A robotic vacuum can clean your floors without you having to lift a finger all day. One thing it can’t do? Clean itself!
Inside the vacuum's components, hair, dust, crumbs, and other debris can build up. Without regular maintenance, your vacuum might end up just pushing dirt around, instead of picking it up. To ensure smooth navigation and powerful suction, these cleaning machines must be debris-free. Here’s how to achieve this in 10 easy steps.
Step #1
Turn off your robot vacuum before you start cleaning, to avoid accidentally activating any buttons and causing the machine to beep.
Step #2
Empty the contents of the dustbin into a garbage can. Even if the bin isn't full, empty it. If something particularly gross is caked on, the dustbin can generally be rinsed; just make sure to remove all filters before getting it wet.
Step #3
Empty the filter(s) over the garbage bin and give them a hard tap on the side to dislodge debris. To remove any remaining particles, use a soft-bristle brush. Some filters are washable. These are typically made of plastic or foam and must be thoroughly dried before reinstallation. Manufacturers recommend changing vacuum filters every 2 months.
Step #4
Unhinge the covering and pull out the brush to clean roller brushes. After you've cut through the layers, pry them off with your hands, then use the brush on the cleaning tool to work any remaining debris out of the bristles. If your roller brush appears dirty, wipe down the cavity and brush guard before replacing it. Rollers should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, and guards should be replaced when the rubber strip wears down.
Step #5
If you notice hair or gunk around the base of the rotating brush, pop it off, clean it, and then snap it back in place. Side brushes should be replaced if they appear damaged.
Step #6
Sensors are located on the machine's sides and bottom—consult the product manual for your robot vacuums to find out exactly where they are. A microfiber cloth can be used to quickly clean them. For tougher spots, wet the microfiber cloth and wipe; do not use a cleaning solution because abrasive cleaners can damage the sensors' covering.
Step #7
A dirty wheel loses its ability to turn. Make sure there are no threads or hair wrapped around the axles at least once a week to keep them spinning. If there is, use a utility knife to remove the debris. Check to see if anything is stuck to the wheels themselves. If so, clean them with a damp cloth. Clean wheels provide better traction and reduce motor strain.
Step #8
Simply wipe the charging ports with a microfiber cloth, especially if the vacuum isn't connecting to the base or you're experiencing intermittent charging failures.
Step #9
Battery management is critical to avoiding overusing robot vacuums like the Roborock S7. Dirty contacts can slow down or even prevent your vacuum from charging, affecting your cleaning routine. Because batteries can be expensive, cleaning them extends their life and saves you money. Also, keep the charging dock in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight for longevity.
Step #10
Software upgrades happen frequently. Given how quickly technology advances, it is critical to stay in touch with the manufacturer. Firmware should also be updated in addition to software.
Proper maintenance and use can significantly extend the life of a smart vacuum cleaner. These 10 steps have you covered.