Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mops come with an app that allows you to save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules and select mopping settings. Certain models with dual spinning pads also automatically return to their docks mid-cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.
If your model uses pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to avoid the buildup of bacteria. You should also clean the tray they rest on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops utilize pads with a cleaner that slide across the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks by using scrubbing movements or a brush. To stop bacteria from building up and keep them from smelling, these pads should be cleaned and removed between use (if they are washable). Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, that need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robotic vacuum/mop combos are easy to use and come with features that reduce post-cleaning maintenance. These include self-cleaning pads docks, and automatic emptying of the trash bin. This keeps your robot mopping immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, consider wiping down its sensors with a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will eliminate dust that can interfere with sensors and cause errors.
If you have carpets in your home, be sure to choose a robot mop that is compatible with carpets. best budget robot vacuum work well on hard surfaces, but those that also be used to scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners are equipped with mapping capabilities. This lets you see the areas that the robot has cleaned as well as the areas it hasn't.
Most robots with apps use sensors to guide them around the house and avoid obstacles, but they can occasionally get lost or confused. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with the latest software releases to ensure that your robot is equipped with the most effective navigation and obstacle-avoidance abilities. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course at your home to check its performance.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and one for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be filled and emptied regularly. The tanks can be lifted off the base and made easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to catch any liquid that spills. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray every cleaning cycle to prevent bacterial from developing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mops, vacuum/mop combinations, and robot mops utilize an water reservoir to clean. Most manufacturers advise you to clean this tank regularly, dependent on the frequency you use your bot. This is essential for bots that you want last for many years. Some brands, like the top picks in our ratings are washable, removable tanks so you can remove the water that is dirty and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
The majority of the mop-vacs we tested have an app that lets you save maps of your home, set up cleaning schedules, or select cleaning modes. This is one of the features we look for when selecting a model, as it makes setting up and operating your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you select does not have an app, it is still possible to control the basic functions of the robot using buttons or a remote.
The newer models we've tested are able to remove dirt and dust on a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over the previous versions of robot cleaners which mainly passed water-filled pads across the floor. These machines aren't designed to take on large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They are also not able to handle a lot of furniture and could get confused in rooms with lots of stuff on the floor, so make sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping it to make sure the machine can move around it efficiently.
Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to clean and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Many bots also have sensors to aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. It is important to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially if they are pressed up against the floor.
While it is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the robot, we do not recommend it unless it has been approved by the manufacturer. This can damage the robot and may end the warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your mop and robot vacuum combination comes with docks that double as a water tank, then you will 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 has been cleaned. Many of our options have a self-cleaning feature that you can use via the app or button on the mop. This keeps the tank clean and prevents mildew.
It is also important to wash the area of the dock where the pads are cleaned. If the dock is left wet, it could turn slimy and even smell. If your model has washable or disposable mop pads, make sure to wash them according to manufacturer's instructions in between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuum and mop units with brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. After every cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them using a cloth or rag.
It's important to clean the sensor areas of a few of the more sophisticated robot mop vacuum combos we've tested. They come with sensors that allow you to navigate floors and keep out obstructions. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking the sensors, causing them make inaccurate judgements.
Although the majority of robot vacuums and mop units require some work, they are a great option for busy homeowners. They can keep your floors looking good and reduce the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save you time and energy, which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
There are a few companies trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines, but they are still quite a ways from our standard. We anticipate that these robots will improve over time, just like the previous robot vacuums did.
Brushes to be cleaned
Similar to a vacuum cleaner it is important to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum combination to ensure it is functioning well. Clean the sensors to improve navigation. Clean and empty 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 combination work efficiently for longer.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning appliances in the Laboratory including robot vacuum-mop combos. Her team has been testing and offering products for over 40 years.
Robot vacuum and mop combos are ideal for dealing with dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet mess (spills or staining) in one cleaning session without switching machines. Multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a busy schedule.
Certain robots are operated via an app and come with additional features. For example, this model has a map of our obstacle course which is a major selling feature. You can also utilize the app to schedule and alter cleaning sessions as well as change mopping modes and check battery levels. Some models offer voice activation to allow hands-free operation such as the model that integrates with Alexa.
When you are looking for a robot mop and vacuum, ensure that it comes with the features you need. Each model uses a pad to sweep floors, but some also have a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrub. Some models come with a filter that can be washed or replaced to eliminate odors.
Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into a base which automatically empties them into a waste bin, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry between uses. If you choose a model with reusable pads, be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.