Table of Contents
BLACK+DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Review: SteamGlove Worth It?
There’s something fundamentally awkward about holding a steam cleaner whilst trying to wipe surfaces simultaneously. You’re juggling the steamer in one hand, cloth in the other, steam shooting everywhere except where you actually need it. Your arms are at weird angles. The cloth keeps slipping. The steam’s either too much or too little. It’s inefficient and frankly ridiculous when you actually stop to think about the mechanics involved. That absurdity is precisely what the BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop with SteamGlove Handheld Steamer claims to solve.
The SteamGlove concept sounds mad at first – literally wearing a glove that produces steam so you can wipe and steam simultaneously with the same hand. It’s either brilliant or completely bonkers. Possibly both.
I’ll admit, I dismissed this as gimmicky nonsense when I first saw it. Steam glove? Really? That’s the innovation we’re going with? But the more I thought about traditional handheld steaming whilst cleaning counters, bathroom tiles, or appliances, the more that awkward two-hand juggling act annoyed me. Maybe a wearable steamer wasn’t such a ridiculous idea after all.
BLACK+DECKER’s been manufacturing home appliances since 1910. They’re known for power tools and kitchen gadgets rather than cutting-edge steam technology. This made me sceptical about their steam mop capabilities. Just because you make decent drills doesn’t mean you understand steam cleaning dynamics.
What specifically intrigued me beyond the glove gimmick was the continuous steam flow without trigger holding. After reviewing mops with trigger mechanisms that genuinely hurt your fingers during extended use, the prospect of automatic, continuous steam sounded appealing. Whether BLACK + DECKER actually delivered on this promise or whether it was more marketing fluff remained to be seen.
If you’re comparing different steam mop options and trying to understand where this sits competitively, check out our guide to the best steam cleaners for bathrooms to see how various models stack up.
I’ve been using this mop for twelve weeks now. Regular floor mopping, frequent bathroom cleaning, and occasional kitchen counter steaming. I’ve used that bizarre glove attachment enough to form legitimate opinions about whether it’s genuinely useful or purely novelty. Some features work better than expected. Others feel half-developed, like they tested the concept but didn’t refine the execution.
What I won’t claim is that the SteamGlove revolutionised my cleaning routine. It didn’t. What it did do was solve one specific awkward problem whilst creating different awkward problems elsewhere. Whether that trade-off works for you depends entirely on how much the original problem annoyed you.
First Impressions and Unboxing
The packaging arrives looking substantial. The box is large, reasonably heavy at 10 pounds, and covered in images showing the various configurations. BLACK + DECKER really emphasises that “7-in-1” versatility claim prominently on every visible surface.
Opening reveals an almost overwhelming accessory collection. The main steam mop body, the extension handle, that peculiar SteamGlove attachment, two standard mop pads, two glove pads, accessory hose, adjustable nozzle, multiple brushes (plastic, copper, grout), fabric steamer attachment, and an accessory bag that seems optimistic about actually containing everything.
My first reaction was “where am I supposed to store all this?” followed immediately by picking up the SteamGlove and thinking “this looks absolutely ridiculous.” It’s a blue and white fabric glove with a hard plastic steam port attachment. Wearing it makes you look like you’re cosplaying a low-budget science fiction character. My partner walked in, saw me wearing it, and just laughed.
The build quality on first inspection feels adequate for the price point. Lots of plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap and brittle. The blue and white colour scheme looks modern enough without being particularly attractive. Everything’s clearly consumer-grade rather than professional equipment.
The main steam unit is compact and surprisingly lightweight for something claiming a “large capacity tank.” Picking it up empty, it feels maybe 5-6 pounds. The construction feels solid enough to survive regular household use without immediately breaking.
Assembly instructions are straightforward. The handle clicks into the steam unit, the mop head attaches to the bottom, and you’re basically done. Took maybe five minutes. Attaching the various accessories follows obvious logic – the hose connects to the steam port, the brushes attach to the hose end, glove slides over the hose attachment.
The SteamGlove itself is a one-size-fits-all fabric with an elastic wrist opening. Fits over your hand reasonably well, though if you’ve got particularly large or small hands, the fit might feel awkward. The fabric feels like standard microfiber – nothing premium, just functional.
