Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums or mop models come with an app that allows you to save maps of your house and organize cleaning schedules, and then select mopping mode. Some models that have dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their dock mid-cleaning to empty the water of dirt and clean their brushes.
If your model is using reusable pads, remove them and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Also, you'll want to clean the resting tray in which they rest between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked with cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, either by scrubbing or brushing to get rid of the sticky spots and other marks. These pads should be cleaned, removed (if they can be washed) and dried between uses to avoid the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling unpleasant. Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot. These brushes also require to be rinsed, washed or replaced after a few cleaning cycles.
The most efficient 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are simple to use and come with features that cut down on the amount of maintenance required after cleaning. These include self-cleaning pads docks, and automatic emptying of the dustbin. This will keep your robot mopping immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot to be in a position to navigate and avoid obstacles, try wiping down its sensors with towels or soft cloths every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that can interfere with sensors and cause errors.
Choose a mop for your robot that is that is compatible with carpets if you already have carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that can also scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to recognize carpets or avoid them. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners are equipped with mapping capabilities. This allows you to see the areas that the robot has cleaned as well as the areas it has not.
The majority of apps-connected robots mop use sensors to navigate through the home and avoid obstacles, but can sometimes get confused or lost. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with the latest software releases to ensure your robot has the best ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course at your home to test its performance.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The dirty water tank has to be emptied and filled regularly. The water tanks are easily removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and rinse with warm water and mild soap. Most models come with an under-sink drip tray beneath the dirty tank to collect any liquid spilled. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray after every cleaning cycle to lower the risk of growth of bacteria.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot mops, vacuum/mop combinations, and robot mops utilize an water reservoir to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank on a regular basis depending on how frequently you use your robot. This is vital for bots that you want last for an extended period of time. Certain brands, including the top picks in our rating include washable, removable tanks that allow you to remove the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Many of the latest mop-vacs we tested are compatible with an app that allows you to save maps of your home and set up cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when selecting the best model, because it makes the process of setting up and operating your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you select doesn't have an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the bot using the remote or button.
All of the latest models we've reviewed can vacuum up dirt and dust on multiple surfaces This is a major improvement over earlier versions of robot cleaners which mainly just pushed a pad filled with water across the floor. However, these machines are not designed to deal with big spills, which still need to be cleaned by hand. They aren't able to move furniture and could get lost in rooms with lots of clutter.
Follow the manufacturer's directions to wash and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or bottom of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate around the floor and avoid obstacles. It is important to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles, especially where they are pressed up against the floor.
It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the robot however, we don't recommend it unless it's been approved by the manufacturer. This could damage the robot and may cause the warranty to be voided.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot mop and vacuum has a dock on its own that doubles as a water tank, it will need to be cleaned on a regular basis. The dock can accumulate dirt, dust and grit that will need to be removed and washed when the mop is done. A lot of our picks come with a self-cleaning cycle you can run using the app or a button on the mop itself. This helps keep the tank clean and prevents mildew.
The area of the dock that is used to wash the pads should be cleaned from time to time -it can become slimy or smell bad when left wet for a long time. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads, ensure that you wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cycles. The same is true for hybrid mop/vacuum models which use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. Every several cleaning cycles take the brushes off and clean them with a cloth or rag.
Some of the most sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested have sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still essential to clean off the sensor areas on a regular basis. This can keep dirt and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.
While many robot mops and vacuums require a bit of work on every day basis, they offer big advantages for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifting. They also save you time which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
While there are a few companies that are attempting to develop better robot vacuum-mop units, they still have a long way to go before they get to our standard of quality. However, we expect these machines to improve in time, just as all other robot vacuums have in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Maintaining your robot vacuum and mop is important, just like maintaining a vacuum cleaner. Clean sensors to make it easier to navigate, empty and rinse the water tank, clean pet hair clogs that block brushes, keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as recommended by the manufacturer. These tips will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum combo is efficient for a long period of time.
Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab reviews and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum and mop combinations. Her team has been testing and suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of mop and robot vacuum are ideal for dealing with dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet mess (spills, stains) all in one cleaning session without switching machines. Multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They are also great for those with a busy schedule.
best inexpensive robot vacuum require an application to operate and provide more features than others, like the map this model made of our obstacle course that's an important selling point. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning schedules, change mopping modes and check the battery level. Some models also offer voice activation, for instance this model that integrates with Alexa to allow hands-free control.
When you are looking for a robot mop or vacuum, be sure it comes with the features you need. While all models push a pad with water across floors, some include a scrubber that can be used to clean grout, or an inclined brush roll to provide more vigorous scrub. Some models have filters that can be cleaned or replaced to lessen odors.
Some mopping machines dispose of their dirty pads and drop them into a base that automatically empties into a waste drawer eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Other models, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between usage. If you decide to purchase a model with pads that can be reused, make sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to wash and dry them.