Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are generally much less powerful than regular vacuums. They also tend to have smaller bins that have to be cleaned more often.
They could become stuck on furniture legs and struggle to navigate stairs or thresholds. 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 in our tests deliver impressive pickup scores on carpets with a low pile and hard floors, capturing fine dust particles, sticky spills, crumbs nuts and screws made of steel and even fluffy pet hair. However, they still can't completely replace a traditional plug-in vacuum cleaner, especially on carpets and in hard to clean crevices where debris collects like under the sofa's legs. And even though many robotic vacuums come with sophisticated navigation systems that help them avoid obstacles and navigate through furniture, the majority of them struggle to remove dirt near baseboards and thresholds.
The best robots are fast to plan your home, smart enough not to get stuck too often and powerful enough to handle the bulk of your cleaning needs. They also have many features, including HEPA filters and automatic emptying bins which can make them more efficient.
Unlike traditional vacuum cleaners, which can require up to three times as much power to run as a robot, most robot vacuums consume very low amounts of electricity. They're also quiet, which makes them a good choice for homes with small pets and children.
Look for models with a rechargeable battery that can be used multiple times, and also a large dustbin. If you'd like to program the robot's tasks, you can connect it to applications 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 are able to return to their charging stations and recharge between cleaning sessions, or even continue the session from where it left off in a different area.
2. They're More Affordable
Robotic vacuums are generally more affordable than other vacuum cleaners, but the savings aren't that great. You still need to buy items like mop pads and filters and lithium-ion batteries will eventually degrade. The cost of repairs and replacements can add up also and that's why it's important to take into consideration the amount your robo-vac is likely to be used.
In our tests, even the least expensive robots had trouble reaching those hard-to-reach places under tables, sofas and bed frames. They also have less suction power and often miss dirt embedded in plush rug and next to baseboards.
Choose a robot with an impressive suction and a motor that is high-efficiency 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 creating an outline of your home. If it isn't, they are slower and more prone to become stuck or missing areas of the room.
A lot of cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, which allows you to schedule cleaning time and control the device using apps on your phone or via Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is particularly useful if you are pets or children within the house which you'd like to keep out of certain areas. Some models even have physical barriers that you can install to stop the vacuum from moving to areas it should not.
If you decide to purchase a Wi-Fi-connected robot, make sure to check the fine print. Some brands may collect data about your use and pass it to third-party companies. You'll also have to give consent to allow the device to store information about your location and how long you've used the device.
3. It's more versatile
While they can't substitute a regular vacuum for deep cleaning carpets, robot vacuums are excellent for keeping floors clean and looking good. They can take away dust bunnies, crumbs and pet hair from hard surfaces like tiles and wood as also low pile carpets and area rug. Many robot vacs also come with features that help them navigate around obstacles such as furniture and stairs. Certain robot vacuums can be programmed to run according to a schedule and you don't have to be concerned. This is a particularly useful feature for busy life.
This flexibility has a drawback, however. Robot vacs don't work as well in areas with no floors or areas that are covered in dirt and debris. They might be more for rooms with less traffic or for regular maintenance. Some models come with a "no-go" zone setting that allows you to create virtual barriers in the app to ensure that the bot can't enter these areas. These settings are useful for homes with pets, children or a lot of clutter.
Most of the top robot vacs also have a rechargeable battery and a large dust bin for longer cleaning sessions. They can also be programmed to recharge, pause and then return to where they left off which is beneficial for homes with large spaces. Additionally, many robot vacuums are compatible with smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant so that you can operate them with your voice. This adds a degree of convenience, making these robot cleaners worth the price. They can even be set to clean while you're away, which will give you a peace of mind knowing that your home is always being maintained.
4. They're safer
The technology of a robot vacuum makes it a safer tool than the more mechanical equipment that are used by traditional vacuum cleaners. Robots are less likely to be caught in furniture or rugs due to the sensors, computer brain, and integration with apps. They also avoid stooping or bent postures that can cause back pain and workplace injuries.
However, robot vacs still have their flaws. Some robot vacuums can be rogue, causing havoc within your home. They're also more prone to fail than traditional vacs, and they're more expensive to fix. It's crucial to compare features and read reviews to choose the ideal robot vacuum for your home.
Even the most powerful robot vacuums may have trouble with high-pile carpeting and shaggy area rugs. These types of materials can slow down the vacuum and drain its battery. You can try fencing off these areas physically, or make use of an electronic barrier (in the robot vac's application) to avoid them.
It is also important to keep your vacuum clean and dry. It can be extended by regularly emptying the bin and making sure it's dust-free. When you are not using it take out the battery of your robot vacuum and store it somewhere dry. This will safeguard the electronics, and ensure that the sensors are working properly.
Robot vacuums are a great method of maintaining your floor without spending the time and energy required to clean them manually. They're also a great choice for households with busy schedules and with health issues that could make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also great for single-level homes that have flat floors with few 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 way to teach kids how important it is to clean and taking responsibility. You can help them monitor the robot and keep it running smoothly.
However, robot vacuum cleaners aren't ideal and have disadvantages. For one, they typically have less power than traditional vacuum cleaners and their built-in bins are a fraction of the size of a standard canister or bag. This can lead to less capacity for dirt and the necessity to empty them more frequently. Also, robot vacuums can be prone to getting stuck or bogged down on small obstacles that get in the way of the brush roll, like socks, slippers, or thicker power cords. Get rid of these items prior to vacuuming. Use a dry cloth on the inside of the walls of the dustbin to get rid of any debris.
Ultimately robot vacuums are a excellent choice for those who want the convenience of automated cleaning, without having to sacrifice performance. They're also less expensive than traditional vacuum cleaners and they provide additional flexibility such as the possibility of scheduling cleanings with your smartphone or a smart-home app. However, they're not a substitute for a traditional vacuum cleaner and their limited capabilities is why they're not suitable for cluttered spaces or homes with furniture.