How To Clean A Robot Vacuum To Improve Its Performance?

Ideally, a robot vacuum is a completely hands-free device, that is why it can be tempting to skip maintenance. Yet, giving it regular cleaning is essential to keep your trusty robotic floor cleaner performing at its best. Over time, dirt, dust and other debris can build up in the nooks and crannies of the machine, causing it to lose suction power and efficiency. 

But fear not! With the right tools and a little know-how, you can keep your robot vacuum running smoothly for years to come. Follow this step-by-step maintenance guide that shows you exactly how to clean your robot vacuum cleaner to keep it in top-notch condition.

Why Regular Cleaning is Important?

Keeping your robot vacuum clean isn’t just about hygiene, but also for improving its performance. As time goes on, pet hair, carpet beetles, carpet wax and other debris can clog the brushes and suction system. Regular cleaning helps prevent a reduction in suction power. 

A well-maintained robotic vacuum cleaner also lasts longer. When dirt accumulates in the wheels and brushes, it causes unnecessary wear and tear, which can potentially shorten the device’s lifespan and lead to costly repairs.

On top of that, robot vacuums rely on clean sensors and wheels for proper navigation. A buildup of dirt can mask the sensors and interfere with advanced mapping technology, making it difficult for the vacuum to locate itself, navigate, and avoid obstacles during cleaning sessions.

Here’s how often to clean your robot vacuum and its different parts to keep it running efficiently:

• After every use: Empty the dustbin, check brushes for tangled hair.
• Once a week: Wipe sensors, clean wheels, check and tap out the filter.
• Every 1-2 months: Deep clean brushes and sensors. Replace the mopping pad and cleaning solution.
• Every 3-6 months: Replace worn-out parts like the antibacterial dust bag, filters and brushes.

Step 1. Power Down the Robot Vacuum

Before cleaning your robot vacuum, make sure the device is powered down to stay away from potential accidents and damages with moving parts or electrical components. Remove the robot vacuum from its charging station and switch it off; this can be done via the accompanying app as well. For extra safety, you can even unplug the charging dock or station in case of a lingering connection with the robot vacuum that could unexpectedly turn it on (e.g. if a recurring cleaning schedule is set).

Step 2. Wipe Down The Exterior

Next, wipe down the exterior. Depending on where you store your robot vacuum, it can get dirty over time. Dampen a microfiber cloth with water and gently clean the surface – be careful not to let moisture seep inside. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths, as even certain cotton towels can leave tiny scratches that collect dirt more easily and gradually make the device look older.

Step 3. Wipe Charging Station

Some robot vacuum models have removable components inside the docking station, including the dirty water tank, clean water tank or dustbin, which should be taken out for cleaning. Carefully wipe the internal parts of the station with a dry cloth; once you’re done emptying, cleaning and fully drying these components, place them back. This will also ensure that there is no residual debris blocking the charging sensors.

Step 4. Check and Clean the Charging Ports

Fewer people pay attention to the charging ports; but a dirty one can interfere with your robot vacuum’s ability to recharge properly. Gently clean the charging contacts on both the vacuum and the charging dock with a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush. Keep in mind to avoid applying harsh materials as they could ruin the delicate charging pins.

Step 5. Empty The Dustbin

Remove the dustbin from the vacuum and empty its contents into a trash can at least once a week. Then, use a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth to wipe away stubborn debris. Don’t forget to wash the dustbin with soap and water to erase any remaining dirt or stains, and make sure it’s completely dry before reinserting it. An overstuffed dustbin can stop the machine from working properly and may even cause it to spit out dust.

Self-emptying smart vacuums like DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI and T50 PRO OMNI transfer debris collected from the machine into a large dust bag at the base. In this case, remove the dust bag or bin from the station on a monthly basis – weekly if you live with people with long hair or pets – and clean the surrounding area afterward.

Step 6. Clean The Brush Roll And Side Brushes

The next step in cleaning your robot vacuum cleaner is the brushes. Flip the vacuum over to open the brush roll cover. Keep a cloth, scissors or the crevice tool handy when removing hair from the brush roll and cleaning the unit’s intake area. Wash the side brushes, if available. Finally, put the brush roll and its top cover back.
To save you time, opt for a robot vacuum with anti-tangle technology. DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI and T50 PRO OMNI come with ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-Tangle Technology, featuring a special triple V-shaped structure that lifts, gathers and dynamically untangles hair.

