Every year, just like cars, manufacturers come out with a new model of sponge mops. I can’t say there seems to be much difference between last year’s and this year’s model except when it comes to finding replacement sponges and the old model can’t be found. Most of the sponges are so thin that they need replacing at least once a year, if not more often.

O-Cedar has a new model called the Pro Scrub Sponge Roller Mop that I hope they keep around for awhile, although its big, three-dimensional foam sponge will probably be able to hang in there longer than the average mop head. It’s grooved on the bottom and very thick. O-Cedar claims it picks up 50 percent more than an average mop, and I would agree. The mop also has a handy brush on the side for when more intense scrubbing is needed. What I like the best is the big handle for squeezing out the sponge. The sponge is easy to change, but doesn’t come off when you’re using it.

The bottom line: If the O-Cedar Pro Scrub mop was a car, it might be a Honda Civic. It’s efficient, well designed, moderately priced and gets the job done. The suggested retail price is $12.99. O-Cedar products are sold at most mass merchandise stores, including Wal-Mart, Target, Ace Hardware and Kmart.

Lifestyles reporter Sylvia Anderson may be reached at sylviaanderson@npgco.com