Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

Most robot vacuums and mops come with an application that lets you save maps of your home, create cleaning schedules and select 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 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 clean the tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops feature 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. The pads must be cleaned, removed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to avoid the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling unpleasant. Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, which need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.

The most effective 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy to use and come with features that reduce post-cleaning maintenance. They include automatic vacuum and mop robot emptying of the dustbin docks, self-cleaning pads, and self-cleaning pads that ensure your robot is ready to mop again almost immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors using a soft cloth or towel every few cycles. This will remove dust that could block sensors and lead to errors.

If you have carpets, be certain to select a mop that is compatible with carpets. Robotic mops that are able to scrub or vacuum floors must be reprogrammed in order to avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping features. This allows you to observe the areas your robot has cleaned, as well as the areas that it hasn't.

The majority of apps-connected robots mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and cleaning robot mop and vacuum avoid obstacles but can sometimes get confused or lost. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with new software updates to ensure that your robot has the best navigation and obstacle-avoidance abilities. We recommend testing a robot's capabilities in your own home by creating an obstacle course to test its capabilities before purchasing it.

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

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot vacuums and mop combos have a water tank for cleaning. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you keep the tank clean dependent on the frequency 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 ratings, come with an easily washable tank that is removable, so that you can wash away dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

The majority of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app that lets you save maps of your house and create cleaning schedules, or choose cleaning modes. This is an important feature to consider when choosing a robotic cleaner. It makes setting it up and operating it much simpler. If the robot you select does not come with an app, it's still possible to control the basic functions of the bot using the remote or button.

All the newer models that we've tested can vacuum up dust and dirt on multiple surfaces. This is a big improvement over the previous versions of robot cleaners, which mainly passed a pad of water across the floor. However they aren't designed to deal with big spills, and they still need to be cleaned manually. They are also not able to handle large furniture pieces and can get confused in rooms with a lot of things on the floor, so be sure to straighten the area prior to mopping to ensure the machine can move around it effectively.

Some modern bots have brushes on the bottom and sides which can be removed and laundered, so be certain to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to do this (typically, Robot vacuums That mop use a damp microfiber cloth). Many bots also have sensors to assist them in navigating floors and avoid obstacles. To ensure that the sensors function properly, it's recommended to wipe down the sensors every few cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, particularly those areas where the sensors are pressed against the floor.

It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the robot's tank, we do not recommend it unless it's been approved by the manufacturer. This could damage your robot and could void its warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your robot mop and vacuum combo has a separate dock which doubles as a water tank, it will have to be cleaned on a regular basis. The dock may accumulate dirt, grit and other debris that must be cleaned out and removed once the mop is finished. A majority of our choices include a self-cleaning function which you can access through the app or on the mop. This helps keep the tank in good condition and helps prevent mildew.

It is also crucial to wash the area of the dock where the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model has disposable or washable mop pads, make sure to wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuum and mop units with brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. Clean the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.

Some of the most advanced robot vacuum-mop combos we've tested include sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, however it's still essential to clean the sensor areas clean on a regular basis. This will prevent dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.

While the majority of robot mop and vacuums require a little work on an ongoing basis, they provide huge advantages for busy homeowners. 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.

Although there are some companies that are attempting to create better robot vacuum units, they have some way to go before they get to the level of our quality. But we do expect these robots to improve in time, just as all other robot vacuums have in the past.

Cleaning the Brushes

Like vacuum cleaners, it's important to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum unit to ensure that it's functioning properly. Clean the sensors to enhance navigation. Empty and wash the water tanks, remove hairs from the brushes, clean the charge ports and change the rollers and filter according to the instructions of the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop 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 offering products for over 40 years.

Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet messes. (spills and staining) without changing machines. These multitaskers are great at making it easier to save time and effort. They're also great for those with a hectic schedule.

Some robots are operated by an app and include additional features. For example, this model has a map of our obstacle course, which is a major selling point. You can also use the app to schedule and modify cleaning sessions as well as change mopping modes and check the battery level. Some models allow hands-free operation via voice, such as the model that works with Alexa.

If you decide to purchase a robot vacuum and mop choose models that have the features that are most important to you. All models utilize a pad to sweep the floor, however some have scrubbers for cleaning grout or a rotating roller brush for a more intensive scrubbing. Some models have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced in order to lessen smells.

Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a garbage bin, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some, like the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between usage. If you choose the model that has reusable pads, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying and washing them to ensure they look their best automatic vacuum and mop.