to visit our Cleveland, Ohio showroom and/or shop online at ShopAtDean.com. 

For more information on ordering all of the mop heads and cleaning equipment you need for your restaurant, catering business or coffee shop to succeed, contact us today at help.desk@shopatdean.com or at 844-343-3382.