Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mop cleaners come with an app which allows you to save maps of your home, set up cleaning schedules and then select mopping mode. Some models with dual rotating pads will also return to the dock to clean their brushes and dump dirty water.
To prevent bacteria accumulation to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and clean them (if it is safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray they sit on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops use pads that contain a cleaning solution that slide across the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks using scrubbing motions or a brush. To prevent bacteria from building up and to prevent them from smelling, the pads should be cleaned and removed between usage (if they can be washed). 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 efficient 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy-to-use and come with features that decrease the amount of maintenance required after cleaning. These include automatic dustbin emptying, self-cleaning pads and docks which ensure that your robot is ready to mop again almost immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down 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.
Choose a mop for your robot that is compatible with carpets if you have them. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that can also vacuum or scrub floors may need to be reprogrammed to avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping features that can give you a real-time map of the room so you can track where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.
Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to help them navigate the home and avoid obstacles, but they may sometimes be confused or lost. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with the latest software updates to ensure that your robot has the best navigation and obstacle-avoidance abilities. Before you buy a robot we suggest that you create an obstacle course in your home to test its performance.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The dirty water tank needs to be emptied and filled regularly. The tanks can be lifted from the base, making it easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with drip tray which sits beneath the dirty water tank to collect any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty your drip tray after every cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from growing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mops, vacuum/mop combination and robot mops have a reservoir of water for cleaning. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you clean the tank frequently, according to the frequency you use your bot. This is essential for bots that you want to last for a long time. Some brands, like the top choices in our rankings are washable, removable tanks so you can remove the soiled 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 maps of your house and set up cleaning schedules, or select cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when selecting the right model, since it makes setting up and operating the robot cleaner a lot easier. If your chosen model doesn't have an app, you can still control the basics of the robot by pressing the dock or remote.
The latest models we've reviewed can vacuum up dirt and dust on various surfaces This is a major improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners that largely just pushed a pad filled with water across the floor. These machines are not meant to handle large spills. They need to be cleaned manually. These machines can't move furniture and could get lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.
Some newer bots have brushes on the sides and the bottom which can be removed and laundered, so be certain to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate around the floor and avoid obstacles. It is essential to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially where they're pressed against the floor.
Finally, while it is possible to add other cleaners into your robot's tank (for instance, vinegar) We do not recommend doing so unless the manufacturer recommends it. This could damage the robot and invalidate the warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your mop and robot vacuum combo has a dock that also doubles as water tank, you'll need to clean it regularly. The dock can accumulate grit, dirt and debris that will need to be cleaned and removed when the mop is finished. Many of our picks have a self-cleaning cycle you can run using the app or a button on the mop itself. This helps keep the tank clean and prevents mildew.
It is also essential to clean the area of the dock where the pads are cleaned. If the area is left wet, it may be slimy and smell. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads make sure you are washing them according to the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cycles. The same is true for models with a hybrid mop/vacuum that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. Remove the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.
Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe off the sensor areas on a regular basis. This will prevent dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.
While most robot vacuums and mop systems require some work they are an excellent alternative for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save time and energy, which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
While there are new companies that are trying to create better robot vacuum units, they still have a long way to go before they get to our level of quality. But we expect these robots to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.
Brushes to be cleaned
Just like vacuum cleaners it is important to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum combination to ensure it is functioning properly. Wipe down sensors to make it easier to navigate clear and rinse the water tank, remove pet hair clogs that block brushes Keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as suggested by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combination perform efficiently for longer.
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 suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are ideal for cleaning both dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet spills. (spills and staining) without having to switch machines. Multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are a great choice for those with a hectic schedule.
Certain robots require an application to operate and offer more features than others, such as the map this model made of our obstacle course that's one of the main selling points. You can also plan and modify cleaning sessions with the app, change mopping mode, and check the battery level. Some models offer voice activation for hands-free operation, such as the model that is compatible with Alexa.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop, look for one that has the features that are most important to you. While all models pass a pad with water over floors, some models have a scrubber that can be used to clean grout, or an inclined brush roll to provide more intense scrubbing. Some models have a filter which can be changed or cleaned to reduce smells.
Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into a base which automatically empties them into a waste bin, eliminating the need to manually clean the pads or refill a tank. Some, like the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that can be washed and dry between usage. If robot vacuums cheap decide to purchase one with reusable pads, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.