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Cleaning Robot Mop and Vacuum Combo Most robot vacuums and mops pair with an application that lets you save maps of your home, set cleaning schedules and select mopping options. Some models that have dual spinning pads will also automatically return to their docks during cleaning to empty the water of dirt and clean their brushes. To prevent the accumulation of bacteria to prevent the build-up of bacteria, remove the pads and wash them (if it's safe) after each cleaning cycle. Also, you should clean the tray that they sit on between cleanings. Preparation Many robot mops feature pads that are soaked in cleaning solution and are swept across the floor, either by scrubbing or brushing to get rid of the sticky spots and other marks. To stop bacteria from building up and to prevent them from smelling, the pads must be cleaned and removed between use (if they can be washed). Some models have brushes on the sides and bottom of the robot. These brushes also need to be cleaned, rinsed or replaced every few cleaning cycles. The best 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum combination is easy to use and comes with features that reduce the amount of maintenance needed after cleaning. They include automatic emptying of the dustbin docks, self-cleaning pads, and self-cleaning pads that help keep your robot ready to mop again almost immediately following a cleaning. If you want your robot's sensors to be able navigate and avoid obstacles, clean them using a soft towel or cloth every couple of cycles. This can help get rid of dust that can hinder sensors and cause errors. If you have carpets, be certain to select a mop that is compatible with carpets. Most robot mops are able to work on hard surfaces, however those that also scrub or vacuum floors might require reprogramming to recognize carpets or avoid them. Some robotic vacuum cleaners and mop cleaners have mapping functions. This lets you see the areas that your robot has cleaned and also those it has not. Most app-connected robot mops use sensors to guide them around the home and avoid obstacles, but they may sometimes get lost or confused. To ensure that your robot's navigation capabilities and obstacle-avoidance abilities are as effective as they can and to ensure that the app is updated on a regular basis with new software updates. Before you purchase a robot, we suggest creating an obstacle course in your home to test its capabilities. Most robot mops come with two tanks, one for clean water and the second for dirty water. The dirty tank has to be filled and empty 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. Most models have a drip tray that is placed under the water tank that is dirty to collect any liquid spilled. It is recommended that you empty your drip tray after every cleaning cycle to prevent bacteria from growing. 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 if you want your bots last for many years. Certain brands, including the top choices in our rankings include 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 that we tested are compatible 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 deciding on the right model, since it makes setting up and using your robot cleaner much simpler. If the robot you select does not have an app, it is still possible to control the basic functions of the bot using a button or remote. All of the newer models we've examined can sweep up dirt and dust on various surfaces This is a major improvement over previous versions of robot cleaners that largely just passed a pad with water across the floor. These machines aren't designed to deal with large spills. They must be cleaned manually. They also can't handle furniture and could get confused in rooms with a lot of stuff on the floor, so be sure to straighten the area prior to mopping to ensure that the machine is able to move around it easily. Some modern bots have brushes on their bottom and sides that can be removed and washed, so be certain to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to do this (typically, a damp microfiber cloth). Sensors are also used by a majority of bots to navigate around the floor and avoid obstacles. To ensure that these sensors are working properly, it's recommended to wipe down the sensors after every few cleaning cycles with a soft clean cloth, especially the areas where sensors are pressed against the floor. It is possible to add other cleaners (such as vinegar) to the tank of the robot however, we don't recommend it unless it's been approved by the manufacturer. This can damage the robot and may end the warranty. Cleaning the Drip Tray If your mop and robot vacuum combination has docks that also double as a water tank, you'll have to keep it clean regularly. The dock may accumulate grit, dirt and debris that will need to be cleaned and removed when the mop is done. A majority of our choices have self-cleaning cycles that which you can control with the app or on the mop itself. This keeps the tank clean and prevents mildew from developing. It is also important to clean 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 uses disposable or washable mop pads ensure you're washing them according to the manufacturer's instructions between cleaning cycles. This is also true for hybrid mop/vacuum models which use brushes on the bottom and sides of the unit. After each cleaning cycle remove the brushes and clean them with the help of a rag or cloth. Some of the most advanced robot vacuums and mops we've tested include sensors that allow them to navigate floors and avoid obstacles, but it's still important to wipe off the sensor areas on a regular basis. This will prevent dirt and grime from blocking sensors, which can cause them to make incorrect judgments. While most robot mop and vacuum units require a little bit of work on an ongoing basis, they provide huge benefits for the busy homeowner. They can keep your floors looking great and eliminate the need for heavy lifting. They also save time which is the most valuable resource at home. There are a few companies trying to develop better vacuum-mop machines however they are far from our level of quality. But we do expect these robots to improve in time, just as all other robot vacuum s in the past. Brushes to be cleaned Maintaining your robot vacuum and mop is crucial, just like maintaining a vacuum cleaner. Wipe down sensors to make it easier to navigate, empty and rinse the water tank, remove pet hair clogs that block brushes, keep charge ports clean and replace the filter and rollers as suggested by the manufacturer. These steps will ensure that your robot mop and vacuum combo works efficiently for a long period of time. 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 products and suggesting them for over forty years. Combinations of robot vacuums and mops are perfect for cleaning dry debris (dust and dirt) and wet mess. (spills and staining) without changing machines. These multitaskers are great at saving time and effort. They are also great for those with a hectic schedule. Some robots are operated by an app and have more features. For instance, this model has a map of our obstacle course which is a key selling feature. You can also use the app to schedule and modify cleaning schedules as well as change mopping modes and check battery levels. Other models include voice activation, like this model that works with Alexa to allow hands-free control. If you choose to purchase a robot vacuum and mop combo make sure you choose models that have the features that are important to you. All models utilize a pad to sweep the floor but some include a scrubber to clean grout or a rotating roller brush for more intense scrubbing. Certain models come with a filter which can be changed or cleaned to reduce the odors. Some mopping robots dump their dirty pads into an empty base that automatically dumps them into a garbage bin, eliminating the need to manually clean the pads or refill the tank. Certain mopping machines, like the Noesis Florio have reusable pads that you can wash and dry between uses. If you decide to purchase a model that has reusable pads, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions about washing and drying them to ensure they look their best.