However, emptying the bin of a robotic vacuum cleaner is fairly simple – you just need to do so regularly. They require more frequent emptying than do upright vacuums because they simply are not large in size. We recommend using it often in combination with a traditional vacuum for heavily soiled areas or on dense surfaces like shag carpeting. You simply can’t get a super deep clean with a robotic vacuum. Robotic vacuum cleaners lack the power of traditional vacuums. Even the smartest models aren’t as smart as you are and can get stuck under sofas or get confused in a cluttered room. Robotic vacuum cleaners are generally much more expensive than most upright vacuum cleaners. Though very convenient and useful, there are some potential downsides to robotic vacuums that you should be aware of before you buy one. Some of these vacuums even allow for automatic scheduling which helps you to plan out cleaning in advance, even during the times you’re away.īestReviews Potential cons of robotic vacuum cleaners Do you want a robotic vacuum cleaner with wireless capabilities?īeing able to connect wirelessly to your robotic vacuum cleaner is a godsend when you’re away from home and need to check in on the cleaning process. Choosing a device with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter will ensure that allergens are kept to a minimum in your home. If you’re a pet owner, you’ll want to ensure you choose a model that can handle the fur they shed. Thick carpets require a more powerful motor, as do large amounts of pet hair. Some robotic vacuums are better able to handle different types of dirt and debris. What type of flooring and debris are you dealing with? A longer battery life is required for larger homes, so it’s important to take stock of the square footage you want cleaned. Robotic vacuums are equipped with rechargeable batteries, but the lifespan of said batteries varies from one product to another. What type of battery life does the robotic vacuum cleaner have? Many robotic vacuums also come with “virtual walls” which allow you to block off certain areas of your home. Some vacuums are equipped with features that prevent them from plunging down a stairwell. What is the robotic vacuum cleaner's level of hazard avoidance?Ī robotic vacuum cleaner’s level of hazard avoidance is an important consideration. If so, what would happen if the vacuum got stuck? Consumers who want their robotic vacuum cleaner to work while they’re away must take care to buy one that can work independently throughout the vacuuming process. Can the robotic vacuum cleaner self-correct if I’m not home?ĭecide whether you want to run your robotic vacuum cleaner when you’re not home. If you have a house with multiple complicated room layouts, you may want to consider a device with more advanced artificial intelligence. Not all robotic vacuums can intelligently do this, however. Some robotic vacuum cleaners use mapping technology to navigate the various rooms in your home. Key considerations Is the robotic vacuum cleaner able to navigate the rooms of my home? You’re looking for ways to simplify your life. You’re interested in high-tech gadgets and would get great enjoyment from a robotic vacuum cleaner. You want to minimize the amount of time you spend cleaning your home. You find you can’t keep up with the ever-accumulating pet hair or other debris in your home. You enjoy living in an environment with spotless floors. You’re a busy person who would like to delegate the task of cleaning your floors to someone (or something) else. As AI technology grows and expands, some aspects of our lives become simpler.Ĭonsider buying a robotic vacuum cleaner if any of the following apply. You may be wondering if robotic vacuum cleaners are just a fad, or if they’re a permanent new fixture in cleaning technology. “I saw Star Wars when I was 11 and I was enthralled by R2D2 because he was more than a machine.” - Helen Greiner Why buy a robotic vacuum cleaner? The first robotic vacuum was inspired by Star Wars and was invented by Helen Greiner.