Hate Cleaning? Leave It to These Friendly Robots
Having a tidy home is the ultimate goal for most homeowners. It just feels better when everything is where it should be, and there’s no dirt or fur collecting in the corners. But after a long day at work, there are probably a dozen other things you’d rather do when you get home than clean. If that sounds like you, consider enlisting the help of a robot.
Keep reading to learn how robots from some of today’s top brands, like Roborock and Roomba, can lighten your domestic workload and how to pick the right one for your home.
Are Cleaning Robots Worth It?
Robot vacuums cannot solve all of your cleaning woes, but they can lighten the load on your shoulders. That’s why, as of 2019, over 14 million Americans have purchased robotic vacuums to help around the house.
What was once a fledgling industry full of promise but held back by dinky, uncoordinated robots is now a booming multi-billion dollar industry with dozens of brands vying for your attention. If you were unimpressed by early prototypes that would die quickly, fall down stairs, and get stuck on everything, it’s time to give them another chance.
Cleaning robots are especially worthwhile for homes with pets that shed a lot. When the seasons change, you’re left sweeping almost daily just to keep up with the constant onslaught of fur. Cleaning robots can quietly whiz through your home while you cook dinner or relax on the couch and take care of all that pesky pet hair.
Must-Have Features to Look for
When you’re shopping for a cleaning robot, there are a few features that are non-negotiable. To get the best value for your money, make sure any vacuum you’re considering has the following features:
Obstacle and Cliff Detection
Every robot vacuum needs a good obstacle and cliff detection system. Cheaper vacuums will simply reverse and change course when they run into something or use basic infrared sensors to avoid obstacles, whereas higher-end models use a variety of cameras and sensors to map your home and find the best route.
Automated Scheduling
Another invaluable feature to look out for is the ability to set your vacuum on a specific cleaning schedule. For example, you can schedule your vacuum to do a run-through at 4:00 each day so that you always come home to a clean house. Most vacuums do this via an app on your smartphone.
Automatic Docking
If you got a robotic vacuum when they first came out, you were probably constantly tripping over it and finding it dead around the house. But today, most vacuums have an automatic docking feature so that once it’s done with its cleaning route or hits a certain battery level, it returns to the docking station to charge.
This gives you one less thing to worry about and ensures that your vacuum is always charged and ready to go when it’s needed.
Other Attractive Features to Consider
If you have room in your budget, it’s worth splurging on a vacuum cleaner with the following features. They aren’t necessarily must-haves, but they can definitely come in handy and seal the deal when you’re debating between two candidates.
Mopping Capabilities
Some robot models can vacuum and mop simultaneously, using a small reservoir tank that they pull water from. This is a handy feature that makes it easy to spot clean messes. Most models do not disinfect, just clean up the mess.
Self-Emptying
This is another feature that’s a great bonus if you can find it. Most robotic vacuums have a relatively small dust bin, so they must be emptied frequently. However, upon returning to their docking station, some models will empty themselves into the attached dust bin.
How Much Do Cleaning Robots Cost?
You can expect a robotic vacuum cleaner to set you back anywhere from $200 to $1,200. Most robotic vacuum cleaners are in the $200 to $500 price range, but these will typically only have the basic features. If you want something with all of the bells and whistles and high-tech accouterments, you’ll have to be willing to spend a little more dough.
How to Care for Your Cleaning Robot
If anyone in your home has long hair, there’s a good chance loose strands will get tangled up in the robot’s bristles.
At least once a week, remove hair and debris from your vacuum’s bristles and wheels and follow all cleaning instructions in the user manual. Doing so will help keep your vacuum in its best shape, prolong its life, and prevent breakdowns.
