Black & Decker Steam Mop With SteamGlove Handheld Steamer, 5-In-1

Navigating the world of steam mops can be quite the endeavor, especially when you’re looking for a versatile tool that not only tackles floors but also other surfaces around the house. The Black & Decker Steam Mop With SteamGlove Handheld Steamer, model HSMC1300FX, promises a 5-in-1 functionality that piqued my interest. Here’s my detailed take after putting it through its paces.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Black & Decker Steam Mop makes a solid first impression. It’s relatively lightweight at 9.7 lbs and stands at a comfortable height of 31.9 inches, which should suit most users without causing strain. The design is sleek and modern, and I appreciated the inclusion of multiple accessories, which hinted at its versatility.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the steam mop was straightforward. It took me less than five minutes to assemble everything, and the instruction manual was clear and concise. One of the standout features is its ability to transition from a floor mop to a handheld steamer with ease. This convertible design is a significant plus, as it adds to the tool’s flexibility for cleaning various surfaces.

Performance on Floors

Once assembled, I filled the large-capacity water tank, which was a breeze. The steam mop was ready to use in just 20 seconds – a commendable heating speed that saves time. As a floor cleaner, the tool has a swiveling mop head, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. However, I quickly noticed that the mop tends to leave the floors quite wet. Despite trying to move it swiftly across the floor, I found that it still left a notable amount of moisture behind, which required additional drying time.

Steam Control and Pressure

The Smart Select variable steam control is designed to adjust the steam level based on the surface you’re cleaning, and while it does offer some customization, I found that it didn’t completely mitigate the excess moisture issue. Additionally, the handle felt somewhat flimsy under pressure. For a tool that requires a good amount of force to achieve optimal cleaning, this was a bit concerning. The handle seemed like it might give way with prolonged use or under significant pressure.

Handheld Steamer Functionality

Switching to the handheld steamer mode was seamless. The SteamGlove attachment is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to clean vertical surfaces like glass and shower walls with ease. In this mode, the tool performed admirably, delivering a continuous flow of steam without needing to hold down a trigger constantly. This feature was particularly useful and made the cleaning process less tiring.

Germ-Killing Capabilities

One of the significant selling points of this steam mop is its ability to kill up to 99% of germs. While I don’t have the means to test this claim scientifically, I did feel confident that the high-temperature steam was doing its job. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your surfaces are being sanitized is a definite plus.

Versatility and Accessories

The variety of accessories included with the Black & Decker Steam Mop adds to its versatility. From grout cleaning brushes to squeegees for glass, the tool can handle a wide range of cleaning tasks. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any cleaning arsenal, especially for those who like to tackle multiple surfaces without switching tools constantly.

Overall Build Quality

While the overall build of the steam mop is decent, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The plastic components, particularly the handle, feel a bit flimsy and may not hold up well over time with heavy use. For the price point, I expected a more robust construction.

Pros

1. Versatile Design: The ability to convert from a floor mop to a handheld steamer adds significant value.
2. Quick Heating: Ready to use in 20 seconds, which is convenient for quick cleaning sessions.
3. Continuous Steam Flow: No need to hold down a trigger, reducing hand fatigue.
4. Multiple Accessories: Comes with a variety of attachments for different surfaces and tasks.
5. Germ-Killing Capability: Claims to kill up to 99% of germs, adding to its appeal for hygiene-conscious users.

Cons

1. Excess Moisture: Leaves floors wetter than expected, which can be inconvenient.
2. Flimsy Handle: Handle feels weak and may not withstand heavy pressure over time.
3. Price Point: For the performance and build quality, it feels slightly overpriced.

Final Thoughts

After thoroughly testing the Black & Decker Steam Mop With SteamGlove Handheld Steamer, I have mixed feelings. On the one hand, its versatility and quick heating time make it a useful tool for a variety of cleaning tasks. The handheld steamer mode is particularly effective and convenient. However, the issue with excess moisture on floors and the questionable durability of the handle are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? If you’re looking for a versatile steam cleaner that can handle multiple surfaces and you don’t mind occasionally dealing with wet floors, then this could be a good fit for you. However, if your primary need is a robust floor steam mop that leaves minimal moisture, you might want to explore other options. The Black & Decker Steam Mop has its merits, but it also has some areas where it falls short, especially considering its price point.