Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
Most robot vacuums or mops come with an app which lets you save maps of your home and create cleaning schedules and choose mopping mode. Some models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their docks mid-cleaning to dump dirty water and clean their brushes.
To prevent the accumulation of bacteria, remove the pads and clean them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray that they rest on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, either brushing or scrubbing to get rid of sticky marks and other spots. To stop the growth of bacteria up and keep them from smelling, the pads must be cleaned and removed between uses (if they are washable). Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which need to be washed or rinsed after every few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that cut down on cleaning maintenance after cleaning. They include automatic emptying of the dustbin docks that self-clean and self-cleaning pads which ensure that your robot is ready to mop immediately following a cleaning. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, try wiping down its sensors using a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that could block sensors and cause mistakes.
Select a robot mop compatible with carpets if you already have carpets. Most robot mops work well on hard surfaces, however those that also be used to scrub or vacuum floors may need to be reprogrammed to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners as well as mop cleaners are equipped with mapping capabilities. robot vacuums best lets you observe the areas your robot has cleaned and also those it has not.
Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to guide them through the home and steer clear of obstacles, but they may occasionally get confused or lost. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as good as possible, update the mopping app regularly with new software updates. Before you buy a robot we recommend creating an obstacle course in your home to check its performance.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and one for dirty water. The tank for dirty water has to be emptied and filled frequently. 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 have drip tray that is placed under the dirty water tank to collect any spilled liquid. It is recommended to empty the drip tray after each cleaning cycle to minimize the risk of growth of bacteria.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mops and vacuum/mop combos have a water tank to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank regularly, depending on how frequently you use your robot. If you want your bot to last for a long time, this is essential. Some brands, including the top choices of our ratings, come with tanks that are washable and removable so that you can wash away dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested have an app which lets you save maps of your home as well as set up cleaning schedules, or choose cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when choosing the best model, because it makes setting up and using your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you choose does not come with an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the robot with the remote or button.
The latest models we've tested have the ability to clean dirt and dust on a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners, which mainly passed water-filled pads across the floor. However they aren't designed to handle huge spills, which have to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture, and they can become lost in rooms with lots of clutter.
Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to remove and wash the brushes that are located on the sides or on the bottom of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Most bots also have sensors to aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. It's important to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially if 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's been suggested by the manufacturer. This could damage your robot and void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combo has a dock that also doubles as water tank, you'll need to clean it regularly. The dock can collect dirt, grit and other debris that needs to be cleaned and removed after the mop has finished. A majority of our choices come with a self-cleaning feature that you can use via the app or button on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and helps to prevent mildew.
It is also crucial to clean the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads, make sure you are washing them according to the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid mop/vacuum models that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. After each cleaning cycle take the brushes off and clean them with the help of a rag or cloth.
Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested contain sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still essential to clean off the sensor areas regularly. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking the sensors, which can cause them to make inaccurate judgments.
While many robot mops and vacuum units require a little bit of work on a regular basis, they offer big advantages to the busy homeowner. They can keep floors looking nice and eliminate the need for heavy lifting and save you the most valuable resource in a home -- your free time.
While there are startups that are working to create better robot vacuum units however, they have some way to go before they can reach the level of our quality. We anticipate that these robots will improve over time, just as all previous robot vacuums did.
Brushes to be cleaned
Similar to a vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps working well. Wipe down sensors to aid in navigation, empty and rinse the water tank, clean pet hair clogs off of brushes and charge ports, clean the ports and change the rollers and filter as recommended by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combo work efficiently for a long time.
Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, evaluates and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum and mop combinations. Her team has been testing and recommending products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet spills. (spills and stains) without the need to change machines. These multitaskers can help you save time and energy and are a great choice for those with a busy life.
Some robots require an app to operate and offer more features than others, like a map this model created of our obstacle course that's one of the main selling points. You can also make use of the app to plan and alter cleaning sessions, change mopping modes and check battery levels. Some models offer hands-free operation via voice, such as the model that works with Alexa.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop combo, look for one that has the features that are important to you. All models use pads to sweep the floor, but some include a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating roller brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have filters that can be changed or cleaned to eliminate odors.
Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a waste bin, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill a tank. Some mopping robots, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads you can wash and dry between uses. If you choose a model with reusable pads, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.