Shark Klik N' Flip vs Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
We compare the Shark Klik N' Flip and the Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Shark Klik N' Flip | Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
| Best for | Chemical-free steam cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors | Chemical-free steam cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors |
| Not ideal for | Unsealed wood or carpets, and soaking up spills - it cleans with steam, not a wet mop | Unsealed wood or carpets, and soaking up spills - it cleans with steam, not a wet mop |
| Brand | Shark | Vax |
Cleaning Performance
Shark Klik N' Flip
With sealed hard floors in mind, this steam mop cleans using steam only, using heat and humidity to loosen grime rather than scrubbing with chemicals. It performs best on everyday marks, because steam softens residue so the cleaning pads can lift it as they move. The two machine-washable pads help maintain contact, since replacing a dirty pad can restore pick-up. For sticky spills or ground-in spots, results depend on dwell time, as steam needs contact before grime releases. The mop is designed for steady passes, and heavily soiled areas may require repeated treatments.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
Cleaning performance with this steam mop focuses on using hot steam to loosen grime on sealed hard floors and on above-floor areas. As a 2-in-1 steam cleaner with an upright steam mop format and a detachable handheld unit, it supports one cleaning approach for both mopping and targeted steaming around spots, edges and crevices without switching appliances. On floors, steam helps lift sticky marks so residue can be carried away by the mop action, while the handheld attachment supports focused steaming on grout lines and splash zones. For bathrooms, ovens and general home use, heavily baked deposits may require repeated passes and careful wiping after steaming.
Steam, Heat-Up and Water Tank
Shark Klik N' Flip
Steam and water control determine how consistently the Shark can clean sealed hard floors, so it helps to focus on how steam is delivered after filling. The machine uses a 350ml fill flask to guide the user to add water to the tank before operation. Once filled, it relies on intelligent steam control to regulate output, with the aim of keeping steam steady rather than surging. An added "steam blaster" mode provides extra bursts for tougher spots, although how often it is needed varies by mess level. The two machine-washable cleaning pads sit separately, so the water supply affects steam delivery rather than pad condition.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
Steam delivery and readiness time matter with the Vax, because it is a 2-in-1 steam cleaner that combines a portable handheld unit with a floor steam mop format. It works by using hot steam generated from water to tackle grime and spots, so heating has to complete before effective steam release. Once warm-up is finished, steam can be applied to targeted areas on floors using the mop format or to smaller tasks using the handheld unit. The water tank supplies the water that becomes steam, so refills may be needed during longer sessions depending on how it is used. With 1600W power, the unit is designed to provide steady heat.
Floor Types and Pads
Shark Klik N' Flip
Floor types and pad choice matter with the steam mop because it is designed for sealed hard floors, with two machine-washable cleaning pads that clean the surface directly. For best results, the floor should be sealed, since unsealed or sensitive surfaces may not be suitable. The two included pads attach to the mop head for direct contact with the floor. Before use, the pad should be secured evenly, then steam cleaning can begin. After use, the pads can be machine washed, but they should be left to dry fully first, since damp pads may reduce cleaning performance. The floor manufacturer's guidance should be followed for compatibility with steam cleaning and hard-floor materials.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
The way the steam mop uses pads depends on the floor type, because steam cleaning works best where the surface can tolerate heat and moisture. For sealed hard floors such as sealed laminate, tile and other sealed surfaces that are designed for dampness, the pad helps spread steam evenly and can loosen grime. On unsealed wood, waxed floors, or very delicate finishes, moisture and heat can cause dulling or swelling, so cleaning performance can be limited. Pad thickness also affects use: thicker pads can hold more moisture, while thinner pads can spread steam more quickly but may feel less forgiving. Testing on a small hidden area first is recommended, alongside checking the floor manufacturer's advice.
Type: Upright Mop, Handheld or Multi
Shark Klik N' Flip
The Shark is an upright steam mop, not a handheld unit. It is designed for standing use while cleaning sealed hard floors, with the core function of steaming to lift grime from these surfaces. The design follows a mop-style workflow, with the pads contacting the floor while steam is delivered during steady passes. The unit can be used with two machine-washable cleaning pads, making pad changes part of routine care. It is intended for sealed hard floors such as sealed laminate, tile, vinyl or sealed hardwood, using hot steam generated from water only. It is not a wet mop, vacuum or carpet washer, and it should not be used on unsealed wood, waxed floors or carpet. Checking the floor manufacturer's advice is recommended before use.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
How versatile is the Vax? This model is a multi-use steam cleaner that combines an upright floor steam mop with a handheld unit for smaller jobs around the home, including in the bathroom. It uses the same base for upright mopping and then converts to handheld steaming with added accessories. Because it relies on steam rather than detergent or brushes alone, heavier marks may require more than one pass, particularly on sealed hard floors where steam mops are intended for use. As with any steam mop, the floor surface must be compatible: it is for SEALED hard floors only, and the floor manufacturer's advice should be followed before use.
Weight, Cord and Handling
Shark Klik N' Flip
For an upright steam mop like the steam mop, everyday handling is shaped as much by weight and reach as by cleaning power, because the pads must stay pressed to sealed hard floors during steady passes. The cord length is 6m, which supports moving between rooms without frequent outlet changes, but it can still limit reach around tight corners. A 350ml fill flask also affects how often the user stops to refill. When guiding the mop, the operator should keep forward motion even.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
At 3.7kg, the steam mop sits in the mid-range for a combined upright steam mop and detachable handheld steamer, and that weight can help it feel stable during floor steaming while still being manageable to lift and switch into handheld use. Day-to-day handling depends on how often the unit is raised, angled, and carried between rooms, because it remains a combined format. The article does not provide details on cord length or cord routing, so practical reach, storage space requirements, and whether extra plugging is needed are not stated.
Who Is This Steam Mop For?
Shark Klik N' Flip
Who is this steam mop for depends on the type of sealed hard floors being cleaned and how the user prefers to steam mop in sections. The Shark Klik is made for sealed hard floors, so it suits sealed laminate, tile, vinyl and sealed hardwood. It also works best with an upright steam mop routine, with easy pad swapping and room-by-room cleaning. The two machine washable cleaning pads support a practical approach for households that want one pad ready while the other is cleaned. This steam mop is not for unsealed wood, waxed floors or carpet, and coverage can vary on highly textured surfaces, so checking the floor manufacturer's advice is important.
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C
Who is this steam mop for? The Vax Steam Fresh Combi is a 2-in-1 upright steam mop with a detachable handheld steamer, so it suits households that want both floor steaming and portable handheld cleaning. It is designed for indoor tasks around kitchens, bathrooms and other hard surface areas. The 1600W mains-powered design will suit users who prefer to plug in rather than use a battery tool. At 3.7kg it is manageable for many, although it may feel heavy during longer sessions. With 11 accessories included, it supports cleaning beyond mopping, including areas such as ovens and bathroom areas.
Shark Klik N' Flip: pros
- Upright steam mop
- 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
Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C: 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
Our verdict
Our pick is the Shark Klik N' Flip (our score 9.3/10) - A practical steam mop (upright mop) for quick, chemical-free floor cleaning at home. The Vax Steam Fresh Combi S86-SF-C is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.