Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are usually less powerful than full-sized vacs. They also tend to have smaller bins that require to be cleaned frequently.
They could get caught on furniture legs or struggle to navigate stairways 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 vacuum s we tested in our tests have impressive pickup scores on hard floors and low-pile carpets, capturing fine dust particles, sticky spills, dust metal screws and nuts and even fluffy pet hair. They're not a replacement for an ordinary vacuum cleaner, particularly on rugs or in difficult to clean crevices like under the sofa's legs, where debris accumulates. And while many robotic vacs come with sophisticated navigation systems that can assist them in avoiding obstacles and maneuver through furniture, the majority of them struggle to remove dirt that is close to baseboards or thresholds.
The most effective robots are able to quickly map out your house and are smart enough to avoid getting stuck, and robust enough to tackle the majority of cleaning tasks. They also come with a wide range of features, such as HEPA filters and self-emptying bins that can make them more efficient than traditional vacuum cleaners.
In contrast to traditional vacuum cleaners which can require up to three times the power to run as a robot, most robotic vacs consume surprisingly little electricity. They're also fairly quiet, making them a good option for homes with small pets and children.
Look for models that have rechargeable batteries that can be used multiple times and has a large trash bin. If you'd like to schedule the robot's tasks, you can connect it to apps which allow you to set up regular cleaning sessions. You can also sync your bot with digital voice assistants such as Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. Most robots can also return to their charging dock and recharge between cleaning sessions or resume the same session from where they started, even in a different room.
2. You'll find them more affordable
The savings aren't that great however, robot vacuums are more affordable than other vacuum cleaners. There is still the need to purchase items such as mop pads and filters, and the lithium-ion batteries will eventually wear out. Repairs and replacements can be costly also and that's why it's important to take into consideration how much your robovac will be used.
In our tests, the least expensive robots struggle 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 carpets and near baseboards.
Choose a robot with a powerful suction and a motor that is efficient enough to ensure that even the smallest particles are removed. We also test the navigation system of a robot, which should be capable of avoiding obstacles and create a complete map of your home. If it isn't, they are slower and more susceptible to become stuck or missing parts of the room.
Many cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, which allows you to plan cleaning sessions and control the robot using apps on your smartphone or voice commands through Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is particularly useful if you are children or pets in the home which you'd like to keep out of certain areas. Certain models have physical barriers can be used to prevent the vacuum from getting into places it shouldn't.
Make sure you read the fine print before you purchase a robot that is Wi-Fi enabled. Certain brands may collect information about your usage and may pass that on to third-party companies. You'll have to accept the device storing information about your location, and the amount of time you've been using it.
3. It's more versatile
Robot vacuums are an excellent way to keep floors looking and smelling clean. They can't replace regular vacuum cleaners for deep cleaning thick carpets. They can get rid of pet hair dust bunnies, crumbs and dust from surfaces like tiles and wood. They also clean carpets and rugs with low pile. Many robot vacuums also have features to help them navigate around obstacles like furniture and stairs. In addition, some robot vacuums can be programmed to run on a schedule so you don't need to worry about them. This is a great feature for people with busy lives.
This versatility has a downside, however. Robotic vacuums do not work as well in places with no floors or areas that are covered with dirt and debris. They may be better designed for rooms with lower traffic or for periodic maintenance. Some models have a "no go" zone setting that allows you to create virtual barriers in the software to ensure that the bot will not move into these zones. These settings can be useful for households with children, pets or lots of clutter.
The majority of robot vacuums come with a rechargeable battery, and large dust bins to allow for longer cleaning sessions. They are also able to pause, recharge and then return to where they stopped which is useful for homes with bigger spaces. Many robot vacuums are compatible with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant which means you can control them with your voice. This adds a level of convenience, making these robot cleaners well worth the cost. You can set them to clean your home when you're away. This gives you assurance that your home will always be well-maintained.
4. It's safer
The technology in the robot vacuum makes it a safer tool than the more mechanical equipment used by traditional vacuum cleaners. Robots are less likely to get caught in furniture or rugs because of the sensors, computer brain and integration with apps. They also prevent stooping and bent postures that can cause back pain and workplace injuries.
Robot vacuums do not come without their quirks. Some may go off the rails and cause chaos in your home. They are also more likely to malfunction than traditional vacuums and more expensive to fix. If you're looking for a robot vacuum for your home, it's important to look over reviews and compare features to determine the most suitable one for your needs.
Even the top robot vacuums will have issues with shaggy area rugs or carpets with high pile. These materials slow down the vacuum and draw its battery. You can fence off the area physically or employ an app to create an imaginary barrier.
It is also essential to keep your vacuum clean and dry. Emptying the bin often and ensuring that it is free of dust can extend the life of the bin. It is also recommended to remove the battery from the robot vacuum when not in use, or put it away somewhere dry. This will safeguard the electronics and ensure that the sensors are functioning properly.
Overall, robot vacs are a great way to maintain your floors without the effort and time it takes to manually clean them. They are also a great choice for those with busy households or health issues that make it difficult to manually vacuum. They are also perfect for homes with an open layout and no obstacles.
5. They're more fun
Robot vacuum cleaners can be a lot of fun to use. A robotic vacuum cleaner is like having a magical assistant that takes care of your chores. It's a great method to teach kids the importance of cleanliness and taking responsibility. Additionally, you can encourage them to keep an eye on the robot and keep it running smoothly.
However, robot vacuum cleaners aren't 100% perfect and do have drawbacks. One of the major drawbacks is that they're less powerful than conventional vacuum cleaners. Also, the bins built inside are smaller than a typical bag or canister. This can result in a reduced dirt capacity, and the requirement to empty them more frequently. Robot vacuums are also prone to become stuck or clogged up on small obstacles like socks or slippers that can block the brush roll. Get rid of these items prior to vacuuming. Use a dry cloth on the interior of the dustbin walls to get rid of any debris.
Robot vacuums are a great option for those looking to streamline their cleaning routine without sacrificing quality. They're also more affordable than regular vacuum cleaners, and provide additional flexibility, like the ability to schedule cleaning routines using your smartphone or smart home application. They're not vacuum cleaners, and their limited functionality makes them unsuitable for homes with large or cluttered furniture.