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Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Robot Vacuums

Who knew the humble and regular vacuum would one day turn into a dazzling feat of technological advancement? Robot vacuums of every price point have become some of the most highly-coveted household appliances, with features ranging from WiFi connectivity to room mapping capabilities — certainly an upgrade since the time of the first robot vacuum as we learned from its history. They go where no man (or vacuum) has yet gone, reaching different corners in the name of cleanliness.

With their popularity, robot vacuums have become less of a luxury item and more a necessity. Pet owners, busy parents, and workaholics alike have sung the praises of these automated cleaning machines. Here, we take a look and test some of the best robot vacuums available today.


Which is the Best Robot Vacuum?

Editor's Choice

Best Robot Vacuums for 2024
Best Overall
Best Robot Vacuums for 2024
Best Budget Robot Vacuum
Best Robot Vacuums for 2024
Best Multifunctional Robot Vacuum
iRobot Roomba S9+

The Roomba S9+ is programmed with advanced technology, and high-end features, and designed to last a long time for much of your convenience and floor cleaning needs.

Eufy RoboVac 11s

The Eufy RoboVac 11s can slide in and glide out of furniture without a problem while assuring you that it can efficiently clean for a long time.

Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI

The Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI is a versatile and multifunctional robot vacuum mop combo with an included security camera and microphone for added monitoring.

Price: Functionality: Quality:
Price: Functionality: Quality:
Price: Functionality: Quality:

Let’s Go Over Each Top Robot Vacuum

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

iRobot is consistently one of the top brands for robot vacuums, and the Roomba S9+ is the perfect example of its unique technology. Be warned that it’s a little pricey, so if you prefer a budget-friendly model, we have a few on the list too.

The Roomba S9+ is the perfect vacuum; automatic dirt disposal makes the self-emptying bin feature a breeze, the added multiple sensors to its lineup for the best and quickest mapping technology possible. Additionally, this makes it easier for you to set no-go zones. 

You’ve also got the 3D sensors, drop sensors, cliff sensors, and top-mounted optical sensors — all to perfectly capture the layout of your home. This assures you that your entire space can be included in the S9+’s cleaning cycle while avoiding keep-out zones. 

It also has refined edging capabilities to better clean around beds, corners, and cabinets. During the test, we noticed that the Roomba barely needed any maneuvering around sharp corners and tight spaces.

It also has great obstacle avoidance from furniture legs and chair legs to stray shoelaces lying around. This is as close to a hands-free cleaning experience as you’ll get. Bonus perks: it has voice commands compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Pros and Cons of the Roomba S9+

ProsCons
✔️ Comes with self-emptying dust bin and charging station
✔️ Works great on low-pile carpets and area rugs
✔️ Great edge cleaning capacity
✔️ Advanced sensors
✔️ Excellent obstacle avoidance
✖️ Expensive
✖️ Replacement bags for the base are sold separately

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

A few years ago, the Eufy RoboVac 11s was frequently touted as one of the best budget robot vacuums on the market. While newer models have since introduced more advanced features, the 11s remains a strong contender for those looking for a simple yet effective cleaning device. 

One of its standout features is its ultra-slim design, measuring only 2.5 inches in height, allowing it to slide effortlessly under furniture like cabinets and couches. If you have tight spaces that other robot vacuums struggle to reach, the Eufy RoboVac 11s is a fantastic option.

However, unlike more modern robot vacuum mop combos that can be controlled via apps or voice assistants, the Eufy RoboVac 11s relies solely on remote control as it lacks WiFi connectivity.

This means no setting up of no-go zones, no structured light navigation, and no advanced obstacle avoidance. But for those who prefer a straightforward and hassle-free cleaning experience, this simplicity could actually be an advantage.

When it comes to cleaning, the Eufy RoboVac 11s does exceptionally well on hard floors. It can pick up all the debris, pet fur, and surface dirt without issue, thanks to its strong suction and effective brush roll.

However, it doesn’t perform as well on low-pile carpets or area rugs, as it lacks the power to deep clean these surfaces. Additionally, while many modern vacuum mop hybrids now include mop pads and mop washing capabilities, the 11s strictly functions as a vacuum, so those looking for a mop combo will need to consider alternative models.

