Fregona vs. trapeador vs. lampazo vs. mopa
In Spanish, a single English term may have diverse translations across different regions of the Spanish-speaking world. Such is the case for the English word 'mop', which can be translated as 'fregona', 'trapeador', 'lampazo', or 'mopa' in different parts of the Spanish-speaking world.
Fregona
This term is commonly used in Spain for a mop. It often refers to a very specific type of mop, with long dangling strips.
Por favor, pásame la fregona para limpiar el suelo.
(Please, pass me the mop to clean the floor.)
Trapeador
The term 'trapeador' is frequently used in Mexico and some parts of Central America, in lieu of 'fregona'. It generally denotes a floor cleaning tool with a long handle.
Este trapeador es muy eficiente para los pisos de madera.
(This mop is very efficient for wooden floors.)
Lampazo
In Argentina and few other parts of South America, the term 'lampazo' is often used instead of 'fregona' or 'trapeador'. This usually represents a broader and flat-headed mop.
Hay que comprar un nuevo lampazo, este ya está muy desgastado.
(We need to buy a new mop, this one is very worn out.)
Mopa
'Mopa' is a somewhat universal term used across many countries including Spain and South America. However, it usually refers specifically to dry mops or dust mops — mops used not with soapy water, but for gathering dust.
La mopa es ideal para los pisos laminados ya que no moja el suelo.
(The mop is ideal for laminate floors as it doesn't wet the floor.)
Summary
Words like 'fregona', 'trapeador', 'lampazo', and 'mopa' all refer to what English speakers call a 'mop'. These terms have regional variations and sometimes imply slightly different types of cleaning tools. In Spain, you'd use a 'fregona'; in Mexico, grab your 'trapeador'; In Argentina reach for your 'lampazo'; and when dealing with dust or fragile surfaces, regardless of where you are, you might need a 'mopa'.