Admit it: the robot that cleans the house is a small/big dream! If you’re considering purchasing a robot vacuum cleaner, there are several key factors to consider. Does it work?
In this article, we will answer this and other questions: Will you clean it thoroughly? Will it fall from the stairs? Will it hang if it finds an obstacle? What if I have a pet at home? Let’s clarify once and for all the subject, starting with an understanding of how they work and their functionality. Then, we will present to you the models that most convinced us among those currently on the market.
How Do Robot Vacuum Cleaners Work?
For a reasoned choice, we see some basic features of these particular vacuum cleaners.
Let’s start … from the start: the charging base. Most models start cleaning from the base and work their way back to it when the battery begins to run out, allowing them to charge again for a new cleaning session. We like very much the models that, after being recharged, return to the point where they stopped cleaning due to low battery: even for large surfaces, they will proceed to complete cleaning in multiple sessions.
The battery is not a fundamental aspect to consider. In principle, the average autonomy is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, even if the most powerful models can exceed 2 hours. However, with automatic return to base in case of low battery, the autonomy is virtually always unlimited. If anything, it is limited by the capacity of the dirt collection tank.
Typically, the new range of robotic vacuum cleaners is equipped with a camera that enables you to map the house and identify which areas have already been cleaned and which ones still need attention. In addition, the camera helps robots avoid obstacles, such as furniture or falling from stairs: a sensor warns them of these problems, prompting them to back up.
For navigation, note that most models have two types of settings: an automatic setting, which allows the robot to clean when you’re away, and a manual setting, which enables you to specify the areas you want the robot to clean. In some cases, the automatic settings can also be controlled from your smartphone, thanks to dedicated apps or by setting them directly on the display at the top of the product, which works somewhat like a talking window.
We close with the most crucial aspect: how do they clean? For navigation at home, we are now at excellent levels. Unfortunately, these devices cannot bring a potent suction system with them, which is why rotating brushes are mainly used for cleaning.
Always better systems, but do not expect the type of cleaning of a “bin”: these robots are designed for daily cleaning of the house, to keep it clean, not for “spring cleaning.”
To consider before buying
It isn’t easy to make a real classification of these products because much depends on the type of house you have, ie, the type of surface you intend to clean and how far it is extended. For example, if you do not have particular surfaces, such as carpeting, but only a simple floor, you can opt for simpler and less expensive models equipped with generic brushes. Another example is if you have a huge house: try to check the capacity of the robot tank.
Check also the noise: the latest generation of robots is indeed very quiet, but still take a look at this feature, to avoid annoying your neighbor downstairs while playing.
Robot Vacuum Cleaner: Recommended models
The most powerful
Among the best on the market. iRobot Roomba technology often surpasses many other models on the market. Let’s start with the brushes: they are produced with a special rubber (and not traditional bristles) that prevents hair, dirt, and debris from getting stuck to them, instead of flowing into the vacuum cleaner. Thanks to special filters, even the smallest particles of dust are trapped, improving air quality for the benefit of those suffering from allergies.
Let’s move on to the robot’s movement, thanks to the Dirt Detect sensor. It can detect the dirtiest surfaces of the house and move towards them to clean them thoroughly. Really! The same applies to the Spot button, which allows the robot to clean a circumscribed area of one meter to remove thicker dirt, such as crumbs under the table.
For daily cleaning, the Roomba checks and examines the surface of the house first to familiarize itself and move accordingly. This approach optimizes cleaning times and avoids areas where it should not enter, thanks to the IR sensor.
The robot also recognizes the walls: when it passes near them, it touches them by activating the special brushes to remove the dirt that is nestled next to the skirting board. Moreover, thanks to the “Anti-Tangle” technology, the robot will not get stuck between the carpets, without risking damage to them. For those who appreciate daily house cleaning, you can set specific days and hours for the robot to start at a desired time of day.
Recommended for: those looking for the top of the range, regardless of price. For pet owners seeking a robot that thoroughly cleans even the most stubborn dirt.
Right Quality / Price ratio
A right compromise between quality and price. We are discussing an Ecovacs product, a brand that specializes in small and medium appliances. Before starting the cleaning process for the first time, the robot uses its anti-drop and anti-collision sensors to explore the house, thereby optimizing the phases of aspiration so that it can be as quick and effective as possible. Auto&Clean + 3 Specialized Cleaning Modes: Smart motion-guided auto-clean mode, plus single-room and spot mode for targeted cleaning, and edge mode for hard-to-reach edges.
The cleaning is performed with two rotating brushes, ideal for daily household cleaning. It can also be programmed up to 24 hours in advance of use. The particularity of this product is that it is low-powered: with only 3.07 inches in height, it will pass safely under furniture and armchairs to clean more thoroughly.
Recommended for: individuals seeking a cost-effective product for daily cleaning.
The Cheap
Pyle offers a much cheaper product than many other robot vacuum cleaners. Let’s start with the battery: Pyle delivers its best performance in small and medium-sized homes, allowing it to clean all surfaces in just under an hour.
This Smart Automatic Vacuum Cleaner by Pyle features an obstacle detection system that enables it to clean all areas of the room, and its low-profile design allows it to slide under furniture. Makes chores a lot easier & faster
The product features three cleaning modes to suit your desired level of cleaning. It is equipped with top-touch panel buttons to let you choose from 10 Minutes, 20 Minutes, and Max Mode, with 90 minutes of cleaning operation depending on the room size.
Recommended for: individuals seeking an economical product that removes superficial dirt.
Our Choice
This robot is not from a well-known brand, but it is very sturdy and functions well. It doesn’t cost too much, but it is powerful and efficient, especially on the most challenging surfaces, such as carpets and rugs. The central brushes remove dirt from the softer surfaces, while the side brushes are ideal for floors and skirting boards. To remove the most stubborn dirt, it is possible to set the Max program, which is suitable for removing larger grains, including crumbs.
It is equipped with a system that prevents collisions with furniture and prevents it from falling down the stairs. Moreover, if it gets stuck somewhere, it is equipped with a wheel that allows it to reverse.
The battery has an autonomy of approximately 2 hours. However, it is beneficial for the Mini function, which allows you to optimize cleaning in one room, thereby avoiding the dispersion of charge in rooms that were already cleaned the previous day. It is possible to program it so that it cleans when you are away from home.
Recommended for: those seeking a reliable, efficient product for the most challenging surfaces, such as carpets, and those who value a fair compromise between quality and price.
Final Opinion on Vacuum Cleaners
The robot vacuum cleaners are adequate and suitable for daily house cleaning, but they currently do not replace the best traditional vacuum cleaners.
The robots provide extra help for those who are often away from home and have little time to devote to daily cleaning. They are also recommended for those with children or pets who need frequent cleaning passes. However, the technology is constantly evolving, and we are confident that in a few years, we will replace all the classic home cleaning appliances.