Battery life is another strong point of the Eufy RoboVac 11s. It can run for up to 100 minutes on a single charge, making it suitable for small to medium-sized homes.

However, since it lacks an intelligent mapping system, it may move in a somewhat random pattern rather than following an optimized cleaning route. This can make cleaning sessions longer compared to more advanced robot vacuum mop combos that use laser navigation or structured light technology.

For those who want an affordable, no-frills robot vacuum with a compact build and decent cleaning performance, the Eufy RoboVac 11s is still a solid choice. However, if you need features like no-go zones, a water tank for mopping, or advanced obstacle avoidance, you might want to explore newer models with a vacuum mop hybrid design.

Pros and Cons of the Eufy RoboVac 11s

ProsCons
✔️ Ultra-slim design for easy under-furniture cleaning
✔️ Budget-friendly and great for beginners
✔️ Strong suction with an effective brush roll
✔️ Long battery life of up to 100 minutes
✔️ Simple remote control operation
✖️ Lacks smart mapping, obstacle avoidance, and structured navigation system
✖️ No WiFi connectivity or app control
✖️ No mop pads, water tank, or mopping function

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI is a robot vacuum mop combo that delivers an impressive level of functionality, setting it apart from other units in its category.

Unlike simpler models, this device doesn’t just vacuum and mop—it does so with an advanced navigation system that uses artificial intelligence for obstacle avoidance and light detection to prevent unnecessary collisions.

What truly makes the T8 AIVI stand out is its built-in camera and microphone, allowing users to monitor their homes remotely. While this adds convenience, some might see it as a potential security concern.

Equipped with mop pads and a mop-washing feature, the T8 AIVI ensures that floors are thoroughly cleaned without excessive maintenance. It effectively removes dust, pet fur, and large debris while also having the ability to clean carpets without damaging them. The side brush helps sweep dirt from the edges, ensuring a more comprehensive clean.

Additionally, the vacuum can store up to four maps, making it a great option for multi-story homes. The auto-empty station reduces manual maintenance, allowing for weeks of hands-free cleaning.

Another highlight of this model is how extremely quiet it is compared to other vacuums. It efficiently follows voice commands, integrates well with smart home systems, and includes an ozone generator, adding an extra layer of sanitation.

While the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI is on the pricier side, it’s a powerhouse of cleaning technology that significantly cuts down on the time and effort needed for household maintenance.

Pros and Cons of the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI

ProsCons
✔️ Advanced obstacle avoidance
✔️ Robot vacuum and mop combo
✔️ Equipped with an auto-empty station
✔️ Extremely quiet when in operation
✔️ Can store up to four maps
✖️ Expensive
✖️ Security concerns can be an issue due to built-in camera and microphone features
✖️ Mop pads require manual mop washing

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The Samsung POWERbot R7040 is a powerful and reliable choice for pet owners struggling with fur cleanup. Equipped with CycloneForce technology, it delivers strong suction while preventing clogs, ensuring consistent performance.

Its rubber roller brush is designed to minimize tangles, making it particularly effective at removing fur from hardwood floors, bare floors, tile floors, and carpets.

This robot vacuum also boasts intelligent navigation, using visionary mapping and full-view sensors to efficiently clean without constantly bumping into obstacles. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control it remotely via the Samsung SmartThings app, scheduling cleanings and adjusting settings from anywhere.

It even integrates with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for easy hands-free operation.

While it may not have a mopping function, its strong suction and smart navigation make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fur removal and deep cleaning.

Pros and Cons of the Samsung POWERbot R7040

ProsCons
✔️ Works well on multiple surfaces
✔️ Powerful cleaning performance
✔️ Powerful suction easily cleans up layers of pet hair like dog hair
✖️ Does not have a self-empty feature
✖️ Mid-tier model

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
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Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

iRobot has been around since 2002, so it’s no surprise they have plenty of room for sophisticated upgrades. If the S9+ is a little over the budget, its younger sibling is your next best bet. 

