Design
Dry and wet mops are distinct from one another, and that difference is clear in their design. Wet mops are typically made up of yarn or cotton that hangs loosely. Dry mops are made up of microfiber materials and generally have a flat, long design. Wet mops tend to be similar in size to other wet mops, but dry mops can vary in length depending on their function or size of the facility they're used in.

Function
Wet mops absorb dirt and dust, disinfect the floors, and clean liquid or sticky messes. They're useful for wet floors or areas of your facility where spills occur such as bathrooms or kitchens. Dry mops remove loose debris and by gliding along the floor's surface, catching and holding contaminants as they go. They are a superior substitute for brooms as they don't disturb settled dust or allow it to reenter the air.

Dry mops generally prep flooring before a wet mop is used, but should also be used as a primary measure in environments adversely affected by liquids or airborne dust. For example, areas with sensitive electrical components, operating rooms, and patient rooms. Properly used, they control airborne contaminants while limiting bacterial growth.

Maintenance
Since both types of mops have different designs and functions they require individually specialized maintenance. Wet mops should be rinsed thoroughly when no longer needed, left in a dry environment and never left in a cleaning solution. Doing so will adversely affect their absorbent qualities.

Similarly, dry mops should be left in a dry environment when no longer in use. It's important to shake out, vacuum, or brush each mop head to remove particles and even launder soiled mop heads.

Use proper technique.
People who cannot seem to get wet mopping right are often unknowingly struggling with technique they were never taught how to use a wet mop. Using a wet mop the right way starts with soaking it in soapy water and then transferring that water to the floor and spreading it evenly as you mop.

Next, return the mop to the water to rinse it out. If you are using a mop bucket with a ringer, use the ringer to extract excess water. The idea is to end up with a damp mop, rather than a saturated one, as you continue to mop your floors. While you are doing this, the soapy water has time to loosen dirt and grime. Now, take your damp mop and run it back and forth over the floor to soak up the water and dirt. Then, move to the next section of floor and repeat the process.

Use hot water.
Wet mops work best when you use hot water along with a cleaning solution. Hot water does a better job of loosening dirt and debris. It also does a better job of rinsing the mop when you place it in the bucket. You will find that your floors end up much cleaner if you get the water as hot as you can.

Avoid chlorine-based cleaners.
Chlorine-based cleaners can do a great job on your floors. However, they are not good for wet mops. Chlorine is a corrosive substance that eats away at mop fibers. Using chlorine-based cleaners only reduces the life of typical retail mop heads. The good news is that there are plenty of non-chlorine solutions that clean just as well without causing harm.

Rinse the wet mop after use.
Once you've finished mopping, it's best to rinse the mop under hot water and then put it through the ringer one more time. Then, hang it on a nail or hook so that the mop strings can straighten out and dry. This is the best way to guarantee your mop heads last as long as possible.