Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums or mops come with an app which allows you to save your home's maps, organize cleaning schedules, and then select mopping mode. Some models with dual rotating pads also return to the dock to clean their brushes and dispose of dirty water.
If your model uses disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray in which they rest between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to remove sticky spots and other marks. To prevent bacteria from building up and to keep them from smelling, these pads should be removed and washed between uses (if they are washable). Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which must be cleaned, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy to use and have features that help reduce post-cleaning maintenance. These include self-cleaning pads, docks, and automatic emptying of the trash bin. This keeps your robot mopping almost immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles, wipe them down with a soft towel or a cloth every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that can hinder sensors and cause errors.
If you have carpets in your home, be sure to select a robot mop that is compatible with them. Most robot mops work well on hard surfaces, however those which can also scrub or vacuum floors may require reprogramming to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners as well as mop cleaners are equipped with mapping features. This lets you see the areas that your robot has cleaned as well as those that it hasn't.
Most robots with apps use sensors to help them navigate the house and avoid obstacles, but they can sometimes get lost or confused. Update the mopping app regularly with new software releases to ensure your robot has the best navigation and obstacle-avoidance abilities. We suggest testing a robot's capabilities in your own home by creating an obstacle course for it to test its capabilities before buying it.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and the other for dirty water. The tank for dirty water has to be emptied and filled regularly. The tanks can be lifted out of the base and made easier to clean and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to catch any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty the drip tray at the end of every cleaning cycle to lower the risk of growth of bacteria.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mop, vacuum combination and robot mops have an water reservoir to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank on a regular basis depending on how frequently you use your robot. This is vital for bots that you want to last for an extended period of time. Some brands, including the top choices of our rating, come with a removable, washable tank so you can remove dirty water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app which lets you save your home's maps and organize cleaning schedules or choose different cleaning options. This is an important feature to consider when choosing a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and operating it a lot easier. If the model you choose doesn't come with an app, you'll be able to control the basics of the robot using a button on its dock or via its remote.
All of the latest models we've reviewed can vacuum up dust and dirt from multiple surfaces This is a major improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners that mostly just pushed a pad filled with water across the floor. These machines are not meant to handle large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They also can't handle a lot of furniture and may get lost in rooms that have lots of things on the floor, so be sure to straighten the space before mopping to make sure the machine can move around it efficiently.
Some of the latest bots have brushes on their bottom and sides which can be removed and laundered, so be certain to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically, you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). The majority of bots also come with sensors that aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. It's important to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles, especially if they are pressed up against the floor.
In automatic vacuum cleaner , it is possible to add other cleaners into the robot's tank (for example, vinegar), we advise against doing so unless the manufacturer suggests it. This can damage the robot and may cause the warranty to be voided.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot mop and vacuum has a dock on its own that doubles as a water tank, it will have to be cleaned regularly. The dock can accumulate dirt, dust and grit and needs to be removed and washed when the mop is finished. Many of our picks include a self-cleaning function that you can access via the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank clean and helps prevent mildew.
It is also important to wash the area of the dock where the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can turn slimy and even smell. If your model comes with disposable or washable mop pads, be sure to wash them according to manufacturer's instructions in between cleaning cycles. Hybrid mop/vacuum units with brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. After every cleaning cycle take the brushes off and clean them with an abrasive or a cloth.
Some of the more advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested contain sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe off the sensor areas regularly. This can prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing misjudgment.
While most robot vacuums and mop systems require some work, they are a great option for busy homeowners. They can keep floors looking nice and eliminate the need for heavy lifting and help you save the most valuable resource of a home -your time.
There are a few companies working to create better vacuum-mop robotics but they're far from our level of quality. But we do expect these robots to improve over time, just like the other robot vacuums in the past.
Brushes to be cleaned
Similar to a vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum unit to ensure that it's working well. Clean sensors to improve navigation clean and empty the water tank, remove pet hair clogs that block brushes, keep charge ports clean and replace the filter and rollers as suggested by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop perform efficiently for an extended period of time.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning appliances in the Laboratory, including robot vacuum-mop combos. Her team has been testing and recommending them for more than forty years.
Robot vacuums and mops are great for tackling both dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet messes (spills, staining) in one clean-up session without switching machines. These multitaskers are great for making it easier to save time and effort. They're also great for busy schedule.
Certain robots require an app to function and have more features than others, for example, a the map this model designed of our obstacle course that's one of the main selling points. You can also utilize the app to schedule and modify cleaning schedules modify mopping settings and check battery levels. Others offer voice activation, like this model, which works with Alexa to allow hands-free control.
When you are looking for a robot mop and vacuum, make sure that it comes with the features you need. While all models push pads with water across floors, some models have a scrubber that can be used to clean grout, or a rotating brush roll for more intensive scrub. Some models come with a filter that can be washed or replaced to reduce odors.
Some mopping robots dispose of their dirty pads and drop them into a base which automatically empties into a waste drawer making it unnecessary to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Certain mopping machines, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads you can wash and dry in between uses. If you decide to purchase one with pads that can be reused, make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean and dry them.