Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mops have an app that allows you to save maps of your house, set up cleaning schedules and select mopping mode. Some models with dual rotating pads also return to the dock to clean their brushes and dump dirty water.
To avoid the accumulation of bacteria to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and clean them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. You'll also want to scrub down the resting tray in which they rest between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked with cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, either by scrubbing or brushing to remove the sticky spots and other marks. These pads should be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to avoid the buildup of bacteria and keep them from smelling bad. Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, that need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot mop and vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that help reduce cleaning maintenance after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and automatic emptying of the dustbin. This keeps your robot mopping almost immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot to be in a position to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors using a soft cloth or towel every few cycles. This will remove dust that could hinder sensors and cause mistakes.
Choose a mop that is compatible with carpets if you already have carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those which can also be used to scrub or vacuum floors may require reprogramming to recognize or avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping capabilities that give you a live map of the room so that you can track where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.
The majority of app-connected robot mops utilize sensors to navigate through the house and avoid obstacles but they can also be lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities are as efficient as they can be, update the mopping app on a regular basis with new software releases. Before you purchase a robot, we recommend creating an obstacle course at home to test its capabilities.
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 regularly. The water tanks can be 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 drip tray which sits beneath the water tank that has been contaminated to collect any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty your drip tray every cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from developing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot vacuums and mop combination devices use a tank of water for cleaning. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank regularly, depending on how frequently you use your robot. This is vital if you want your bots last for many years. Certain brands, like the top picks of our reviews, have a tanks that are washable and removable so that you can wash away dirty water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.
Most of the mop-vacs we tested come with an app that lets you save maps of your home, create cleaning schedules, or choose different cleaning options. This is an important feature to consider when selecting a robot cleaner. It makes setting it up and operating it a lot easier. If the robot you select 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 are able to remove dust and dirt on multiple surfaces. This is an enormous improvement over the previous versions of robot cleaners, which mainly passed a pad of water across the floor. These machines are not meant to deal with large spills. They have to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture and can get lost in rooms with lots of clutter.
Some of the latest bots have brushes on the sides and the bottom that can be removed and washed So, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by most bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. It is important to wipe the sensors down every couple of cleaning cycles, particularly if they are pressed up against the floor.
In addition, it is possible to add other cleaners in your robot's tank (for example, vinegar), we advise against doing this unless the manufacturer recommends it. This could damage your robot and could void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your robot mop and vacuum has a separate dock that doubles as a water tank, it will have to be cleaned periodically. The dock may accumulate grit, dirt and debris that must be cleaned and removed after the mop is done. A majority of our choices have an auto-cleaning cycle that you can run using the app or on the mop itself. This helps keep the tank clean and also prevents mildew from developing.
It is also essential to clean the area of the dock in which the pads are cleaned. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads make sure you are washing them according to the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cycles. The same goes for hybrid vacuum models which use brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. After every cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them with a cloth or rag.
Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested include sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still necessary to wipe down those sensor areas on a regular basis. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking sensors, which can cause them to make incorrect judgements.
While the majority of robot mop and vacuum units require a little bit of work on an ongoing basis, they offer big advantages to the busy homeowner. They can keep your floors looking good and eliminate the need for lifting heavy objects. They also save time, which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
Although there are robot vacuum cleaners reviews that are attempting to create better robot vacuum units, they have some way to go before they can reach the level of our quality. But we expect these robots to improve with time, just as the other robot vacuums in the past.
Cleaning the Brushes
Like a vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps working well. Clean the sensors to enhance navigation. Empty and wash the water tanks, clean hairs from the brushes, clean the charge ports and then replace the rollers and filter according to the instructions of the manufacturer. These suggestions will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum combo is efficient for a long 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.
Robot vacuums and mops are great for tackling both dry debris (dust dirt) and wet mess (spills, stains) in one cleaning session without the need to switch machines. These multitaskers are great at saving time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a hectic schedule.
Certain robots require an app to operate and provide 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 schedule and alter cleaning sessions using the app, switch mopping modes and determine the battery's level. Certain models have voice activation to allow hands-free operation such as the model that is compatible with Alexa.
If you choose to purchase a robot vacuum and mop combination make sure you choose models that have the features that are most important to you. All models utilize pads to sweep floors, but some also have a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have a filter that can be cleaned or replaced to reduce the odor.
Some mopping robots discard their dirty pads and place them into a base which automatically discharges into a waste bin, eliminating the need to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Others, such as the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between uses. If you decide to purchase one with reusable pads, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to wash and dry them.