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The Best Electric Mops Of 2024, Tested And Reviewed

A group photo of tested mops Photo: Katie Barton for Bob Vila Photo: Katie Barton for Bob Vila

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Some of our favorite mops are on sale during Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days. Our top pick for a vac/mop combo, the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Wet Dry Vac, is on sale for $239.99 (Save $80). Hurry, this deal won't last long!

Electric mops take the backbreaking work out of washing the floor, but there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to these house-cleaning helpers. That's why we tested several of the most popular electric mops. We steamed, scrubbed, and suctioned our way across more than 1,500 square feet of hardwood, ceramic tile, and linoleum floors to find the best. We compared features, accessories, and, most importantly, cleaning ability. Top of our list is the Bissell SpinWave Pet Hard Floor Spin Mop, which is very easy to use and maneuver, and is suitable for most types of hard floors. Here's a look at our full lineup of the best electric mops by type and category.

  • BEST OVERALL: Bissell SpinWave Pet Hard Floor Spin Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ogori Cordless Electric Spin Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST STEAM MOP: Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing Steam Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST ROBOT MOP: iRobot Wi-Fi Connected Braava Jet M6 Robot Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST VACUUM/MOP COMBO: Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Wet Dry Vac↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST ATTACHMENTS: PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner & Electric Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST CORDLESS: Vmai Cordless Electric Mop↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST FOR HARDWOODS: Tineco Floor One S5 Smart Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner↓ Jump to Review
  • BEST FOR TILE: Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner↓ Jump to Review
  • Tester using an electric mop on hardwood floorsPhoto: Katie Barton for Bob Vila How We Tested the Best Electric Mops

    To compile our list, we started by researching more than 20 popular electric mops. Rather than focusing on only one type, we included a balance of steam, spin, robo, and vacuum/mop combos. We considered in-demand features like ease of use, floor-type compatibility, accessories, and corded versus cordless options before narrowing our list to the mops above that we then tested.

    First we assembled the mops, noting how easy this process was. We then used the mops for regular cleanings, allowing our floors to accumulate dirt and dust for several days beforehand. To see how well each mop could tackle stuck-on messes, we mopped various dried-on substances, including mud, pasta sauce, ketchup, and apple juice.

    We also assessed maneuverability—including whether they fit under cabinet overhangs—storage, and, in the cases of cordless mops, battery life.

    Testing Stats Products tested  9 Time spent testing  10 hours Tests performed 3 to 5 Price range $60 to $450 Our Top Picks

    We put each of the best electric mops through a series of tests and rated them using a rubric. Below is an honest evaluation of each mop, with pros and cons to consider before buying.

    Best Overall Bissell SpinWave Pet Hard Floor Spin Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Maneuverability 4/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Spin
  • Corded: Yes
  • Weight: 9.5 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Glides over the floor, requiring little force
  • Mop pads slightly extend past the mophead, cleaning along baseboards and cabinet edges
  • Compatible with all sealed hard surfaces; comes with regular cleaning pads and scrubby pads
  • On-demand spray button allows you to control how much cleaning solution hits the floor
  • What We Don't Like
  • Mophead is too thick to fit under low-to-the-ground furniture
  • The Bissell SpinWave Pet hard floor spin mop is compatible with all sealed hard floors, including vinyl, linoleum, hardwoods, tile, and laminate. This corded model features two discs that simultaneously spin, a 28-ounce water tank, and an on-demand spray button. The mop comes with two soft-touch cleaning pads for regular mopping and two scrubby pads for stuck-on messes.

    During testing, we loved how effortless it was to maneuver this mop—it glided over the floor, making it enjoyable and easy to use. The on-demand spray button allowed us to control the amount of cleaning solution, and the mophead was slim enough to fit under most cabinet overhangs. Since the mop pads slightly extend from the side, they cleaned along cabinet edges and baseboards.

    We used the included Bissell multisurface cleaning solution, and it dried streak-free on our floors. After use, we emptied the water tank and threw the cleaning pads in the washing machine. Both steps were simple, and the mop pads held up great, even after several washes. This mop was so easy and effective that it was hard for us to find a con. If we had to pick one, it's that the mophead might be too thick to fit under low-to-the-ground furniture.

    Get the Bissell SpinWave electric mop at Amazon.

