Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums or mops come with an app that allows you to save maps of your home, set up cleaning schedules and select mopping mode. Certain models with dual spinning pads can also automatically return to their docks mid-cleaning to dump dirty water and clean their brushes.
If your model uses pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) every several cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you'll want to clean the tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops utilize pads with a cleaning solution that pass over the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks with scrubbing motions or brushes. These pads should 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 that 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. These include self-cleaning pads, docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This helps keep your robot mopping almost immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles, clean them using a soft towel or cloth every couple of cycles. This can help get rid of dust that could hinder sensors and cause errors.
Choose a mop that is that is compatible with carpets if you have them. The majority of robot mops work on hard surfaces, however those that also be used to scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to recognize carpets or avoid them. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a real-time map of your room so you can see exactly where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.
The majority of app-connected robot mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles but can sometimes become confused or lost. Update the mopping app regularly with new software updates to ensure that your robot has the best ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. We recommend testing a robot's capabilities in your own home by creating an obstacle course to race through prior to purchasing it.
Most robot mops come with two tanks. One for clean water and the other for dirty water. The dirty water tank needs to be filled and empty on a regular basis. The water tanks can be removed from the base, making it easier to clean them and rinse with warm water and mild soap. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to collect any liquid that spills. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray at the end of each cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from developing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combos have a water tank to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you clean the tank frequently, according to the frequency you use your bot. If you want your bot to last for a long time, this is crucial. Some brands, including the top picks in our reviews, have 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 have an app that allows you to save your home's maps and set up cleaning schedules, or choose different cleaning options. This is a crucial feature to look out for when choosing a robotic cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and using it much simpler. If the robot you choose does not come with an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the robot with a button or remote.
All the newer models that we've tested can vacuum up dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is an enormous improvement over the previous versions of robot cleaners which mostly pushed a pad of water across the floor. These machines aren't designed to deal with large spills. They have to be cleaned manually. They also can't handle furniture and can get confused in rooms with lots of clutter on the floor, so make sure to straighten the area prior to mopping to ensure that the machine is able to move around it effectively.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or on the bottom of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by a majority of bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It's important to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially if they are pressed up against the floor.
Additionally, although 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 your robot and void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combination comes with a dock that also doubles as a water tank, you'll need to clean it regularly. The dock can collect grit, dirt and debris that needs to be cleaned and removed when the mop is done. Many of our options include a self-cleaning function that you can use via the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank clean and helps prevent mildew.
The dock area which washes the pads needs to be washed periodically -it can become slimy or smell bad if left wet for a long time. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads ensure that you wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid vacuum models that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. After every cleaning cycle, take the brushes off and clean them using the help of a rag or cloth.
It's important to clean the sensor areas on some of the more advanced robot mop-vacuum combos that we've test. They come with sensors that help navigate floors and avoid obstructions. This can prevent dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.
Although the majority of robot vacuums and mop machines require some effort, they are a great alternative for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking great and eliminate the need for heavy lifting. They also save you time which is the most valuable resource at home.
While there are a few startups that are working to develop better robot vacuum-mop units, they have still a long way to go before they reach the level of our quality. However, we expect these machines to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Like vacuum cleaners is essential to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum combo so it keeps functioning properly. Wipe down the sensors to enhance navigation. Empty and wash the water tanks, remove hairs from brushes, clean the charge ports and then replace the filter and rollers in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. These suggestions will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum performs well for a lengthy period of time.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory, including robot vacuum-mop combos. Her team has been testing and recommending products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops work to clean dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and staining) without the need to change machines. Multitaskers can save you time and effort and are ideal for those with a hectic schedule.
Some robots are operated by an app and come with additional features. For instance, this model has an obstacle course map that shows our course which is a major selling feature. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning sessions modify mopping settings and check battery levels. robot vacuum cleaners include voice activation, like this model that works with Alexa to allow hands-free control.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop make sure you choose models that have the features that are important to you. All models use pads to sweep the floor but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout, or a rotating brush for a more intensive scrubbing. Some have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to reduce the odor.
Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads onto an empty base that automatically dumps them into a waste bin, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill a tank. Others, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that can be washed and dry between use. If you choose a model with reusable pads, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions about drying and washing them to keep them looking their best.