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Types of Mop Handles

Since cleanliness is a top priority for any facility, you'll want to select not only the best mop, but also the best

mop handle, frame, and accessories, to meet your needs. The question is: what kind of handle will be the most useful, convenient, and cost effective for you and your business?

Mop Dynamics

Mop handles can be split into two different categories: handles with mop frames and handles without mop frames.

Mop handles with frames have attachments that connect the pole to the mop head that is used for cleaning. While not completely necessary for all mop handles, mop frames are often included to ensure easy mop head changes. They also tell you exactly which mop heads are compatible.

Mop handles without frames are often called telescope or telescopic poles. They can be screwed or pressed into various mop frames and heads to allow full customization and can extend and retract to fit any user's height. They are also useful when trying to clean hard-to-reach areas. Be advised, some mop frames and heads may only fit certain types of telescopic poles. Additional research is required to figure out which frames and heads are compatible.

Mop Handles With Frames

Jaw Release

Pros

Teeth clamp to mop head
User never has to touch dirty mop head
For high-traffic and low-traffic areas
Ideal for wide-band mop heads

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Only used with wet mop heads

Thumbwheel quick-release mop frame with side gate

Thumbwheel Quick Release with Side Gate

Pros

Can change mop head by opening side gate
User never has to touch dirty mop head
For high-traffic and low-traffic areas
Ideal for narrow-band mop heads
Easy to tighten or loosen grip on mop with wheel

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Only used with wet mop heads

Wedge Release

Pros

Wire holds the mop head
Easy to replace the mop head
For high-traffic and low-traffic areas

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Wire can bend over time
Only used with dry mop heads

All-In-One

Pros

Includes a handle, frame, and mop head
Available for both dry and wet mop usages

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Not for high-traffic areas
User has to touch dirty mop head to take it off the frame
Included dry mop head will need to be replaced after multiple uses
Included wet mop head sponge can deteriorate

Metal stirrup style mop frame with quick change

Metal Stirrup Quick Change

Pros

Can tighten or loosen grip by turning the wingnut
For high-traffic and low-traffic areas
Ideal for narrow-band mop heads

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Heavier than their plastic counterparts
User has to touch dirty mop head to take it off the frame
Only used with wet mop heads

Mop Handles Without Frames

Screw-On

Pros

For high-traffic and low-traffic areas
Can screw mop head directly on to the handle

Cons

Handle and frame may pick up excess dirt from mop head
Only used with screw-top wet mop heads
User has to touch dirty mop head to take it off the frame

Things to Consider

Type

Wet mop heads - mop material used with water to absorb dirt and/or spilled liquids from the floor (usually a material that is not replaced after each use, but may be laundered)

Dry mop heads - mop material used for dusting, sweeping, and picking up small particles from the floor (usually a disposable pad)

Weight

Weight may vary depending on your mop handle's material. Will a thick wooden handle and wet mop head be too heavy for your busy staff to use? Since wet mop heads absorb water, they can weigh more than dry mop heads. Depending on which style you are using, weight might be something to think about when comparing products.

Compatibility

Having a mop head or mop frame that fits your mop handle is imperative. By using the wrong frame, it is possible that your mop will not work as effectively or get damaged.

For more information on wet mop heads, read through our wet mop buying guide to decide which type is best for you and your cleaning needs.

Width

Keep in mind that individuals with smaller hands may not be as comfortable holding a mop handle with a thicker diameter. However, thinner poles may not be as structurally sturdy as thicker poles. Decide which mop will work best for you and your employees and make sure the handle is at a comfortable diameter.

Color code system

By using color-coded mops, workers can better prevent spreading infections and bacteria between rooms in hospitals, health institutions, and other areas. With each mop designated to a certain area, cleanliness can be controlled.

Red: High-risk areas (toilets and urinals)
Yellow: For low-risk, specialty areas (labs and gyms) and low-risk restroom areas (sinks and mirrors)
Blue: All-purpose cleaning (dusting, window cleaning, and offices)
Green: Food service areas (kitchens)

Material

Aluminum Handle

Pros

Longest product life
Sturdy structure
Nonporous
Light and easy to use
Recyclable
Modern look with a lasting finish

Cons

Must be cleaned to prevent bacterial growth in crevices
More expensive

Wood Handle

Pros

Long product life if maintained properly
Sturdy structure
Can have antimicrobial protection
Recyclable
Traditional look and feel

Cons

May be porous if not sealed, which could lead to mold and bacteria growth
Antimicrobial protective layer is more expensive
Heavy and harder to use

Plastic Handle

Pros

Nonporous
Light and easy to use
Budget-friendly

Cons

Shortest product life
Less durable
Must be cleaned to prevent bacterial growth in crevices

Maintenance Tips

Mop handles can house bacteria that cause odors, stains, and create a harmful environment for the user if not properly maintained. Prohibit the growth of bacteria with a model that has an antimicrobial layer of protection. It is wise to wash mop heads frequently or purchase mop heads that are disposable after use. By doing this, the chances of bacteria growth are minimized.

Handles with reusable mop heads should be hung and left to dry in a ventilated area. If there is no ventilation, a wet mop will stay wet and harmful bacteria will begin to grow. If this happens, do not bleach the mop handle, frame, or head, as this can cause erosion and shorten the lifespan of the entire mop. Instead, thoroughly clean the mop with soap and water. If bacteria or mold growth is clearly visible, you may want to dispose of the mop. Cleaning your mops after every use is a sure way of increasing their longevity.

Accessories

Mop buckets

Mop buckets come in a variety of colors and can be bought to match your mop and mop holder. If you are using a wet mop head, a mop bucket is helpful for mopping in a big space or room. It also aids in transport from one room to another. The mop bucket holds your water and allows you to strain excess liquid from your wet mop head so that you can clean expertly and efficiently.

Signs

Using signs is a good way to keep your employees and customers uninjured during the cleaning process. Wet floor signs let everyone know to watch their step as they are walking in a certain area. Without it, workers and customers may be likely to slip and fall.

Mop handle extensions

For ease of use, you might consider an attachment to elongate your handle. With an extension,

you can clean hard-to-reach places better. They come in a variety of sizes and you can choose how much of an extension you want or need.

To see the entire selection of mop accessories, you can view the mops and mopping accessories category.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.

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