Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums and mops come with an application that lets you save maps of your house, set cleaning schedules and choose mopping options. Some models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their dock mid-cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.

If your model is using pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you should clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and then move across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to get rid of sticky marks and other spots. These pads should be cleaned, removed (if they can be washed) and dried between uses to avoid bacteria buildup and keep them from smelling unpleasant. Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, which must be cleaned or rinsed after every few cleaning cycles.

The most effective 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that help reduce post-cleaning maintenance. These include automatic vacuum and mop dustbin emptying, self-cleaning pads and docks that help keep your robot ready to mop immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, clean them with a soft cloth or cloth every couple of cycles. This will remove dust that can block sensors and lead to mistakes.

Choose a mop that is compatible with carpets if you have carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that also vacuum or scrub floors might require reprogramming to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners come with mapping features that can give you a live map of your room so you can see exactly where your robot has cleaned and which areas it hasn't.

The majority of app-connected robot mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles, but they can also be lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as effective as they can, update the mopping app on a regular basis with new software releases. Before purchasing a robot, we suggest that you create an obstacle course at home to test its performance.

Most robot mops have two tanks, one for clean water and the other for dirty water. The tank that is dirty has to be emptied and filled regularly. The water tanks are easily removed from the base, making it easier to clean them and rinse with warm water and mild soap. Most models have drip tray that is placed under the dirty water tank to catch any spilled liquid. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray after every cleaning cycle to lower the risk of growth of bacteria.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you keep the tank clean dependent on how often you use your bot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is essential. Certain brands, like the top picks in our rating, come with a tanks that are washable and removable so that you can wash away dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

Most of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app that allows you to save your home's maps and set up cleaning schedules, or select cleaning modes. This is an important feature to look for when selecting a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and using it much easier. If your chosen model doesn't have 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 newer models we've tested can clean up dust and dirt from many surfaces, which is a huge improvement over previous iterations of robot cleaners which mainly just passed a pad with water across the floor. These machines aren't designed to take on large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They also cannot handle furniture and may get lost in rooms that have lots of stuff on the floor, so be sure to straighten up the space before mopping to ensure the machine can move around it easily.

Some newer bots have brushes on their bottom and sides that can be cleaned and removed So, be certain to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to do this (typically you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It's important to wipe the sensors down every couple of cleaning cycles, particularly if they're pressed against the floor.

Finally, while it is possible to add other cleaners in your robot's tank (for example vinegar or acetic acid) We do not recommend doing so unless the manufacturer suggests it. This could 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 will need to clean it periodically. The dock can collect grit, dirt and debris that needs to be cleaned out and removed once the mop has finished. A lot of our picks come with an auto-cleaning cycle that you can use the app or a button on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and prevents mildew from developing.

The dock area that washes the pads also must be cleaned periodically -it can become slimy and smell unpleasant if left wet for too long. If your model has disposable or washable mop pads, ensure you're washing them according to the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. Hybrid mop/vacuum units with brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. Every several cleaning cycles take the brushes off and clean them with a cloth or rag.

It's essential to clean the sensor areas of a few of the more advanced robot mop-vacuum combos that we've tried. They come with sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstructions. This can prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.

While many robot mops and vacuum units require a bit of work on a regular basis, they offer big advantages for busy homeowners. They can keep your floors looking great 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 companies that are attempting to create better robot vacuum units however, they have a long way to go before they reach the level of our quality. We expect these machines to improve over time just as all previous robot vacuums did.

Cleaning the Brushes

Just like a vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps working well. Wipe down the sensors to enhance navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, remove hairs from the brushes, clean the charge ports, and replace the filter and rollers according to the manufacturer's instructions. These suggestions will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum combo is efficient for a long period of time.

Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab is responsible for evaluating and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum and mop combinations. Her team has been testing products and recommending them for more than forty years.

Robot vacuums and mops are great for tackling dry debris (dust dirt) and wet messes (spills, staining) in one clean-up session without having to switch machines. These multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They are also great for those with a busy schedule.

Some robots require an app to operate and provide more features than others, for example, a the map this model made of our obstacle course that's one of the main selling points. You can also utilize the app to schedule and modify cleaning sessions modify mopping settings and check the level of battery. Others include voice activation, for instance this model that works with Alexa for hands-free control.

If you're looking for a robot cleaner with mop mop and vacuum, ensure that it has the features you want. All models utilize pads to sweep the floor, but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout or a rotating brush for a more intensive scrub. Some models have filters that can be changed or cleaned to lessen odors.

Some mopping machines dispose of their dirty pads and drop them into a base that empties into a waste drawer, making it unnecessary to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Other models, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that can be washed and dry between use. If you decide to purchase the model with reusable pads, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions for Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum washing and drying them to ensure they look their best automatic vacuum cleaner.