Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums tend to be less powerful than regular vacuums. They also tend to have smaller bins that need to be emptied more often.
They could become stuck on furniture legs and have to struggle to climb stairs or across thresholds. This can be avoided by selecting a model that has no-go zones on the app or physical barriers.
1. They're more efficient
The most effective robot vacuums we have tested in our tests deliver impressive pickup scores on carpets with a low pile and hard floors and can capture fine dust particles, sticky spills and crumbs as well as metal screws and nuts and even fluffy pet hair. But they aren't able to fully replace a traditional plug-in vacuum cleaner, especially on carpets and in hard to clean crevices in which debris accumulates like under the sofa's legs. And even though many robotic vacuums have sophisticated navigation systems that can help them avoid obstacles and get around furniture, they still struggle to remove dirt that is close to baseboards or thresholds.
The most effective robots are able to quickly map out your house, are intelligent enough to avoid getting stuck and robust enough to tackle the majority of your cleaning tasks. They are also equipped with many features, including HEPA filters and automatic emptying bins which can make them more efficient.
Most robotic vacuums use surprisingly less power than traditional vacuum cleaners. They can consume up to three times as much electricity as a robot. They're also quiet and make the perfect choice for homes that have pets or small children.
Look for models with a rechargeable battery that can be used several times and has a large trash bin. If you'd like to be able to schedule your bot's work the majority of robots are connected to apps that allow you to organize regular cleaning sessions or connect with digital voice assistants such as Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant. Most robots can also return to their charging dock and recharge between cleaning sessions, or restart the session from where it started, even in a different space.
2. You'll find them more affordable
The savings aren't that great but robot vacuums are cheaper than the majority of other vacuum cleaners. Consumables like mop pads and filters are required, and the lithium-ion battery will eventually degrade. The cost of repairs and replacements could add up too, which is why it's important to consider the amount your robo-vac is likely to be used.
In our tests, even the least expensive robots had trouble reaching those difficult-to-access areas under tables, sofas and bed frames. They also have less suction power and often miss dirt embedded in plush carpets and near baseboards.
When you purchase a low-cost robot, look for a model that has a high-efficiency motor as well as strong suction to ensure the smallest of particles are removed from your floors. We also test a robot's navigation system that is capable of avoiding obstacles and create a coverage map of your home. The ones that don't are slower and more vulnerable to getting stuck or missing areas of the room.
Many of the cheaper robots are Wi -Fi connected, allowing you to schedule cleaning sessions and control the robot using apps on your phone or through Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is useful if there are pets or children in the home that you want to keep out of certain areas. Some models even have physical barriers you can install to stop the vacuum from moving to areas it shouldn't.
If you choose to buy a Wi-Fi connected robot, make sure you check the fine print. Some brands may collect data about your use and then transfer it to third parties. You'll have to accept the device storing information about your location, and how long you have been using it.
3. It's more versatile
Robot vacuums are an excellent option to keep floors looking and smelling clean. They're not able to replace regular vacuum cleaners for cleaning carpets that are thick. They can take away crumbs, dust bunnies and pet hair from hard surfaces such as tiles and wood as also low pile carpets and area rug. A lot of robot vacuums have features to help them navigate around obstacles, such as furniture and stairs. In addition, some robot vacuums can be programmed to run according to a set schedule so you don't have to worry about them. This is particularly beneficial for those who have busy lives.
best automatic vacuum of this flexibility is that robot vacuums typically do not perform as well on flooring that is bare or heavily used areas with a lot of dirt and debris. They are more suited for rooms with low traffic, or for periodic maintenance. Certain models have a "no-go" zone option which allows you to create virtual barriers in the app so the bot doesn't move into these areas. These settings can be useful for households with children, pets or a lot of clutter.
The majority of robot vacuums have a rechargeable battery, and an enormous dust bin to accommodate longer cleaning sessions. They are also able to stop, recharge and then pick up where they started which is beneficial for homes with larger areas. Finally, many robot vacs are compatible with smart home systems, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant so that you can control them using your voice. Robotic cleaners are worth the price because they offer a high level of convenience. You can set them up to clean your home when you are away. This will give you assurance that your home will be maintained.
4. They're More Safe
The technology in a robot vacuum makes it a safer option than the more mechanical equipment used by traditional vacuum cleaners. Robots are less likely to become caught in furniture or rugs due to the sensors, computer brain and app integration. They also prevent stooping and bending that can lead to back pain and workplace injuries.
Robot vacuums don't come free of their flaws. Some can go rogue and cause havoc to your home. They're also more likely to fail than traditional vacs and are more expensive to fix. It's crucial to compare features and read reviews to find the best robot vacuum for your home.
Even the most powerful robot vacuums could have problems with shaggy carpeting and high-pile area rugs. These materials slow down the vacuum and draw its battery. You can either block off the area physically or use an application to create an artificial barrier.
It is also essential to keep the vac dry and clean. It can be extended by regularly emptying the bin and making sure it's free of dust. You should also remove the battery from your robot vacuum when it is not being used, or keep it in a dry place. This will safeguard the electronics, and ensure that the sensors are functioning correctly.
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 option for households with busy schedules and with health issues that could make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also ideal for homes with an open layout and no obstacles.
5. They're more fun
One of the great things about robot vacuum cleaners is that they're just plain enjoyable to use. If you're watching the robot glide across the floor or setting it up to run at night while you're away, a vacuum is a bit like having a magical assistant which takes care of the chores you. It's also a great way to teach children about the benefits of cleaning and taking responsibility, as you can ask them to help monitor the bot and encourage them to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently.
But robot vacuum cleaners aren't 100% perfect and do have disadvantages. They typically have less power than regular vacuum cleaners and their built-in bins are fraction of the size of a standard canister or bag. This could result in a lower dirt capacity and a need to empty it more often particularly if you own pets. Robot vacuums are also prone to get stuck or clogged up on small obstacles, such as socks or slippers that can block the brush roll. It is essential to eliminate these items from the area prior to vacuuming, and take a dry cloth to the inside of the bin to get rid of any debris that's clinging to its walls.
Robot vacuums are a great option for those looking to streamline their cleaning routine without losing quality. They are also more affordable than traditional vacuum cleaners, and they offer extra flexibility, such as the ability to schedule cleanings using your smartphone or smart-home app. They're not vacuum cleaners, and their limited capabilities make them unsuitable for homes with lots or cluttered furniture.