The hip-looking Method Omop starter kit features a nontoxic, microfiber mop that promises "a floor so clean you could eat off it." The marketing materials even come with recipes such as "linguini with fresh cherry tomatoes over terracotta tile."

Pros: There is much to like about the starter kit, which includes one wet/dry ergonomically designed mop, a 14-ounce bottle of lemon-ginger scented floor cleaner, a washable microfiber mop pad and three compostable sweeping cloths.

The floor cleaner smells wonderful, and when applied liberally, it took care of various mopping scenarios. Apple juice spilled on the floor? No problem — the stickiness disappeared. The microfiber mop pad is said to lift and trap dirt instead of pushing it around. I certainly found the mop pad easier to clean than most regular mops. It was also easy to attach, and when I was finished, all I had to do was remove it, rinse it out with water and hang it to dry.

As for the dry mop, look out, Swiffer: This product might give you some competition. The compostable cloths are derived from corn so they can be thrown in your yard-waste bin rather than in your garbage. There's even an Omop starter kit for wood floors.

Cons: The design could be better. The oddly curved construction seems like it could break easily. While mopping with a back-and-forth motion, I sometimes caught an edge. Also, why does the starter kit come with only three sweeping cloths? Fortunately, you can purchase a bag of 16 refills for $6.

Overall, though, the ease-of-use for changing the mop pad and sweeping cloths, as well as the environmental friendliness of the product, should appeal to many.

Joy's verdict: Thumbs up

$24.99. Target (www.target.com)

This is an occasional feature in Weekend Living to help readers become more informed consumers. The Seattle Times purchases the items.