In some cases, such as with sturdy synthetic-blend mops, you can simply put the mop head in the washing machine and run it through a gentle cycle. However, many mops--cotton mops, for instance--will start falling apart after a few times in the washing machine. To safely clean any dust mop, hand washing is preferable.
Things You Will Need
How to Clean Dirty Dust Mops
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Fill a bucket with 1 to 2 gallons of warm water. Add laundry detergent and stir to mix.
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Remove the dust mop head from the frame. Depending on the type of mop, this means you will either untie it or simply slip it off the metal frame.
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Place the dust mop in the bucket of soapy warm water. Stir well with a dowel or large spoon and allow the mop head to soak for at least an hour.
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Dump the old soapy water and add fresh warm water and detergent. Stir the dust mop in the cleaning solution and then allow it to soak again for a while.
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Rinse the dust mop thoroughly in a sink under warm water. Follow with a cold rinsing and squeeze out any excess moisture. Hang to dry, preferably outdoors if the weather is warm enough.
The Drip Cap
- Dust mops will continue to pick up dust as long as they are relatively clean.
- In some cases, such as with sturdy synthetic-blend mops, you can simply put the mop head in the washing machine and run it through a gentle cycle.
- Place the dust mop in the bucket of soapy warm water.
- Follow with a cold rinsing and squeeze out any excess moisture.