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Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo

The majority of robot vacuums or mop cleaners have an app that lets you save maps of your home and set up cleaning schedules and then select mopping mode. Some models with dual spinning pads can also automatically return to their docks mid-cleaning to dump dirty water and clean their brushes.

If your model has pads that are reusable, take them off and wash them (if safe) each time you clean them to avoid the buildup of bacteria. Also, you'll want to scrub down the resting tray that they are sitting on between cleanings.

Preparation

A lot of robot mops have pads with a cleaning solution that pass over the floor to soften sticky spots and other marks with scrubbing motions or a brush. To stop the growth of bacteria up and keep them from smelling, the pads should be cleaned and removed between usage (if they can be washed). Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot. They also need to be rinsed, washed or replaced every couple of cleaning cycles.

The best robot vacuum 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combos are simple to use and come with features that reduce the amount of maintenance needed after cleaning. They include self-cleaning pads, docks, and automatic hoover emptying of the trash bin. This will keep your robot mopping almost immediately following a cleaning cycle. If you want your robot's sensors to be able to navigate around obstacles, wipe them down using a soft towel or a cloth every few cycles. This will get rid of dust that can interfere with sensors and cause mistakes.

If you have carpets, be certain to select a mop that is compatible with carpets. Robot mops that can vacuum or scrub floors need to be reprogrammed to avoid carpets. Certain robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping features that can give you a live map of the room so you can track where the robot has cleaned and which areas it hasn't.

The majority of apps-connected robots mops utilize sensors to navigate through the home and avoid obstacles, but can sometimes be lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles are as good as possible you should update the mopping application on a regular basis with the latest software versions. Before you buy a robot we suggest creating an obstacle course at your home to test its capabilities.

Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean and another for dirty water. The tank that is dirty needs to be emptied and filled regularly. The water tanks can be lifted from the base and made easier to clean them and rinse them with mild soap and warm water. The majority of models have a drip tray underneath the tank that collects any liquid spilled. It is recommended to empty the drip tray after every cleaning cycle to lower the chance of bacterial growth.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Most robot mops and vacuum/mop combos use a water tank to wash. Most manufacturers advise you to keep the tank clean dependent on the frequency you use your robot. This is essential for bots that you want to last for a long time. Some brands, like the top choices in our rating are washable, removable tanks so you can remove the water that is dirty and let the tank dry between cleaning sessions.

Most of the newer mop-vacs we tested are compatible with an app that lets you save your home's maps as well as set cleaning schedules and select cleaning modes. This is an important feature to look for when choosing a robotic cleaner. It makes setting it up and using it much easier. If your choice doesn't have an application, you can manage the basic functions of the bot from the dock or via its remote.

All of the newer models we've tested can clean dust and dirt off multiple surfaces this is a significant improvement over previous iterations of robot cleaners which mainly just pushed a pad filled with water across the floor. However, these machines are not designed to handle large spills, which still need to be cleaned manually. They aren't able to move furniture and could get lost in rooms with a lot of clutter.

Some of the latest bots have brushes on the sides and bottom which can be removed and laundered, so be certain to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically a damp microfiber cloth). Most bots also have sensors to help them navigate floors and avoid obstacles. It is important to clean the sensors every few cleaning cycles, particularly if they are pressed up against the floor.

In addition, it is possible to pour other cleaners in your robot vacuum reviews's tank (for example vinegar or acetic acid), we advise against using them unless the manufacturer has recommended it. This could cause damage to the robot and could void its warranty.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

If your robot mop and vacuum has a dock on its own that doubles as its water tank, it will need to be cleaned periodically. The dock may accumulate dirt, grit and other debris that will need to be cleaned out and removed once the mop is finished. A lot of our picks come with a self-cleaning cycle which you can control with the app or a button on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and prevents mildew.

It is also crucial to clean the area of the dock where the pads are washed. If left wet, it can be slimy and smell. If your model uses disposable or washable mop pads ensure you're washing them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cycles. The same goes for models with a hybrid mop/vacuum which use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. After each cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them using an abrasive or a cloth.

Some of the more sophisticated robot vacuum-mop combinations we've tested contain sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, however it's still important to wipe down those sensor areas regularly. This can prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the sensors and causing misjudgment.

While the majority of robot mop and vacuums require a little bit of work on every day basis, they offer big benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep floors looking great and eliminate the need for heavy lifting, and give you the most valuable resource you have in a home -- your free time.

There are a few companies working to create better vacuum-mop robotics, but they are still quite a ways from our standard. We expect these machines to improve over time, just like the previous robot vacuums did.

Brushes to be cleaned

Maintaining your robot's mop and vacuum is important, just like maintaining your vacuum cleaner. Wipe down the sensors to enhance navigation. Clean and empty the water tanks, clean hairs from brushes and charge ports, clean them, and replace the rollers and filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. These suggestions will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum works efficiently 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 products and providing recommendations for them for more than forty years.

Combinations of mop and robot vacuum are great for tackling both dry debris (dust, dirt) and wet messes (spills or stains) all in one cleaning session without having to switch machines. These multitaskers are great at making it easier to save time and effort. They're also convenient for those with a hectic schedule.

Some robots require an app to operate and provide more features than others, like a map this model created of our obstacle course which is a big selling point. You can also plan and modify cleaning sessions with the app, alter mopping mode and check the battery level. Certain models have voice activation for hands-free operation like the model that works with Alexa.

If you decide to purchase a robot vacuum and mop combination choose a model that has the features that are most important to you. Each model uses pads to sweep the floor but some also have a scrubber for cleaning grout, or a rotating brush for more intense scrubbing. Some models have a filter which can be changed or cleaned to lessen smells.

Some mopping machines dispose of their dirty pads, and drop them into a base which automatically discharges into a waste bin eliminating the need to wash the pads manually or refill the tank. Some mopping robots, such as the Noesis Florio have reusable pads which can be washed and dried in between uses. If you opt for a model with reusable pads, make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions about drying and washing them to ensure they look the best robotic mop and vacuum.