The iRobot Roomba i3+ outlasts all other robot vacuums in durability, features, suction power, and even price. The long battery life ensures you can let the Roomba roam free without having to save it or empty the dust cup now and then.

Did we mention the charging docking station includes a self-emptying bin feature? The i3+ will even help you store debris out of the robot and straight to the disposable bag automatically.

The best news of all, you only need to change said disposable bag once a month (or depending on how often you use the robot vacuum and how much debris is collected), which makes cleaning more convenient for you.

We also test other robot vacs on different surfaces to see where they succeed and where they fall short. The i3+ unsurprisingly does well on all floor types but is notable for its performance on medium-pile carpets and hardwood floors. 

The best robot vacuum cleaner will also make your life easier with updated features that allow you to control it remotely. With that said, like the other Roombas, the i3+ one is voice-compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. 

However, we noticed that this robot vacuum takes longer to map out certain trick corners and edges around the room, so it’s best to watch over your Roomba i3+ on its first few runs. Nonetheless, all its features still make the Roomba i3+ one of the best robot vacuum cleaners out there.

Pros and Cons of the Roomba i3+

ProsCons
✔️ Long battery life
✔️ Durable and reliable robot vacuum cleaner
✔️ Self-emptying robot vacuum with automatic dirt disposal feature, dock, and dustbinn
✔️ Ideal for cleaning specific rooms
✔️ Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and voice control
✖️ Minor software issues

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 

Ever had a robot vacuum get stuck on pet waste? Neither have we, but we’d like to avoid that if possible.

The Roborock S6 Max features some pretty neat object detection skills that allow it to identify and consequently dodge any potential impediments that may get caught in the brush roll, whether it’s pet fur or even pet waste. The 2.5kPa of suction power makes sure of it.

Of course, you’re paying for these perks at a dear price. But as far as advanced models go, the S6 Max is worth the investment if you want a hassle-free cleaning session and cycle.

Do remember that for a premium price, you are also purchasing a high-end robot vacuum with LIDAR navigation. Said technology helps the Roborock S6 MaxV make a more accurate cleaning path without the need for a physical remote control to help guide it.

Pros and Cons of the Roborock S6 MaxV

ProsCons
✔️ Superior object and solid pet waste detection capabilities
✔️ Powerful suction
✔️ Designed to easily remove pet hair and fine dust particles
✔️ Great for most surfaces, even carpets
✔️ Has a companion app to help power and program the model
✖️ Expensive compared to a standard robot vacuum
✖️ Does not automatically avoid carpet while mopping unless No-Mop zones are created

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

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Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 

If the S6 is a little too high-end for your needs, the midrange S4 Max is the perfect substitute. We test robot vacuums on almost every floor type, and while this one trips a little on bumps and uneven surfaces, it’s safe to say it has a staggeringly good performance for its price point.

Hardwood floors are the perfect field for letting this thing break loose, but it does a fine cleaning job on tiles, too.

The battery life is spectacular, allowing for three hours of use on just a single charge. The only problem is we had to check up on the dust bin and empty it every once in a while mid-clean, despite the seemingly large bin. 

We’ve also named this the best smart vacuum because of its smartphone app compatibility. However, the real kicker here is its boatload of features. Mapping abilities and no-go zones are usually found in much costlier vacuums, but they’re a pleasant surprise in this midrange one.

Pros and Cons of the Roborock S4 Max

ProsCons
✔️ Up to three hours of battery life on a single charge
✔️ Mid-range price with high-end features
✔️ App control and WiFi connectivity capable
✔️ Easily cleans up pet hair and debris on bare floors
✔️ Has a companion app to help power and program the model
✖️ Less stable on uneven and carpeted surfaces

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

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The iRobot Roomba j7+ is one of the most advanced robot vacuums available, designed specifically for households with pets. This Roomba combo is powered by iRobot OS Technology and PrecisionVision Navigation, allowing it to avoid obstacles with impressive accuracy.

Unlike many other robot vacuums that struggle with cluttered environments, the Roomba j7+ can recognize and steer clear of pet waste, cables, and other small objects, making it a smart choice for pet owners.

