Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
Most robot vacuums and mops come with an app that allows you to save maps of your house, set cleaning schedules and choose mopping settings. Some models with dual spinning pads can also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.
If automated vacuum is using disposable pads, take them off and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to prevent the buildup of bacteria. You should also clean the tray where they sit between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and then move across the floor, either by scrubbing or brushing to remove the sticky spots and other marks. To prevent bacteria from building up and to prevent them from smelling, these pads should be removed and washed between usage (if they can be washed). Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot. They also require to be washed, rinsed or replaced every couple of cleaning cycles.
The best 2-in-1 robotic mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and have features that help reduce post-cleaning maintenance. They include self-cleaning pads, docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This helps keep your robot mopping again almost immediately after cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able navigate and avoid obstacles, clean them with a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that could interfere with sensors and cause errors.
Select a robot mop that is compatible with carpets if you already have carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, but those that also vacuum or scrub floors might require reprogramming to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a live map of the room so that you can see exactly where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.
The majority of robots with apps connected to mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles but can sometimes become confused or lost. To ensure that your robot's navigation capabilities and obstacle-avoidance abilities are as efficient as they can be and to ensure that the app is updated regularly with the latest software versions. We recommend testing the robot's capabilities in your own home by constructing an obstacle course to run through before buying it.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks. One for clean water and the second for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be filled and empty on a regular basis. The water tanks can be removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and wash them with warm water and mild soap. Most models come with a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to collect any liquid that spills. It is recommended to empty the drip tray following each cleaning cycle to reduce the chance of bacterial growth.
Cleaning the Water Tank
The majority of robot mops, vacuum/mop combinations, and robot mops utilize a reservoir of water for cleaning. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank on a regular basis, dependent on how often you use your robot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is crucial. Some brands, like the top picks in our rankings are washable, removable tanks that allow you to remove the soiled water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested have an app which allows you to save maps of your house and set up cleaning schedules, or choose different cleaning options. This is a feature we look for when selecting a model, as it makes the process of setting up and operating your robot cleaner much simpler. If your choice doesn't have an application, you can control the basics of the robot by pressing a button on its dock or via its remote.
All the newer models that we've tested are able to remove dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is a huge improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners, which mainly passed a pad of water across the floor. They aren't made to take on large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They are also not able to handle furniture and could get confused in rooms with lots of stuff on the floor, so be sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping it to ensure that the machine is able to move around it easily.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean and remove the brushes that are on the sides or bottom of the latest bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Sensors are also used by the majority of bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It's important to wipe the sensors down every few cleaning cycles, especially if they're pressed against the floor.
While it is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the robot's tank, we do not recommend it unless it has been approved by the manufacturer. This can damage your robot and could void the warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot vacuum and mop combination has docks that also double as a water tank, you'll need to clean it regularly. The dock may accumulate grit, dirt and debris that will need to be cleaned and removed after the mop is done. Many of our picks have an auto-cleaning cycle that which you can control with the app or a button on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and helps prevent mildew.
It is also crucial to wash the area around the dock in which the pads are cleaned. If the area is left wet, it may be slimy and smell. If your model has disposable or washable mop pads, be sure to wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid mop/vacuum models that use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. After every cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them with a cloth or rag.
It is essential to clean the sensor areas of some of the more advanced robot vacuums we've tried. They come with sensors that allow you to navigate floors and stay clear of obstructions. This will prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing misjudgment.
While most robot vacuums and mop systems require some work, they are a great option for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save you time, which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
While there are new companies that are trying to build better robot vacuum-mop units however, they have a long way to go before they can reach the level of our quality. But we do expect these robots to improve over time, just like the other robot vacuums in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Maintaining your robot's vacuum and mop is important, just like maintaining your vacuum cleaner. Wipe down the sensors to improve navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, take out hairs from brushes and charge ports, clean them and change the rollers and filter according to the instructions of the manufacturer. These tips will make your robot vacuum and mop be efficient for a long time.
Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab is responsible for evaluating and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum and mop combinations. Her team has been testing and suggesting them for over forty years.
Robot vacuums and mops are ideal for dealing with dry debris (dust dirt) and wet mess (spills, staining) in one clean-up session without the need to switch machines. Multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a busy schedule.
Some robots are operated by an app and come with more features. For example, this model has an obstacle course map that shows our course, which is a major selling feature. You can also utilize the app to schedule and modify cleaning schedules as well as change mopping modes and check the level of battery. Other models include voice activation, such as this model, which works with Alexa, for hands-free control.
If you are considering purchasing a robot vacuum and mop, look for one that has the features that are most important to you. All models use pads to sweep the floor but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout, or a rotating brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to eliminate the odor.
Some mopping robots drop their dirty pads onto the base, which then automatically empty them into a garbage bin, eliminating the need to manually clean the pads or refill a tank. Certain mopping machines, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads you can wash and dry in between uses. If you decide to purchase one with pads that can be reused, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.