Many of today's best robot vacuums feature docks that automatically empty dustbins and clean mop pads. Now, this concept is being applied to robotic window cleaners.
At CES 2026, I was introduced to Ecovacs' latest windowbot, the WinBot W3 Omni, which includes a unique clean station called the Vortex Wash OMNI Station, touted as the first of its kind.
After the automated window cleaning, users can easily remove the mop pad plate without touching the dirty pads and place it into the dock.
The dock employs spinning brushes and squeegees to clean the pads in a one-minute cycle, making them ready for reattachment.
While this feature is impressive, it may not be as practical as it seems. For one, mop pads on window-bots don’t get as dirty as those on robot vacuums since they use minimal water. This large dock might be excessive when a simple wash in the machine could suffice.
Moreover, the effort required is not significantly reduced; users still need to detach the pad to clean it. Unlike robot vacuums, the self-cleaning feature does not allow the windowbot to operate autonomously, meaning supervision is still necessary.
Charging Ahead
While I might hesitate to invest in the bulky dock solely for its cleaning capabilities, it does offer an additional benefit.
The dock functions as a charger and power source for the windowbot. Typically, robotic window cleaners must be plugged in to operate, as they need to be lightweight to adhere to glass surfaces without the burden of a heavy battery.
In this case, the cordless dock serves as a battery pack, with a cable connecting it to the window cleaner, allowing for recharging as needed.
This innovation enables cleaning in hard-to-reach areas away from power outlets, which was previously a limitation for robot window cleaners.
While I’m not convinced this is the most elegant solution, it represents an intriguing advancement in a category that is likely to gain popularity.
For more updates, visit our publication's CES 2026 news page for the latest stories and hands-on reviews from the event, covering everything from wireless TVs and foldable displays to new phones, laptops, smart home gadgets, and the latest in AI.
