If you are shopping for a Shark Steam & Scrub mop, the buying decision is simpler than many roundups make it appear. The Shark S8201 is the complete steam-cleaning machine, while the XKITP7000D is a reusable replacement-pad kit for compatible Shark Steam & Scrub models. They work together, but they are not competing appliances. This guide explains which one you need, the important limitations to understand, and how to use the system without damaging your floors or steam mop.
Last updated: August 3, 2026 — product relevance, manufacturer specifications, compatibility guidance, safety wording, affiliate links and FAQ schema were reviewed.
Affiliate disclosure: This article contains Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Prices, package contents and availability can change, so confirm the current Amazon listing before ordering.
Quick Verdict
Choose the Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 when you need the complete corded steam mop with rotating pads, three steam settings and targeted Steam Blaster power. Buy the XKITP7000D pad kit only when you already own a compatible Shark Steam & Scrub mop and need additional or replacement pads.
Important floor and appliance safety: Use steam only on sealed, heat-tolerant floors approved for steam cleaning by the flooring manufacturer. Do not use the S8201 on unsealed wood, unglazed tile or other steam-sensitive materials. Fill its tank with water only—never add floor cleaner, essential oils, scented liquids, disinfectants or other chemicals.
Shark Steam & Scrub Quick Comparison
| Product | Product Type | Best For | Key Details | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 | Complete corded steam mop | Stuck-on messes on manufacturer-approved sealed hard floors | Three steam modes, rotating pads, Steam Blaster, LED headlights and four included pads | Check Amazon Availability |
| Shark XKITP7000D Pads | Washable replacement accessory | Owners who need spare scrubbing and dusting pads | Two Soft Scrub pads and two Dusting pads; check exact mop compatibility | Check Amazon Availability |
Compatibility note: The pad kit is an accessory and cannot clean floors by itself. Compare the model number on your existing mop with the compatibility information in the current Amazon listing before ordering.
Shark Steam & Scrub Hard Floor Steam Mop (S8201)
The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is the right starting point when you want the complete machine rather than an accessory. It combines steam with two powered rotating pads, reducing the amount of manual scrubbing needed for dried spills and stuck-on residue on suitable sealed hard floors.
You can switch among Light, Normal and Deep steam modes based on the cleaning task. Light mode suits quick maintenance, Normal handles everyday cleaning, and Deep provides the strongest setting for more stubborn messes. The handle-operated Steam Blaster directs an extra burst of steam toward a specific spot before you pass the rotating pads over it.
The S8201 also includes LED headlights for spotting debris, a removable water tank and four washable Dirt Grip Soft Scrub pads. It is a corded appliance, so it provides continuous power without battery charging, although its 18.6-foot cord may require outlet changes in larger layouts.
Verified Key Specifications
- Model: S8201
- Product type: Corded hard-floor steam mop
- Steam settings: Light, Normal and Deep
- Targeted function: Steam Blaster
- Included pads: Four washable Dirt Grip Soft Scrub pads
- Power: 1120 watts
- Cord length: 18.6 feet
- Listed weight: 8.91 pounds
- Listed warranty: One year
Why You’ll Like It
The powered pads provide consistent scrubbing movement while the steam helps loosen residue. This combination is useful when an ordinary flat steam mop still requires repeated passes or significant downward pressure. The three settings also provide better control than a single-output machine.
Who Should Buy It
Consider the S8201 when you have manufacturer-approved sealed tile, stone, laminate, vinyl, marble or sealed hardwood and regularly encounter footprints, kitchen residue or dried-on spots. It is especially practical for buyers who prefer water-only cleaning and do not mind using a corded appliance.
Who Should Avoid It
Skip this model if your flooring manufacturer prohibits steam, if your floors are unsealed, damaged or wax-finished, or if you need a machine that vacuums loose debris before mopping. You should sweep or vacuum grit, crumbs and pet hair before using this steam mop.
Best For: Households that need powered scrubbing and adjustable steam for suitable sealed hard floors.