It delivers strong vacuuming, efficiently collecting pet fur, cat litter, and all the debris scattered across multiple surfaces, from carpets to hard floors. The stiff nylon bristles and side brush further enhance its ability to clean corners and edges, ensuring that no dirt is left behind.

Another standout feature of this Roomba combo is its self-emptying base, which reduces the hassle of frequent maintenance. The auto-empty station holds weeks’ worth of debris in a disposable bag, so you won’t have to empty it manually after every cleaning session.

Additionally, the Roomba j7+ uses advanced mapping and navigation features to learn the layout of your home, allowing for precise zone cleaning and no-go zones that keep it from entering restricted areas.

While it comes with a higher price tag, the combination of obstacle avoidance, smart home integration, and reliable cleaning performance makes it one of the best premium robot vacuums available.

If you’re looking for a hands-free cleaning experience that handles pet messes with ease, the Roomba j7+ is a worthy investment.

Pros and Cons of the Roomba j7+

ProsCons
✔️ Ideal for pet owners
✔️ Self-emptying
✔️ Controllable via the iRobot App, Google Assistant, and Alexa
✔️ Equipped with smart features and technology
✔️ Long battery life
✔️ Equipped with AI-powered obstacle avoidance
✖️ P.O.O.P. is only applicable for cat and dog waste
✖️ Expensive vacuum
✖️ Can get incredibly loud when cleaning

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

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The Bissell SpinWave Wet and Dry Robotic Vacuum is an impressive and budget-friendly choice for those looking for a reliable vacuum mop hybrid.

Unlike many other robot vacuums that only drag a damp cloth across the floor, the Bissell SpinWave features spinning mop pads that actively scrub and remove dried-on stains, making it highly effective for cleaning hard floors. 

The combination of a vacuuming system and an advanced mopping system ensures thorough cleaning, whether you’re dealing with dust, pet fur, or sticky messes. It also includes a dry tank for vacuuming alone, giving you the flexibility to switch between cleaning modes based on your needs.

Its smart features don’t just stop at mopping. The SpinWave has object avoidance technology to detect obstacles and no-go zones, ensuring that carpets remain dry while mopping. It also comes with a tank that supplies clean water during operation, preventing the spread of dirty water across your floors.

Although its navigation system isn’t as advanced as higher-end models, the structured light sensors and bump sensors help it maneuver around furniture with ease.

Considering its affordable price, the Bissell SpinWave is an excellent option for anyone looking for a vacuum mop combo that delivers more than just basic surface wiping.

Pros and Cons of the Bissell SpinWave Wet and Dry Robotic Vacuum

ProsCons
✔️ 2-in-1 hybrid robot vacuum
✔️ Has a dry mode for removing pet hair, debris, and dust from carpeted and hard floors
✔️ Has its own mop pads and water tank
✔️ Wet mode scrubs the floors clean, even dried-on stains
✔️ More affordable than other robot vacuums
✖️ Has the tendency to get stuck on corners and edges

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

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The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL R101A is one of the best self-emptying robot vacuums for pet owners and budget-conscious buyers.

It features an XL dust bin, allowing it to handle debris and heavy pet fur without frequent emptying. The auto-empty dock can store weeks’ worth of dirt in a disposable bag, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance cleaning experience.

Unlike many robot vacuum manufacturers that focus on premium pricing, Shark has managed to create a high-performance robot vacuum that competes with more expensive models while keeping costs reasonable.

In terms of vacuuming, the Shark IQ R101A excels at handling pet hair and dirt on both carpets and hard floors. The brush roll effectively removes stubborn messes, while the side brush helps clean edges and corners.

However, while testing, we did notice occasional issues with automatic mounting when returning to the dock, which may require some manual assistance. It also lacks some of the high-end mapping features found in premium vacuums, but its overall suction power and self-emptying capability make it one of the best affordable alternatives to high-end models like the Roomba combo series.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to keep your home clean with minimal effort, the Shark IQ R101A is worth considering.

Pros and Cons of the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL R101A

ProsCons
✔️ Compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant
✔️ Self-emptying
✔️ Affordable
✔️ Extra-large dust bin
✖️ Minor issues with automatic docking

Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

For those looking for an affordable yet effective standalone robot vacuum, the iLife V3S Pro is an excellent choice. While it doesn’t have the high-tech mapping and smart features found in premium models, it excels at picking up fur, cat litter, and small debris. 

