Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

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

If your model has reusable pads, remove them and wash them (if safe) every few cleaning cycles to avoid the buildup of bacteria. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.

Preparation

Many robot mops utilize pads with a cleaning solution that slide across the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks with scrubbing motions or brushes. These pads need to be removed, washed (if they are washable) and dried between uses to avoid bacteria buildup and keep them from smelling bad. Some models have brushes on the bottom and sides of the robot. These brushes also need to be cleaned, rinsed or replaced after a few cleaning cycles.

The best rated robot vacuum 2-in-1 robotic mop and vacuum combos are simple to use and have features that reduce post-cleaning maintenance. These include self-cleaning pads, docks and automatic vacuum cleaner and mop dustbin emptying. This keeps your robot mopping almost immediately after cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down with a soft towel or cloth every few cycles. This will remove dust that can hinder sensors and cause mistakes.

Choose a mop for your robot that is that is compatible with carpets if you already have carpets. Most robot mops work well on hard surfaces, however those that can also scrub or vacuum floors might need to be reprogrammed to recognize carpets or avoid them. Some robotic vacuum cleaners come with mapping capabilities that give you a real-time map of your room so you can see where your robot has cleaned and what areas it hasn't.

The majority of app-connected robot mops utilize sensors to navigate through the home and avoid obstacles, but can sometimes become confused or lost. It is important to update the mopping app frequently with new software updates to ensure that your robot is equipped with the most effective navigation and robot vacuum obstacle-avoidance capabilities. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course at home to test its capabilities.

Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean and one for dirty water. The tank for dirty water is required to be filled and empty regularly. The tanks can be lifted off the base, making it easier to clean and wash them with mild soap and warm water. Most models have drip tray which sits under the water tank that has been contaminated to collect any liquid spilled. It's recommended that you empty the drip tray after every cleaning cycle to lower the chance of bacterial growth.

Cleaning the Water Tank

The majority of robot mops and vacuum/mop combos have a water tank for cleaning. Most manufacturers advise you to clean the tank frequently, depending on the frequency you use your bot. This is vital for bots that you want to last for an extended period of time. Certain brands, like the top choices of our reviews, have a removable, washable tank so you can remove dirty water and allow the tank to dry between cleaning sessions.

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

All the newer models that we've tested can vacuum up dirt and dust from a variety of surfaces. This is a big improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners, that mostly passed a pad of water across the floor. They aren't made to handle large spills. They have to be cleaned manually. They can't move furniture, and they can become lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to wash and remove the brushes that are on the sides or robot vacuum bottom of certain newer bots (typically a damp microfiber towel). Many bots also have sensors that aid in navigation and avoid obstacles. It is essential to clean the sensors every few cleaning cycles, particularly if they're pressed against the floor.

In addition, it is possible to pour other cleaners in your robot's tank (for instance vinegar, for example), we advise against doing so unless the manufacturer suggests it. This could cause damage to the robot and may cause the warranty to be voided.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your mop and robot vacuum combo has docks that double as a water tank, you will need to clean it regularly. The dock can collect dirt, grit and other debris that needs to be cleaned and removed when the mop has finished. Many of our picks have a self-cleaning feature that you can use via the app or the button on the mop. This keeps the tank in good robot vacuum condition and helps prevent mildew.

It is also essential to clean the area of the dock where the pads are cleaned. If the area is left wet, it may become slimy and even smell. If your model is equipped with disposable or washable mop pads, ensure that you wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions 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.

Some of the most sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested have sensors that help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe down those sensor areas regularly. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking the sensors, causing them to make incorrect judgments.

Although the majority of robot vacuums and mop systems require some effort, they are a great alternative for busy homeowners. They will keep floors looking beautiful and eliminate the need for heavy lifting, and help you save the most valuable resource in the home- your free time.

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

Brushes to be cleaned

Just like vacuum cleaners it is important to maintain your mop and cleaning robot vacuum unit to ensure that it's functioning well. Wipe down the sensors to enhance navigation. Empty and rinse the water tanks, remove hairs from the brushes and charge ports, clean them and change the filter and rollers according to the manufacturer's instructions. These steps will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum 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 suggesting products for more than 40 years.

Combinations of mop and robot vacuum are great for tackling dry debris (dust dirt) and wet mess (spills, staining) all in one cleaning session without the need to switch machines. Multitaskers can help you save time and effort and are convenient for anyone with a hectic schedule.

Some robots are operated by an app and have additional features. For example this model features a map of our obstacle course which is a major selling feature. You can also make use of the app to plan and modify cleaning schedules as well as change mopping modes and check the level of battery. Some models offer hands-free operation via voice such as the model that works with Alexa.

If you decide to purchase a robot vacuum and mop combination, look for one that has the features that are important to you. While all models use a pad of water over floors, some have a scrubber that can be used to clean grout, or rotating brushes to provide more intense scrub. Some models come with filters that can be cleaned or replaced to lessen the odor.

Some mopping robots dispose of their dirty pads and drop them into a base that emptys into a garbage drawer, making it unnecessary to manually wash the pads or refill the tank. Some, like the Noesis Florio, have reusable pads that you wash and dry between uses. If you opt for a model that has reusable pads, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer on drying and washing them in order to keep them looking the best.