Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean

Many robot vacuums can be used with apps that allow you to control the device without holding it. These apps will help you plan cleaning sessions, establish boundaries and define no-go zones.

Some of the robots that we reviewed are able to automatically return to their base during cleaning sessions and recharge, which is helpful for those who have a large residence. Some robots have an water tank as well as dust bins that can be emptied to ensure they are clean and reduce allergens.

Battery Life

If you own a large house, consider a robot that can run for an hour or more in normal operation. A majority of models also come with an "eco" or lower-power cleaning option that saves battery life but still does a great job of removing dirt and other debris from carpets and floors.

If your space is a small space but you'll still have many options to keep the area neat. Our top choice for small-sized houses is the Neato Botvac 11S Max can run on bare floors for up to 90 minutes in Eco mode. It's smaller than most of the robots we tested, so it can fit under furniture and into corners.

It's a smart idea to select a robot with advanced features that allow you to customize the cleaning options of the robot based on the amount of traffic that a particular area receives. You can set up zones that are prone to traffic to get stronger suction and higher water levels for instance. Some apps offer the option of changing settings per room or even the floor of your home.

In addition to selecting the right robot that is suited to your needs for cleaning and requirements, you should also carry out regular maintenance, like emptying and refilling the dustbin, checking the brushes for hair knots, and draining and washing the water tank. It is also recommended to use the software updates provided by your manufacturer. These updates can help improve navigation algorithms and cut down on unnecessary power consumption, extending the battery life of your robot.

Depending on the amount of work your family does and how busy your household is, robot vacuum reviews it might be required to run your robot three to four times a week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says that a standard robot will last between three and five years, however the lifespan of yours will depend on how well you take care of it and how often you run it.

Some of the more sophisticated models that we have reviewed in our top robot vacuum reviews are able to connect to smart speakers like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant that allow them to work completely hands-free. While this is an excellent convenience, you should be aware that this means you'll have to hand over some of your personal data.

App Control

Many robots are equipped with a variety of app control options that allow you to define specific cleaning tasks, change preferences and schedule your sessions. Some also integrate with digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled smart home systems to provide a hands-free experience.

Robots employ a mix of lasers, sensors, and cameras to navigate your space. They are designed to sweep up pet hair dirt, sand and other debris on floors made of hard materials like tiles, wood, laminate and low-pile carpets and area rug. They are also designed to prevent obstacles such as furniture legs or pet food bowls when they travel around your area.

Like any electronic device it's essential to keep up with the maintenance of your robot to ensure it continues working properly. As long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use and maintain your robot, replace the batteries as well as the filters and wheels, and clean the rotating brushes (they could get tangled with pet hair and dirt) Most models will last for as long as traditional full-size vacuums.

The majority of robots can discover and map your space with sensors. This lets them plan the most efficient route to clean. Some models that are more expensive let you define 'no-go zones' in case there are certain areas you want the robot to avoid like your pet's food bowls, or expensive carpets.

Many robots have the feature of 'targeted rooms' that allows you to control the robot's ability to clean a particular area of your home. This is a great choice when your home is cluttered with lots of clutter and you're looking to get rid of it, or if a specific room requires extra attention, like the guest bedroom.

In addition to letting you modify the robot's map and cleaning preferences, many app-controlled robots also offer an array of automated features that can help with maintenance tasks. For instance, some models have self-emptying bins which return to their docks and empty themselves automatically once they're full.

The app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test course very well, however it had difficulty identifying obstacles that were in its way. It also was incapable of handling rug tassels that were blocked. It's still a good choice for keeping a small space or studio clean.

Cleaning Options

When your robot vac's wheels become dirty or covered with hair, dust or other particles, they can no longer be smooth and cause the robot to slow down or get stuck. To keep them in good working order, you need to wipe them down using a soft cloth frequently. It's crucial for mopping robots to take the pads off after each cleaning. Clean them with water, and let dry before reinstalling. If you are worried about keeping up with this maintenance opt for a model that automatically washes and dries mopping pads following each cleaning session.

Some robots are designed to automatically empty their bins once they are full, and this can be a real boon if you have pets or kids. For most models, it is best robot vacuum and mop to empty the bin manually to make sure that it is ready to receive a new load. Find a model with an ample bin that is easy to remove and dump, and make sure the base can comfortably hold the entire bin without blocking your home.

The quality of your robot's sensors can affect the life of your robot. The sensors can detect walls, furniture and obstacles around your home and direct the robot around them. Look for a robot with high-quality sensors that quickly respond to changes in the floor's surface and are precise enough to not get stuck in tight spaces like the nook between the bathtub and the toilet or under your desk chair legs.

It could be worthwhile to invest in a robot that is able to charge itself and continue to clean the area it left off in case the battery runs out. This is particularly beneficial for larger homes, and makes it easier to keep a consistent clean throughout the home.

Noise Levels

The noise level of robot vacuums is different for each model and can be affected by other factors, too. Manufacturers might mention a low-noise mode or a quiet operating speed. However, you will need to know the rating of the machine to know what this number actually signifies. Any sound above 85 decibels is considered to be high and can cause hearing damage over the course of time.

To find the quietest robotic vacuum, search for one that has advanced noise reduction technology or has a low-noise operating mode. These features will reduce noise levels and allow you to talk or sleep during cleaning sessions.

Some models are also designed with sound-absorbing or insulated materials to further decrease the operational noise. These features are important for people who live in areas with a lot of noise or have children living at home.

The navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of robot vacuum cleaners are other factors that influence the noise levels. Some robots employ the use of lasers or cameras to avoid bumping into furniture or walls when cleaning. These technologies can reduce the amount of noise that a robot cleaner makes during its cleaning cycle. They do this by eliminating unnecessary bumps and collisions.

Despite the fact that modern robotic vacuums are quieter than they have ever been but they still make quite a bit of noise in normal operation. The noise they make can be distracting for people who have children or work at home, in particular. In addition, exposure to high-frequency noise is known to cause stress and raise blood pressure levels.

If you are noticing your robot vacuum making a lot of noise, there are a few options you can try before reaching out to the customer support of the manufacturer. First, inspect the machine for obvious damage. A damaged or cracked housing or loose component can increase the noise which can make it sound like a freight train. Clean and replace filters regularly as they can become blocked by dust and debris and make the noise more intense.

Another reason for unusual noise is a damaged or dirty sensor. Dirty or damaged sensors can send the robot vacuum on a shaky, confused traverse of your floors, which can result in hitting objects and creating a racket. If this happens, clean or replace the sensors and reconnect to your Wi-Fi if you need to.