Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums and mops come with an application that lets you save maps of your home, create cleaning schedules and choose mopping settings. Certain models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.

To prevent bacteria accumulation, remove the pads and wash them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.

Preparation

A lot of robot mops have pads that contain a cleaning solution that pass over the floor to soften the marks and sticky spots by using scrubbing movements or brushes. These pads should be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to prevent the growth of bacteria and prevent them from smelling unpleasant. Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot. They also require to be rinsed, washed or replaced after a 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 needed after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and best automatic vacuum and mop emptying of the trash bin. This will keep your robot mopping again almost immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles, wipe them down using a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that could hinder sensors and cause errors.

Choose a mop for your robot that is that is compatible with carpets if you already have them. Robotic mops that are able to clean or vacuum floors will need to be reprogrammed in order to avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a live map of the room so that you can see where the robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.

Most robots with apps use sensors to guide them through the home and steer clear of obstacles, but they can sometimes be lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as good as possible you should update the mopping application regularly with new software releases. Before you purchase a robot, we recommend creating an obstacle course at home to test its performance.

The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and one for dirty water. The tank for dirty water has to be emptied and filled regularly. The tanks can be lifted from the base which makes it easier to clean and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with a drip tray under the dirty tank to catch any liquid that spills. It is recommended to empty your drip tray every cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from growing.

Cleaning the Water Tank

The majority of robot mop, vacuum combinations, and robot mops utilize a water reservoir for cleaning. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank on a regular basis, depending on the frequency you use your robot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is important. Certain brands, like the top picks of our reviews, have a tanks that are washable and removable so you can remove dirty water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.

Most of the newer mop-vacs we tested can be paired with an app that lets you save your home's maps and set up cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is an important feature to consider when selecting a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and operating it much easier. If the robot you pick doesn't have an app, it is still possible to control the essential functions of the robot with the remote or button.

All of the latest models we've tested can clean up dirt and dust on many surfaces, which is a huge improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners that largely simply pushed a pad of water across the floor. However, these machines are not designed to handle large spills, which have to be cleaned by hand. They can't move furniture and could get lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.

Some newer bots come with brushes on the sides and the bottom that can be cleaned and removed So, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically a damp microfiber cloth). The majority of bots also have sensors that aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working properly, it's recommended to wipe down the sensors every few cleaning cycles using a soft, clean cloth - especially those areas where the sensors are press-fit against the floor.

Finally, while it is possible to put other cleaners into your robot cleaner with mop's tank (for instance, vinegar), we advise against using them unless the manufacturer recommends it. This could damage your robot and could void its warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your robot mop and vacuum has a separate dock which doubles as a water tank, it will have to be cleaned on a regular basis. The dock is prone to collecting grit, dust and debris, which needs to be removed and cleaned when the mop is done. Many of our options come with a self-cleaning feature which you can access through the app or the button on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and prevents mildew.

It is also crucial to clean the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If the dock is left wet, it could be slimy and smell. If your model has disposable or washable mop pads, make sure to wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid mop/vacuum models that use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. Take the brushes out and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.

Some of the more advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested have sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still necessary to wipe off the sensor areas regularly. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking the sensors and causing misjudgment.

Although most robot vacuums and mop machines require some work, they are a great option for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifting. They also save you time which is the most valuable resource at home.

Although there are some new companies that are trying to create better robot vacuum units but they have some way to go before they reach 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

Maintaining your robot vacuum and mop is crucial, just like maintaining the vacuum cleaner. Wipe down sensors to aid in navigation, empty and rinse the water tank, get rid of pet hair clogs that block brushes Keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as recommended by the manufacturer. These tips will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum performs well for a lengthy 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 vacuums and mops. Her team has been testing and suggesting products for more than 40 years.

Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning both dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet spills. (spills and stains) without changing machines. Multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They're also convenient for busy schedule.

Some robots are operated by an app and include more features. For instance this model features an obstacle course map that shows our course which is a key selling feature. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning sessions modify mopping settings and check battery levels. Some models allow hands-free operation via voice like the model that is compatible with Alexa.

If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop choose one that has the features that are most important to you. While all models use pads with water across floors, some have scrubbers that can be used to clean grout or a rotating brush roll for more intensive scrubbing. Some models come with filters that can be washed or replaced to reduce odors.

Some mopping robots dispose of their dirty pads and place them into a base which automatically empties into a waste drawer, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads you can wash and dry in between uses. If you opt for a model with reusable pads, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to wash and dry them.