The majority of robot vacuums or mops have an app that allows you to save maps of your house and set up cleaning schedules and select mopping mode. Some models that have dual rotating pads can also return to the dock to clean their brushes and dispose of dirty water.
To prevent bacteria accumulation, remove the pads and clean them (if it is safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops have pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, either by 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 avoid the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling unpleasant. Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which must be cleaned or rinsed after every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy to use and come with features that cut down on post-cleaning maintenance. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and automatic emptying of the trash bin. This will keep your robot mopping immediately after cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able navigate and avoid obstacles, wipe them down using a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will eliminate dust that could block sensors and lead to mistakes.
Choose a mop for your robot that is suitable for carpets if already have carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that can also be used to scrub or vacuum floors may need to be reprogrammed to recognize carpets or avoid them. Some robotic vacuum cleaners as well as mop cleaners come with mapping functions. This allows you to identify the areas that your robot has cleaned, and also those it has not.
The majority of app-connected robot mops use sensors to move through the home and avoid obstacles, but they can also be lost or confused. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with the latest software releases to ensure that your robot is equipped with the most effective navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities. We recommend testing the robot's performance at home by constructing an obstacle course to test its capabilities before purchasing 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 regularly. The tanks can be lifted from the base which makes it easier to clean and wash them with mild soap and warm water. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to catch any liquid that spills. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray following every cleaning cycle to lower the risk of growth of bacteria.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mop, vacuum combination and robot mops have a water reservoir for cleaning. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank regularly, depending on the frequency you use your robot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is crucial. Some brands, such as the top choices of our ratings, come with 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 are compatible with an app that lets you save your home's maps and set up cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when selecting the right model, since it makes the process of setting up and using the robot cleaner a lot easier. If the robot you pick does not have an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the bot using a button or remote.
The newer models we've tested have the ability to clean dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over the earlier versions of robot cleaners that mostly passed water pads across the floor. They aren't made to deal with large spills. They need to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture, and they can become lost in rooms that have a lot of clutter.
Some modern bots have brushes on the bottom and sides which can be cleaned and removed, so be certain to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to do this (typically, you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). Most bots also have sensors to assist them in navigating floors and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working well, it's helpful to wipe down the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles using a soft clean cloth, especially the areas where sensors are pressed against the floor.
Finally, while it is possible to add other cleaners into your robot's tank (for example vinegar, for example), we advise against doing this unless the manufacturer recommends it. This could damage the robot and invalidate the warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combination has docks that double as water tank, then you will have to keep it clean regularly. The dock can accumulate dirt, dust and grit and must be cleared and cleaned after the mop has been cleaned. A majority of our choices include a self-cleaning function which you can access through the app or on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and prevents mildew.
The area of the dock which washes the pads should be cleaned from time to time -- it can get slimy or even smell bad if left wet for a long time. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads ensure you're washing them according to the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. Hybrid mop/vacuum units with brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. After each cleaning cycle, take the brushes off and clean them using a cloth or rag.
It is essential to clean the sensor areas of some of the more sophisticated robot mop-vacuum combos that we've tried. They are equipped with sensors that allow you to navigate floors and keep out obstructions. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking sensors, which can cause them to make faulty judgements.
While many robot mops and vacuum cleaners require a bit of work on a regular basis, they can provide significant benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep your floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifts. They also save time, which is the most valuable resource at home.
There are a few companies that are trying to create better vacuum-mop robotics, but they are still quite a ways from our level of quality. But we expect these robots to improve in time, just as all other robot vacuums in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Just like a vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum unit to ensure that it's working well. Wipe down sensors to make it easier to navigate clean and empty the water tank, remove pet hair clogs from brushes Keep charge ports clean and replace the filter and rollers as suggested by the manufacturer. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combination perform efficiently for an extended period of time.
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 offering products for over 40 years.
Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning both dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet messes. (spills and stains) without having to switch machines. These multitaskers are great at saving time and effort. They're also great for those with a hectic schedule.
Certain robots require an application to operate and offer more features than others, like the map this model made of our obstacle course, which is one of the main selling points. You can also use the app to schedule and alter cleaning sessions as well as change mopping modes and check the level of battery. Certain models have hands-free operation via voice such as the model that works with Alexa.
When you are looking for a robot mop or vacuum, be sure it has the features you are looking for. All models utilize pads to sweep the floor but some include a scrubber for cleaning grout, or a rotating brush for more intense scrub. Some have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate the odor.
Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a garbage bin, removing the need to manually clean the pads or refill the tank. Other models, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between use. If you decide to purchase a model with reusable pads, be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how to wash and dry them.
