Vax Steam Clean Multi S85-CM Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.4/10
Best for: Chemical-free steam cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors
Not for: Unsealed wood or carpets, and soaking up spills - it cleans with steam, not a wet mop
Bottom line: A practical steam mop (2-in-1 mop + handheld, 1300W) for quick, chemical-free floor cleaning at home.
The Vax Steam Clean Multi Steam Cleaner (S85-CM) is a 2-in-1 cleaner that combines a floor steam mop with a portable handheld unit, and it is rated at 1300W. The key value is flexibility, covering both floors and smaller tasks using one system. At 2.1kg, it should be manageable to carry, though effort may still be needed for larger floor areas. As the Vax steam mop, performance depends on surface grime and correct attachment use.
Pros
- 2-in-1 mop + handheld
- Chemical-free cleaning and sanitising with just water
- Floors dry quickly after steaming
Cons
- Only for SEALED hard floors - not unsealed wood, waxed floors or carpet
- Washable pads are the ongoing cost and need regular cleaning
- Needs a power socket and tank refills on big jobs
Cleaning Performance
Cleaning performance on the steam mop is strongly linked to how steam is applied, because it is a 2-in-1 steam cleaner built for both floor mopping and portable handheld spot work. On floors, the best results come from keeping the mop head in steady contact, so steam and wiping action work together across the surface. In bathrooms, ovens and other smaller areas, the handheld mode directs steam at specific spots using the included accessories to help lift grime. Heavily soiled areas may require repeat passes, since the time steam spends on the surface varies with both the material and the level of dirt.
Steam, Heat-Up and Water Tank
Steam output and readiness time matter because the Vax is a 2-in-1 steam cleaner used as both a floor mop and a portable handheld unit. The model runs on 1300W power and weighs 2.1kg, so heat-up affects how quickly cleaning can start and how long pauses take to reset steam availability. Steam availability also affects spot work, since short sessions may require a re-wait for steam to build again.
Floor Types and Pads
Before deciding where to use the steam mop, it helps to match the floor material to the right pad, because steam performance and residue removal can vary by surface. For sealed hard floors such as tile or laminate, a standard steam pad can lift everyday grime while keeping the floor from becoming damp. For vinyl, a gentler approach matters because sticky residue may need extra passes rather than pressure. Wood and unsealed floors require caution, since heat and dampness can react differently. Microfibre pads suit general cleaning, while thicker pads can hold more debris. Always check the floor manufacturer's guidance first.
Type: Upright Mop, Handheld or Multi
Even though it can be used as an upright-style floor mop, this steam mop is built as a multi-use steam cleaner that also converts for handheld work. As an upright mop, it is intended for open floor areas where hot steam can lift grime from sealed hard floors such as sealed laminate, tile, vinyl and sealed hardwood. It is suited to smaller tasks too, switching into handheld mode for cleaning around sinks, bathroom surfaces and tight corners. The title also mentions 9 accessories for the oven, bathroom and home, supporting job-to-job switching. As a single 2-in-1 format, it may take longer to set up than dedicated tools, but it offers one machine for multiple cleaning areas.
Weight, Cord and Handling
With a mass of 2.1kg, the Vax Steam Clean Multi should be easier to carry between rooms than heavier cleaners. Manual handling is still required when switching from mop use to handheld use, as the unit functions as a combined steam mop and portable handheld rather than a single fixed mode. For handheld use, the person lifts and holds the cleaner securely, then aims it at smaller areas. Storage space may also be important, as accessories are included.
Who Is This Steam Mop For?
Who this steam mop is for depends on how it will be used day to day. The Vax suits people who want a 2-in-1 tool for both floor steaming and quick handheld tasks, since it switches between modes. At 2.1kg, it is geared towards manageable routine cleaning, but comfortable lifting still matters. With 1300W, it is aimed at practical home use rather than heavy-duty restoration. It fits households tackling mixed areas around the home, and it includes nine accessories for the oven, bathroom and other household tasks. Steam cleaning works with hot steam produced from water only, so expectations should be set around steam-based floor and surface cleaning rather than wet mopping, vacuuming or carpet washing.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding the steam mop in the UK usually comes down to checking the main UK retailers that stock The Vax floorcare, as availability can vary by region and by how often bundles are refreshed. Shoppers typically compare options across major homeware and electrical retailers, because stock levels can change quickly. It is important to confirm the exact model code S85-CM, since similar steam cleaners may be listed with different accessory sets. When checking listings, it helps to look for mentions of the portable handheld and 2-in-1 floor mop design, alongside the 1300 W rating. If the bundle is out of stock, checking for restock alerts can reduce delay, though prices may not stay the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the steam mop worth it?
For chemical-free cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors, this steam mop lifts grime and kills most germs with hot steam. Check the current Amazon UK price, as steam mops go on deal often.
Is the Vax an upright mop, handheld or multi-cleaner?
The Vax Steam Clean Multi is a 2-in-1 - it works as an upright steam mop for floors and detaches into a handheld steamer for worktops, tiles and grout. That versatility is handy if you want one tool for the whole house.
Do steam mops actually work?
Yes - they heat water into hot steam that loosens dirt and sanitises sealed hard floors without chemicals, killing most household germs. They're for cleaning sealed floors, not for soaking up spills like a regular mop, and the floor dries quickly afterwards.
What floors can you use the steam mop on?
This steam mop suits sealed hard floors - sealed laminate, tile, vinyl and sealed hardwood. Avoid unsealed wood, waxed floors and damaged sealing, as steam and moisture can get into gaps. Always check your floor manufacturer's advice first.
Do you need cleaning solution with the Vax?
No - that's the point of steam cleaning: the steam mop uses only tap water turned to steam, so there are no chemicals or solution to buy (some models offer optional scent discs). It's a cheaper, more natural way to clean and sanitise floors.