    Best Bang For The Buck Ogori Cordless Electric Spin Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Spin 
  • Corded: No
  • Weight: 2.5 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Up to 50 minutes of runtime for cleaning large areas
  • Comes with 2 sets of pads: one for regular cleaning and the other for sticky messes
  • Slim mophead fits under small cabinet overhangs and low furniture
  • What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't have a water tank; must use a spray-on or squirt-on cleaner
  • The Ogori cordless electric spin mop is a lightweight option best for those who prefer to use their own bottle of cleaner and spray or squirt it directly on the floor. It features two rotating discs and comes with two sets of cleaning pads—the green pair is a soft-touch pad for gentle cleaning, and the white pair is suitable for sticky messes. 

    The Ogori mop is rechargeable with up to 50 minutes of runtime. It doesn't feature a water tank or on-demand spray. Instead, it dry mops and is compatible with any spray-on mopping solution, making it ideal for moisture-sensitive floors.

    During testing, our favorite features were the slim mophead and 90-degree swivel handle. This mop can fit under low-to-the-ground furniture, making it easy to clean often-missed grime. We used it to reach under deep cabinet overhangs and were amazed at how much left-behind dirt it picked up. We also appreciated how lightweight this mop is—at only 2.5 pounds, it's one of the lightest on our list and easy to carry up and down a flight of stairs.

    Get the Ogori electric mop at Amazon.

    Best Steam Mop Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing Steam Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Portability 4/5; Value 5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Steam
  • Corded: Yes
  • Weight: 6.2 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Features 3 steam settings users can adjust based on floor and mess type
  • Compatible with scent discs for those who want a fresh smell
  • Easy to maneuver around toilets, furniture, baseboards, and under overhangs
  • Cleans and sanitizes, eliminating up to 99.9 percent of germs
  • What We Don't Like
  • Not suitable for moisture- or heat-sensitive floor types like laminate and unsealed stone
  • The Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing steam mop powers through dirt and stuck-on grime, eliminating up to 99.9 percent of germs using only water. It features three steam levels—low, medium, and high—making it suitable for multiple types of sealed hard floor surfaces. This model comes with a soft microfiber pad, a scrubby microfiber pad, two scent discs, and a carpet glider.

    During testing, this was one of our favorite mops and earned the top spot in our Best Steam Mops guide. It produces powerful steam, taking only 30 seconds to warm up. We used the low setting to mop hardwood floors and powered up to the medium and high settings to cut through buildup on tile. After mopping, our floors were streak-free and noticeably cleaner. 

    This mop was easy to maneuver, and the low-profile head did a great job cleaning around toilets, baseboards, and underneath furniture. Since first testing this mop, we've washed the microfiber pads several times, and they've held up well. 

    The Bissell steam mop ranks high for its cleaning ability and maneuverability, but it's not suitable for all floor types. Those who need an electric mop for laminate, luxury vinyl plank, or unsealed stone may want to skip steam mops as their use can lead to warping, dulling of the sealer, or etching.

    Get the Bissell PowerFresh electric mop at Amazon, Wayfair, or Bissell.

    Best Robot Mop iRobot Wi-Fi Connected Braava Jet M6 Robot Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 3.5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Robot
  • Corded: No
  • Weight: 4.85 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Creates a map of the home, allowing you to assign rooms to be cleaned
  • Works with reusable or disposable wet mop pads and dry sweeping pads
  • Can team up with select Roomba models to vacuum and mop in sequence
  • What We Don't Like
  • Initial mapping process can be time-consuming, particularly for closed floor plans
  • Doesn't vacuum (only dry sweeps the floor), so users must manually vacuum before mopping
  • Ideal for light mopping; spot-cleaning may be required for built-up grime and dried-on spills
  • While robot mops don't have the cleaning capabilities of manual mops, they can take care of regular household dust and dirt, keeping floors cleaner longer. Best of all, the iRobot Wi-Fi Connected Braava Jet M6 is programmable. It will learn the house layout, and you can designate "clean zones" and "keep-out zones."

    The Braava Jet M6 is compatible with iRobot Home App (available through Apple or Google Play), Alexa, Google, and Siri and will clean specific rooms with a voice command. It also suggests personalized cleaning schedules by room. This model doesn't have the advanced navigation to avoid small obstacles like cords or pet waste, but it can clean under and around furniture.

