Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are typically less powerful than larger vacs. They also have smaller bins, which need to be emptied more frequently.
They can get stuck on furniture legs, or struggle to cross thresholds or stairways. This can be avoided by choosing a model that has no-go zones on the app or physical barriers.
1. They're more efficient
The best robot vacuums we tested have impressive results on carpets with low pile, hard floors and sticky spills. They also capture metal screws, nuts and fluffy pet hair. However, they still can't completely replace a vacuum cleaner with a plug-in, especially on rugs and in tough to clean crevices where debris collects like under sofa legs. While a lot of robotic vacuums come with sophisticated navigational systems that aid them avoid obstacles and furniture, they still struggle to clean up dirt near thresholds and baseboards.
The best robots are fast to plan out your home, smart enough not to get stuck too often, and capable enough to handle the bulk of your cleaning needs. They also have many features, like HEPA filters and auto-emptying bins that make them more efficient.
Contrary to traditional vacuum cleaners which can require up three times the power to operate as a robot, robot vacuums consume very little electricity. They also are relatively quiet and make them an ideal option for homes with pets or small children.
For a more comfortable hands-free cleaning experience choose models that have a built-in rechargeable battery and a large capacity dustbin which can hold multiple cleaning sessions. If you want to schedule the robot's work, it is possible to connect it to applications that allow you to organize regular cleaning sessions. You can also sync your robot with digital voice assistants like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. Many robots are able to return to their charging dock and recharge between cleaning sessions, or restart the session from where it left off even in a different space.
2. You'll find them cheaper
The savings aren't that great, but robot vacuums are more affordable than the majority of other vacuum cleaners. Consumables such as mop pads and filters are required and the lithium-ion battery will eventually deteriorate. Repairs and replacements are also costly, so it's crucial to think about the frequency at which your robo-vac will be used.
In our tests, even the cheapest robots were unable to reach those difficult-to-access areas under sofas, tables and bed frames. They also have less suction power and often miss dirt that is embedded in rugs and close to baseboards.
When you purchase a low-cost robot make sure you choose a model that has a high-efficiency motor as well as powerful suction to ensure that the smallest of particles are removed from your floors. We also test a robot's navigation system that is able to avoid obstacles and generate a coverage map of your home. Those that can't do this are slower and more vulnerable to getting stuck or missing areas of the room.
A lot of cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, allowing you to plan cleaning sessions and control the robot using apps on your phone or through Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is useful for families with children or pets you want to keep out of certain areas in your home. Some models even have physical barriers that you can set up to prevent the vacuum from moving to areas it isn't.
If you decide to purchase a Wi-Fi-connected robot, make sure you check the fine print. Certain brands can collect data about your use and transfer it to third-party companies. You'll need to consent to the device keeping information about your location and the amount of time you've been using it.
3. It's more versatile
While they can't replace a traditional vacuum cleaner for deep cleaning of carpets, robot vacs are great to keep floors clean and looking good. They can remove pet hair dust bunnies, crumbs and dust from surfaces such as tile and wood. They can also clean carpets and rugs with low pile. A lot of robot vacuums come with features that assist them in getting around obstacles like staircases and furniture. Additionally, certain robot vacs can be set to run on a schedule so you don't need to worry about them. This is an especially useful feature for busy lifestyles.
This versatility comes with a drawback however. Robotic vacs won't work as well in areas with bare floors or areas that are covered in dirt and debris. They might be better suited for rooms with low traffic or for maintenance that is scheduled regularly. Some models come with a "no-go" zone setting that allows you to create virtual barriers in the app to ensure that the bot isn't able to enter these zones. These settings can be useful for homes with pets, children or lots of clutter.
Most of the best robot vacuums also come with rechargeable batteries and an enormous dust bin to handle longer cleaning sessions. You can also set them up to pause and recharge, then return to cleaning the same place they have left off. This is great for homes with large spaces. Finally, many robot vacs work with home smart systems such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant so that you can operate them with your voice. The robot cleaners are well worth the price since they provide a high degree of convenience. They can even be programmed to clean while you're away, which can provide peace of mind that your home is always maintained.
4. It's More Safe
Robot vacuums are more secure than traditional vacuum cleaners due to of the technology they use. The computer brain, sensors, and apps make robots less likely to get stuck or entangled in furniture and rugs. They also avoid stooping or bent postures that can cause back pain and injuries in the workplace.
Robot vacuums don't come without flaws. Some may go off the rails and cause havoc to your home. They are also more prone to fail than traditional vacuums and are more costly to repair. It's crucial to compare features and read reviews to find the right robot vacuum for your home.
Even the most powerful robot vacuums could have problems with high-pile carpeting and shaggy area carpets. These materials slow down the vacuum and draw its battery. You can try to fence off these areas physically, or use an electronic barrier (in the robot vac's app) to avoid them.
Additionally, it is important to keep the vac dry and clean. It is possible to extend the life of the vac by regularly emptying the bin and ensuring it's free of dust. It is also recommended to remove the battery from your robot vacuum when not in use, or store it somewhere dry. This will protect the electronics and make sure that the sensors are functioning properly.
Overall, robot vacs are a great method to keep your floors clean without the effort and time it takes to manually clean them. They're also a great option for families with busy lives or health issues that make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also great for homes with a single level that have flat floors with only a few obstacles.
5. It's More Fun
Robot vacuum cleaners are very enjoyable to use. A robot vacuum cleaner is like having a magical assistant who takes care of your chores. It's a great way to teach children the importance of cleaning and responsibility, and you can encourage them to keep an eye on the robot and keep it running smoothly.
Robot vacuum cleaners have some disadvantages. One of their main drawbacks is that they're less powerful than regular vacuum cleaners. Also the bins they are constructed inside are smaller than a typical bag or canister. This can lead to reduced dirt capacity, and the need to empty them more often. Robot vacuums can also be prone to becoming stuck or clogged up on small obstacles like socks or slippers that hinder the roll. It is essential to get these items out of the area prior to vacuuming and then apply dry cloths to the inside of the dustbin to get rid of any debris that's stuck to the walls.
Robot vacuums are the best choice for those who want to streamline their cleaning routine without sacrifice quality. They're also less expensive than regular vacuum cleaners, and offer some extra flexibility, like the ability to set cleaning schedules with your smartphone or smart home application. They're not an alternative to vacuum cleaners and their limited functionality makes them unsuitable for homes with large or clutter in furniture.