Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums and mops pair with an app that lets you save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules, and choose mopping options. Certain models with dual spinning pads also automatically return to their dock mid-cleaning to flush out dirty water and clean their brushes.

If your model is using pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent the buildup of bacteria. You should also clean the tray in which they rest between cleanings.

Preparation

A lot of robot mops have pads that contain a cleaning solution that are pushed across the floor to soften the sticky marks and spots with scrubbing motions or a brush. The pads must be cleaned, removed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to prevent the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling bad. Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot which must be cleaned, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.

The best automatic vacuum 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and have features that cut down on cleaning maintenance after cleaning. They include automatic emptying of the dustbin docks, self-cleaning pads, and self-cleaning pads that ensure your robot is ready to mop immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down with a soft cloth or a cloth every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that could hinder sensors and robot cleaner cause errors.

Choose a mop for your robot vacuum cleaners reviews that is compatible with carpets if you have them. The majority of robot mops work on hard surfaces, but those which can also be used to scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to recognize or avoid carpets. Some robotic mop/vacuum mop cleaner robot cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a real-time map of the room so that you can see exactly where your robot has cleaned and which areas it hasn't.

The majority of app-connected robot mop mops utilize sensors to help them navigate the house and steer clear of obstacles, but they can occasionally get confused or lost. To ensure that your robot's navigation capabilities and obstacle-avoidance abilities are as good as possible, update the mopping app on a regular basis with the latest software versions. Before you purchase a robot, we recommend creating an obstacle course in your home to test its performance.

The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean water and the second for dirty water. The tank for dirty water must be filled and emptied regularly. The water tanks can be easily removed from the base to make it easier to clean them and rinse them with warm water and mild soap. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to catch any liquid spilled. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray at the end of each cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from growing.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combos have a water tank to clean. The majority of manufacturers recommend that you clean this tank regularly, dependent on how often you use your robot. If you want your bot to last a long time, this is important. Some brands, like the top picks in our rating are washable, removable tanks so you can remove the water that is dirty and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

Many of the latest mop-vacs that we tested can be paired with an app that allows you to save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is a feature we look for when deciding on the right model, since it makes the process of setting up and using your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you choose doesn't have an app, it is still possible to control the essential functions of the robot with a button or remote.

The latest models we've reviewed can vacuum dust and dirt off many surfaces This is a major improvement over previous iterations of robot cleaners that mostly just passed a pad with water across the floor. However they aren't designed to handle huge spills, which have to be cleaned manually. They are also not able to handle large furniture pieces and can get confused in rooms that have lots of clutter on the floor, so make sure to straighten up the area prior to mopping to ensure the machine can maneuver around it easily.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean and remove the brushes that are on the sides or on the bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Most bots also come with sensors that assist them in navigating floors and avoid obstacles. To ensure that these sensors are working well, it's a good idea to wipe down the sensors after every few cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where sensors are pressed 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 has been suggested by the manufacturer. This could damage the robot and invalidate the warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your robot mop and vacuum comes with a dock which doubles as a water tank, it will need to be cleaned periodically. The dock is prone to collecting grit, dust and debris and must be cleared and cleaned when the mop has been cleaned. A majority of our choices have self-cleaning cycles that you can use the app or on the mop itself. This helps keep the tank in good condition and helps prevent mildew from developing.

It is also important to wash the area around the dock where the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model has disposable or washable mop pads ensure that you wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. Hybrid mop/autonomous vacuum units with brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. After every cleaning cycle, take the brushes off and clean them with the help of a rag or cloth.

Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested have sensors that aid in navigating floors and avoid obstacles, however it's still essential to clean the sensor areas clean on a regular basis. This can prevent dust and grime from blocking the sensors and causing inaccurate readings.

Although most robot vacuums and mop systems require some work they are an excellent alternative for busy homeowners. They will keep your floors looking great and eliminate the need for robot cleaner heavy lifting. They also save time and energy, which is the most valuable resource at home.

There are a few companies trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines but they're far from the quality we have. We anticipate that these robots will improve over time, just as all the previous robot vacuums have.

Cleaning the Brushes

Maintaining your robot's mop and vacuum is crucial, just like maintaining a vacuum cleaner. Clean sensors to improve navigation clean and empty the water tank, remove pet hair clogs off of brushes, keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as suggested by the manufacturer. These suggestions will help your robot vacuum and mop combo work efficiently for longer.

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 products and suggesting them for over forty years.

Robot vacuum and mop combos are great for tackling dry debris (dust dirt) and wet messes (spills, staining) in one clean-up session without having to switch machines. Multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are a great choice for those with a hectic schedule.

Some robots are operated by an app and include additional features. For instance, this model has a map of our obstacle course, which is a major selling point. You can also schedule and alter cleaning sessions with the app, change mopping mode and check battery level. Some models offer hands-free operation via voice like the model that works with Alexa.

If you're looking for a robot mop and vacuum, make sure that it has the features you are looking for. Each model uses a pad to sweep floors, but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout, or a rotating brush for a more intensive scrub. Some models have a filter which can be cleaned or replaced in order to reduce the odors.

Some mopping machines dispose of their dirty pads and place them into a base which automatically empties into a waste drawer, making it unnecessary to wash the pads manually 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 one that has reusable pads, make sure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on washing and drying them to ensure they look their best.