    We tested this robot mop on a main floor that contains five separate rooms (not open concept) with hardwood floors. We unpackaged the machine, charged it, downloaded the app, and followed the prompts. Getting set up was simple, so we put the robot mop to the test, instructing it to map our floors while dry sweeping. Unfortunately, it took more than four attempts and over 2.5 hours to get the mop to create a complete map.

    With the layout mapped, we wet mopped and were impressed by the thoroughness. The Braava Jet took its time, going back and forth over each pass until it had cleaned all of the rooms. It picked up regular household dirt, as evidenced by the dirty mop pad. Unfortunately, it didn't completely clean the dried-on pasta sauce, leaving us to spot-clean once it finished.

    The Braava Jet is a good companion to Roomba vacuums and a decent choice for those wanting to experience hands-off cleaning. However, there are much less expensive electric mops that do a better job of cleaning the floor.

    Get the iRobot electric mop at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, or iRobot.

    Bet Vacuum/mop Combo Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Plus Wet Dry Vac See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3.5/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4/5

    Product Specs 

  • Type: Vacuum/mop combo
  • Corded: Yes
  • Weight: 12.5 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Features 3 settings, including HydroSteam mode, Hard Floor mode, and Area Rug mode
  • The vacuum suction deep-cleans the floor, picking up debris that other mops miss
  • Mophead features LED headlights to illuminate pet hair and debris
  • On-demand cleaning solution trigger allows you to control the level of moisture on the floor
  • What We Don't Like
  • When the roller bar is dirty, the HydroSteam mode blasts dirt back onto the floor
  • Must run the clean-out cycle and hand-wash removable pieces after each use
  • The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam is an all-in-one vacuum that provides you with the option to wash the floors with a regular cleaning solution or steam, depending on the setting. It features an on-demand cleaning-solution trigger and two separate tanks for clean and dirty water. It also comes with an 8-ounce bottle of Hard Floor Sanitize Formula, an 8-ounce bottle of Pet Multi-Surface Formula, a bottle of Fresh-Start Clean Out Formula, and two filters.

    The three settings on this mop include HydroSteam mode, Hard Floor mode, and Area Rug mode. To test the mop, we filled the water tank and added some of the multisurface formula. We cleaned our floors with the Hard Floor mode, switching to HydroSteam for stuck-on messes. We also tested the Area Rug setting, which switches to vacuum only. The vacuum worked well also, providing enough suction to remove dirt and debris from the rug.

    During our first tests, we mopped regular dirt buildup in two rooms. When we emptied the dirty water tank, we were impressed with how well this mop cleaned—the dirty water was almost black and the strainer was loaded with debris. We then tried out the HydroSteam feature on sticky messes. While it did clean them, we discovered that the steam mode would blast dirt back on the floor if the roller bar was dirty. After steaming, we had to reclean the area with the Hard Floor setting.

    Another potential con of the CrossWave HydroSteam is the clean-out process—the mop must be cleaned every time it's used. We did this by emptying the dirty water tank; running the clean-out cycle on the mop; and then hand-washing the roller bar, filter, and dirty water tank. While the process wasn't complicated, this mop isn't a good choice for those who don't want to clean their mop every time they clean their floors.

    Get the Bissell CrossWave electric mop at Amazon, Best Buy, or Bissell.

    Best Attachments PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner & Electric Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Maneuverability 4/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Steam
  • Corded: Yes
  • Weight: 4.81 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Emits large amounts of steam even on the lowest setting
  • Cleans regular dirt and blasts through stuck-on grime, leaving floors deep cleaned
  • Includes a detachable handheld steamer and several attachments for whole-house cleaning
  • Works with water only—no need to purchase cleaning solutions
  • What We Don't Like
  • Short cord length doesn't reach across long rooms, so users must switch outlets
  • Large amounts of steam make it unsuitable for heat- or moisture-sensitive flooring 
  • For those who want a mop that does more than clean the floors, the PurSteam 10-in-1 steam cleaner and electric mop is a top choice. It boasts three levels of steam; a detachable handheld unit; and multiple attachments, including a straight nozzle, bent nozzle, window squeegee, and nylon brushes.

    During testing, we were impressed by the amount of steam the PurSteam mop put off. It's easy to maneuver and left our floors looking deep cleaned.The slim head fit under cabinet overhangs and was able to clean around the toilet and up against baseboards. We mopped on the lowest steam setting and then switched to a higher setting to blast through stuck-on messes—the mop had no problem removing dried-on pasta sauce and apple juice from the floor.

