(checked 2026-10-10)The listing also offers Steam Pocket Essentials, the S3601 and Steam Blast styles, so ratings may be pooled.
Amazon's best-selling steam mop listing, with about 44,000 ratings, and pads you can flip without touching. But Reviewed didn't recommend it, finding stains took five or six passes and the tank a hassle to fill, and Amazon owners report weak or no steam, handles that fall apart and units that break within a year.
Top complaints
- Breaks or stops steaming
Amazon's review summary says durability is concerning, with the plastic handle falling apart quickly and the mop breaking within a year, and that some owners say it doesn't produce any steam. Reviewed's test unit had a defective cord attachment spot.
- Needs many passes
Reviewed says removing stains took more effort than expected, often five or six back-and-forth passes, and concluded it is more work than it needs to be.
Source: Reviewed - Fiddly tank; cord complaints
Reviewed found the frosted tank window made the water level unclear, the tank must be drained before storage, and there's no power switch. Amazon owners criticize the cord as too short (Shark lists 18 ft).
What owners love
- Flip pads without touching them
Reviewed says the washable microfiber pad flips to a clean side without touching it; Shark includes two double-sided pads.
Source: Reviewed, Shark (S3501 page) - Quick start, comfortable handling
Reviewed says it is ready in about 30 seconds, swivel steering works well in tight corners, and the round handle and adjustable height are comfortable.
Source: Reviewed - Owners find it effective
Amazon's summary says owners find it effective and easy to use, cleaning without harsh chemicals and leaving floors spotless.
- You want stains gone in one or two passes
- You want a tank that's easy to fill and check
- Durability is your top concern
- Hands-free pad flipping
- Corners (swivel steering)
- A familiar, widely sold model
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Reviewed: Not recommended (2022-09-12): ready in 30 seconds and comfortable, but stains took five or six passes and the tank is a hassle to fill.
- Shark (maker): Lists $99.99, 6.15 lb, an 18-ft cord and a one-year limited warranty; says it is for sealed hard floors including hardwood, laminate, tile, stone, marble and vinyl.