Shark Steam & Scrub with Steam Blaster Mop Review

The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is a high-powered, all-in-one steam mop designed for hard floor cleaning. It combines steam cleaning with mechanical scrubbing, making it ideal for users who need a deep clean without the use of harsh chemicals.

With its Steam Blaster technology and rotating microfiber pads, this steam mop is equipped to handle both everyday messes and tougher, stuck-on stains. The mop is designed for a variety of hard floors, including tile, sealed hardwood, marble, and laminate, making it a versatile option for most homes.

If you’re looking for a steam mop that can sanitize floors while cutting down on the need for elbow grease, this model offers a great solution. In this review, we’ll dive into the details of its features, performance, and overall user experience.

Description

The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is more than a basic steam mop. It integrates dual rotating pads that provide mechanical scrubbing while steam is continuously emitted, helping to lift dirt and grime without the user having to apply additional force.

This mop is particularly effective at removing stuck-on messes, like dried spills or pet accidents, thanks to the Steam Blaster Technology, which concentrates high-intensity steam on tough spots.

Equipped with LED headlights, this mop also helps illuminate areas under furniture and in dark corners, ensuring no hidden dirt is left behind. Weighing just 6.9 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver, making it suitable for both small apartments and larger homes.

Floor Types and Carpets

The Shark S8201 is designed specifically for hard floors, offering great versatility across different types of sealed surfaces, including hardwood, tile, marble, and laminate.

One of its strengths is that it offers three different steam modes—Light, Normal, and Deep—which can be adjusted depending on the floor type and the severity of the mess. For example, Light steam is ideal for delicate hardwood, while Deep steam is better suited for tougher surfaces like tile or marble.

However, it’s important to note that this mop is not designed for use on carpets. If you’re looking for a steam mop that can handle both carpets and hard floors, you may need to consider a more versatile model with carpet-specific attachments.

Mop Head Type

The mop head is equipped with dual rotating microfiber pads that rotate at over 150 scrubs per minute, ensuring deeper cleaning with less effort from the user.

This rotating action helps lift dirt and grime, particularly on surfaces like tile, where dirt can settle into grout lines. Unlike standard steam mops that require manual scrubbing for tough stains, the Shark S8201 does the hard work for you, making it more efficient for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.

The 14.5-inch cleaning path allows you to cover a large area in one pass, making it ideal for cleaning larger rooms more quickly. The pads are machine washable, reducing the need for frequent pad replacements, which can save you money in the long run.

Water Tank & Steam

The Shark S8201 features a built-in water tank that supports the mop’s chemical-free sanitization capability. The steam emitted is powerful enough to eliminate 99.9% of household bacteria, making it a great choice for homes with children or pets.

Powered by a 1120-watt heating element, the mop heats up quickly—often in less than a minute—so you can start cleaning right away. The three steam levels (Light, Normal, and Deep) allow you to adjust the steam output based on your specific cleaning needs.

The steam is evenly distributed through the mop head, ensuring that the entire surface is cleaned without leaving puddles behind. This feature is particularly important for delicate surfaces like hardwood, where excess moisture can cause damage.

Controls

The controls on the Shark S8201 are simple and intuitive, making it easy to switch between the three steam modes. The mop also features LED headlights that automatically illuminate as soon as the mop is turned on, helping you see dust and debris more clearly, even in darker areas.

With an ergonomic handle and lightweight design, this mop is comfortable to use for extended periods. The easy-to-reach controls ensure that you can adjust steam levels on the fly without interrupting your cleaning routine.

Attachments

The Shark S8201 includes four Dirt Grip® microfiber pads, which are machine washable and reusable. These pads are designed to trap and lock in dirt, making them highly effective for deep cleaning tasks.

In addition to the rotating scrub pads, the Steam Blaster attachment allows you to direct a concentrated stream of steam at particularly tough spots. This feature is especially useful for sticky messes, dried spills, or grime that has built up over time in high-traffic areas.

Cleaning Solution Options

One of the standout features of the Shark S8201 is that it does not require any additional cleaning solutions. The steam alone is sufficient to sanitize floors, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for those looking to avoid chemicals in their cleaning routine.

For users who prefer the added cleaning power of a solution, it’s possible to lightly mist a floor-safe cleaner directly onto the surface before steaming, but it’s not necessary. The chemical-free design makes this mop especially appealing to households with young children or pets.

Maintenance and Durability

The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is designed for long-term use, but like any cleaning tool, maintenance is crucial to ensure durability.

The rotating microfiber pads are washable and reusable, reducing the need for frequent replacements. However, depending on the frequency of use and the types of messes cleaned, the pads may eventually wear down.

Users should wash the pads regularly to avoid buildup of dirt, which could decrease their effectiveness over time.

The water tank is sturdy and easy to refill, though it’s essential to use distilled or filtered water in areas with hard water to prevent limescale buildup.

There are no filters in the water tank, so regular descaling may be necessary to prevent clogging and maintain steam output.

Overall, users report that the S8201 is built to last, but proper care, such as not overfilling the tank and avoiding abrasive cleaning solutions, will ensure better durability.

Noise Level

While the Shark S8201 is not as loud as a vacuum, it does produce some noise due to the rotating scrubbing pads. The level of noise is generally comparable to that of other steam mops, but users have noted that the scrubbing feature adds a slight mechanical hum.

This might be noticeable, especially in quieter environments, though it is unlikely to be disruptive.

The Steam Blaster feature, when engaged, emits a stronger burst of steam that also generates more noise than the normal cleaning mode.

For most users, the noise level is acceptable and quieter than many traditional cleaning tools, but it may be something to consider if you plan to clean during late hours or when others are resting.

