How to Clean Your Robot Vacuum

Cleaning the Roller Brush and Edge-Sweeping Brushes

There are usually two types of brushes on robot vacuums. The roller brush and edge-sweeping brushes. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for removal tips.

• Use a pair of scissors or a soft-bristled brush to remove tangled hair and debris that has wrapped around the rotating brush.
• Be gentle when dislodging stuck debris, particularly from plastic bristles which can crack.
• Wash the robot vacuum brushes with mild soap and warm water. Rinse until the water runs clear.
• If you notice dirt built up in the brush chamber, a hair dryer can help dislodge dust.
• Allow the brushes to dry completely before reinstalling them into the robotic vacuum.

Cleaning the Charging Base and Sensors

Your smart vacuum operates by optical sensors. Keeping the electronic sensors clean allows your robot vacuum cleaner to "see" the floor conditions and find its charging dock.

• Unplug the charging base. Dust it with a dry cloth and wipe it down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove stubborn dirt.
• Pay special attention to the charging station's electronic contact points to ensure a reliable connection.
• Use a soft cloth to clean the cliff sensors on the vacuum and the docking sensor window on the charging base.
• Tidy up the area around the charging base. If there is clutter or electrical cords in the way, the vacuum may have trouble reaching the charger.

Can you clean a robot vacuum filter?

While it's common practice to tap the air filter and a removable dust chamber in a garbage can or on an outdoor surface to dislodge built-up debris, from time to time you'll need to replace the filter. Most manufacturers recommend doing so every one to three months for optimal performance. The timeline will vary by brand and usage. Usually, a light will come on, or if you have a modern, Wi-Fi-connected robot vacuum, you may get an alert to your phone. But if you notice that your smart vacuum isn't cleaning like it usually does, it's a good idea to replace the filter.

How do you know if it's time to replace parts?

A good rule of thumb is to look for problems during each monthly cleaning session. If you notice poor cleaning performance, run the vacuum through a self-cleaning cycle and check for decreased suction power, irregular movement, or unusual sounds. The maintenance guide will give standard replacement intervals for your specific smart vacuum cleaner. These usually predict low battery life and wear and tear on brush rolls, vacuum side brush, dust brush, and caster wheels.