First heat-up genuinely took about 20 seconds. Significantly faster than most steam mops. The indicator light turns from red to solid blue when ready. No ambiguity, no guessing, just plug in and go within half a minute.
See Where The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Ranks On Our List Of The Best Steam Cleaners For Bathrooms
Design and Build Quality
The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop occupies interesting design territory between budget-friendly functionality and quirky innovation that may or may not actually improve anything.
The overall construction is predominantly plastic in blue and white. It looks like a steam mop, nothing particularly offensive or attractive. The colour scheme shows dirt moderately – not as badly as pure white, but you’ll notice scuffs and marks after regular use.
The main steam unit houses the water tank, heating element, and SmartSelect control dial. It’s compact enough to feel manageable, never unwieldy. The ergonomics work adequately when used as a traditional mop. The handle angle feels natural; nothing strains your wrist unnecessarily.
That SmartSelect dial offers three steam settings – Low, Medium, and High. The dial clicks satisfyingly between settings with clear tactile feedback. You know which setting you’re on without looking. Simple mechanical control rather than temperamental electronic buttons. I appreciate this old-school approach.
The mop head is rectangular, roughly 10 inches wide. Not the widest available, but adequate for reasonable coverage. The swivel mechanism works smoothly, making navigation around furniture legs genuinely effortless. This is one area where the design genuinely excels – the swivel action requires minimal force whilst providing a good range of motion.
The low-profile design (approximately 3 inches tall at the mop head) slides under most furniture without requiring you to move everything. Sofas, beds, and kitchen cabinets are all accessible. Small feature that matters more than you’d think during actual cleaning.
Now for that SteamGlove. It’s bizarre, there’s no way around it. The fabric glove itself feels like standard microfiber, machine washable, nothing special about the material. The hard plastic steam port attachment is where steam releases – it’s basically a small steam nozzle that sits in your palm.
Wearing the glove whilst steaming feels genuinely odd initially. The steam releases through the palm port, and you wipe with the microfiber exterior. It works, mechanically speaking. Whether it’s actually better than traditional methods is debatable.
After twelve weeks of regular use, some wear patterns have emerged. The blue plastic housing shows scuffs and marks. The white accents have slight discolouration from handling. The SteamGlove fabric has flattened somewhat, but still functions. Nothing’s actually broken, but it looks more worn than premium alternatives would after equivalent use.
The 20-foot power cord is genuinely useful. Long enough to cover most rooms from single sockets. The bright blue colour makes it easy to spot and avoid. Cord storage consists of basic wrapping around hooks on the handle – functional but unsophisticated.
Key Features
The SteamGlove concept is this mop’s defining characteristic. You literally wear a glove that produces steam whilst you wipe surfaces. In theory, this combines steaming and wiping into one motion, eliminating the awkward two-hand juggling act.
Does it work? Technically, yes. Is it better than traditional methods? Depends entirely on the task. For vertical surfaces like shower tiles or refrigerator exteriors, having the steam and wiping capability in one hand does feel more efficient. You’re not coordinating two hands doing different tasks.
For horizontal surfaces like counters, honestly, it feels unnecessary. Regular handheld steaming with a separate cloth works just as well without the bizarre sensation of wearing a steaming glove. The glove also gets quite warm during extended use – not painfully hot, but noticeably warm enough that your hand sweats inside the fabric.
Continuous steam flow without a trigger is genuinely liberating after using trigger-based mops. The steam flows automatically once you’ve selected your setting. No finger fatigue whatsoever. This alone justifies choosing this over trigger-based alternatives.
The trade-off is that you’re constantly using water, whether you need steam or not in that exact moment. With trigger mops, you control precisely when steam releases. Here, it’s flowing continuously whilst powered on. More convenient but potentially wasteful if you pause frequently.
SmartSelect variable steam control offers three distinct settings that actually feel different. Low produces gentle steam for delicate surfaces. Medium handles most routine cleaning. High cranks output noticeably for tough messes. The difference is perceptible, unlike some competitors, where settings feel identical.