Energy Efficiency

The Shark S8201 operates at 1120 watts, which is on par with other steam mops in its category. While it’s not a significant power draw, users with energy concerns should note that using the mop on Deep steam mode for extended cleaning sessions may increase energy consumption slightly.

However, because the mop heats up quickly and cleans efficiently, the overall usage time is relatively short, making it a reasonably energy-efficient option.

In terms of water efficiency, the mop uses a minimal amount of water to produce steam, meaning that a single tank can last through multiple rooms depending on the steam setting. This feature contributes to lower energy consumption compared to larger or less efficient cleaning tools.

User Experience Over Time

Long-term user reviews of the Shark S8201 have generally been positive. Many users report that the mop continues to perform well after months of regular use, particularly noting that the rotating scrub pads maintain their effectiveness with proper care.

The Steam Blaster remains a favorite feature for tough messes, especially in kitchens or bathrooms where spills and stains are more common.

However, some users have mentioned that over time, the microfiber pads may need to be replaced as they can become less absorbent after multiple washes. This is typical of any reusable cleaning pad, and purchasing extra sets is a simple solution to extend the mop’s lifespan.

Additionally, as with many steam mops, users have pointed out that the water tank needs to be refilled more frequently when used on higher steam settings.

This is particularly noticeable when cleaning larger areas, but overall, users feel that the S8201 offers consistent, reliable performance over time.

Dimensions & Storage

The Shark S8201 is compact and lightweight, measuring 47.4 inches high, 14.88 inches wide, and 7.48 inches long. Its 18.6-foot cord allows for decent coverage in small to medium-sized rooms, but users with larger spaces may find themselves needing to switch outlets more frequently.

Weighing just 6.9 lbs, the mop is easy to move around, whether you’re cleaning upstairs, downstairs, or moving from room to room. The compact design also means it can be stored easily in most closets, and it stands upright on its own for added convenience.

Pros

• Chemical-Free Sanitization: Eliminates 99.9% of bacteria without the use of cleaning solutions, making it a safer choice for families with children or pets.
• Rotating Scrub Pads: Dual rotating pads offer deeper cleaning, reducing the need for manual scrubbing and allowing for more efficient cleaning sessions.
• Multiple Steam Modes: Three adjustable steam levels—Light, Normal, and Deep—make the mop adaptable for a variety of surfaces and cleaning tasks.
• LED Headlights: The built-in headlights help reveal hidden dirt and debris, making it easier to spot clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Lightweight: At only 6.9 lbs, this mop is easy to maneuver, even for extended cleaning sessions.

Cons

• Short Power Cord: The 18.6-foot cord may be limiting for users cleaning larger rooms, as it may require frequent outlet changes.
• Not for Carpets: This steam mop is specifically designed for hard floors, meaning it does not have the versatility to clean carpets or upholstery.
• Frequent Pad Cleaning: While the pads are machine washable, they can collect dirt quickly, especially during larger cleaning jobs, meaning you’ll need to clean or switch them out frequently.

Ratings and Reviews

Overall Rating: 4.6/5

The Shark Steam & Scrub with Steamblaster Steam Mop S8201 consistently impresses users with its combination of powerful steam and scrubbing technology.

It’s a dirt-busting powerhouse, thanks to its unique dual-scrubber system and the “Steamblaster” mode. Whether it’s sticky spills, stubborn stains, or general grime, users rave about how well it lifts debris from both hard floors and tile grout.

It also remains incredibly user-friendly. Customers love how easy it is to maneuver, thanks to the lightweight design and swivel steering.

The adjustable steam settings allow for custom cleaning based on floor type, while the automatic scrubbing heads handle the tough work. Some users wished the water tank was a bit larger to avoid refilling during big cleaning jobs, but the quick heat-up time makes this less of an issue.

The Steamblaster function takes versatility to another level, blasting extra steam at stubborn spots and dirt. Many users found it particularly effective in high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. However, the one limitation mentioned in reviews is that it’s best suited for hard floors. If you’re looking to clean carpets, this mop might not be your ideal choice.

Most reviewers feel confident about the longevity of their Shark S8201, noting its sturdy build and reliable performance. A few users reported minor issues with the scrubber heads wearing down after heavy use, but this is balanced by Shark’s reputation for excellent customer service and affordable replacement parts.

The sleek design combined with features like automatic scrubbing, variable steam control, and an ergonomic handle wins a lot of praise.

The water tank is easy to refill, and the scrubbing pads are washable, which adds to the convenience factor. Many users also appreciate the long power cord, making it easier to cover large rooms without constantly switching outlets.

It earns its 4.6 rating by delivering an exceptional cleaning experience with minimal effort.

Its powerful scrubbing and versatile steam settings make it an excellent choice for busy households and anyone who wants a deeper clean without using harsh chemicals. If you have primarily hard floors and a love for sparkling clean surfaces, this mop is an investment that will leave you smiling.

Summary

The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is a top-tier steam mop for those seeking a powerful, chemical-free cleaning solution for hard floors.

Its combination of rotating scrubbing pads and Steam Blaster technology makes it highly effective at removing stuck-on messes, while the multiple steam modes offer flexibility for different types of floors.

Despite a few drawbacks, such as the short power cord and its limited functionality on carpets, the Shark S8201 excels in delivering deep cleaning and sanitization without the need for chemicals.

This makes it a great choice for families with young children or pets, as well as for users who want a low-maintenance, eco-friendly cleaning solution.

Overall, if your primary concern is deep cleaning hard floors while avoiding harsh chemicals, the Shark S8201 is a solid choice.