Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mop models come with an app that allows you to save maps of your home and set up cleaning schedules and choose mopping mode. Some models that have dual rotating pads will also return to the dock to clean their brushes and empty dirty water.
If your model uses reusable pads, remove them and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked with cleaning solution and pass over the floor, either by scrubbing or brushing to get rid of sticky spots and other marks. To stop the growth of bacteria up and to prevent them from smelling, these pads should be cleaned and removed between use (if they can be washed). Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, which need to be washed and rinsed, or replaced every few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robotic mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that help reduce cleaning maintenance after cleaning. These include self-cleaning pads docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This will keep your robot mopping again almost immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able navigate and avoid obstacles, wipe them down using a soft towel or cloth every couple of cycles. This will eliminate dust that can block sensors and lead to errors.
If you have carpets, make sure to select a robot mop that is compatible with carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that also scrub or vacuum floors may need to be reprogrammed to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners are equipped with mapping features. This lets you see the areas that the robot has cleaned as well as those it hasn't.
Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to help them navigate the home and steer clear of obstacles, but they may sometimes get lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities are as good as possible you should update the mopping application on a regular basis with the latest software versions. Before you buy a robot we suggest that you create an obstacle course in your home to test its performance.
Most robot mops come with two tanks one for clean water and another for dirty water. The tank for dirty water has to be emptied and filled regularly. The tanks can be lifted out of the base, making it easier to clean and wash them with mild soap and warm water. The majority of models have a drip tray that is placed under the dirty water tank to catch any spilled liquid. It is recommended to empty your drip tray at the end of each cleaning cycle to stop bacteria from growing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mop, vacuum combinations, and robot mops utilize an water reservoir to clean. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank regularly, depending on the frequency you use your robot. If you want your bot to last for a long time, this is crucial. Some brands, including the top choices in our rankings, have removable, washable tanks so you can remove the water that is dirty and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app which lets you save maps of your home as well as create cleaning schedules, or choose cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when choosing a model, as it makes the process of setting up and using the robot cleaner a lot easier. If the model you choose doesn't come with an app, you can still manage the basic functions of the robot using the dock or remote.
All of the newer models we've reviewed can vacuum dust and dirt off various surfaces This is a major improvement over earlier versions of robot cleaners that mostly just passed a pad with water across the floor. These machines are not meant to deal with large spills. They have to be cleaned manually. They also can't handle a lot of furniture and can get confused in rooms with a lot of things on the floor, so make sure to straighten the area prior to mopping it to ensure the machine is able to move around it effectively.
Follow robot vacuums cheap to clean and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working well, it's a good idea to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles using a soft clean cloth, especially those areas where the sensors are pressed against the floor.
In addition, it is possible to pour other cleaners into your robot's tank (for instance vinegar, for example) We do not recommend doing this unless the manufacturer has recommended it. This can damage the robot and invalidate its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your mop and robot vacuum combination comes with docks that also double as a water tank, then you will need to clean it periodically. The dock is prone to collecting grit, dust and debris, which needs to be removed and washed when the mop is done. A majority of our choices have a self-cleaning cycle you can run using the app or on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and helps to prevent mildew.
It is also crucial to wash the area around the dock in which the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can turn slimy and even smell. If automated vacuum is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads, be sure to wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuum and mop units with brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. Take the brushes out and clean them using a cloth or rag after each cleaning cycle.
It is essential to clean the sensor areas of some of the more advanced robot mop-vacuum combos that we've tested. They have sensors that allow you to navigate floors and keep out obstructions. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking the sensors and leading to misjudgment.
While the majority of robot mop and vacuum cleaners require a little work on a regular basis, they provide huge advantages to the busy homeowner. They will keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for heavy lifting. They also save you time which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
While there are a few new companies that are trying to develop better robot vacuum-mop units but they still have some way to go before they get to our level of quality. We expect these robots will improve over time just as all previous robot vacuums did.
Brushes to be cleaned
Maintaining your robot's mop and vacuum is crucial, just like maintaining the vacuum cleaner. Clean the sensors to enhance navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, remove hairs from brushes, clean the charge ports and change the filter and rollers according to the instructions of the manufacturer. These suggestions will help your robot vacuum and mop combo work efficiently for longer.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory which includes robot vacuum and mop combos. Her team has been testing and providing recommendations for them for more than forty years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops work for cleaning both dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet messes. (spills and staining) without having to switch machines. Multitaskers are great for making it easier to save time and effort. They're also great for those with a hectic schedule.
Certain robots require an app to function and have more features than others, such as the map this model made of our obstacle course, which is an important selling point. You can also plan and modify cleaning sessions with the app, alter mopping mode, and check battery level. Other models offer voice activation, like this model, which works with Alexa for hands-free control.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop combination choose one that has the features that are most important to you. While all models use a pad with water over floors, some include scrubbers that can be used to clean grout, or a rotating brush roll for more intense scrubs. Some models have filters that can be changed or cleaned to eliminate odors.
Some mopping robots discard their dirty pads and drop them into a base that automatically discharges into a waste bin, making it unnecessary to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads you can wash and dry between uses. If you choose one with pads that can be reused, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to wash and dry them.