“My iRobot mop constantly leaves streaks on my floor. What should I do?”
Streaks on the floor can be pretty annoying…
Especially if they leave visible marks after drying.
But there are several ways you can prevent your iRobot mop from leaving streaks.
And they’re super easy to do. That you won’t feel like you’re “troubleshooting” it.
Continue reading to learn:
- How to clean and replace mop pads.
- What cleaning solution you should use.
- 5 reasons why your iRobot mop leaves streaks.
- 5 easy ways to prevent an iRobot mop from leaving streaks.
- And so much more…
Why does my iRobot mop leave streaks?
Your iRobot mop leaves streaks because the mop pads are dirty. This can happen if the floor isn’t vacuumed properly prior to mopping. Using an unapproved and wrong amount of cleaning solutions and water can also cause streaks. Running your iRobot mop across floor grains can trigger the problem too.
iRobot leaves streaks: 5 reasons & fixes
#1: Mop pads are dirty or damaged
Is your iRobot mop leaving streaks minutes after running it?
Then, perhaps its mop pads are dirty. Or worse, damaged.
When the mop pads get dirty, they won’t be able to function properly.
One thing that can happen is the Robot mop pads can fail to absorb water.
“But I just washed my reusable mop pods!”
The question is, how did you wash and dry it? Did you put them on a drying machine?
If yes, then that’s what’s causing the problem.
iRobot mop pads should only be air-dried.
When you put them on a drying machine, the mop pads’ water retention properties can get damaged. Causing them to not absorb water effectively.
How to fix it:
To prevent streaks on the floor, make sure to change the mop pads frequently.
If you’re using single-use mop pads, make it a habit to change them several times during a cleaning session.
Or at least after every cleaning session. Depending on the floor area of your house.
If you’re using washable mop pads, make sure to clean and dry them properly.
Avoid putting them on a dryer and just air dry them.
Tip: For continuous mopping sessions, buy extra reusable iRobot mop pads.
Need help in replacing iRobot mop pads? Then, watch this instructional video:
#2: Floor wasn’t vacuumed properly
Dirt, dust, and debris on the floor.
Those are what cause your iRobot mop pads to get dirty. Which then leaves streaks on the floor.
“But I make sure to vacuum my floor first before mopping…”
Yes, you’re supposed to switch on “sweep mode” before mopping the floor.
But, most of the time, one sweeping cycle isn’t enough. Especially if your house has a large floor area.
When the mop pads get in contact with too much dirt while mopping, your iRobot mop can malfunction.
And so, it’ll leave water streaks on the floor.
How to fix it:
That said, you should vacuum your floor a few more times before running “mop mode.”
Vacuuming the floor two to three times prior to mopping will help ensure a clean and spotless floor. Preventing your iRobot mop to leave water streaks.
Aside from that, you should also run “sweep mode” after mopping.
Doing this helps polish the floor. As it absorbs water left on it.
It may leave streaks as well. But streaks from the “sweep mode” eventually dries out.
Here’s what you should do:
- Run your iRobot mop in “sweep mode” a few times.
- Switch to “mopping mode.”
- Then, run “sweep mode” once more.
Note: The name of the modes may vary depending on your iRobot mop model. So, make sure to refer to your user manual as well.
#3: You’re using unapproved cleaning solutions
“I always make sure to change the mop pads. But my iRobot mop still leaves streaks!”
If that’s the case, you must be using unapproved cleaning solutions.
iRobot mops have dedicated cleaning solutions. That the manufacturers say was made to complement the iRobot mop cleaning properties.
Unapproved cleaning solutions may damage those properties. As they may have chemicals that are not safe for the cleaning device.
Causing your iRobot mop to malfunction. And leave streaks on the floor.
How to fix it:
If you’re using unapproved cleaning solutions, switch to authentic ones.
There are two approved cleaning solutions for iRobot mops, which are:
Make sure to use any of these to prevent streaks on your house floors.
Buying reminder: Make sure to verify the authenticity of the products you’re buying. Doing this ensures the safety and performance of your iRobot mop.
Editor’s pick: Can You Pick Up and Move a Roomba? 5 Things To Know
#4: You’re putting the wrong amount of cleaning solutions
“But I’m using approved cleaning solutions. And I’m sure that it’s authentic…”
Did you follow the recommended amount of cleaning solutions to use?
Because if not, then that’s what’s causing the problem.
Believe it or not, smart cleaning devices are highly-sensitive. One wrong use of it can collapse its whole system.
Similarly, if you’re using less or too many cleaning solutions, your iRobot cleaning device can malfunction. And not do its function properly.
How to fix it:
When putting cleaning solutions in your iRobot mop, make sure to put the right amount.
And make sure to double-check whether those cleaning solutions require the use of water.
For example, Bona Hardwood/Hard Surface Cleaner isn’t supposed to be mixed with water. Since it already has water on its component.
If you’re using a concentrate one, here’s the recommended mixture:
- For Braava jet 240: Two capfuls of cleaning solutions with water.
- For Braava jet m series: Six capfuls of cleaning solution with water.
Note: There’s no exact recommended mL of water to use. Just make sure that the water fills up the tank.
You might also be interested in: 27 Roomba Tips And Tricks To Keep Your House Clean
#5: You’re using tap water
Yes, you can just use water with your iRobot mop. But not all types of water.
According to science, tap water contains minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
These chemicals can form deposits in the iRobot mop sprays. Causing your mopping device to leave streaks on the floor.
Such water streaks are mostly noticeable on tiled floors.
So, if your iRobot mop leaves streaks on tiles, then using tap water on it must be the cause.
How to fix it:
To resolve the problem, switch to using either filtered or distilled water.
These two types of water have hardly any harmful chemicals on them. Which makes it safe for your iRobot mop.
You may still notice some streaks using it. But those streaks can eventually dry and leave no marks. Leaving your house floors clean and spot-free.
If you only have tap water as your choice, consider mixing vinegar with it.
Vinegar is an all-natural cleaning solution. Plus, it helps eliminate tap water stains.
Helping prevent water streaks when using an iRobot mop.
Bonus: There are grains on the hard floor
“I’ve already followed the solutions above. But nothing worked!”
Well, there’s one possible cause left.
If your iRobot mop still leaves streaks, it may be because it’s running across grains.
Apparently, grains on laminate and wood floors can “damage” the mop pads. Causing them to release more water than normal.
As a result, your iRobot mop leaves water spots and streaks. Especially in the areas where the grains are.
How to fix it:
Try running your iRobot mop following the direction of the grains.
If that worked, then consider creating “rooms” to guide your device where to go.
That way, your iRobot mop won’t tumble across the grains. And you can prevent water streaks on your floor when running your mopping device.
Learn more: Do robot vacuums work in small spaces?