How to clean and maintain a robot mower

Safety first

Switch the robot off using its main switch or stop button, and enter the PIN if needed. Wear gloves when handling the underside, because the blades are sharp. Some makers recommend lifting the robot only by its handle or the rear, so check before you turn it over.

Note:Always switch the robot off before cleaning or touching the blades. Never clean it with a hose or pressure washer unless the maker says it is designed for that.

Weekly or fortnightly clean

In the growing season, a quick clean keeps the cut even and the robot moving freely.

1. 1

   Switch the robot off

2. 2

   Turn it over or tilt it as the manual allows

3. 3

   Brush clippings from the blade disc, deck and skid plate with a soft brush

4. 4

   Clear grass from the wheels and their treads

5. 5

   Wipe the body with a damp cloth

6. 6

   Check the blades and that the disc turns freely

Blades

Most robots use small pivoting blades, a bit like razor blades, on a disc. They are cheap and designed to be swapped rather than sharpened. Husqvarna and other makers typically suggest replacing them every few weeks to a few months in the season, depending on lawn size and conditions, so check your manual. Blunt blades tear grass and drain the battery faster. Always replace all blades at once and use the screws supplied, so the disc stays balanced.

Are mower blades universal? →

Charging contacts and docking

The robot charges through metal contacts on the robot and on the charging station. If they get dirty, oxidised or covered in grass, the robot may fail to dock or charge. Wipe them with a dry cloth and, if they look dull, a fine abrasive pad. Keep grass and leaves clear of the station.

If your robot still will not charge, see our guide to robot mowers not charging or docking.

Sensors, cameras and antennas

Wire-free robots rely on cameras, lidar or ultrasonic sensors. Wipe the lenses gently with a soft damp cloth. Dirt, cobwebs or bird droppings on a camera can cause navigation errors. For RTK models, keep the reference antenna clear of overhanging branches. Our explainer on how robot mowers navigate explains what each sensor does.

Winter service and storage

At the end of the season, give the robot a full clean, fit new blades or note that they need replacing, and charge the battery fully if the manual recommends it. Store it indoors, somewhere dry and frost free. Many makers also suggest bringing the charging station inside or disconnecting the power supply. Dealers for brands such as Husqvarna offer a winter service that checks the battery, blades and software.

Can robot mowers work in the rain? →

Keeping the lawn robot friendly

Pick up toys, fallen fruit and branches before the robot runs, and keep dog mess cleared, as robots spread it. Fill holes that trap wheels. A tidy lawn means less wear on the blades and fewer stuck alerts. If your robot gets stuck a lot, see robot mower keeps getting stuck. For a robot that is easy to keep clean, our robot lawn mower guide covers current models.

Wheels, tracks and the perimeter

Wheels pick up mud, grass and leaves, especially on damp lawns. Clogged treads lose grip and the robot may slip on slopes or get stuck. Brush the treads clean and check that the front wheels spin and swivel freely. On all wheel drive robots, check each driven wheel. Worn wheels can usually be replaced as spare parts.

For boundary wire robots, walk the perimeter now and then. Look for exposed wire, damaged joins and areas where the lawn has grown over the guide wire unevenly. A wire nicked by an edging tool is the most common cause of a no loop signal error. Our guide to installing a boundary wire shows how to repair and route it.

Keep the charging station level, clear of leaves and with its cable protected. A station that has sunk or tilted is a common reason for failed docking.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my robot mower? Every week or two in the growing season, and a full clean before winter.

Can I hose down a robot mower? Only if the maker says it is designed for it. Most recommend a brush and damp cloth.

How often should robot mower blades be changed? It varies with lawn size and conditions. Check the manual; many makers suggest every few weeks to a few months.

Do robot mowers need a service? A yearly check is sensible. Many dealers offer a winter service for battery, blades and software.