The mechanical dial is straightforward and reliable. No temperamental electronic controls that fail after six months. Simple, robust, works every time.
The 20-second heat-up time is legitimately fast. Plug in, wait briefly, start steaming. No 5-7 minute waiting periods like older designs. When you’re responding to spills or doing quick clean-ups, this responsiveness genuinely matters.
However, I’ve noticed it’s more accurate to say “ready to produce steam in 20 seconds” rather than “ready to produce optimal steam.” The first 30-40 seconds produce weaker steam even after the indicator says it’s ready. Full power takes closer to a minute.
Convertible mop-to-handheld design works via simple button releases. Press the button, detach the handheld unit, attach the hose and accessories. The conversion takes maybe 15 seconds. Quick enough that you’ll actually do it rather than avoiding the hassle.
The handheld unit feels reasonably balanced when detached. Not perfectly ergonomic, but manageable for 10-15 minute cleaning sessions without excessive arm fatigue.
The comprehensive accessory kit provides a copper brush, a grout brush, a small plastic brush, a fabric steamer attachment, an adjustable nozzle, a hose, and two glove pads plus two mop pads. That’s genuinely seven different configurations justifying the “7-in-1” claim.
Do you need all these? Probably not. I regularly use maybe four – the standard mop, handheld with copper brush, handheld with grout brush, and occasionally the SteamGlove. The plastic brush and fabric steamer rarely get used. They’re nice to have for specific occasional tasks, but hardly essential.
The swivelling mop head makes floor navigation genuinely easy. Push around furniture, twist into corners, reverse direction smoothly. The swivel requires minimal force whilst providing a good range of motion. This outperforms fixed-head mops significantly.
Performance and Real-World Testing
Sealed hardwood floors respond well to continuous steam mopping. The combination of steam heat and microfiber pads lifts embedded dirt effectively. My hardwood genuinely looks cleaner after steaming compared to traditional mopping. Dries within 2-3 minutes, quick enough that I’m not avoiding entire rooms.
The continuous steam flow means you’re always applying steam, which is efficient for large floor areas. No pausing to hold triggers, just push and clean. However, if you’re doing small areas or spot cleaning, that continuous flow feels wasteful.
Kitchen tiles come up excellently. Accumulated cooking grease, general griminess, and tracked-in dirt all shift with moderate effort. The steam heat combined with textured pads creates effective cleaning action. Nothing spectacular, just reliable, solid performance.
Bathroom grout with the dedicated grout brush produces decent results. Light grout staining responds reasonably well. The brush bristles fit grout lines nicely, and the steam helps loosen embedded dirt. Heavily stained grout still requires chemical cleaners, but regular maintenance cleaning works adequately.
The SteamGlove in action on vertical bathroom surfaces (shower walls, tiles, glass doors) works better than I expected. Having steam and wiping capability in one hand does feel more efficient than coordinating two hands. You steam and wipe in one motion, maintaining consistent pressure and coverage.
The glove gets quite warm though. After 10 minutes of steaming shower walls, your hand is noticeably sweaty inside the fabric. Not painfully hot, just uncomfortably warm. Taking breaks becomes necessary during extended cleaning sessions.
Kitchen counters and appliances with handheld mode (without the glove) work well. Refrigerator exteriors, microwave interiors, and stovetop surfaces all respond to steaming with appropriate brush attachments. The copper brush particularly excels at baked-on stovetop mess.
Honestly, I rarely used the SteamGlove for horizontal surfaces. Regular handheld steaming felt more natural and controllable. The glove’s benefits really only manifest on vertical surfaces where you’re reaching and wiping awkwardly.
Window and mirror steaming requires technique. Too much steam creates streaks and drips. Too little doesn’t clean effectively. Once you find the right setting and wiping motion, the results are decent. Not necessarily better than traditional window cleaner, just different.
Fabric steaming for garments and upholstery using the fabric steamer attachment works adequately. Removes wrinkles from dress shirts, freshens sofa cushions moderately. Not as effective as dedicated garment steamers, but functional for occasional use.
One consistent performance characteristic: the steam output genuinely continues without fade during use. Unlike some competitors that produce strong initial steam then gradually weaken, this maintains consistent output throughout the tank. Appreciated during extended cleaning sessions.
