Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums or mop cleaners come with an app that lets you save maps of your house and set up cleaning schedules and then select mopping mode. Certain models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their dock mid-cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.

To prevent bacteria accumulation To prevent the accumulation of bacteria, take them off and wash them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops come with 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. To prevent bacteria from building up and keep them from smelling, these pads should be removed and washed between use (if they can be washed). Some models have brushes on the bottom and sides of the robot that also require to be washed, rinsed or replaced every couple of cleaning cycles.

The best 2-in-1 robot vacuum/mop combos are easy to operate and include features that cut down on cleaning maintenance after cleaning. These include automatic vacuum cleaner dustbin emptying, self-cleaning pads and docks which ensure that your robot is ready to mop immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, consider wiping down its sensors using towels or soft cloths every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that could hinder sensors and cause mistakes.

Choose a mop that is that is compatible with carpets if you have them. Robotic mops that are able to vacuum or scrub floors must be reprogrammed in order to avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping capabilities. This allows you to see the areas that your robot has cleaned, as well as the areas that it hasn't.

The majority of app-connected robot mops use sensors to move through the house and avoid obstacles however, they can become confused or lost. Make sure to update the mopping application regularly with new software releases to ensure your robot has the best ability to navigate and avoid obstacles. Before purchasing a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course in your home to test its capabilities.

The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and one for dirty water. The dirty water tank needs to be emptied and filled on a regular basis. The tanks can be lifted from the base and made easier to clean and wash them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with an under-sink drip tray beneath the tank that collects any liquid that spills. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray at the end of each cleaning cycle to stop bacteria from developing.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot vacuums and mop combos have a water tank to clean. 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 important. Some brands, including the top picks of our rating, come with a an easily washable tank that is removable, so that you can wash away dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

The majority of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app that lets you save maps of your home, organize cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is something we look for when deciding on a model, as it makes the process of setting up and using the robot cleaner a lot easier. If the model you choose doesn't come with an application, you can control the basics of the robot by pressing a button on its dock or remote.

The latest models we've tested can vacuum up dust and dirt on multiple surfaces. This is a big improvement over the earlier versions of robot cleaners, that mostly passed a pad of water across the floor. However they're not designed to handle large spills, and they still need to be cleaned by hand. They also can't handle large furniture pieces and can get confused in rooms with a lot of things on the floor, so be sure to straighten the area prior to mopping to ensure that the machine can move around it efficiently.

Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to clean and remove the brushes that are located on the sides or on the bottom of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Many bots also have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles. To ensure that these sensors are working well, it's a good idea to wipe down the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles using a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where sensors are press-fit 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 could damage the robot and invalidate the warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your mop and robot vacuum combination comes with docks that also double as a water tank, you will have to keep it clean regularly. The dock can accumulate grit, dust and debris that needs to be removed and washed when the mop is done. A lot of our picks come with self-cleaning cycles that you can run using the app or on the mop itself. This keeps the tank in good condition and helps to prevent mildew.

It is also essential to clean the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If left wet, it can become slimy and even smell. If your model comes with washable or disposable mop pads, make sure to wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuums that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit are also affected. Clean the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle.

Some of the most sophisticated robot vacuums with mop vacuum-mop combinations we've tested include sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, however it's still necessary to wipe off the sensor areas regularly. This will prevent dust and grime blocking the sensors, causing them make faulty judgements.

Although the majority of robot vacuums and mop units require some effort however, they're a great alternative for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for heavy lifting. They also save time which is the most valuable resource you have at home.

There are a few companies that are trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines, but they are still far from our standard. We expect these robots that vacuum and mop will improve over time, just as the previous robot vacuums did.

Cleaning the Brushes

Like a vacuum cleaner it is important to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum combo so it keeps functioning well. Wipe down sensors to aid in navigation clear and rinse the water tank, clean pet hair clogs that block brushes and charge ports, clean the ports and replace the filter and rollers as suggested by the manufacturer. These tips will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum works efficiently for a long period of time.

Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, evaluates and tests cleaning equipment in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum-mop combinations. Her team has been testing products and providing recommendations for them for more than forty years.

Robot vacuum and mop combos are great for cleaning dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet mess (spills or stains) in one clean-up session without having to switch machines. These multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They're also great for busy schedule.

Some robots require an app to operate and offer more features than others, like the map this model made of our obstacle course which is a big selling point. You can also use the app to schedule and modify cleaning sessions, change mopping modes and check the level of battery. Some models allow 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 comes with the features you need. All models use a pad to sweep the floor, but some also have scrubbers for cleaning grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have filters which can be cleaned or replaced to reduce the odor.

Some mopping robots 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 use. If you decide to purchase the model with reusable pads, make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions about drying and washing them in order to keep them looking the best automatic vacuum.