    To test the handheld unit, we used the nozzle attachments to dislodge dirt from baseboards and remove built-up gunk in the dishwasher and oven. We also used the double-brush attachment to clean our grout. Since this model lacked an extension hose for the handheld unit, it was awkward to maneuver when tackling large jobs like floor grout, but it did a great job, bringing dingy grout back to a light gray color. Overall, we liked the handheld unit best for smaller jobs like blasting dirt and mineral deposits off of faucets and for cleaning showers.

    The biggest con to this model is the shorter 15.9-foot cord. When mopping long, narrow rooms, we had to pause and switch outlets. Another downside is that this mop emits large amounts of steam, so it might not be suitable for heat- or moisture-sensitive flooring.

    Get the PurSteam electric mop at Amazon or Walmart.

    Best Cordless Vmai Cordless Electric Mop See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Spin
  • Corded: No
  • Weight: 5.6 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Up to 60 minutes of battery time—long enough to clean most homes
  • It passed our cleaning tests, removing regular dirt and dried-on messes
  • Features LED headlights to illuminate pet hair and dust particles
  • Safe for all sealed hard-floor surfaces, including laminate, vinyl, hardwood, and more
  • What We Don't Like
  • Filling the water tank is difficult due to the long, skinny opening
  • Awkward power button placement leads to accidentally turning the mop off while in use
  • Corded mops can be inconvenient when you're going from room to room or need to clean a quick spill. The Vmai cordless electric mop saves you from that hassle with a battery that lasts up to 60 minutes, covering 2,150 square feet. It features an on-demand spray trigger, a 300-milliliter water tank, and two sets of mopping pads.

    When we first got this mop, it was in a small package, which had us doubting its size. After the easy assembly, it looked as pictured online, so we put it to the test. We started by filling the water tank and then attaching the pink mop pads to clean our hardwood, ceramic tile, and luxury vinyl plank floors. We made it through about 1,000 square feet of floor without the battery dying. 

    This Vmai cordless electric mop did a good job—it picked up regular household dirt and powered through caked-on mud and dried pasta sauce. Since it's cord-free, it was easy to take up and down the stairs to clean quick messes; we even used it to mop hardwood stairs.

    Despite being an efficient-cleaning mop, the Vmai cordless electric model has two design flaws. First, the hole to fill the water tank is a long, narrow oval. We found it impossible to fill the tank without dumping water on the mophead or the floor—even when we used the included measuring cup. Second, the power button is located on the top handle. And while mopping, we accidentally powered off the mop several times. Overall though, this is a good cordless electric mop.

    Get the Vmai electric mop at Amazon.

    Best For Hardwoods Tineco Floor One S5 Smart Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 3.5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Vacuum/mop combo
  • Corded: No
  • Weight: 17.37 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Self-propelled design and swivel steering make it easy to mop, even for long periods
  • The roller brush self-cleans, preventing dirt from making its way back onto the floor
  • Cordless model with a 35-minute runtime and a convenient docking station
  • Compatible with the Tineco app that alerts users to maintenance issues
  • What We Like
  • When the battery dies, it takes up to 4 hours to completely recharge
  • The Tineco Floor One S5 is a wet/dry vac featuring iLoop Smart Sensor Technology that detects dirt levels and auto adjusts the suction, water flow, and brush speed. It mops and vacuums simultaneously, and since the dirty water tank has a debris filter, it's easy to dump its contents into the trash before emptying the soiled water.

    This mop is cordless, with a 35-minute runtime. We tested it on a 1,700-square-foot home, and the battery life was more than enough to vacuum and mop the entire house. The auto-sense feature worked as described, with the brush speeding up when it sensed large messes and slowing back down for regular dirt levels. After cleaning, we dumped out the water tank and were amazed at how dark the water was. Our floors looked clean, and when we walked on them barefoot, we could feel the difference.

    Other features we appreciated included the large water tank that allowed us to mop our entire upstairs without stopping to refill it and the self-cleaning brush. This mop is also compatible with the Tineco app, which alerts you when it's time to run the self-clean feature. 

    Overall, this mop was efficient and a great choice for cleaning hardwood floors. The potential downsides are the need to recharge the mop, which can be a hassle if it dies in the middle of the job, and the price. This mop is one of the more expensive options on our list.