The large capacity tank claim is somewhat overstated. It’s larger than some budget models but not dramatically so. Gives maybe 25-30 minutes of continuous steaming, which covers 2-3 medium rooms before requiring refills. Adequate but not exceptional.
See Where The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Ranks On Our List Of The Best Steam Cleaners For Bathrooms
Technical Specifications
Weight: 10 pounds when filled (approximately 6-7 pounds empty). Manageable weight that doesn’t create excessive strain during use. The handheld unit alone weighs maybe 4-5 pounds loaded.
Dimensions: 12.79 inches deep, 7.40 inches wide, 25.30 inches tall when fully assembled. Compact storage footprint. The low-profile mop head sits approximately 3 inches tall.
Water tank capacity: Not explicitly stated by the manufacturer, but based on runtime, approximately 450-500ml (15-17 ounces). Provides 25-30 minutes of continuous steaming. Adequate for 2-3 medium rooms per fill.
Cleaning path width: Approximately 10 inches. Middle-of-the-road width. Not the widest available, but reasonable for efficient coverage without excessive passes.
Power cord length: 20 feet. Genuinely excellent length that reduces constant socket-switching. Covers most rooms from single plug points. Bright blue colour makes it easy to spot and avoid.
Heat-up time: 20 seconds to the indicator light (actual optimal steam closer to 45-60 seconds). Still faster than most competitors. Quick enough for spontaneous cleaning without excessive waiting.
Steam control: SmartSelect dial with three settings (Low, Medium, High). Mechanical dial rather than electronic controls. Continuous steam flow without trigger holding.
Power consumption: Standard 120V corded operation. No published wattage specification, but typical for steam mops (likely 1200-1500 watts). Won’t overload household circuits.
Included accessories: 7-piece system comprising standard mop configuration, handheld steamer, SteamGlove, copper brush, grout brush, plastic brush, fabric steamer attachment, adjustable nozzle, plus hose and accessory bag. Also includes 2 mop pads and 2 glove pads.
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty. Standard consumer protection. BLACK+DECKER’s support reputation is adequate – not exceptional, but they generally resolve issues without excessive hassle.
These specifications position this as an entry-to-mid-range steam mop with quirky innovation (the glove) rather than technical superiority.
Accessories and Tools Included
The accessory collection is genuinely comprehensive for the price point. Here’s what you actually receive and what gets regular use:
Two standard mop pads: Microfiber rectangles that attach to the mop head via hook-and-loop. Machine washable. Standard quality, nothing exceptional. Last reasonably well through repeated washing. Replacement pads cost $8-12 for multi-packs.
Two SteamGlove pads: Smaller microfiber pieces specifically for the glove attachment. Same washability as standard pads. You’ll need these if you actually use the glove regularly. Finding replacement SteamGlove pads specifically can be trickier than standard pads.
SteamGlove assembly: The actual glove plus hard plastic steam port attachment. The glove itself is made of machine-washable fabric. The steam port detaches for separate cleaning. This is the signature accessory that defines this entire system.
Copper brush: Metal bristles (actual copper, not just copper-coloured plastic), good for scrubbing without scratching. Excellent for stovetops, oven racks, and grill grates. Gets heavy use in my kitchen. One of the most useful accessories included.
Grout brush: Stiffer bristles specifically angled for grout lines. Works adequately for light grout cleaning and maintenance. Insufficient for heavily stained grout but helpful for regular upkeep.
Small plastic brush: Softer bristles for more delicate surfaces. Honestly rarely use this. The copper brush handles most tasks more effectively. Feels somewhat unnecessary.
Fabric steamer attachment: Holds fabric in place for garment and upholstery steaming. Works fine for occasional use. Not as effective as dedicated garment steamers, but functional enough.
Adjustable nozzle: Directs steam into a concentrated stream for tight spaces and crevices. Useful occasionally but not regularly. Nice to have for specific situations.
Accessory hose: Approximately 3-4 feet connecting the handheld unit to various attachments. Reasonable length providing adequate reach without excessive bulk. Flexible enough to manoeuvre comfortably.
