Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo
The majority of robot vacuums and mops come with an app that allows you to save maps of your home, create cleaning schedules and select mopping modes. Certain models with dual spinning pads also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to empty the water of dirt and clean their brushes.
If your model uses pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.
Preparation
Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to get rid of the sticky spots and other marks. To stop the growth of bacteria up and keep them from smelling, the pads must be cleaned and removed between uses (if they are washable). Some models also have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot, which must be cleaned and rinsed, or replaced every few cleaning cycles.
The most effective 2-in-1 robot mop and vacuum combos are simple to operate and include features that reduce cleaning maintenance after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This will keep your robot mopping immediately after a cleaning. If you want your robot to be capable of navigating and avoiding obstacles, you should wipe down its sensors with a soft cloth or towel every few cycles. This step will help remove dust that can block sensors and cause mistakes.
Select a robot mop that is compatible with carpets if you have carpets. Robot mops that can vacuum or scrub floors will need to be reprogrammed to avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners as well as mop cleaners are equipped with mapping features. This allows you to observe the areas your robot has cleaned and also those that it hasn't.
The majority of app-connected robot mop mops utilize sensors to guide them around the home and steer clear of obstacles, but they can sometimes get confused or lost. To ensure that automatic vacuum cleaner and obstacle-avoidance capabilities are as good as possible, update the mopping app on a regular basis with the latest software versions. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest that you create an obstacle course at home to test its capabilities.
The majority of robot mops have two tanks one for clean water and the other for dirty water. The tank that is dirty is required to be filled and empty frequently. The tanks can be lifted off the base, making it easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. Most models come with drip tray that sits beneath the water tank that is dirty to collect any liquid spilled. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray every cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from growing.
Cleaning the Water Tank
Most robot vacuums and mop combos use a water tank to clean. 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 important. Certain brands, including the top choices in our ratings, have removable, washable tanks so you can remove the dirty water and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.
The majority of the mop-vacs we tested have an app which lets you save maps of your home, organize cleaning schedules or select cleaning modes. This is one of the features we look for when deciding on a model, as it makes the process of setting up and operating the robot cleaner a lot easier. If the robot you pick does not come with an app, it's still possible to control the fundamental functions of the robot with the remote or button.
The latest models we've examined can sweep up dirt and dust on various surfaces This is a major improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners which mainly just passed a pad with water across the floor. They aren't made to deal with large spills. They must be cleaned manually. These machines can't move furniture and can get lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.
Some newer bots come with brushes on the sides and bottom that can be removed and laundered So, be certain to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to do this (typically, use 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 put other cleaners into your robot's tank (for instance vinegar, for example), we advise against using them unless the manufacturer recommends it. This can damage your robot and could void its warranty.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
If your mop and robot vacuum combination has docks that double as water tank, then you will need to clean it regularly. The dock may accumulate dirt, grit and debris that must be cleaned and removed after the mop is finished. Many of our picks come with a self-cleaning feature which you can access through the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank clean and also prevents mildew from developing.
It is also crucial to wash the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If the area is left wet, it may turn slimy and even smell. If your model is equipped with washable or disposable mop pads, make sure to wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer between cleaning cycles. The same is true for hybrid mop/vacuum models that have brushes on the sides and bottom of the unit. Clean the brushes and clean them using a cloth or rag after each cleaning cycle.
Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested include sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe the sensor areas clean on a regular basis. This will stop dirt and grime from blocking the sensors, which can cause them to make incorrect judgments.
While many robot mops and vacuums require a little work on a regular basis, they provide huge benefits for the busy homeowner. They will keep your floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifting. They also save time which is the most valuable resource you have at home.
There are a few companies working to develop better vacuum-mop machines however they are quite a ways from our level of quality. But we expect these robots to improve with time, just as all other robot vacuums have in the past.
Brushes to be cleaned
Like a vacuum cleaner, it's important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps functioning properly. Clean sensors to aid in navigation, empty and rinse the water tank, remove pet hair clogs off of brushes Keep charge ports clean and change the rollers and filter as recommended by the manufacturer. These suggestions 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 reviews and tests cleaning devices in the Laboratory. This includes robot vacuum and mop combinations. Her team has been testing and suggesting products for more than 40 years.
Combinations of mop and robot vacuum are great for cleaning dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet mess (spills, stains) all in one cleaning session without having to switch machines. These multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are ideal for those who lives a full schedule.
Certain robots require an application to function and have more features than others, like a map this model created of our obstacle course which is one of the main selling points. You can also plan and modify cleaning sessions by using the app, switch mopping mode and check battery level. Some models allow hands-free operation via voice, such as the model that works with Alexa.
If you decide to purchase a robot vacuum and mop combo, look for one that has the features that are important to you. While all models use a pad with water across floors, some include scrubbers that can be used to clean grout, or rotating brushes for more vigorous scrubbing. Some models have filters that can be washed or replaced to lessen odors.
Some mopping robots discard their dirty pads and drop them into a base which automatically emptys into a garbage drawer eliminating the need to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads which can be washed and dried in between uses. If you opt for the model with reusable pads, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions about washing and drying them to ensure they look their best.