Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums or mops have an app that allows you to save your home's maps as well as set up cleaning schedules and select mopping mode. Some models with dual spinning pads also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to empty the water of dirt and clean their brushes.
If your model is using disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) every several cleaning cycles to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Also, you should clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and pass over the floor, scrubbing or brushing to remove the sticky spots and other marks. These pads should be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to avoid the growth of bacteria and prevent them from smelling bad. Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot that also need to be washed, rinsed or replaced every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop combination is easy to use and comes with features that decrease the amount of maintenance required after cleaning. These include self-cleaning pads docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This keeps your robot mopping immediately after cleaning. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors using towels or soft cloths every few cycles. This will remove dust that could interfere with sensors and cause errors.
Select a robot mop suitable for carpets if already have them. Robot mops that can vacuum or scrub floors 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.
The majority of app-connected robot mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles, but can sometimes be lost or confused. Update the mopping app regularly with the latest software releases to ensure your robot has the best ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course at home to test its performance.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and one for dirty water. The dirty water tank needs to be filled and emptied on a regular basis. The water tanks can be lifted from the base and made easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to collect any liquid spilled. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray following every cleaning cycle to lower the chance of bacterial growth.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mops and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to wash. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you clean the tank frequently, dependent on how often you use your robot. This is crucial for bots that you want last for many years. Some brands, including the top picks of our reviews, have a an easily washable tank that is removable, so you can remove dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
The majority of the latest mop-vacs that we tested can be paired with an app that lets you save your home's maps as well as set cleaning schedules and select cleaning modes. This is something we look for when choosing the right model, since it makes setting up and operating your robot cleaner much simpler. If your chosen model doesn't have an application, you can manage the basic functions of the robot by pressing a button on its dock or via its remote.
All the newer models that we've tested can vacuum up dust and dirt on multiple surfaces. This is an enormous improvement over the earlier versions of robot cleaners, which mostly pushed water-filled pads across the floor. These machines aren't designed to deal with large spills. They have to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture and could get lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.
Follow the manufacturer's directions to clean and remove the brushes on the sides or on the bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Many bots also have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working properly, it's recommended to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, especially those areas where the sensors are press-fit against the floor.
Additionally, although it is possible to pour other cleaners into the robot's tank (for example vinegar, for example), we advise against doing so unless the manufacturer suggests it. This could cause damage to the robot and invalidate its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combo has docks that also double as water tank, then you will need to clean it periodically. The dock is prone to collecting dirt, dust and grit, which will need to be removed and cleaned after the mop has been cleaned. A lot of our picks come with a self-cleaning cycle you can use the app or a button on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and helps prevent mildew.
The dock area that washes the pads also needs to be washed periodically -- 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 instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid vacuum models which use brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. After every cleaning cycle take the brushes off and clean them with the help of a rag or cloth.
Some of the most advanced robot vacuum-mop combos we've tested have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe the sensor areas clean on a regular basis. This will stop dust and grime blocking the sensors, which can cause them to make faulty judgements.
While budget robot vacuum and mop units require some effort they are an excellent option for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking beautiful and reduce the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save time and energy, which is the most valuable resource at home.
There are a few companies working to develop better vacuum-mop machines but they're far from our level of quality. We expect these robots will improve over time, just like all previous robot vacuums did.
Cleaning the Brushes
Like vacuum cleaners, it's important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum unit to ensure that it's working well. Wipe down sensors to aid in navigation clear and rinse the water tank, get rid of pet hair clogs off of brushes, keep charge ports clean and replace the filter and rollers as recommended by the manufacturer. vacuum bot will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum performs well for a lengthy period of time.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning appliances in the Laboratory which includes robot vacuum and mop combos. Her team has been testing and suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of mop and robot vacuum are great for tackling dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet messes (spills or staining) in one clean-up session without switching machines. These multitaskers are great at saving time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a hectic schedule.
Some robots require an app to operate and offer more features than others, like the map this model designed of our obstacle course that's one of the main selling points. You can also schedule and modify cleaning sessions with the app, alter mopping mode, and check battery level. Others include voice activation, such as this model that integrates with Alexa, for hands-free control.
If you're looking for a robot mop and vacuum, make sure that it has the features you are looking for. All models utilize pads to sweep the floor however some have a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating roller brush for a more intensive scrubbing. Some models have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate smells.
Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into the base, which then automatically empty them into a trash bin, removing the need to manually clean the pads or refill a tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry between uses. If you decide to purchase one with reusable pads, be sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying and washing them to keep them looking their best.