Pros:
- Combines steam with powered rotating pads to reduce manual scrubbing
- Offers Light, Normal and Deep settings for different cleaning tasks
- Steam Blaster provides targeted steam for stubborn spots
- Includes LED headlights, a removable tank and four washable pads
- Corded power avoids battery-runtime and recharging concerns
Cons:
- Suitable only for sealed, heat-tolerant floors approved for steam cleaning
- Does not vacuum loose dirt or pet hair before mopping
- The 18.6-foot cord may require outlet changes in larger homes
- At 8.91 pounds, it is heavier than some basic steam-only mops
- Sanitization requires following the manufacturer’s complete operating procedure
Shark Steam & Scrub Reusable Washable Pads (XKITP7000D)
The Shark XKITP7000D is a replacement accessory for compatible Shark Steam & Scrub mops. It is not a standalone mop and should be purchased only when you already own a compatible machine or are buying the S8201 and want spare pads.
The kit includes two Soft Scrub pads for routine scrubbing and two Dusting pads for lighter floor care. The Soft Scrub pads use textured microfiber to help lift residue, while the Dusting pads use softer material and extended fabric fingers to reach closer to edges and corners.
Having a second set is useful when the included pads are in the wash or when you want to avoid moving a dirty pad from one room to another. Product listings describe the pads as reusable for up to 20 regular wash cycles, although actual lifespan depends on soil level, washing method and how frequently they are used.
What the Kit Includes
- Two Shark Steam & Scrub Dirt Grip Soft Scrub washable pads
- Two Shark Steam & Scrub Dirt Grip Dusting washable pads
- Four reusable pads in total
- Textured pads for scrubbing and softer pads for lighter cleaning
Why You’ll Like It
A spare set lets you continue cleaning while another pair is being washed. The two pad styles also make it easier to match the pad to the job instead of using an aggressive scrubbing texture for every pass.
Who Should Buy It
Buy this kit when you own a compatible Shark Steam & Scrub mop and need replacement pads, want separate pads for kitchens and bathrooms, or prefer to rotate clean sets between uses.
Who Should Avoid It
Do not purchase this kit as a floor-cleaning machine. It contains pads only. Owners of other Shark mop families or non-Shark appliances should verify fitment instead of assuming that similarly shaped pads will attach correctly.
Best For: Owners of compatible Shark Steam & Scrub mops who want washable spare pads for scrubbing, dusting and room-to-room rotation.
Pros:
- Includes both Soft Scrub and Dusting pad styles
- Washable design reduces dependence on disposable pads
- Four-pad kit makes it easier to keep a clean set available
- Extended fabric fingers help reach closer to edges and corners
Cons:
- Contains accessories only and cannot clean without a compatible mop
- Fitment should be checked against the exact mop model before purchase
- Pads require regular laundering and complete drying
- Microfiber performance gradually declines with wear and repeated washing
What to Consider Before Buying a Shark Steam & Scrub Mop
The S8201 offers useful scrubbing power, but it is not appropriate for every floor or cleaning routine. Review your flooring instructions, electrical layout and maintenance preferences before purchasing.
Complete Machine or Replacement Accessory?
The S8201 box contains the powered steam mop and four pads. The XKITP7000D box contains replacement pads only. Buyers should check the product type carefully because an accessory listing can appear beside complete machines in search results.
Floor Compatibility
Steam should be used only on sealed floors that the flooring manufacturer specifically approves for steam cleaning. A surface described as “hardwood,” “laminate” or “vinyl” is not automatically steam-safe. Age, seam condition, adhesive, finish and warranty terms can all affect suitability.
Test an inconspicuous area first and stop if you notice clouding, lifting, discoloration, softened adhesive or changes in the finish. Never use the mop on unsealed wood or damaged flooring where moisture can enter seams.
Water-Only Operation
Fill the S8201 tank with cold or room-temperature water only. Do not add floor cleaner, vinegar, disinfectant, fragrance, essential oils or descaling chemicals to the tank. Unauthorized liquids can damage internal components, create residue, affect steam output or void warranty coverage.
If you have hard water, follow the manufacturer’s guidance regarding distilled water. Mineral buildup can reduce performance over time.
Rotating Pad Action
The motorized pads provide repeated scrubbing movement while the mop is tilted into its operating position. This can make dried residue easier to remove, but the pads do not replace proper preparation. Vacuum or sweep loose grit first so abrasive debris is not dragged across the floor.