    Get the Tineco electric mop at Amazon.

    Best For Tile Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner See It

    Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Maneuverability 5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 5/5

    Product Specs 
  • Type: Steam
  • Corded: Yes
  • Weight: 9 pounds
  • What We Like
  • Kills up to 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs using only steam
  • Comes with 17 accessories suitable for cleaning and sanitizing floors, upholstery, grout, and more
  • Modern design features wheels and a handle, making it easy to maneuver
  • What We Don't Like
  • Steam is not suitable for all floor types; follow your floor manufacturer's recommendations
  • Steam mops, like the Dupray Neat steam cleaner, clean and sanitize, making them a great choice for durable tile like ceramic and porcelain. This mop features a modern, square design with a handle on top and wheels at the bottom for easy maneuverability. It comes with 17 accessories, including nylon grout brushes, a floor tool, a steam lancer, and microfiber mop pads. Best of all, it kills up to 99.99 percent of germs and bacteria using only water.

    We tested the Dupray Neat steam cleaner on ceramic bathroom tile. Before getting started, we vacuumed our floor, filled up the water tank, and allowed the steam mop to heat up. Once the steam indicator light came on, we mopped the floors. The Dupray features a trigger we could use for on-demand steam or it can be locked in place for a continuous blast. Even though our floors looked clean to the eye, this mop picked up a large amount of dirt, as witnessed by the soiled mop pads. 

    We used the other attachments to steam around the toilet, scrub the grout, clean the inside of the shower, and disinfect the sink. Those who want to kill germs as they clean will appreciate the versatility of this mop. 

    We also tested this model on our hardwood and linoleum floors. Thanks to its high-temperature steam, it cleaned both floor types quickly, lifting regular dirt and stuck-on grime. The biggest con to this mop is that it may not be safe for all surfaces. Though this steamer can be used on sealed hardwood, sealed laminate, glazed ceramic, marble, tile, stained concrete, linoleum, granite, and vinyl, Dupray cautions users to check manufacturer recommendations before steam-cleaning.

    Get the Dupray electric mop at Amazon or The Home Depot.

    What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Mop

    The type of floors in your home is one of the most important factors when choosing an electric mop. Electric mops work via steam, a spray-on cleaning solution, suction, or by dry mopping. Not all methods are suitable for all floors. Other considerations include corded versus cordless power, attachments, and water-tank capacity. Shoppers with multiple levels in their homes will also want to consider weight—the lighter the mop, the easier it is to carry up and down the stairs.

    Floor Type

    Electric mops that use water or a mild cleaning solution are suitable for all types of floors. Steam mops, on the other hand, can cause issues in heat- and moisture-sensitive flooring like laminate, unsealed natural stone, and luxury vinyl plank. Those who want to protect their flooring while getting the best clean will want to refer to their floor manufacturer's recommendations.

    A good option for homes with multiple types of floors are spin mops or vacuum/mop combos with on-demand spray. The on-demand spray allows you to control the amount of cleaning solution that hits the floor.

    More durable options, like ceramic and porcelain tile, often benefit from steam, which can loosen stuck-on grime and sanitize. 

    Corded vs. Cordless

    Cordless mops eliminate the hassle of dragging a cord over the floor but pose the risk of running out of power in the middle of a mopping session. Another benefit is quick cleanups—they're easy to grab and use for spot-cleaning. Some cordless electric mops can last as long as 60 minutes, but most have shorter runtimes. 

    Corded mops have their benefits, too. They often have more power than battery-powered options and can run anywhere there's an electrical outlet. When choosing a corded electric mop, consider cord length. Those who live in homes with long, narrow rooms will want to purchase a mop that will easily reach across those large areas, helping them avoid stopping and switching outlets.

    Water Tank Capacity

    The water tank capacity of an electric mop indicates how much water or cleaning solution it will hold. The bigger the water tank, the longer the mop will run without needing a refill. Those with a large home will want a mop with a bigger tank, ideally something that holds 15 or more ounces of water or cleaning solution. Those who don't have a big area to mop or don't mind refilling can get by with a smaller tank.

    Aside from tank capacity, also pay attention to the refill method. Mops with a removable water tank and screw-off cap are easiest to refill, while those with built-in tanks can be more difficult, especially if the fill hole is small.