Accessory bag: A Fabric bag theoretically containing all the small accessories. In practice, it’s too small and flimsy to actually contain everything long-term. Within weeks, tools start migrating around your cleaning cupboard.
The sheer quantity initially impresses. After regular use, you realise you’ve got 3-4 accessories you use regularly and several that just create storage clutter. The value depends on whether that variety genuinely serves your needs or just adds complexity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Continuous steam without trigger eliminates finger fatigue – Steam flows automatically at the selected setting. No sustained finger pressure required whatsoever. Genuinely liberating after trigger-based mops that cause actual hand pain during extended use.
- Legitimately fast 20-second heat-up for spontaneous cleaning – Plug in, brief wait, start steaming. No lengthy waiting periods. Perfect for quick spill responses without planning. Even accounting for optimal steam taking 45-60 seconds, still faster than most competitors.
- SteamGlove actually solves vertical surface awkwardness – On shower walls, refrigerator doors, bathroom tiles, having steam and wiping in one hand genuinely feels more efficient. Eliminates the awkward two-hand coordination. Not just gimmick – actually useful for specific applications.
- 20-foot cord reaches places without constant unplugging – Most rooms are cleanable from single sockets. Dramatically reduces the repositioning dance. Bright blue colour prevents running it over accidentally.
- SmartSelect dial provides genuinely different steam levels – Three settings that actually feel distinct. Low for delicate surfaces, high for tough messes. Mechanical dial reliability over temperamental electronics.
- Swivel steering makes floor navigation genuinely effortless – Around furniture, into corners, changing direction all happen smoothly. Combined with a decent mop head width, creates an efficient cleaning motion.
- Comprehensive accessory kit includes actually useful tools – Copper brush is particularly excellent. Seven configurations justified rather than marketing exaggeration. Even if you don’t use everything, having options adds value.
Cons
- SteamGlove gets uncomfortably warm during extended use – Your hand sweats inside the fabric after 10-15 minutes. Not painfully hot but noticeably uncomfortable. Requires breaks during long cleaning sessions.
- Continuous steam wastes water during pauses – No trigger means steam flows constantly whilst powered on. More convenient but less efficient if you pause frequently or do small areas. No precise control over when steam releases.
- Tank capacity adequate but not impressive – 25-30 minutes continuous steaming covers 2-3 medium rooms. You’ll refill at least once during whole-home cleaning. Adequate but nothing special.
- The SteamGlove concept works better vertically than horizontally – On counters and horizontal surfaces, traditional handheld steaming feels more natural. The glove’s benefits really only manifest on vertical awkward surfaces. Limits practical applications.
- Accessory bag inadequate for actual storage – Too small and flimsy to contain everything properly. Tools migrate around the cleaning cupboard, creating clutter. You’ll need separate storage solutions.
Who This Product Is Best For
Small-to-medium homes with 1,000-2,000 square feet of sealed hard floors plus various above-floor surfaces. The tank capacity suits this size range without excessive refilling frustration.
People who genuinely struggle with vertical surface cleaning. If you find shower walls, bathroom tiles, or refrigerator exteriors awkward with traditional two-hand steaming methods, the SteamGlove actually addresses that specific frustration. Not universal appeal, but valuable for those specific pain points.
Health-conscious families wanting chemical-free cleaning throughout their homes. The continuous steam provides consistent sanitisation without harsh products. No residue on floors, counters, or surfaces where children play, or food gets prepared.
Budget-conscious buyers wanting convertible functionality with quirky innovation. At $79-119, this delivers genuine versatility plus the unique glove feature for a reasonable cost. You’re not paying premium prices but getting legitimate multi-purpose capability.
People who’ve experienced trigger mechanism finger fatigue with other steam mops. The continuous flow eliminates that problem. If trigger-holding genuinely hurts your hand, this offers relief.
Those with adequate physical capability and tolerance for warmth. The SteamGlove requires wearing a warming fabric accessory during use. If you’ve got circulation issues, excessive hand sweating, or heat sensitivity, this might prove uncomfortable.
This isn’t for large homes over 2,500 square feet. The tank capacity becomes frustrating with constant refills. Look at models with 20+ ounce tanks instead.
