Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of
robot vacuum that vacuums and mops vacuums and mops pair with an application that lets you save maps of your house, set cleaning schedules and choose mopping options. Some models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their docks mid-cleaning to empty the water of dirt and clean their brushes.
To prevent bacteria accumulation to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and wash them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. It is also recommended to clean the tray they sit on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops have pads that are soaked with cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to remove sticky spots and other marks. To stop bacteria from building up and to keep them from smelling, the pads should be cleaned and removed between usage (if they can be washed). Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot that also need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after a few cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are easy-to-use and come with features that reduce the amount of maintenance required after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and
automatic hoover emptying of the dustbin. This will keep your robot mopping again almost immediately after 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 towel or cloth every few cycles. This will help get rid of dust that could hinder sensors and cause errors.
If you have carpets, be sure to choose a robot mop that is compatible with carpets. Robotic mops that are able to scrub or vacuum floors will need to be reprogrammed in order to avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum cleaners have mapping features that can give you a real-time map of the room so you can see exactly where your
robot vacuum that mops has cleaned and which areas it hasn't.
The majority of robots with apps connected to mop use sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles but can sometimes become confused or lost. Make sure to update the mopping application regularly with new software releases to ensure your robot is equipped with the most effective ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. Before you buy a robot we recommend creating an obstacle course in your home to test its performance.
Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean and one for dirty water. The dirty water tank must be filled and emptied regularly. The water tanks are easily removed from the base, making it easier to clean them and rinse them with warm water and mild soap. Most models come with an under-sink drip tray beneath the tank that collects any liquid that spills. It is recommended to empty the drip tray at the end of every cleaning cycle to lower the risk of bacteria growth.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot vacuums and mop combination devices use a tank of water to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank regularly, dependent on how often you use your robot. If you want your bot to last for a long time, this is crucial. Some brands, like the top choices in our rankings are washable, removable tanks, allowing you to wash off the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Many of the latest mop-vacs we tested can be used with an app that lets you save maps of your home as well as set cleaning schedules and select cleaning options. This is something we look for when deciding on the right model, since it makes setting up and operating the robot cleaner a lot easier. If your choice doesn't have an application, you can manage the basic functions of the bot from a button on its dock or via its remote.
The latest models we've examined can sweep up dust and dirt from multiple surfaces This is a major improvement over earlier versions of robot cleaners that mostly simply pushed a pad of water across the floor. These machines aren't designed to take on large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They also can't handle furniture and can get confused in rooms that have lots of stuff on the floor, so make sure to straighten the area prior to mopping it to ensure the machine can move around it effectively.
Follow the manufacturer's directions to remove and wash the brushes that are located on the bottom or sides of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Most bots also have sensors that aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. To ensure that the sensors function well, it's a good idea to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where sensors are placed against the floor.
Although it is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the
robot vacuums best however, we don't recommend it unless it has been approved by the manufacturer. This could cause damage to your robot and could void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combination has docks that double as a water tank, you'll need to clean it periodically. The dock can collect dirt, dust and grit and will need to be removed and washed when the mop has been cleaned. Many of our picks have self-cleaning cycles that you can use the app or on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and prevents mildew from developing.
The dock's area that washes the pads also should be cleaned periodically -- it can get slimy or smell bad if left wet for too long. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads ensure you're washing them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. The same is true for hybrid 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 an abrasive or a cloth.
Some of the more advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested have sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe the sensor areas clean regularly. This will prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.
While most robot mop and vacuum cleaners require a little work on an ongoing basis, they can provide significant benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep floors looking nice, eliminate the necessity for heavy lifting, and help you save the most valuable resource of the homeyour time.
There are a few companies trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines but they're quite a ways from the quality we have. We expect these robots will improve over time just as all previous
robot vacuums that mop vacuums did.
Cleaning the Brushes
Maintaining your robot vacuum and mop is important, just like maintaining your vacuum cleaner. Wipe down sensors to make it easier to navigate, empty and rinse the water tank, clean pet hair clogs off of brushes Keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as suggested by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combination work efficiently for an extended period of 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 suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet messes. (spills and staining) without having to switch machines. Multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are convenient for anyone with a busy life.
Some robots require an app to function and have more features than others, such as a map this model created of our obstacle course, which is a big selling point. You can also use the app to schedule and alter cleaning sessions modify mopping settings and check the level of battery. Other models provide voice activation, such as this model that integrates with Alexa, for hands-free control.
If you are in the market for a robot mop and vacuum, ensure that it comes with the features you need. Each model uses a pad to sweep the floor but some include a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have filters which can be cleaned or replaced to reduce the smell.
Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads onto an empty base that automatically dumps them into a trash bin, removing the need to manually wash the pads or refill a tank. Others, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between use. If you opt for one with reusable pads, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean and dry them.