The 5 Best Mops for a More Sustainable Floor-Cleaning Routine
These renewable, recycled, and (mostly) plastic-free mops are zero-waste, and they all include removable, washable mop heads.
Published Aug. 5 2024, 12:10 p.m. ET
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Remember the early 2000s? The new millennium introduced some memorable pop culture phenomenons — Y2K, low-rise jeans, and, of course, the disposable mop craze. At the time, we thought this was the best mop on Earth. We were so thrilled by the convenience of a wet pad that we could just pop in the trash that many of us weren't even thinking about the massive landfill waste we were generating. And we weren't all that concerned with the toxic chemicals we were cleaning our floors with either.
The 5 best eco-friendly mops
Best Swiffer dupe: Might Mop 2-in-1 Wet/Dry Microfiber Mop ($30)
Best water-only: Grove Co. Microfiber Mop Starter Set ($27)
Best traditional: Yocada Looped-End String Wet Mop ($21)
Best minimalist: Cuban Mop with Cloth ($41)
Best spray mop: Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop ($42)
More than two decades later, we're a lot more conscious about cleaning products, and thankfully, we no longer have to choose between convenience and sustainability. Now, some mops have washable, reusable cleaning pads that we can dip into a bucket full of all-natural floor cleaners. And many of them have mop pads and handles made of sustainable and recycled materials. It's enough to clean up your house and your carbon footprint simultaneously — and we do love a multitasker!
Here are the five best mops on the market that provide a healthier cleaning routine without putting too much stress on the environment. There are even a few that help you conserve water.
Might Mop 2-in-1 Wet/Dry Microfiber Mop
The Full Circle Mighty Mop is a buzzed-about cleaning superstar with a handle made from renewable bamboo and a removable, machine-washable mop head crafted from recycled plastic and microfiber. It's a two-in-one, so you can dust the floors first and then move on to mopping. This one's a perfect beginner mop for hard floors, including wood, stone, and vinyl.
"I love this item. It's durable and the design is so simple it swivels so well under edges and around the room. The cloth is a cinch to get on and off and it's easy to swap out with a dish towel if this one is in the laundry," wrote a resourceful reviewer.
Grove Co. Microfiber Mop Starter Set
If you prefer a mop that goes a bit beyond the basic, try the Grove Co. Microfiber Mop, which has an adjustable handle made of recycled plastic and recycled aluminum and two machine-washable microfiber pads that attach with Velcro. This one is designed to get floors spotless using just water and zero chemicals. Reviewers say to ensure you tighten the handle well when you assemble the mop.
"This is perfect for small spaces, people who want reusable items instead of throw away, and for those with dexterity issues," wrote a shopper.
Yocada Looped-End String Wet Mop
The super-absorbent cotton blend mop head on the Yocada Looped-End String Wet Mop makes it more akin to a traditional mop, except the head is removable and machine-washable. Its looped-end design prevents tangling, too. The adjustable handle is made of iron, so you know you're investing in a long-haul cleaning tool.
"Love this heavy duty mop! Strings do not come off when mopping, very sturdy, easy to remove the mop head," confirmed a fan.
Cuban Mop Stick with Cloth
Sometimes, it's as simple as a Cuban mop, a wooden mop commonly used in Cuba. It was born out of necessity in Cuba, where access to resources has been historically limited due to economic constraints. But it's so effective that it's become beloved throughout Latin America and Europe. The minimalist mop consists of two wooden sticks forming a T-shape, with a cloth or rag wrapped around the bottom. This lightweight one comes with a reusable cloth, but you can use your own cloth, too.
Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop
The Bona Hardwood Floor Spray Mop is a boon for people who are serious about sustainability and love cleaning shortcuts. Its reusable, washable pad, made from 90 percent recycled materials, is designed to clean the floor faster and use less water than traditional mops. The handle is made of lightweight aluminum, but it does have some plastic components. The best part is it comes with Bona's EPA-approved, plant-based cleaning solution, which is also GREENGUARD GOLD certified.
"Very easy to use and I love that it comes with a cloth pad that can be reused instead of having to constantly buy new ones like other brands. The mop itself is also very well made and I haven't had a single issue with it yet. The included cleaner/polish works like a charm and I've been doing the floors constantly since I have cats and dogs and still have yet to refill it," wrote one of more than 13,000 five-star reviewers.