Skip it if the SteamGlove concept sounds gimmicky and unappealing. That’s the defining feature here. If you’re not interested in trying it, you’re paying for innovation you won’t use. Consider conventional alternatives.
See Where The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Ranks On Our List Of The Best Steam Cleaners For Bathrooms
Alternative Uses and Versatility
The SteamGlove transforms awkward behind-the-toilet cleaning. That narrow gap between the toilet and the wall? Wearing the glove lets you reach in whilst steaming and wiping simultaneously. Genuinely easier than traditional methods for this specific, annoying task.
Ceiling fan blade cleaning uses the glove effectively. Stand on a stepladder, reach up, steam and wipe blades in one motion. More efficient than coordinating a handheld steamer and a separate cloth while balancing.
Venetian blind slat cleaning benefits from the glove configuration. Thread your gloved hand between slats, steam and wipe both sides simultaneously. Faster than cleaning each slat individually with traditional methods.
Handrail steaming for staircases works excellently with continuous flow. Just run the standard mop head along the rail (without floor pad attached), steam sanitises whilst you wipe. Much easier than spraying cleaner.
Car dashboard vent cleaning uses the small plastic brush attachment effectively. The continuous steam combined with precision brushing reaches those annoying crevices where dust accumulates. Much more thorough than compressed air alone.
Radiator fin cleaning employs the adjustable nozzle brilliantly. Direct concentrated steam between fins, loosening accumulated dust that cloths can’t reach. Follow with a vacuum for genuinely clean radiators.
Pet crate sanitisation uses continuous steam excellently. The steam penetrates metal or plastic surfaces, and heat kills bacteria and odours. Chemical-free approach perfect for areas where pets sleep and eat.
Value for Money and Comparison
At $79-119 (depending on retailer and sales), the BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop occupies budget-friendly territory whilst offering quirky innovation not found elsewhere at this price point. The value proposition centres entirely on whether the SteamGlove concept appeals to you.
Budget floor-only steam mops ($50-70) handle basic mopping adequately without convertible features or the glove gimmick. If you genuinely only mop floors and don’t care about the glove, those alternatives represent better pure value. Save $20-40 and get equivalent floor performance.
The Bissell PowerFresh Slim 3-in-1 ($89-119) offers similar convertible functionality without the glove but with on-demand trigger control. Different trade-offs – trigger mechanism precision versus continuous flow convenience. Bissell includes more standard accessories, BLACK + DECKER counters with the unique glove.
The Shark Lift-Away 5-in-1 S3972BRN ($99-129) provides comparable versatility with a copper brush tool and a wider accessory selection. Shark’s better for serious kitchen cleaning, BLACK + DECKER’s unique for vertical surface work via the glove. For comprehensive steam cleaner comparisons across all price points, see how these models rank in our best steam cleaners list.
The 2-year warranty provides standard consumer protection. BLACK+DECKER’s support reputation is adequate – not exceptional like premium brands, but they generally resolve issues without making you jump through excessive hoops.
Long-term value depends on two factors: SteamGlove usage frequency and continuous steam preference. If you regularly steam vertical surfaces and appreciate automatic flow, the value increases significantly. If the glove sits unused and you prefer trigger control, the value diminishes substantially.
Chemical cleaning savings partially offset the cost. If you’re currently spending $80-100 yearly on various cleaners and disinfectants, steam cleaning reduces that by 50-60%. Payback period sits around 12-15 months.
Replacement pads cost $8-12 for multi-packs (standard mop pads readily available, SteamGlove pads sometimes trickier to source). Lasting 4-6 months with regular use and proper washing. Not high ongoing costs.
Build quality suggests 3-5 year lifespan with proper maintenance. Budget models typically fail within 2-3 years. Premium models last 7-10+ years. BLACK+DECKER sits in the middle-lower range.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
Basic maintenance is straightforward. Wipe down housing after use. Machine wash all fabric pads at 30-40°C. Empty the remaining water from the tank. Standard routine cleaning upkeep.