Its suction system is particularly effective on hard floors, making it a great option for homes with tile, wood, or laminate surfaces. Despite its budget-friendly price, the iLife V3S Pro’s vacuuming performance is surprisingly solid, ensuring that floors remain free of dust and pet dander.

One of the biggest advantages of the iLife V3S Pro is its simplicity. Many robot vacuum manufacturers load their devices with features that not everyone needs, but this model focuses on doing one thing well: vacuuming.

Its battery efficiency allows it to clean for extended periods before needing a recharge, and while it lacks advanced obstacle avoidance, its bump sensors help it navigate around furniture without getting stuck.

If you’re looking for a no-frills robot vacuum that provides solid performance without breaking the bank, the iLife V3S Pro is a fantastic option.

Pros and Cons of the iLife V3S Pro Robot Vacuum

ProsCons
✔️ Incredibly affordable
✔️ Excellent debris pickup performance
✔️Durable
✖️ Low suction power
✖️ Lacks advanced technology and features

DREAME X40 Ultra Robot Vacuum

Price:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Functionality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality:  ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The Dreame X40 Ultra Robot Vacuum is a standout in the world of home cleaning technology, offering a blend of powerful performance and intelligent design. With an impressive 12,000 Pa suction power, it effortlessly lifts dirt, dust, and pet hair from both carpets and hard floors, ensuring a spotless home with minimal effort.

Its excellent mopping system features dual spinning mop pads that tackle stubborn stains, while the innovative MopExtend function allows the pads to reach under low furniture and along baseboards, ensuring no spot is left untouched.

The X40 Ultra’s self-cleaning base station further enhances convenience by automatically washing and drying the mop pads with hot water and air, and emptying the dustbin into a spacious 3.2L disposable bag, reducing maintenance to a minimum.

Designed with user convenience in mind, the X40 Ultra boasts AI-powered obstacle avoidance, utilizing a combination of cameras and structured light sensors to navigate around over 120 types of objects, from shoes to cables, ensuring uninterrupted cleaning sessions.

Its intelligent navigation system creates detailed maps of up to four levels, allowing for efficient and customized cleaning routes. The robot vacuum’s ability to lift its mop pads when encountering carpets prevents unwanted wetting, making it ideal for homes with mixed flooring types.

While the Dreame X40 Ultra comes with a premium price tag, its exceptional features and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a top-tier, hands-free cleaning experience.

Pros and Cons of the DREAME X40 Ultra Robot Vacuum

ProsCons
✔️ High suction power (12,000 Pa)
✔️ Excellent mopping system with dual spinning pads
✔️ Self-cleaning base station with hot water washing and hot air drying
✔️ AI-powered obstacle avoidance
✔️ Mop lifting to prevent carpet wetting
✔️ Detailed multi-level mapping
✔️ Automatic dustbin emptying into a large 3.2L disposable bag
✖️ Premium price point
✖️ Larger base station may require ample space
✖️ App stability could be improved

Are Robot Vacuums Worth It?

Let’s face it — no one wants dust sticking to the soles of their feet every time they’re trying to get things done around the house. Mopping and push vacuuming can be a time-consuming chore, so why not get an automated friend to do the work for you?

Thanks to the popularity of robot vacuums, gone are the days of dropping a fortune on a robotic device. Plenty of “budget” models are available for public consumption, and they’re no less handy than their pricier counterparts. Plus, they’re one of the most durable appliances to invest in — not just some gimmicky gadget.

Here are three more reasons why it’s worth investing in one at home.

Semi-Autonomous Smart Cleaning

If you want to keep your home clean and spotless 24/7 but unfortunately also run a busy schedule, then a robot vacuum is a great cleaning device to have. Whether you are at home or not, you can power your robot vacuum from an app and have it start cleaning so you arrive at a spotless abode.

For some models, you can even schedule the days and timeslots when you would want them to start cleaning. That way, you won’t have to miss any cleaning days again!

