Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums tend to be less powerful than regular vacuums. They also tend to have smaller bins that have to be cleaned more frequently.
They can get caught on furniture legs or struggle to get around thresholds or stairs. This can be avoided by choosing a model that has no-go zones in the app or physical barriers.
1. They're more Efficient
The most effective robot vacuums we have tested in our tests score impressive results in picking up dirt on carpets with low pile and hard floors as they capture dust particles, sticky spills, dust, nuts and screws made of steel and even fluffy pet hair. However, they're not able to completely replace a traditional vacuum cleaner that plugs in, particularly on carpets and in difficult to clean crevices that debris accumulates like under sofa legs. And while many robotic vacs have sophisticated navigation systems that can assist them in avoiding obstacles and maneuver around furniture, most still struggle to clean dirt that is close to baseboards or thresholds.
The most effective robots are quick to map out your home, intelligent enough not to get stuck too often and capable enough to handle the majority of your cleaning needs. They also come with a variety of features, such as HEPA filters and self-emptying bins, which are more efficient than traditional vacuum cleaners.
Most robotic vacuums use surprisingly little power compared to traditional vacuum cleaners. They can use up to three times as much power as a robot. They are also relatively quiet and make them an ideal option for homes with pets or small children.
Look for models that have a rechargeable battery that can be used many times and has a large trash bin. And if you want to be able to schedule your robot's work, most robots connect to apps that allow you to set up regular cleaning sessions or sync with digital voice assistants such as Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant. Many robots are able to return to their charging dock and recharge between cleaning sessions or resume the same session from where they began, even in a different space.
2. You'll find them more affordable
Robot vacs tend to be cheaper than other vacuum cleaners, but the savings aren't that great. You still need to buy accessories like mop pads and filters and lithium-ion batteries will eventually wear out. Repairs and replacements can be costly too, which is why it's important to take into consideration how much your robovac will likely to be used.
In our tests, the least expensive robots struggle to get to those hard-to-access places beneath sofas, tables and bed frames. They also have lower suction power and tend to miss dirt embedded in plush rugs and close to baseboards.
When buying a cheap robot, look for a model that has a high-efficiency motor as well as strong suction to ensure the most tiny particles are eliminated from your floors. We also test the navigation system of the robot, which should be capable of avoiding obstacles and generating the map of your home. Those that can't do this are slower and more vulnerable to get stuck or miss areas of the room.
A lot of cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, allowing you to plan cleaning sessions and control the device via apps on your smartphone or via Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This can be beneficial when you have children or pets that you want to keep out of certain areas of your home. Certain models have physical barriers can be used to prevent the vacuum from going in places it shouldn't.
If you decide to purchase a Wi-Fi-connected robot, make sure you be aware of the fine print. Certain brands might collect information on your usage, and pass it to third-party companies. You'll also need to agree to allow the device to keep information about your location and how long you've been using the device.
3. They're more versatile
While they can't replace a regular vacuum cleaner for deep cleaning carpets, robot vacs are excellent to keep floors clean and looking good. They can eliminate pet hair, crumbs and dust bunnies from surfaces such as wood and tile. They can also clean low pile carpets and rugs. Many robot vacuums have features that help them navigate around obstacles such as stairs and furniture. Certain robot vacuums can be programmed to run on the schedule which means you don't have to worry. This is a great feature for people with busy lives.
The downside of this versatility is that robot vacs generally don't perform as well on bare flooring or heavily-used areas with a lot of dirt and debris. They may be more suitable for rooms that aren't used often or for maintenance that is scheduled regularly. Some models come with an "no-go" zone option that lets you set virtual barriers in the app to ensure that the bot doesn't move into these areas. These settings can be helpful for homes with pets, kids or a lot of clutter.
Most robot vacuums come with rechargeable batteries, as well as large dust bins to allow for longer cleaning sessions. You can also set them up to pause and recharge, then resume cleaning where they left off. This is great for homes with large areas. Many robot vacuums are compatible with smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant and you can operate them with your voice. This provides a level of convenience that makes robot cleaners worth the price. You can set them to clean your home when you are away. This will give you peace of mind that your home will always be kept in good order.
4. It's more secure
The technology in robot vacuums makes it a safer device than the more mechanical tools employed by traditional vacuum cleaners. Robots are less likely to become tangled in rugs or furniture because of the computer brain, sensors and integration with apps. They also prevent stooping and bent postures that can cause back pain and injuries in the workplace.
However, robot vacs still have their own quirks. Certain robot vacuums are unruly, causing chaos within your home. They're also more likely to break down than traditional vacuums and are more costly to repair. It's crucial to compare features and read reviews to choose the best robot vacuum for your home.
Even the most powerful robot vacuums might have issues with high-pile carpeting and shaggy area carpets. These types of materials slow down the vac and drain its battery. You can try to fence off these areas physically, or make use of a virtual barrier (in the robot vac's app) to keep them out.
Additionally, it is essential to keep the vac dry and clean. Cleaning the bin frequently and making sure that it's free of dust can extend its life. You should also remove the battery from your robot vacuum when it is not in use or keep it in a dry place. This will help safeguard the electronics and ensure the sensors are working properly.
Robot vacuums are a great method of maintaining your floor without having to spend the time and energy required to clean them manually. They're also a great option for households with busy schedules and who have health issues that make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also ideal for homes with a single-level layout that has an open floor plan and few obstacles.
5. They're More Fun
One of the great things about robot vacuum cleaner s is that they're genuinely enjoyable to use. Whether you're watching the bot move around the floor, or preparing it to run at night when you're away, a robotic vacuum is a little like having a magic helper that does the chores for you. It's also a great opportunity to show kids the benefits of keeping their homes clean and taking responsibility, as you can have them assist in monitoring the robot and encourage them to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently.
Robot vacuum cleaners come with a few drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is that they're less powerful than regular vacuum cleaners. Additionally the bins that are built inside are smaller than a typical bag or canister. This can result in a less capacity for dirt and the need to empty them more often. In addition, robot vacuums can be vulnerable to getting stuck or bogged down on small obstacles that get in the way of the brush roll, including slippers, socks or even larger power cords. It's important to eliminate these items from the area prior to vacuuming and then take dry cloths to the inside of the bin to remove any debris that's clinging to its walls.
Robot vacuums are a great choice for those who want to automate their cleaning process without sacrifice quality. They're also less expensive than regular vacuum cleaners and offer additional flexibility, such as the capability to schedule cleaning routines using your smartphone or smart home app. They're not a replacement for a regular vacuum cleaner and their limited capabilities is why they're not suitable for homes with lots of furniture or spaces with lots of furniture.