Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

Most robot vacuums and mops come with an app that lets you save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules, and choose mopping settings. Some models that have dual rotating pads can also return to the dock to clean their brushes and empty dirty water.

If your model is using disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) every several cleaning cycles to avoid the buildup of bacteria. Also, you should clean the tray that they rest on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops utilize pads that contain a cleaning solution that are pushed across the floor to soften the sticky marks and spots by using scrubbing movements or brushes. These pads should be removed, washed (if they can be washed) and dried between uses to avoid the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling bad. Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, which need to be washed and rinsed, or replaced every few cleaning cycles.

The most efficient 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy-to-use and come with features that reduce the amount of maintenance needed after cleaning. They include automatic emptying of the dustbin docks that self-clean and self-cleaning pads that ensure your robot is ready to mop again almost immediately following a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles, clean them with a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will help get rid of dust that could block sensors and cause mistakes.

Choose a mop for your robot that is that is compatible with carpets if you already have them. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, but those that also vacuum mop cleaner robot or scrub floors might need to be reprogrammed to avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a live 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 house and steer clear of obstacles, but they may sometimes be confused or lost. 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. We recommend testing the robot's performance in your home by constructing an obstacle course to test its capabilities before purchasing it.

Most robot mops have two tanks: one for clean water and the second for dirty water. The tank that is dirty needs to be filled and empty regularly. The water tanks can be easily removed from the base, making it easier to clean them and wash them with warm water and mild soap. Most models come with a drip tray under the dirty tank to collect any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty your drip tray after every cleaning cycle to stop bacteria from growing.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combos have a water tank to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank regularly, depending on the frequency you use your robot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is important. Some brands, like the top choices in our rankings, have removable, washable tanks, allowing you to wash off the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

The majority of the mop-vacs we tested have an app which allows you to save maps of your home as well as create cleaning schedules, or select cleaning modes. This is an important feature to consider when choosing a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and operating it much simpler. If the robot you choose does not come with an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the robot using buttons or a remote.

The latest models we've tested are able to remove dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is an enormous improvement over the previous versions of robot cleaners which mainly passed a pad of water across the floor. They aren't made to deal with large spills. They need to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture, and they can become lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.

Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to wash and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or on the bottom of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Most bots also come with sensors that aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. It's important to wipe the sensors down every couple of cleaning cycles, particularly if they're pressed 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 recommended by the manufacturer. This can damage the robot and invalidate the warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your robot mop and vacuum combo has a dock on its own that doubles as a water tank, it's going to need to be cleaned periodically. The dock can accumulate dirt, dust and grit, which will need to be removed and cleaned after the mop is done. Many of our picks have an auto-cleaning cycle that you can use the app or a button on the mop itself. This keeps the tank in good condition and helps to prevent mildew.

The dock's area that washes the pads also should be cleaned every now and thenit can become slimy or even smell bad if left wet for too long. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads, ensure that you wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. Hybrid mop/vacuum units that have brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. Take the brushes out and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.

Some of the most sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested include sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe down those sensor areas on a regular basis. This can prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing misjudgment.

While many robot mops and vacuum units require a little work on a regular basis, they offer big advantages to the busy homeowner. They will keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save time, which is the most valuable resource at home.

While there are a few startups that are working to build better robot vacuum-mop units, they have some way to go before they reach the level of our quality. However, we expect these machines to improve in time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.

Cleaning the Brushes

Maintaining your robot's mop and vacuum is essential, just as maintaining your vacuum cleaner. Wipe down sensors to aid in navigation clean and empty the water tank, remove pet hair clogs that block brushes and charge ports, clean the ports and replace filter and rollers as suggested by the manufacturer. These steps will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum is efficient for a long period of time.

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 recommending products for more than 40 years.

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

Certain robots require an app to operate and offer more features than others, for example, a a map this model created of our obstacle course, which is an important selling point. You can also schedule and modify cleaning sessions using the app, alter mopping modes and check battery level. Other models include voice activation, for instance this model that works with Alexa for hands-free control.

If you are in the market for a robot vacuum reviews mop or vacuum, make sure that it comes with the features you need. Each model uses a pad to sweep floors, however some have scrubbers for cleaning grout or a rotating brush for a more intensive scrubbing. Some models have filters that can be washed or replaced to eliminate the odor.

Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a trash bin, eliminating the need to manually clean the pads or refill a tank. Some mopping robots, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry in between uses. If you decide to purchase a model that has reusable pads, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions about drying and washing them to keep them looking the best automatic vacuum cleaner.