1
Rinse the mop head after every use. As soon as you are done using your mop, rinse the head under hot water until the water runs clear. Then, wring your mop head out as completely as possible and allow it to dry in a well ventilated area. Let the mop dry completely before you store it again.
If possible, let your mop dry in the sun. You can even let it dry outdoors if it’s a hot day to help expedite the process.
2
Soak your mop in a cleaning solution after four uses. Your mop will need a deep clean every three to four uses, or whenever it starts to smell funny. Sanitize your mop head by adding a cup or about 237 milliliters (8 fl oz) of white vinegar or three percent hydrogen peroxide, or half a cup (118.5 ml) of bleach to a gallon (3.79 l) of hot water. Allow your mop head to soak in the solution for ten minutes before wringing it out and letting it dry.
Do not use bleach on sponge mops or synthetic mops. It will cause the materials to degrade. Instead, try the vinegar or peroxide solutions.And make sure you let your mop dry in an area with good ventilation, and store it safely away from children and pets.
3
Wash detachable mop heads in a washing machine instead of soaking it. Some mop heads, such as those made with towel or cloth strips, can go straight in the laundry. Detach the mop head from the handle and wash it on a hot water setting. Then, allow it to air dry before reattaching it to the handle.
Add a cap of bleach to the wash to help disinfect your mop head.
Wash your mop head with items that you don’t mind getting beat up, such as other cleaning rags and towels.
4
Rinse it in the dishwasher instead of a washing machine. Mops with removable heads can also be washed in the dishwasher. Simply remove the mop head and place it in the top rack of an empty dishwasher.
Add a cup (237 ml) of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Then, run the dishwasher on a normal cycle. Once the cycle is over, squeeze out the remaining water and allow the mop head to air dry before using it.