    Additional Features

    Many electric mops come with additional features. For example, vacuum/mop combos sweep and mop simultaneously, while steam mops often include attachments for cleaning areas other than the floor.

    Another type of mop that offers additional features is a robot mop. Some are capable of working in conjunction with robot vacuums, can map the entire house, create cleaning schedules, and avoid obstacles.Those who prefer a mop without all the bells and whistles will appreciate spin mops. They do one job: clean the floor. 

    Additional features to consider on all mops include washable or disposable mop pads, docking stations for cordless models, and self-cleaning cycles.

    FAQs

    Switching from a standard mop to an electric mop for floor cleaning is an easy transition. Electric mops do most of the hard work, making mopping less of a chore. The best electric mops vary in price and features, with options available for different budget levels and floor types. We've answered some of the most commonly asked electric mop questions below.

    Q.Is it OK to mop floors every day?

    While weekly mopping is usually enough to keep floors clean, there's nothing wrong with mopping daily.

    Q.Do electric mops work well?

    Electric mops clean well, often eliminating the need for manual force and cutting down on cleaning time. They lift dirt with steam, suction, or spinning power.

    Q. What is the best electric mop for tile floors?

    The best electric mop for ceramic and porcelain tile floors is a steam mop. Natural stone tile benefits from a more gentle model, such as a spin mop.

    Meet the Tester

    Katie Barton has over 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on GOBankingRates, Realtor.Com, Yahoo!, Cabin Life, and more. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days/weeks to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

    Additional research and testing by Anne Holub.


    IRobot Roomba Combo J7 Review: Quick And Convenient Cleaning

    Breadcrumb Trail Links

    We compare the classic robot vacuum and the robot-mop combo

    Published Oct 15, 2024  •  Last updated 2 days ago  •  5 minute read

    Hit the "New job" button on your iRobot Roomba vacuum and let it do your housework for you.Hit the "New job" button on your iRobot Roomba vacuum and let it do your housework for you. Photo by iRobot

    Robots are a little freaky. In Sept. 2020, the International Federation of Robotics reported a record high of 2.7 million industrial robots operating in factories around the world. Fear of robots replacing humans and making our jobs obsolete springs to mind, but when that job is vacuuming, I'm totally on board with it.

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    I'd heard a lot about the iRobot Roomba vacuums but hadn't considered purchasing one because I don't find vacuuming (or sweeping in my case — hardwood floors) particularly taxing. That said, now that I've had the opportunity to try one of these robots, I get it. I love being able to leave the house, press "New job" on my smartphone and return home 30 minutes later to a pet-hair-free floor.

    Who should consider the iRobot Roomba j7 Combo: People that loathe — or really don't enjoy — cleaning. The iRobot Roomba j7 Combo will vacuum and mop your home for $1,299.99 — a great option for people with kids or pets that track dirt and mud into the house. If budget is an issue, the company has older models starting as low as $339.99. These products are great for people who love to see technology in action and wish to have control over vacuuming while at home or remotely.

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    The Combo j7's cleaning capabilities explained.The Combo j7's cleaning capabilities explained. Photo by iRobot iRobot Combo j7 specs

    About the iRobot Roomba j7 Combo: The j7+ model I tested, comes with a Clean Base for automatic dirt disposal, meaning the vacuum automatically empties its bin when full. This is extremely helpful for people living on one floor because you don't have to think about vacuuming, other than hitting "Start job" on your phone or pressing the "Clean" button on the vacuum. 

    This model uses Imprint Smart Mapping, meaning once you've used the vacuum a few times in your home, it remembers your floor plan and can clean more efficiently each time it vacuums. You're also able to customize room names and cleaning jobs, if you only want your kitchen and bathroom done, rather than the dining room, for example. 

    This model also has voice controls, so you can direct it to clean certain rooms just by yelling at it (or using a normal volume, if that's your style) or via the iRobot HOME app.

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    Finally, it has edge sweeping brushes that constantly spin, designed to get all of the dust and debris out of the hard-to-reach corners and edges of each room. Follow that with a high-efficiency filter made from a special material that (they say) captures 99 per cent of pollen, mould, dust mite and cat and dog allergens. Add in the mop feature and that sounds like one clean floor.

    iRobot claims to have the first "truly hands-free 2-in-1" vacuum and mop in the world. The retractable mop pad cleverly pops down once the machine moves away from your carpets or rugs and onto your hardwood floors or tiles. It's quite a seamless experience and fun to watch. 

