What Is a Finish Mop?

Benefits

• Finish mops are available with long-lasting yarn, microfiber, rayon and other types of heads that are removable. The mops resist mildew and mold and dry quickly after washing. Finish mop fibers are blended and sewn on a band at the top of the mop’s head resulting in a stronger bond than fibers glued on a band. The fibers are also soft and don’t scratch your home’s flooring.

Mop Types

• Finish mops come in two types -- standard and tailband style. Tailband-style finish mops contain a sewn-in band toward the bottom of the mop's head that keeps individual fibers from fanning out. Standard finish mops do not contain a band toward the bottom of the head. Tailband-style mops are capable of covering a wider path and prevent tangling. Tailband mops also eliminate streaking.

Breaking In and Usage

• Finish mops usually do not require a break-in period, washing the mop head before using, like other mops. Consult your finish mop’s documentation to see if the breaking-in process is required. Applying a finish to your home’s flooring is similar to mopping up a spill. Before applying a finish, sweep your flooring to remove any dust and debris. Remove any furnishings from the room and keep pets and people out of the room to keep dirt from being tracked in. Pour the finish in a mop bucket or similar container and then dip the finish mop into the solution. Wring out excess and apply a thin coat of the finish to the outer areas of the room first. Apply the finish in a figure-eight motion moving from north to south to the other areas on the room. Let the first coat of finish dry for 20 to 25 minutes and then apply the second coat in a figure-eight motion moving from east to west. Using this alternating motion ensures an even finish coverage. Follow all recommendations on the finish’s container, including the recommended finish drying time and application tips. Keep applying coats until your flooring looks wet when the last coat of finish is dry -- this is usually achieved after three to five coats.

Care

• Not all finish mops are launderable. If your finish mop’s documentation states the mop can be washed in your home’s washing machine, remove your finish mop’s head and place it in a synthetic mesh laundry bag. Place the bag in your home’s washing machine, along with 1 cup laundry detergent. Fill your washer with warm water, not to exceed 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and place it on a regular wash cycle. Dry the mop head on a clothesline, drying rack or dryer set to a temperature not to exceed 150 degrees F. You can also wash your finish mop by hand in a sink or with a water hose outside.