Yarn Ply: Yarn ply indicates the number of strands twisted together to make a single yarn strand. More plies give added strength, though higher ply numbers do not necessarily mean higher quality yarn. More strands may add durability but they also decrease absorbency. It's much better and more cost effective to choose a higher quality yarn than a high ply, low quality yarn.

Twist: A yarn's "twist" is a result of how tightly the fiber strands are wound together. While a tightly twisted yarn might be stronger and last longer, it's absorbency may be decreased. Like yarn ply, the best value isn't determined by the yarn's twist, but by the type and quality of the yarn and the mop's construction. A mop with looped-end construction enables the yarn to have a loose twist while eliminating fraying.

Sizes: A mop's size should be in relation to the job to be performed, the mop wringer being used and the user's size. Cut-end mops are sized by their approximate weight in ounces. Looped-end mops are sized by industry standards since they absorb and retain much more while also covering a greater surface area than a cut-end mop.

Cut-End: The cut-end is the standard; most popular and economical (initially) mop style. Cut-end mops fray and unravel, increasing the lint factor and leaving loose strands behind. In addition, without tail bands, cut-end mops cover less area per pass. Since cut-end mops cannot be laundered, they are often considered "disposable" and thrown away before their useful life is over.

Looped-End: The looped-end is a premium style mop designed for superior performance and extended life. There are no ends to fray or unravel as the mop sweeps over the floor surface in a wide, even path. Looped-end mops can be laundered for longer life and cleaner appearance. The initial investment is soon compensated with lower replacements, reduced labor cost and increased performance.

Headbands: 1 1/4" headbands are available for stirrup-type handles and are useful on finishing type mops such as Medium Rayon Banded Loop looped-end mop. The synthetic mesh material provides nonabrasive scrubbing to help dislodge dirt and to allow quick drying of yarns. Abrasive scrubbing pads can also be included.

Backing: Synthetic backing material has replaced cotton as the industry standard because it dries much faster and absorbs less treatment than cotton. RTS Inc. offers durable polyester backings. Stainless snaps (except as otherwise noted) are standard on our backings; ties are also used on some of our mops. Backing colors include: red, blue, and white.

Cut-End: The cut-end dust mop, though more economical at first, tends to fray, unravel and lint. These problems decrease its performance and lead to replacement of the mop. These problems are intensified by laundering. Our Looped-End Dust Mop solves this problem by bonding the yarn fibres.

Looped-End: By trapping more dust, producing less yarn debris, and resisting tangles, the looped-end dust mop delivers maximum performance. Because looped-end yarns withstand heavy use and frequent laundering without fraying and unravelling, linting is virtually eliminated. Looped-end yarn is available in long strands for greater coverage or short loops for hi-tech and health care applications. 

Durability: High quality construction leads to the best value in a dust mop. Mops of professional quality have pre-shrunk backings and top grade yarn to withstand heavy-use and repeated launderings. Reinforced stitching at stress points are signs of better mop construction.

Frames & Handles: To provide free swivelling or rigid handle positions, use a our handle with a swivel-snap device attached to the frame. Frames are available from 18" to 72".

Treatment: Cotton dust mops require dust mop treatment for effective dust pick up and retention. RTS Inc. aerosol Dust Mop Treatment helps cotton collect up to 80% more dust.