    You can tailor the Cleaning Mode on the app to vacuum only or vacuum and mop, as well as change the Liquid Amount (the level of cleaning solution dispensed when mopping) and Cleaning Passes (the number of cleaning passes the robot will clean a specified area). 

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    j7 Combo specs and facts:

  • Retail box dimensions: 14.4 x 17.4 x 13.9
  • Box weight: 25.7 lbs
  • Robot weight: 7.35 lbs
  • Robot dimensions: 13.3 inches width x 3.4 inches high
  • Battery type: Lithium Ion
  • Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal dimensions: 12.2" W x 15.1" D x 13.4" H
  • Money-back guarantee: 60 days (only if purchased through iRobot directly)
  • Warranty: One-year, limited warranty for parts only including battery (only if purchased through iRobot directly)
  • This model is also backed by the Pet Owner Official Promise (if your robot hits solid pet waste, iRobot will replace it free of charge)
  • iRobot Combo j7 review: My experience

    Setting up the iRobot Roomba: The setup was fairly straightforward, thanks to one-page instruction booklets. Essentially, you download the iRobot HOME app and follow the prompts. You place the Clean Base in an open area with few obstacles, so it can find its way home safely. The vacuum needs to do a few cleans before learning and mapping your space. Once it's done, it's very easy to then customize your map using the app and name each room.

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    My favourite features: The ability to clean the floors while I'm running errands. I have a dog that sheds her weight in fur on a weekly basis, so it's rewarding to return home from a walk and have hair-free floors. 

    I love that the machine empties the bins itself, though this feature only works on the floor where the Clean Base lives. If you have a multiple-floor home, you need to lift the vacuum upstairs and empty it when prompted by the vacuum itself or your smart app. That said, it has the ability to map multiple floors and you can customize each, plus you have the option of setting up cleaning schedules so you don't have to think about it throughout the week.

    The j7 vacuums and mops simultaneously, moving from carpet cleaning to hardwood floor cleaning and can identify and avoid obstacles and hazards (including pet waste).

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    My least favourite features:  Watching the vacuums learn the ins and outs of my home drove me crazy. It would bump into a chair, turn slightly, then bump into the chair again. It cleans in rows, so I would watch it almost pick up a fluff for ten minutes, before actually getting it. It also takes a long time to figure your space out, so the first few cleans could take up to two or three hours for a relatively small space (my ground floor is roughly 550 sq.Ft.) These things may not bother some people, but I'd suggest leaving your house for the first few cleans if you think they might.

    The machines are fairly noisy, especially when emptying the bins because of the extreme suction process pulling the dirt and dust up into the Clean Base. It can also be a little scary for pets at first — my dog still steers well clear of the vacuum. 

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    Final thoughts: This vacuum is excellent for pet owners and even better for people who live on one floor because then you can set it up and completely forget about it. Here's a surprise — it's great for those who really dislike cleaning — sweeping, vacuuming or mopping in particular. If you want an all-in-one machine, I would definitely recommend the j7 Combo for its mopping feature.

    I want a dishwashing robot now, please.

    Where to buy: 

    j7 Combo: Amazon $1,299.99iRobot $1,299.99 

    Editor's note: Originally published in June 2021, we've updated this article to include our thoughts on the Combo j7 robot vacuum and mop.

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  • Shopping Essentials is a category written by research-obsessed shopping experts. Explore product reviews, recommendations and launches — plus behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and hidden gems — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter.

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    Robot Vacuum Buying Guide—what You Need To Know

    Over the past 20 years, robot vacuums have gone from a novelty to a staple household appliance. Today's best robot vacuums include technology like AI object recognition and self-emptying bases. These advancements ensure that these floor-sweeping bots automatically clean your house and store debris for months without requiring you to lift a finger. 

    With this level of convenience, it's no wonder more and more people are opening their homes to these little cleaners. But with so many robot vacuums released each year, it can be tough to spot what makes one model stand out from the crowd. This guide will take you through the different types available, as well as the features, strengths, and weaknesses to look out for, so you can make an informed decision.