The critical maintenance point: use distilled water consistently. Tap water causes mineral deposits to clog steam channels over time. BLACK+DECKER documentation recommends distilled water. I tested this by using tap water initially – within five weeks, steam output noticeably weakened. Descaling with white vinegar solution restored function, but it’s a hassle avoided by using distilled water from the start.
Descaling frequency depends on the water. With distilled water exclusively, you might descale every 60-80 uses. With tap water in hard water areas, you’re looking at every 20-30 uses. White vinegar works perfectly – fill tank with 50/50 vinegar-water mix, steam through system for 2-3 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
The mop pads and SteamGlove pads hold up reasonably well through washing. I’m still using original pads after twelve weeks of regular use. Texture’s flattened slightly, but they still function effectively. Machine washing at 40°C keeps them fresh. Avoid fabric softener, which reduces steam permeability.
Common issues from user reports online: vague assembly instructions, confusing which attachments go where (accurate – the manual isn’t particularly clear), water tank filling awkward due to cord placement (also accurate – you need to manoeuvre around the cord), occasional steam sputtering when tank runs low (normal behaviour, just annoying).
Expected lifespan sits around 3-5 years with diligent maintenance. Most user reports show 2-4 years of trouble-free operation before something fails. The construction quality suggests it’ll reach the middle end of that range with proper care.
The 2-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects. Standard consumer protection. Won’t cover wear items like pads or user damage. BLACK+DECKER’s customer service has a decent reputation – not amazing, but they generally sort problems without excessive hassle.
Replacement parts and accessories remain available through BLACK+DECKER’s website, Amazon, and major retailers. Standard mop pads are easy to find. SteamGlove-specific pads sometimes require ordering directly from the manufacturer. Expect $8-12 for replacement pads, $10-15 for replacement glove assembly if needed.
Reasons to Buy This Product
The SteamGlove genuinely solves vertical surface awkwardness if that specific problem frustrates you. On shower walls, refrigerator doors, and bathroom tiles, having steam and wiping in one hand legitimately feels more efficient. Not universal appeal, but valuable for those specific pain points.
Continuous steam eliminates trigger mechanism finger fatigue entirely. If you’ve experienced genuine hand pain from holding steam triggers during extended cleaning, this automatic flow provides complete relief. Genuinely liberating compared to trigger-based alternatives.
Fast 20-second heat-up enables spontaneous spill response without planning. Plug in, brief wait, start cleaning. Perfect for a reactive rather than scheduled cleaning approach.
Chemical-free whole-home sanitisation that actually works. Continuous steam provides consistent germ elimination without toxic residues. Particularly valuable for homes with crawling children or curious pets.
Budget-friendly pricing for genuine innovation plus convertible functionality. You’re getting the unique glove feature plus standard versatility for entry-level pricing. Not paying premium costs whilst still gaining capabilities beyond basic floor mopping.
SmartSelect mechanical dial provides reliable control without temperamental electronics. Simple, robust, and it works consistently. Three genuinely different steam levels rather than identical settings with different labels.
Comprehensive accessory kit includes legitimately useful tools. The copper brush is particularly excellent for kitchen cleaning. Seven configurations justified rather than marketing exaggeration.
See Where The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Ranks On Our List Of The Best Steam Cleaners For Bathrooms
Reasons to Skip This Product
The SteamGlove concept sounds gimmicky and you’re not interested in trying it. That’s the defining unique feature here. If it doesn’t appeal, you’re paying for innovation you won’t use. Look at conventional alternatives offering better standard features instead.
Continuous steam bothers you because you prefer precise trigger control. The automatic flow is convenient but wastes water during pauses. If you value efficiency and precise steam timing over convenience, trigger-based models suit you better.
The tank capacity of around 25-30 minutes feels inadequate for your home size. If you’ve got over 2,000 square feet, constant refilling becomes the dominant experience. Look at models with 18-20+ ounce tanks.
You’ve got heat sensitivity or excessive hand sweating issues. The SteamGlove gets noticeably warm during extended use. If you’re uncomfortable with warming fabric accessories, this won’t work comfortably.
You want premium build quality and a 7-10 year lifespan. This is budget-to-mid-range construction likely lasting 3-5 years. If longevity matters more than quirky features, invest in premium Kärcher or Dupray models instead.
