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 house, set cleaning schedules and choose mopping settings. Some models with dual rotating pads will also return to the dock to clean their brushes and empty dirty water.

To prevent the accumulation of bacteria to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and wash them (if it is safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray they sit on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and pass over the floor, either brushing or scrubbing to get rid of sticky marks and other spots. These pads need to be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to prevent the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling unpleasant. Some models have brushes on the bottom and sides of the robot that also require to be cleaned, 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 robot mop and vacuum. These include automatic emptying of the dustbin, self-cleaning pads and docks that ensure your robot is ready to mop immediately following a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able navigate and avoid obstacles, clean them using a soft towel or a cloth every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that could block sensors and cause mistakes.

If you have carpets, be sure to select a robot mop that is compatible with them. Robotic mops that are able to vacuum or scrub floors will need to be reprogrammed to avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum cleaners have mapping features that can give you a live map of your room so you can see where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.

Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to guide them through the home and avoid obstacles, but they may sometimes get confused or lost. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with new software releases to ensure that your robot has the best navigation and obstacle-avoidance abilities. We suggest testing a robot's performance in your home by constructing an obstacle course to run through before buying it.

The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and another for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be filled and emptied 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 drip tray which is placed under the water tank that is dirty to catch any spilled liquid. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray at the end of each cleaning cycle to minimize the risk of bacteria growth.

Cleaning the Water Tank

The majority of robot mops and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to wash. Most manufacturers advise you to clean the tank frequently, according to the frequency you use your bot. This is crucial for bots that you want to last for a long time. Some brands, like the top picks in our rating include washable, removable tanks so you can remove the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

The majority of the latest mop-vacs we have tested can be paired with an app that lets you save maps of your home as well as set cleaning schedules and select cleaning modes. This is something we look for when choosing the best robot vacuum and mop model, because it makes setting up and using your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you choose does not have an app, it is still possible to control the basic functions of the robot using the remote or button.

All the newer models that we've tested can vacuum up dirt and dust on a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners, which mostly pushed water pads across the floor. However they're not designed to handle large spills, which still need to be cleaned by hand. They also cannot handle large furniture pieces and could get confused in rooms that have lots of clutter on the floor, so make sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping it to ensure that the machine is able to move around it efficiently.

Some newer bots have brushes on their sides and the bottom that can be cleaned and removed So, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions on how to do this (typically using you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate around the floor and avoid obstacles. It's important to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles, particularly if they're pressed against the floor.

It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the robot however, we don't recommend it unless it's been recommended by the manufacturer. This could damage your robot and void the warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your mop and robot hoover and mop vacuum combo has docks that also double as water tank, then you will need to clean it periodically. The dock may accumulate grit, dirt and debris that must be cleaned and removed when the mop has finished. Many of our options include a self-cleaning function which you can access through the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank in good condition and helps prevent mildew.

The area of the dock that washes the pads also must be cleaned every now and then- it can get slimy or smell bad when left wet for a long time. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads ensure you're washing them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cycles. The same is true for models with a hybrid mop/vacuum which use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. After each cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them using the help of a rag or cloth.

Some of the more advanced robot vacuums with mop vacuums and mops we've tested include sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still essential to clean off the sensor areas regularly. This can keep dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing misjudgment.

While many robot mops and vacuum cleaners require a bit of work on every day basis, they offer big benefits for the busy homeowner. They will keep your floors looking great and eliminate the need for heavy lifts. They also save time which is the most valuable resource at home.

There are a few companies that are trying to create better vacuum-mop robotics but they're far from the quality we have. However, we expect these machines to improve over time, just like all other robot vacuums have in the past.

Cleaning the Brushes

Maintaining your robot's vacuum and mop is important, just like maintaining your vacuum cleaner. Clean the sensors to enhance navigation. Empty and rinse the water tanks, remove hairs from brushes and charge ports, clean them and Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum then replace the rollers and Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. These suggestions will help your robot vacuum and mop be efficient 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 and offering products for over 40 years.

Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning both dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and stains) without having to switch machines. These multitaskers can help you save time and energy and are ideal for those with a busy life.

Certain robots require an application to operate and provide more features than others, such as a map this model created of our obstacle course, which is one of the main selling points. You can also schedule and modify cleaning sessions using the app, switch mopping modes and check battery level. Some models allow 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, make sure that it has the features you are looking for. While all models push pads with water over floors, some have a scrubber that can be used to clean grout, or a rotating brush roll to provide more vigorous scrub. Certain models come with filters that can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate odors.

Some mopping robots discard their dirty pads and drop them into a base that automatically discharges into a waste bin making it unnecessary 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 between uses. If you choose a model that has pads that can be reused, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how to wash and dry them.