Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are typically less powerful than full-sized vacuums. They also have smaller bins that have to be cleaned more frequently.
They may get stuck on furniture legs and have to struggle to navigate stairs or thresholds. These issues can be prevented by choosing a model that does not have no-go zones on the app or physical barriers.
1. They're more Efficient
The best robot vacuums we test have impressive results on carpets with a low pile, hard floors and sticky spills. They also catch metal screws, nuts and fluffy pet hair. However, they still can't completely replace a traditional plug-in vacuum cleaner, especially on rugs and in tough to clean crevices that debris accumulates like under sofa legs. And even though many robotic vacuums come with sophisticated navigation systems that assist them in avoiding obstacles and navigate around furniture, most still struggle to clean dirt that is close to baseboards or thresholds.
The most effective robots are able to quickly trace your home's layout They are intelligent enough to avoid getting stuck and robust enough to tackle the majority of cleaning tasks. They're also equipped with a variety of features, such as HEPA filters and self-emptying bins that are more efficient than traditional vacuum cleaners.
In contrast to traditional vacuum cleaners which can use up three times the power to run as a robot, robotic vacuums use surprisingly low amounts of electricity. They also are relatively quiet and make them an ideal option for homes with pets or small children.
Find models with rechargeable batteries that can be used many times and has a large trash bin. If you'd like to be able to schedule your robot's work the majority of robots are connected to apps that allow you to schedule regular cleaning sessions, or sync with digital voice assistants such as Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant. Most robots are able to return to their charging station and recharge between cleaning sessions, or even continue the same session that it started off in a different area.
2. They're more affordable
Robot vacs tend to be more affordable than other vacuum cleaners, but the savings aren't astronomical. There is still the need to purchase accessories like mop pads and filters, and the lithium-ion batteries will eventually fail. The cost of repairs and replacements could add up also, which is why it's important to take into consideration how much your robovac will likely to be used.
In our tests, the cheapest robots struggle to reach those difficult-to-access areas under tables, sofas and bed frames. They also have lower suction capacity, and frequently miss dirt that is embedded in soft carpets and in close proximity to baseboards.
If you are looking to purchase a robot that is cheap, look for a model that has a high-efficiency motor as well as strong suction to ensure the tiny of particles are cleared from your floors. We also test a robot's navigation system that should be able to avoid obstacles and generate a coverage map of your home. The ones that don't are slower and more prone to get stuck or miss parts of the room.
Many robots that are cheaper come with Wi-Fi, which lets you to schedule cleaning sessions. You can also control the device by using apps on your smartphone and voice commands via Amazon's Alexa. This can be useful if you have kids or pets you want to keep away from certain areas of your home. Some models come with physical barriers that you can put up to stop the vac from going where it should not.
If you opt for a Wi-Fi-connected robot, make sure to be aware of the fine print. Certain brands collect information about your use and transmit that data to third-party companies. You'll have to accept the device's storage of information about your location and how long you have been using it.
3. It's More Versatile
While they can't replace a traditional vacuum cleaner for deep cleaning carpets, robot vacuums are excellent to keep floors looking and feeling clean. They can take away dust bunnies, crumbs and pet hair from hard surfaces like tiles and wood as also low pile carpets and area rugs. Many robot vacuums have features that allow them to navigate around obstacles such as furniture and stairs. Certain robot vacuums can be programmed to run on an established schedule and you don't have to be concerned. This feature is especially useful for people who lead busy lives.
This versatility comes with a drawback, however. Robot vacs don't work as well in areas with floors that aren't clean or areas that are covered with dirt and debris. They may be more suitable for rooms with a low amount of traffic or for regular maintenance. Certain models come with an "no go" zone option, which allows you to create virtual barriers in the application so that the bot does not enter these zones. These settings are useful for homes with children or pets or a lot of clutter.
Most of the best robot vacuums come with rechargeable batteries and an enormous dust bin to last longer cleaning sessions. They are also able to pause, recharge and then return to where they left off which is useful for homes with bigger areas. Finally, many robot vacs can be integrated with home smart systems such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant so that you can control them with your voice. This adds a level of convenience, making these robot vacuums worth the cost. They can also be programmed to clean while you're away, which can give you a peace of mind knowing that your home is always maintained.
4. It's safer
The technology of a robot vacuum makes it a safer tool than the more mechanical equipment employed by traditional vacuum cleaners. Robots are less likely to get tangled in rugs or furniture because of the sensors, computer brain, and app integration. They also avoid stooping or bending that can lead to back pain and workplace injuries.
Robot vacuums are not without their quirks. Certain robot vacuums are rogue, causing havoc within your home. They're also more likely to break down than traditional vacs, and they're more expensive to repair. If you're considering a robotic vacuum for your home, you need to review reviews and look at features to find the best one for your needs.
Even the best robot vacuums can have problems with shaggy area rugs or carpets with high pile. These types of materials can slow down the vacuum and consume its battery. You can fence off the area physically or use an application to create an imaginary barrier.
It is also important to keep your vacuum clean and dry. Regularly emptying the bin and ensuring that it is free of dust can prolong its lifespan. It is also recommended to remove the battery from the robot vacuum when it is not being used, or keep it in a dry place. This will help protect the electronics and make sure that the sensors are functioning properly.
Overall, robot vacs are a great way to keep your floors in good condition without putting in the time and effort is required to manually clean them. robotic vacuum cleaner best for busy households and those with health considerations that would make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also ideal for homes with a flat, open floor plan and few obstacles.
5. They're more Fun
One of the most appealing aspects about robot vacuum cleaners is that they're genuinely fun to use. A robot vacuum cleaner is like having a magical assistant that takes care of your chores. It's a great method to teach children the importance of cleanliness and taking responsibility. Additionally, you can encourage them to monitor the robot and keep it running smoothly.
However, robot vacuum cleaners are not ideal and have disadvantages. They typically have less power than regular vacuum cleaners and their built-in bins are a fraction of the size of bags or canisters that are standard. This could result in a lower dirt capacity and the need to empty it more often particularly if you have pets. Additionally robot vacuums are susceptible to becoming stuck or entangled in small obstacles that get in the way of the brush roll, like socks, slippers or even larger power cords. Remove these items before vacuuming. Use a dry cloth on the interior of the walls of the bin to get rid of any debris.
Robot vacuums are a great choice for those who want to streamline their cleaning routine without losing quality. They're also more affordable than regular vacuum cleaners, and offer some extra flexibility, such as the capability to set cleaning schedules with your smartphone or smart home application. They're not a vacuum cleaner and their limited functionality makes them unsuitable for homes with large or cluttered furniture.