Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mops pair with an app that lets you save maps of your house, set cleaning schedules and choose mopping settings. Certain models with dual spinning pads also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.
If your model uses disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) every several cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. It is also recommended to clean the tray that they rest 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 remove sticky spots and other marks. The pads must be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to prevent bacteria buildup and keep them from smelling bad. Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robotic mop and vacuum combos are simple to operate and include features that help reduce post-cleaning maintenance. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and automatic emptying of the dustbin. This helps keep your robot mopping almost immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot to be in a position to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors using a soft cloth or towel every few cycles. This will eliminate dust that can hinder sensors and cause mistakes.
If you have carpets in your home, be sure to select a robot mop that is compatible with carpets. Robotic mops that are able to vacuum or scrub floors will need to be reprogrammed in order to avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners come with mapping capabilities. This allows you to identify the areas that your robot has cleaned, and also those it has not.
Most robots with apps use sensors to guide them around the house and avoid obstacles, but they may sometimes get confused or lost. Update the mopping app regularly with new software releases to ensure your robot is equipped with the most effective ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. We suggest testing a robot's performance at home by creating an obstacle course to race through prior to buying it.
Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be filled and empty regularly. The water tanks are easily removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and wash them with warm water and mild soap. The majority of models have drip tray that is placed under the dirty water tank to catch any spilled liquid. 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 wash. Most manufacturers advise you to clean this tank regularly, depending on how often you use your robot. This is vital if you want your bots last for a long time. Some brands, including the top picks in our rankings are washable, removable tanks so you can remove the dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the newer mop-vacs that we tested are compatible with an app that allows you to save your home's maps, set cleaning schedules or select cleaning options. This is one of the features we look for when selecting a model, as it makes setting up and using your robot cleaner much simpler. If the robot you select does not have an app, it is still possible to control the basic functions of the robot with the remote or button.
The newer models we've tested have the ability to clean dust and dirt on multiple surfaces. This is a huge improvement over the earlier versions of robot cleaners that mostly passed water pads across the floor. However, these machines are not designed to handle huge spills, which still need to be cleaned manually. They can't move furniture and could get lost in rooms that have a lot of clutter.
Some of the latest bots come with brushes on the bottom and sides which can be cleaned and removed So, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions on how to do this (typically use a damp microfiber cloth). Many bots also have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working properly, it's recommended to wipe down the sensors every few cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where the sensors are pressed against the floor.
Although it is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the robot's tank, we do not recommend it unless it has been suggested by the manufacturer. This can damage the robot and may cause the warranty to be voided.
Cleaning vacuum bot
If your robot mop and vacuum comes with a dock that doubles as a water tank, it will need to be cleaned on a regular basis. The dock can collect grit, dust and debris and will need to be removed and washed when the mop is done. A majority of our choices come with a self-cleaning feature that you can access via the app or on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and also prevents mildew.
The dock's area that is used to wash the pads must be cleaned from time to time -it can become slimy or even smell bad if left wet for a long time. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads, make sure to wash them according to manufacturer's instructions in between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuum and mop units that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. After each cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them using the help of a rag or cloth.
Some of the more advanced robot vacuum-mop combos 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 can keep dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.
While most robot mop and vacuum units require a bit of work on a regular basis, they can provide significant advantages to the busy homeowner. They will keep your floors looking good and reduce the need for heavy lifts. They also save time which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
There are a few companies working to create better vacuum-mop robotics however they are quite a ways from the quality we have. But we expect these robots to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Just like vacuum cleaners is essential to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combination to ensure it is working well. Wipe down the sensors to improve navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, clean hairs from brushes, clean the charge ports and change the rollers and filter in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. These suggestions will help your robot vacuum and mop combo work efficiently for longer.
Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forte evaluates and tests cleaning appliances in the Laboratory including robot vacuum-mop combos. Her team has been testing and recommending products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect to clean dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and staining) without changing machines. These multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are convenient for anyone who lives a full schedule.
Some robots are operated by an app and come with more features. For instance, this model has a map of our obstacle course which is a key selling feature. You can also use the app to schedule and modify cleaning sessions, change mopping modes and check battery levels. Some models also offer voice activation, such as this model that integrates with Alexa, for hands-free control.
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 floors, but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrub. Some models come with a filter that can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate odors.
Some mopping robots dispose of their dirty pads and drop them into a base that automatically empties into a waste drawer, making it unnecessary to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry between uses. If you opt for one with reusable pads, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.