Sunday, October 2, 2011

nerd alert

Oh man, you guys, something has changed my life and I'm so excited to share.

I got a new household appliance on Friday. I hesitate to call it that though, because I'm pretty much ready to make it an honourary member of the family. It's a Black and Decker Steam Mop.


I have been in the market for a steam mop for a while, but there are so many to choose from. Just about every cleaning brand has their own version, and they're all quite similar. I knew for sure though that I wanted one that boasts the ability to kill 99% of germs on your floors. With a baby and a cat who like to lick get up close and personal with the hardwood, the idea of cleaning without chemicals was pretty appealing.

I decided on the Black and Decker mop after reading a great review by Mag Ruffman in my newspaper's Homes section. I then read several blog posts recommending it, too. I was convinced, and I'm happy to say it's everything I hoped it would be.

Pros:
- It heats up in seconds. The light on the front changes from red to blue when it's ready to go.
- It comes with three washable pads — no need to buy any expensive refills.
- It runs on water alone. No chemicals.
- The swivel head rotates so easily around edges and in corners.
- I could instantly see how much cleaner it makes the floor.

Con:
- I really can't think of anything. If I had to say something, I guess it's that I now have another appliance to store, but it's still more convenient and cleaner than a traditional mop and bucket.

Plus, listen to this:

Me: Oooo it's awesome! Husband, do you want to try it?
Husband: [thinks about having to do another chore] No ... knock yourself out.
Me: [happily steaming the floor] Ahh this is so satisfying, and easy! Look how clean the floor is!
[Five minutes later]
Husband: OK, can I try now?

Any appliance that can make Husband ask to do an extra chore is worth its weight in gold, wouldn't you agree?

6 comments:

  1. Now this is exciting to me! I have been on the fence about buying a steam mop for a few months because, to be honest, I am overwhelmed with the amount of choices! So instead I still get on my hands and knees and scrub the floors which I HATE! After reading your glowing review I think I might finally take the plunge and get myself one. Thanks for the review!

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  2. Can you use it on any surface? We have hardwood and ceramic tile throughout most of our house, and laminate in the basement. I hate mopping floors. This seems so much easier and neater!

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  3. Yes, there are three settings: wood/laminate, stone/marble, and tile/vinyl. And yes, this is so much easier and neater! It seriously takes the "chore" out of cleaning the floors.

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  4. PS They're somewhat hard to find around here because they're so popular. Rona carries them normally, but they were sold out last week, so call beforehand. Also, the DeWalt service centre in Burnside also sells them, but again, they were sold out last week, too. So just give a call before heading out to buy one.

    This will be great for you, Amy, with the babe and the pup.

    Allie, this would be perfect for your house! Anything to avoid the dreaded hands-and-knees scrubbing!

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  5. You had me at NO CHEMICALS!!! I might have to invest in one myself!

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  6. This is going on my Christmas list!

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