Step 7. Clean Mop Pads

For smart vacuums with mops, you should also clean the mop pads. Replace single-use ones after each use. Otherwise, take the mop pads out, wash with a mild detergent and rinse with warm water. If the pads are very dirty, it is a good idea to soak them in soapy water for a few minutes before rinsing. This helps kill the bacteria and mold that could potentially develop bad odors. Allow the pads to fully dry before reattaching them to the vacuum.

Alternatively, DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI feature 104-167°F Temperature-Controlled Mop Washing and 145°F Hot Air Drying System that save you from manually clean the pads.

Step 8. Rinse and Maintain the Water Tank

Robot vacuums with mopping functions are equipped with water tanks. For instance, DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI’s OZMO ROLLER Instant Self-Washing Mopping Technology features an array of 16 clean water nozzles that deliver fresh water back to the mop, keeping it renewed after the wastewater is scraped off.

Hence, emptying any leftover water in the tank is crucial for hygiene and helps minimize mold or bacterial buildup. Once a week, rinse the tank thoroughly with warm water and mild detergent. Let it dry completely before reattaching it.

Step 9. Clean The Filter

The filtration system in a robot vacuum helps trap tiny particles that trigger allergies; therefore, filter cleaning should be done more frequently than other steps on this list, especially for those who suffer with cat allergy or have dogs that shed hair. Up to once or twice per week, take the filter out and use a soft brush to loosen the dust into the trash can.
If the filter is washable, which should be specified in the manual, rinse it with water and allow it to air-dry before reinserting it. As a rule of thumb, replace the filters every six months to a year to keep allergens or other irritating particles from recirculating into the air.

Step 10. Check The Wheels And Sensors

Flip the robot vacuum over to check if there is any hair or pet fur tangled around the wheels. Cut off the tangles carefully with scissors and soft-bristled brush. Next, clean the sensors on the bottom and front of the device, including the LiDAR sensor for navigation, for any grime or stains that may be interfering with them. Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the sensors, and do not use water to prevent watermarks.

Step 11. Maintain The Self-Empty Station

A self-emptying station like DEEBOT’s OMNI station not only charges the vacuum, but it also empties the dustbin and cleans the machine automatically after each use. From time to time, check the dustbin and replace the dust bag when it's full. Wipe down the sensors and suction areas with a dry cloth to prevent blockages. If your model has a filter, clean or replace it as recommended. Proper upkeep also prevents bad smells caused by bacteria and mildew.

How to Fix Robot Vacuum Issues Caused by Lack of Cleaning

If your robot vacuum keeps stopping unexpectedly, it may be due to a lack of cleaning disrupting its performance, in which case, simple maintenance can quickly resolve the issue.

Vacuum isn’t Charging Properly

A robot vacuum exhausts battery life faster than you might think, particularly when cleaning in deep cleaning mode. When dirt and grime accumulate on the charging ports or contacts, it can interfere with the power transfer needed for your robot vacuum to charge correctly. Regular cleaning helps get your vacuum ready to use.

Vacuum Leaves Dirt Behind

If your robot vacuum leaves dirt behind, it is most likely due to a full dustbin, which leaves no room for collecting additional debris. A clogged filter or tangled brushes can also block airflow and reduce efficiency. Maintain these important parts regularly to ensure optimal cleaning performance.

Brushes aren’t Spinning

Hair or debris can get stuck in the side brushes or roller, blocking the brushes from spinning and rotating smoothly, thus affects the cleaning efficiency. To resolve this, unclog and clear the brushes frequently, and check if they can spin freely after being reattached.

Self-Empty Station isn’t Working

Is the docking station of your robot vacuum not functioning? Dust buildup or a clogged tube could be the issue. The station relies on a clear pathway to transfer debris from the vacuum’s dustbin to the bag or bin. Clear any blockages in the tube to keep it running properly.

Robot Struggles to Navigate

Over time, you may find that your robot vacuum keeps spinning around or struggles to go over carpets and high thresholds like it used to. In most cases, these issues indicate a navigation concern, where dirty sensors could be interfering with its ability to identify objects and map the room effectively. Wipe the sensors to improve navigation and obstacle detection.

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