Conclusion
My Assessment After Twelve Weeks
The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop with SteamGlove Handheld Steamer delivers quirky innovation that genuinely solves specific problems whilst creating new considerations elsewhere. After twelve weeks of regular floor cleaning plus frequent vertical surface steaming, I’d characterise it as “surprisingly useful for appropriate applications, genuinely awkward for others.”
The SteamGlove works exactly as advertised. You wear a glove that produces steam, and wipe surfaces with that same gloved hand. For vertical awkward surfaces like shower walls or behind-toilet areas, this configuration genuinely feels more efficient than traditional two-hand coordination. The innovation isn’t just marketing fluff for those specific applications.
The continuous steam flow without a trigger eliminates finger fatigue entirely. This alone justifies choosing this over trigger-based alternatives if you’ve experienced genuine hand pain during extended steaming sessions. The automatic flow is genuinely liberating.
The Critical Decision Factors
Whether the SteamGlove appeals determines if this makes sense for you. That’s the defining unique feature. If the concept sounds gimmicky and unappealing, you’re paying for innovation you’ll ignore. The glove genuinely works, but only proves valuable if you actually use it regularly.
The continuous steam versus trigger control preference matters significantly. Automatic flow provides convenience at the cost of precision and efficiency. Some users love not holding triggers, others prefer controlled steam release. No middle ground exists – you’ll strongly prefer one approach.
Tank capacity suits small-to medium-sized homes adequately. Larger spaces require frequent refills. This limitation compounds over regular use more than initially apparent.
Who Should Buy This
Medium homes (1,000-2,000 sq ft) where tank capacity proves manageable. People genuinely interested in trying the SteamGlove for vertical surface cleaning. Those who’ve experienced trigger mechanism finger pain with other mops. Budget-conscious buyers wanting quirky innovation plus standard convertible functionality. Health-conscious families prioritising chemical-free sanitisation.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Large homes needing less frequent refills. Anyone uninterested in the SteamGlove concept (it’s the main differentiator here). Those preferring trigger control precision over automatic convenience. People wanting premium 7-10 year lifespan rather than a 3-5 year budget durability. Those with heat sensitivity uncomfortable with warming fabric accessories.
Living With It Daily
The SteamGlove genuinely gets used for my weekly bathroom cleaning. Shower walls and toilet areas benefit noticeably from the one-hand configuration. For counters and horizontal surfaces, I rarely bother with the glove – traditional handheld steaming feels more natural there.
The continuous steam proves more convenient than I initially expected. Not holding triggers during entire floor mopping sessions genuinely reduces fatigue. The water waste during pauses annoys me slightly, but not enough to outweigh the convenience.
Tank capacity requires one refill during the whole ground-floor cleaning (roughly 1,400 sq ft). Annoying but manageable. Not deal-breaking but definitely limiting.
Build quality after twelve weeks shows moderate wear. Cosmetic scuffing on blue plastic, slight flattening on pads, but nothing actually broken. Functionality remains intact.
See Where The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop Ranks On Our List Of The Best Steam Cleaners For Bathrooms
Final Recommendation
For comprehensive comparisons showing where the BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop with SteamGlove ranks against alternatives across all feature sets and price ranges, visit our complete guide to the best steam cleaners covering budget through premium options.
The honest assessment? It’s a functional budget-friendly convertible steam mop with genuinely unique innovation (the glove) that works well for specific applications but feels gimmicky for others. Whether that innovation matters depends entirely on your specific cleaning frustrations and willingness to try unconventional solutions.
Recommended with significant caveats for appropriate users? Yes – if vertical surface awkwardness frustrates you and continuous steam appeals. Recommended universally? No – too quirky and application-specific for that.
The BLACK + DECKER 7-in-1 Steam Mop with SteamGlove Handheld Steamer occupies a unique niche: budget-conscious buyers wanting to try genuinely different innovation rather than incremental improvements on standard designs. If that describes you and the glove concept intrigues rather than repels, this delivers decent value. If the whole thing sounds bizarre, trust that instinct and examine conventional alternatives instead.
