Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo The majority of robot vacuums and mops come with an app that lets you save maps of your home as well as organize cleaning schedules, and then select mopping mode. Some models that have dual rotating pads can also return to the dock to clean their brushes and empty dirty water. If your model uses pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) every several cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray in which they rest between cleanings. Preparation Many robot mops utilize pads that contain a cleaning solution that slide across the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks by using scrubbing movements or a brush. These pads should be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to prevent bacteria buildup 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 every few cleaning cycles. The best 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that reduce the amount of maintenance required after cleaning. These include automatic emptying of the dustbin, self-cleaning pads and docks which ensure that your robot is ready to mop again almost immediately after a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot to be able to navigate and avoid obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors using a soft cloth or towel every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that can block sensors and cause mistakes. Choose a mop that is compatible with carpets if you already have them. The majority of robot mops work on hard surfaces, but those that also scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners are equipped with mapping capabilities. This allows you to see the areas that the robot has cleaned and also those it has not. Most robots with apps use sensors to guide them through the home and steer clear of obstacles, but they may sometimes be confused or lost. 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. We recommend testing a robot's performance at home by constructing an obstacle course for it to run through before buying it. The majority of robot mops have two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The dirty water tank must be filled and emptied regularly. The tanks can be lifted out of the base and made easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models have drip tray that is placed under the water tank that is dirty 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 and vacuum/mop combination devices use a tank of water to clean. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank on a regular basis depending on how frequently you use your robot. This is crucial to ensure that your bots to last for an extended period of time. Some brands, including the top picks in our ratings are washable, removable tanks, allowing you to wash off the water that is dirty and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions. The majority of the latest mop-vacs that we tested can be used with an app that allows you to save maps of your home and set up cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is a crucial feature to consider when choosing a robot cleaner. It makes the process of setting it up and operating it much easier. If your choice doesn't have an app, you can still control the basics of the robot using a button on its dock or via its remote. The newer models we've tested have the ability to clean dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is an enormous improvement over previous versions of robot cleaner s, that mostly passed water pads across the floor. However they're not designed to handle large spills, which still need to be cleaned by hand. They are also not able to handle a lot of furniture and can get confused in rooms that have lots of things on the floor, so be sure to straighten 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 located on the bottom or sides of some newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). The majority of bots also come with sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles. To keep these sensors working well, it's a good idea to wipe down the sensors every few cleaning cycles with a soft, clean cloth - especially those areas where the sensors are pressed against the floor. It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the robot's tank We do not recommend it unless it's been suggested by the manufacturer. This can damage the robot and could end the warranty. Cleaning the Drip Tray If your mop and robot vacuum combo has docks that also double as a water tank, you'll need to clean it periodically. The dock may accumulate dirt, grit and other debris that will need to be cleaned out and removed once the mop is done. Many of our picks come with a self-cleaning feature which you can access through the app or on the mop. This helps keep the tank clean and also prevents mildew from developing. The dock area which washes the pads should be cleaned from time to time -it can become slimy and smell unpleasant if left wet for too long. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads make sure you are washing them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. The same goes for models with a hybrid mop/vacuum that use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. Remove the brushes and clean them with a rag or cloth after each cleaning cycle. Some of the most advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still essential to clean off the sensor areas regularly. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking sensors, causing them to make faulty judgements. Although the majority of robot vacuums and mop machines require some effort, they are a great alternative for busy homeowners. They can keep floors looking nice and eliminate the need for heavy lifting and save you the most valuable resource of a home -- your free time. There are a few companies trying to create better vacuum-mop robotics but they're far from our standard. We expect these robots will improve over time, just as all the previous robot vacuums have. Brushes to be cleaned Like vacuum cleaners is essential to maintain your cleaning robot mop and vacuum combination to ensure it is functioning properly. Wipe down the sensors to improve navigation. Empty and rinse the water tanks, clean hairs from brushes and charge ports, clean them and then replace the rollers and filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. These tips will help your robot vacuum and mop combination perform 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 and suggesting products for more than 40 years. Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect to clean dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and staining) without changing machines. These multitaskers are great for saving time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a hectic schedule. Some robots are operated by an app and come with additional features. For instance this model comes with an outline of our obstacle course, which is a major selling feature. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning schedules modify mopping settings and check battery levels. Some models also include voice activation, such as this model, which works with Alexa, for hands-free control. If you're looking for a robot mop and vacuum, make sure that it comes with the features you need. All models utilize pads to sweep floors, but some include a scrubber for cleaning grout or a rotating brush for a more intensive scrub. Some models come with a filter which can be cleaned or replaced to reduce odors. Some mopping machines dispose of their dirty pads and place them into a base that automatically empties into a waste drawer, eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry between uses. If you opt for a model that has reusable pads, be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and dry them.
