How to Clean Your Robotic Pool Cleaner Before Winter Storage

Before putting your robotic pool cleaner away for winter, it's worth giving it one last thorough cleaning. Even after the final cleaning cycle, leaves, sand, hair, and other debris can still be trapped inside the filter basket, brushes, and other components.

To clean your robotic pool cleaner before winter storage, rinse the filter basket, clear debris from the propellers and roller brushes, wipe down the sensors, and let everything dry completely. These simple steps help keep your robot in good condition during the off-season and make it easier to get started again next spring.

Why Clean Your Pool Robot Before Winter Storage?

During the swimming season, you probably empty the filter basket and give your robot a quick rinse after each use. But before storing it for several months, it's worth paying a little more attention to the parts you might normally overlook.

Leaves and dirt left inside the filter basket can cause unpleasant odors, while hair and other debris caught around the brushes or propellers can interfere with their movement. Lingering moisture can also encourage mildew during storage.

How to Clean a Robotic Pool Cleaner Before Winter Storage

You won't need much to get started: a garden hose, a soft cloth, and a small soft-bristled brush should cover most of the cleaning.

Once your robot finishes its final cleaning cycle, remove it from the pool, let the excess water drain, and turn it off. Keep the charging dock away from the cleaning area.

Step 1: Empty and Clean the Filter Basket

Start with the filter basket, where most of the leaves, dirt, insects, and other debris collect during cleaning.

Open the filter compartment, remove the basket, and empty the collected debris into the trash. Then rinse the basket thoroughly with fresh water, making sure to wash away any dirt caught in the mesh and corners.

If your Beatbot has a dual-layer filtration system, separate the inner and outer baskets and rinse them individually. Fine particles can collect between the layers, so pay particular attention to these areas.

Once the baskets are clean, check the mesh for any tears, cracks, or signs of wear. Set the baskets aside to dry while you clean the rest of the robot.

Step 2: Remove Debris From the Propellers

Next, check the propellers. Leaves, hair, and other small debris can occasionally get caught around these parts as water moves through the robot.

Look inside the accessible propeller openings for anything that might be stuck. If you notice any buildup, gently remove it using a small soft-bristled brush.

Pay attention to the spaces around the propeller blades, where smaller pieces of debris may be harder to spot. Avoid forcing the blades or pulling apart any sealed components.

Taking a moment to clear these areas now helps ensure there's nothing obstructing the propellers when you use your robot again.

Step 3: Clean the Roller Brushes and Tracks

The roller brushes are another area worth checking, especially if your pool has been collecting leaves and other debris throughout the fall.

Start by inspecting the brushes for tangled hair, string, or small twigs. Remove anything caught between the brush fins or wrapped around the ends.

For Beatbot models with removable roller brushes, you can take the brushes out for a more thorough cleaning. Rinse them with fresh water, working between the fins to remove dirt and debris that a quick exterior rinse might miss.

While the brushes are out, take a look at their condition. Check for visible damage or excessive wear before putting them back into place.

Don't forget the tracks and nearby wheel areas. Sand, small stones, and dirt can collect in the gaps, so give these areas a gentle rinse and remove anything that might interfere with movement.

Step 4: Clean the Ultrasonic Sensors and Exterior

Once the brushes and other moving parts are clean, turn your attention to the sensors and outer surfaces.

On Beatbot models equipped with ultrasonic sensors, gently wipe the exposed sensor surfaces with a soft, clean cloth. These areas can collect dirt and residue during regular pool cleaning, so it's worth giving them a little attention before storage.

Avoid rough brushes or abrasive materials that could scratch the sensor surfaces.

Next, rinse the robot's exterior with a gentle stream of fresh water. Pay particular attention to the underside and areas around the tracks, where dirt and pool residue can accumulate.

You can also use a soft, dry cloth to wipe any visible residue from the charging contacts. Keep the charging dock and power adapter away from water.

There's no need for strong detergents or high pressure spraying. Fresh water and a soft cloth are enough for most routine cleaning.

Step 5: Let Everything Dry Before Winter Storage

With the cleaning done, the last step is making sure everything is completely dry.

Use a soft towel to wipe away water from the robot's exterior, then leave it in a shaded, well-ventilated area to air dry.

Let the filter basket and any removable brushes dry separately. Before putting everything back together, check the filter compartment and other accessible areas for leftover moisture.

Avoid leaving the robot in direct sunlight for extended periods or using excessive heat to speed up the process.

It's also best not to put a damp robot straight into a closed storage box. Trapped moisture can lead to musty smells or mildew over time, especially when the cleaner won't be used for several months.

Once all the components are dry, reassemble the robot and you're ready to move on to winter storage.

Watch Our Beatbot Cleaning Tutorials

If you'd rather see the cleaning process in action, these Beatbot videos walk through the maintenance steps covered above.

How to Clean & Maintain Beatbot AquaSense

See how to clean and maintain the original AquaSense, including the filter basket and other essential components.

How to Maintain Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro After Cleaning

Follow the AquaSense 2 Pro maintenance tutorial for a closer look at cleaning the filter basket, propellers, roller brushes, and ultrasonic sensors.

What Should You Do After Cleaning Your Pool Robot?

Once your robot is clean and dry, it's time to put it away until the next swimming season.

Choose a dry indoor storage area protected from freezing temperatures, excess moisture, and direct sunlight. You'll also want to take care of the battery before leaving your cordless pool cleaner unused for an extended period.

For more tips on choosing a storage location and preparing your robot for the off-season, check out our guide to storing a robotic pool cleaner for winter.

FAQs

Should I clean my robotic pool cleaner after every use?

It's a good habit to empty and rinse the filter basket after each cleaning cycle. You should also check the brushes and other accessible parts for visible debris. Before winter storage, give the entire robot a more thorough cleaning and allow everything to dry completely.

Can I use a garden hose to clean my robotic pool cleaner?

Yes. You can use a gentle stream of fresh water to rinse the filter basket, removable roller brushes, and exterior surfaces. Keep the charging dock and power adapter away from water, and avoid high-pressure spraying around sensitive components.

Do I need to remove the roller brushes for cleaning?

Not every cleaning session requires removing the brushes. However, if your Beatbot has removable roller brushes, taking them out before winter storage makes it easier to rinse away debris trapped between the brush fins and inspect them for wear.

Can I use soap or cleaning chemicals on my pool robot?

Fresh water is usually enough to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, solvents, and abrasive cleaners that could damage the robot's surfaces or components.

Can I store my robotic pool cleaner immediately after washing it?

It's better to wait until the robot and removable components are completely dry. Storing a damp cleaner for several months can trap moisture and encourage mildew or unpleasant odors.