Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums and mop models come with an app that lets you save maps of your house and create cleaning schedules and then select mopping mode. Certain models with dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to dump dirty water and clean their brushes.

If your model uses reusable pads, remove them and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to prevent the buildup of bacteria. It is also recommended to clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops come with pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and then move across the floor, scrubbing or brushing to get rid of sticky marks and other spots. To prevent bacteria from building up and to prevent them from smelling, these pads should be cleaned and removed between usage (if they can be washed). Some models also have brushes on the sides and the bottom of the robot that need to be washed, rinsed or replaced after every few cleaning cycles.

The best 2-in-1 robotic mop and vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that reduce post-cleaning maintenance. These include self-cleaning pads docks and automatic dustbin emptying. This keeps your robot mopping almost immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down with a soft cloth or cloth every couple of cycles. This can help get rid of dust that could interfere with sensors and lead to errors.

Choose a mop that is suitable for carpets if already have carpets. Robotic mops that are able to clean or vacuum floors will need to be reprogrammed so they can avoid carpets. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping features. This allows you to identify the areas that the robot has cleaned as well as those it hasn't.

Most robots with apps use sensors to guide them around the house and avoid obstacles, but they may sometimes be lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as efficient as they can be you should update the mopping application on a regular basis with the latest software versions. We suggest testing a robot's performance in your home by creating an obstacle course for it to run through before purchasing it.

Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be emptied and filled on a regular basis. The tanks can be lifted out of the base which makes it easier to clean and wash them with mild soap and warm water. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the dirty tank to catch any liquid that spills. It is recommended to empty the drip tray after each cleaning cycle to reduce the chance of bacterial growth.

Cleaning the Water Tank

The majority of robot mop, vacuum combination and robot mops have a reservoir of water for cleaning. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning this tank on a regular basis depending on the frequency you use your robot. This is vital for bots that you want last for many years. Some brands, such as the top picks in our ratings, come with tanks that are washable and removable so you can remove dirty water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.

The majority of the latest mop-vacs we tested can be paired with an app that lets you save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules or select cleaning options. This is one of the features we look for when selecting a model, as it makes the process of setting up and using your robot cleaner much easier. If the robot you choose does not have an app, it's still possible to control the essential functions of the robot using a button or remote.

All of the newer models we've reviewed can vacuum dust and dirt off many surfaces This is a major improvement over earlier versions of robot cleaners which mainly just passed a pad with water across the floor. However, these machines are not designed to deal with big spills, and they still need to be cleaned by hand. They aren't able to move furniture and can get lost in rooms with lots of clutter.

Some newer bots have brushes on their bottom and sides which can be cleaned and removed, so be certain to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically you'll need a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by the majority of bots to navigate on the floor and avoid obstacles. To ensure that the sensors function well, it's helpful to clean the sensors every couple of cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, particularly the areas where the sensors are press-fit against the floor.

In addition, it is possible to add other cleaners into the robot's tank (for instance vinegar or acetic acid) We do not recommend doing this unless the manufacturer suggests it. This can damage the robot and may void its warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your mop and robot vacuum combo has docks that also double as a water tank, you will need to clean it regularly. The dock can accumulate grit, dust and debris and will need 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 helps keep the tank clean and prevents mildew from developing.

The area of the dock which washes the pads should be cleaned every now and thenit could become slimy or smell bad when left wet for too long. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads, be sure to wash them according to manufacturer's instructions in between cleaning cycles. Hybrid vacuums with brushes on the sides and bottom are also affected. Take the brushes out and clean them with a cloth or rag after each cleaning cycle.

It is essential to clean the sensor areas of some of the more sophisticated robot mop vacuum combos we've tested. They come with sensors that aid in navigating floors and stay clear of obstructions. This will keep dirt and grime from blocking sensors, causing them to make faulty judgements.

While the majority of robot mop and vacuum units require a little bit of work on every day basis, they provide huge benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep floors looking great and reduce the need for heavy lifting, and save you the most valuable resource in the homeyour time.

While there are a few new companies that are trying to develop better robot vacuum-mop units, they have a long way to go before they get to our level of quality. We expect these robots will improve over time just as all previous robot vacuums did.

Cleaning the Brushes

Similar to a vacuum cleaner, robotvacuummops it's important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum combo so it keeps functioning well. Wipe down the sensors to improve navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, take out hairs from brushes Clean the charge ports and change the rollers and filter in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. These suggestions will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum is efficient for a long period of time.

Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care &amp