Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
Most robot vacuums or mops come with an app which lets you save maps of your home as well as organize cleaning schedules, and then select mopping mode. Certain models with dual rotating pads also return to the dock to clean their brushes and dispose of dirty water.
If your model uses disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. You should also clean the tray in which they rest between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops utilize pads that contain a cleaning solution that slide across the floor to soften the sticky marks and spots by using scrubbing movements or brushes. These pads should be cleaned, removed (if they are washable) 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 the bottom of the robot that need to be washed or rinsed after every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop combos are simple to use and come with features that decrease the amount of maintenance needed after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This keeps your robot mopping again almost immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down with a soft cloth or cloth every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that can block sensors and cause mistakes.
If you have carpets in your home, be sure to choose a robot mop that is compatible with carpets. The majority of robot mops work on hard surfaces, however those which can also vacuum or scrub floors might require reprogramming to avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum cleaners have mapping features that can give you a live map of the room so you can see exactly where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.
The majority of app-connected robot mop mops utilize sensors to help them navigate the house and steer clear of obstacles, but they may occasionally get lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as efficient as they can be you should update the mopping application regularly with new software releases. We recommend testing a robot's performance in your home by creating an obstacle course to test its capabilities before buying it.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean water and the other 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. The majority of models have a drip tray under the tank that collects any liquid that spills. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray after every cleaning cycle to prevent bacterial from growing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to wash. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank on a regular basis dependent on how often you use your robot. This is vital for bots that you want last for many years. Some brands, such as the top picks of our ratings, come with an easily washable tank that is removable, to remove dirt water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested have an app that lets you save maps of your house as well as set up cleaning schedules, or choose different cleaning options. This is a crucial feature to look for when choosing a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and using it much easier. If the robot you pick does not have an app, it is still possible to control the fundamental functions of the robot using a button or remote.
All of the newer models we've reviewed can vacuum up dirt and dust on various surfaces This is a major improvement over previous iterations of robot cleaners which mainly simply pushed a pad of water across the floor. However they're not designed to handle large spills, which still need to be cleaned by hand. They are also not able to handle furniture and could get confused in rooms that have lots of things on the floor, so be sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping to ensure that the machine can maneuver around it effectively.
Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to wash and remove the brushes that are located on the bottom or sides of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It is essential to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially where they are pressed up against the floor.
In addition, it is possible to pour other cleaners in your robot's tank (for example, vinegar), we advise against doing this unless the manufacturer recommends it. This can damage the robot and can end the warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combo has docks that double as water tank, then you will have to keep it clean regularly. The dock can collect dirt, grit and other debris that needs to be cleaned and removed after the mop is finished. 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 in good condition and helps prevent mildew.
It is also important to wash the area around the dock in which the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads ensure that you wash them according to the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuums with brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. After each cleaning cycle take the brushes off and clean them with an abrasive or a cloth.
Some of the most sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested have sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still necessary to wipe down those sensor areas regularly. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking the sensors, causing them make faulty judgements.
While most robot mop and vacuum cleaners require a bit of work on a regular basis, they can provide significant benefits for the busy homeowner. They will keep floors looking beautiful, eliminate the need for heavy lifting and help you save the most valuable resource of the homeyour time.
There are a few companies that are trying to create better vacuum-mop robotics, but they are still a long way from the quality we have. But we do expect these robots to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums have in the past.
Brushes to be cleaned
Maintaining your robot vacuum and mop is crucial, just like maintaining the vacuum cleaner. Wipe down sensors to improve 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 recommended by the manufacturer. These tips will make your robot vacuum and mop perform efficiently for longer.
robot vacuum cleaner reviews & 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 offering products for over 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are ideal to clean dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and staining) without changing machines. These multitaskers can help you save time and energy and are ideal for those with a busy life.
Certain robots are operated via an app and come with more features. For example this model comes with an obstacle course map that shows our course which is a major selling feature. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning schedules as well as change mopping modes and check battery levels. Some models allow voice activation for hands-free operation like the model that is compatible with Alexa.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop make sure you choose models that have the features that are important to you. While all models use a pad of water over floors, some models have a scrubber that can be used to clean grout or a rotating brush roll for more intensive scrub. Some have filters which can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate the odor.
Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into a base which automatically empties them into a waste bin, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads which can be washed and dried in between uses. If you choose one with pads that can be reused, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.