Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
Most robot vacuums or mop models have an app that allows you to save your home's maps as well as create cleaning schedules and choose mopping mode. Some models with dual rotating pads will also return to the dock to clean their brushes and empty dirty water.
To prevent bacteria accumulation to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and clean them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. You should also clean the resting tray where they sit between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked with cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to get rid of sticky spots and other marks. These pads need to be removed, washed (if they can be washed) and dried between uses to avoid the growth of bacteria and prevent them from smelling bad. Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which need to be washed or rinsed after every few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robotic mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that cut down on cleaning maintenance after cleaning. They include automatic emptying of the dustbin docks that self-clean and self-cleaning pads which ensure that your robot is ready to mop immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, clean them using a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will help get rid of dust that could interfere with sensors and lead to errors.
If you have carpets in your home, be sure to choose a robot mop that is compatible with them. Most robot mops work well on hard surfaces, however those which can also vacuum or scrub floors may require reprogramming to recognize carpets or avoid them. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping features that can give you a real-time map of the room so you can see where your robot has cleaned and which areas it hasn't.
Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to guide them around the home and avoid obstacles, but they can sometimes be confused or lost. Update the mopping app regularly with new software releases to ensure your robot is equipped with the most effective ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. We recommend testing the robot's performance at home by creating an obstacle course to run through before purchasing it.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and the other for dirty water. The tank that is dirty needs to be filled and empty on a regular basis. The water tanks can be removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and rinse them with warm water and mild soap. Most models come with a drip tray that sits beneath the water tank that is dirty to catch any spilled liquid. It is recommended to empty the drip tray following each cleaning cycle to minimize the risk of bacteria growth.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combos use a water tank to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you keep the tank clean according to the frequency you use your bot. This is crucial if you want your bots last for an extended period of time. Some brands, such as the top picks in our reviews, have a removable, washable tank so you can remove dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the newer mop-vacs we tested can be paired with an app that lets you save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is a crucial feature to look out for when choosing a robotic cleaner. It makes setting it up and operating it much simpler. If budget robot vacuum choose does not have an app, it is still possible to control the basic functions of the robot with the remote or button.
All of the newer models we've reviewed can vacuum up dust and dirt from many surfaces, which is a huge improvement over earlier versions of robot cleaners that largely just passed a pad with water across the floor. These machines aren't designed to deal with large spills. They need to be cleaned manually. They also can't handle a lot of furniture and can get confused in rooms with lots of things on the floor, so make sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping it to ensure the machine can move around it easily.
Some of the latest bots have brushes on their sides and the bottom which can be removed and laundered Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to do this (typically use a damp microfiber cloth). cheap robot vacuum are also used by most bots to navigate the floor and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working properly, it's recommended to wipe down the sensors every few cleaning cycles using a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where sensors are pressed against the floor.
It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the robot however, we don't recommend it unless it's been approved by the manufacturer. This can damage your robot and void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your mop and robot vacuum combination comes with docks that double as a water tank, you'll have to keep it clean regularly. The dock is prone to collecting grit, dust and debris, which needs to be removed and cleaned when the mop is done. Many of our picks have a self-cleaning feature which you can access through the app or the button on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and also prevents mildew.
The dock area which washes the pads needs to be washed from time to time -- it can get slimy or even smell bad if left wet for a long time. If your model is equipped with washable or disposable mop pads, be sure to wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. The same goes for hybrid vacuum models which use brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. Clean the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.
It's essential to clean the sensor areas of some of the more sophisticated robot mop vacuum combos we've test. They come with sensors that help navigate floors and avoid obstructions. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking sensors, causing them make faulty judgements.
While many robot mops and vacuums require a little work on an ongoing basis, they offer big benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep your floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifts. They also save you time and energy, which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
There are a few companies that are trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines but they're a long way from our standard. We anticipate that these robots will improve over time, just like all previous robot vacuums did.
Brushes to be cleaned
Just like a vacuum cleaner it is important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps functioning properly. Wipe down the sensors to improve navigation. Empty and rinse the water tanks, take out pet hair from brushes, clean the charge ports and change the filter and rollers according to the instructions of the manufacturer. These steps will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum combo works efficiently for a long period of time.
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 suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Robot vacuums and mops are great for cleaning both dry debris (dust dirt) and wet messes (spills, staining) all in one cleaning session without the need to switch machines. These 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 operate and provide more features than others, like a map this model created of our obstacle course which is a big selling point. You can also utilize the app to schedule and modify cleaning sessions as well as change mopping modes and check battery levels. Some models allow voice activation to allow hands-free operation, such as the model that works with Alexa.
When you are looking for a robot mop and vacuum, make sure that it has the features you want. Each model uses pads to sweep the floor, but some include a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrub. Certain models come with filters that can be cleaned or replaced in order to eliminate odors.
Some mopping robots dispose of their dirty pads and place them into a base that discharges into a waste bin making it unnecessary to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads which can be washed and dried in between uses. If you choose one with reusable pads, be sure you read the manufacturer's instructions about drying and washing them in order to ensure they look their best.