Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums or mop models have an app that allows you to save maps of your house, create cleaning schedules and then select mopping mode. Certain models with dual spinning pads can also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.
If your model uses reusable pads, remove them and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to avoid the buildup of bacteria. It is also recommended to clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops have pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to get rid of sticky marks and other spots. To stop bacteria from building up and to prevent them from smelling, the pads must be removed and washed between use (if they can be washed). 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 most efficient 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are simple to use and come with features that decrease the amount of maintenance needed after cleaning. These include self-cleaning pads docks, and automatic emptying of the trash bin. This will keep your robot mopping immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot to be in a position to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors with towels or soft cloths every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that could hinder sensors and cause errors.
If you have carpets, be certain to select a mop that is compatible with carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that also scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping capabilities. This allows you to observe the areas the robot has cleaned as well as the areas it has not.
Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to guide them through the home and avoid obstacles, but they can sometimes get lost or confused. Make sure to update the mopping application regularly with new software releases to ensure that your robot has the best navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities. We recommend testing a robot's performance at home by constructing an obstacle course to race through prior to purchasing it.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and one for dirty water. The dirty water tank must be filled and emptied regularly. The water tanks can be removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and rinse with warm water and mild soap. The majority of models have a drip tray under the tank that collects any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty your drip tray after every cleaning cycle to stop bacteria from developing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank on a regular basis, depending on the frequency you use your robot. This is essential if you want your bots to last for many years. Some brands, like the top choices in our rating are washable, removable tanks that allow you to remove the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
The majority of mop-vacs that we tested come with an app which lets you save maps of your house, set up cleaning schedules, or choose different cleaning options. This is a crucial feature to look out for when choosing a robotic cleaner. It makes setting it up and operating it much simpler. If the model you choose doesn't come with an application, you can manage the basic functions of the robot using the dock or remote.
All the newer models that we've tested have the ability to clean dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners that mostly passed a pad of water across the floor. However they aren't designed to handle huge spills, which have to be cleaned manually. They also can't handle furniture and may get lost in rooms with lots of clutter on the floor, so be sure to straighten the space before mopping to make sure the machine can move around it easily.
Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to clean and remove the brushes on the sides or on the bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by the majority of bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It is important to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially where they're pressed against the floor.
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 could cause damage to the robot and could void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combination comes with docks that double as water tank, you'll need to clean it regularly. The dock may accumulate dirt, grit and debris that will need to be cleaned and removed when the mop is finished. A majority of our choices include a self-cleaning function that you can use via the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank clean and helps prevent mildew.
It is also essential to wash the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If robot vacuums best is left wet, it could be slimy and smell. If your model comes with disposable or washable mop pads, be sure to wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuum and mop units with brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. Clean the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.
Some of the most advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, however it's still necessary to wipe down those sensor areas on a regular basis. This will prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing misjudgment.
While most robot vacuums and mop machines require some work however, they're a great alternative for busy homeowners. They can keep your floors looking great and eliminate the need for heavy lifting. They also save you time which is the most valuable resource at home.
There are a few companies working to create better vacuum-mop robotics but they're far from the quality we have. But we expect these robots to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.
Brushes to be cleaned
Similar to a vacuum cleaner it is important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combination to ensure it is functioning properly. Clean sensors to aid in navigation clear and rinse the water tank, remove pet hair clogs that block brushes, keep charge ports clean and replace filter and rollers as recommended by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combination work efficiently for a long 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 products and suggesting them for over forty years.
Robot vacuum and mop combos are great for tackling dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet messes (spills or stains) in one cleaning session without switching machines. Multitaskers are great for making time and effort. They are also great for those with a busy schedule.
Some robots require an app to operate and provide more features than others, like a map this model created of our obstacle course, which is a big selling point. You can also schedule and modify cleaning sessions using the app, change mopping mode and check the battery level. Some models offer voice activation to allow hands-free operation, such as the model that integrates with Alexa.
If you are in the market for a robot mop or vacuum, be sure it has the features you are looking for. 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 scrub. Some models have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to lessen smells.
Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a waste bin, removing the need to manually clean the pads or refill a tank. Other models, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that can be washed and dry between uses. If you opt for a model with pads that can be reused, make sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.