Steam Modes and Steam Blaster
Light, Normal and Deep modes let you adjust steam output and pad action for different tasks. Begin with the lowest suitable setting, especially on a floor you have not steam-cleaned before. Use Steam Blaster only as needed for a concentrated spot, and avoid holding steam over one area longer than instructed.
Cord Length and Room Layout
The S8201 has an 18.6-foot power cord. That may be enough for a kitchen or average room, but larger open layouts can require outlet changes. Avoid using an extension cord unless the appliance instructions explicitly permit one with the correct electrical rating.
Tank Design and Weight
The removable tank is more convenient to refill than a fixed reservoir, but the complete mop weighs 8.91 pounds before considering water. Buyers with limited grip strength, stairs or multiple floor levels should consider how often the appliance will need to be carried.
Understanding the Sanitization Claim
Shark advertises removal of 99.9% of certain bacteria using water under controlled test conditions. That result depends on using the correct setting, allowing the mop to heat properly and following the specified number and speed of passes. It should not be interpreted as automatic sterilization or a replacement for specialized disinfection where medically required.
Pad Care and Replacement
Use clean pads to reduce streaking and avoid transferring residue. Wash the pads separately with warm water and liquid detergent. Do not use bleach, powdered detergent or fabric softener, which can damage microfiber or reduce cleaning performance. Line-dry the pads or tumble-dry them on a low setting.
Before You Buy Checklist
- Confirm that your floor manufacturer permits steam cleaning.
- Choose the S8201 if you need the complete machine.
- Choose XKITP7000D only if you need compatible replacement pads.
- Check the exact mop model number before ordering accessories.
- Make sure an 18.6-foot cord suits your room layout.
- Plan to sweep or vacuum loose debris before steaming.
- Use water only in the steam-mop tank.
- Keep children and pets away from the hot steam path and cooling appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Shark S8201 Damage Hardwood Floors?
It can damage hardwood that is unsealed, worn, poorly bonded or not approved for steam cleaning. Even sealed hardwood should be checked against the flooring manufacturer’s care instructions. Use the lowest suitable setting, keep the mop moving and stop if the finish changes.
Can I Add Cleaner or Essential Oils to the Water Tank?
No. Use water only. Cleaning solutions, fragrances, oils, disinfectants and other chemicals can damage the steam system, leave residue or affect warranty coverage.
Do XKITP7000D Pads Fit the Shark S8201?
The XKITP7000D kit is marketed for Shark Steam & Scrub mops and is commonly listed as compatible with the S8201. Product packages and listings can change, so compare the model number shown on your mop with the current compatibility list before ordering.
How Should I Wash the Reusable Pads?
Machine-wash them separately in warm water with liquid detergent. Avoid bleach, powdered detergent and fabric softener. Line-dry the pads or tumble-dry them using a low-heat setting, and install them only after they are fully dry.
Is the S8201 Suitable for Homes With Children and Pets?
It cleans with water rather than requiring floor chemicals, but the steam, mop head and recently cleaned floor can be very hot. Keep children and pets away while the mop is operating and until the appliance and floor have cooled. Store the cord and machine where they cannot be pulled over.
Does the S8201 Vacuum Before Steaming?
No. It is a steam-and-scrub mop rather than a vacuum mop. Sweep or vacuum crumbs, grit, hair and other loose debris before installing clean pads and beginning steam cleaning.
Final Recommendation
Best choice for a complete setup: The Shark Steam & Scrub S8201 is the product to buy when you need the actual corded steam mop. Its powered pads, three modes and targeted Steam Blaster make it better suited to stuck-on residue than a basic steam-only mop.
Best choice for existing owners: The XKITP7000D kit is useful when you need additional scrubbing and dusting pads, but confirm your exact mop model before purchasing.
The S8201 is most appropriate for buyers who have steam-approved sealed floors, are comfortable with a corded 8.91-pound machine and are willing to vacuum first and wash the pads after use. Buyers with unsealed or steam-sensitive flooring should choose a manufacturer-approved non-steam cleaning method instead.