    Roomba J9+ Combo robot vacuum and mop shown on floor

    (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

    Before you do anything else, you will want to set a budget. Robot vacuums can cost anywhere from $200 to over $1,400, so it's surprisingly easy to overspend. Don't be driven by expensive features you're not likely to use. We recommend deciding on a maximum price as well as non-negotiable features to help you filter down your options while still getting the best value for your money. Some of the best cheap robot vacuums we've tested can't scan a room but clean it just as well (or even better) as those three times the price thanks to impressive suction power.  

    The best robot vacuum for you will vary depending on your home's layout and your specific needs or preferences. For instance, some function better on hard floors, while others excel on carpets. If you've got pets running around, the best robot vacuums for pet hair have strong suction power to grab hair. If you've got plenty of hard floors, perhaps one of the best robot mops will be necessary.      

    How we test the robot vacuums in this guide

    We've tested countless robot vacuums to help you pick out your ideal cleaner. Each model earned a cleaning efficiency score based on how much Cheerios, kitty litter, and pet hair it picked up from both hard floors and carpet. We used each robot vacuum at home, exactly as you would, to find every pro and con behind the design and app features like no-go zones and multi-level mapping. 

    After extensive testing, we've compiled several buying guides to showcase our results, including the best Roombas, the best cheap robot vacuums and the best robot mops. We can even tell you what it's like when you use a robot vacuum in your home for the first time. So if you want to know more about robot vacuums so you can decide if one is right for you, you've come to the right place. Here are some buying tips to get you started.

    Robot vacuum deals 

    If you're thinking about investing in a new robot vacuum, be sure to check out our robot vacuum deals page first. We update it regularly with the latest sales in robot vacuums and mops. Plus, models with self-emptying bases sometimes make an appearance.  

    Quick tips for buying a robot vacuum
  • Start by surveying your home. Consider whether you mostly have hard floors or carpet. If you have carpet, how thick is it? Think about pets as well — will the robot vacuum have to pick up kitty litter or thick fur? These are all important aspects to consider before you start shopping for a robot vacuum.  
  • Decide on your budget. As mentioned earlier, robot vacuums with the latest features can cost well over $1,000. Cheaper models are available for around $200, but be prepared to lose some of the premium features, such as smart home connectivity or the self-emptying dustbin. 
  • Do you want an app with that? Some robot vacuums can be connected with dedicated apps. Apps are useful for monitoring your robot vacuum and scheduling cleaning sessions. These can also help with mapping out your home and creating no-go zones.  
  • Robot vacuums use varying methods of navigation. If you invest in a lower-end robot vacuum, it will likely move sporadically and bounce off walls and obstructions in the process. Whereas, some medium and high-end models use lasers and optical sensors to guide them. 
  • Some models clean better than others. Every robot vacuum performs differently. Some collect dust and debris more effectively than pet hair, while others might work better on hard floors rather than carpet.  
  • Why do you want a robot vacuum?

    The iRobot Roomba i3+ charging

    iRobot Roomba i3+  (Image credit: Future/Meghan McDonough)

    Be sure to also check out:

    With cars that drive themselves, drones that navigate the sky, and robot vacuums that find their way around furniture—it's safe to say that the future is here with robots handling many of our daily tasks. A robot vacuum keeps your home relatively clean and saves you the hassle of hauling out the heavy canister vacuum every time a bowl of popcorn falls on the floor.

    Though robot vacuum technology has advanced rapidly, you'll probably still want to keep a traditional vacuum cleaner around for deep cleaning. Robot vacuums are great for daily tidying—picking up stray crumbs, cat litter, hair of all types, dust bunnies and everything else that finds its way onto your floors. They're suited for office spaces, too, because the last thing you want to worry about when you're on deadline is why the floor is covered in sprinkles. And for living spaces shared with roommates, investing in a robot vacuum means there's one less chore to split up. 

    Many robot vacuums can be scheduled to run as often as multiple times a day, and some app-enabled robots allow you to watch their progress as they clean. If you're concerned about allergies or dust, you can also find models that empty the onboard dustbin into a larger bin in the base, minimizing your exposure to dust.

    Robot vacuum buying guide: How big is your house?

    First things first: Consider the size of your house before you start browsing the Amazon aisles. Some robot vacuums, like the iLife V3s Pro, work better in small environments like apartments and townhomes, while models like the Roborock S4 Max are better-suited for spaces of up to 2,000 square feet with multi

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