Premium units even have high-tech features and technology such as camera-based mapping, LIDAR-based mapping, and gyroscope mapping to help with smart cleaning. These technologies will help robot vacuums target specific areas at home that need more cleaning while also memorizing the layout of the entire area without the use of virtual walls.

Self-Charging and Self-Sustaining

After a cleaning session, some vacuums have a feature that will program them to return to their docking stations to charge. That means you won’t need to pick it up and place it back in their docks as they can automatically do it themselves.

There are even models that can detect when they are running low on battery while they’re in the middle of a cleaning session. When this happens, they will take it upon themselves to go back to the docking station and charge.

In case you prefer not to get your hands dirty, premium robot vacuum cleaners have a self-emptying dustbin that will automatically take out the collected dirt and debris once they have docked in the station. Depending on the size of the dustbin of the robot vacuum cleaner and how regularly you use the model, then you may need to dispose of the bag accordingly.

Smart Home Integration

As convenience is a major selling point of these smart cleaning devices, there’s nothing more than having your robot vacuum integrated into your home. Most models nowadays can now be connected to your wifi, come with an app, and can be voice-controlled through Alexa and Google Assistant.


Robot vacuums have revolutionized home cleaning, offering convenience and automation. However, they are not without drawbacks. Here are some of the key negatives to consider:

One of the biggest drawbacks of robot vacuums is their battery life. While some high-end models can clean for over two hours, budget-friendly options may struggle to complete a full cleaning session on a single charge. When the battery runs low, the vacuum must return to its charging dock, sometimes mid-clean, leading to longer cleaning times.

Despite improvements in obstacle avoidance technology, even advanced models sometimes fail to avoid obstacles like power cords, small toys, or uneven surfaces. A good navigation system can help, but some robot vacuums still get stuck under furniture or tangled in cables, requiring manual intervention.

A robot vacuum mop combo may seem like a great all-in-one solution, but the mopping function often falls short of expectations. Most robot mops lack a scrubbing mechanism, simply dragging damp mop pads across the floor. Additionally, some models have small water tanks, requiring frequent refills, and many don’t handle tough stains as effectively as traditional mopping.

While robot vacuums excel at picking up surface dirt, they often struggle with debris on the large side or embedded dirt in carpets. The side brush can sometimes blow dust around rather than collect it properly, making cleaning less efficient, especially on hard floors.

Although features like an auto-empty station reduce manual emptying, regular maintenance is still required. Dustbins, filters, mop pads, and brushes need frequent cleaning or replacement. The side brush can get tangled with hair and fibers, reducing effectiveness over time.

Robot vacuums with advanced features such as self-emptying, obstacle avoidance, and a powerful navigation system often come at a high price. Budget models may lack these features, resulting in more manual intervention.

Despite these drawbacks, robot vacuums remain a convenient tool for maintaining clean floors. However, they are best used as a supplement to traditional cleaning rather than a complete replacement.


Four Tips for Using Robot Vacuum Cleaners

Now, just because these things operate on their own doesn’t mean you’re completely hands-free. To make the most out of your cleaning sessions, here are some tips to go by.

Check the Bin

Depending on how much dog hair is lying around in the crevices of your house, your robot vac’s waste bin might fill up sooner than you think. If you don’t have a self-emptying model, check your robot vac mid-run to see if the bin is filled with pet hair or dust bunnies. Most units work best when their dustbins have extra room.

Monitor and Test Robot Vacuums for the First Few Runs

Your robot vacuum is going to take some time to really know your house — quirks and all. Make sure to be there when your new friend takes its baby steps so you can note any virtual no-go zones, lumpy area rugs, dangerous spikes, or traps like pieces of string that might get caught in the machinery.

Clean During the Day

Most units can operate using an optic sensor that relies on light, so it’s safe to say it’s going to really work hard if you have it run during midnight. Set cleaning schedules during the daytime.

Keep Your Push Vac

Don’t throw away your old manual vacuum just yet. After monitoring your robot vacuum, you might notice that there are some spots it just can’t reach on its own.

That’s completely normal. Just make sure you still have your handy, manually-operated vacuum with you to get to those hot spots.


A hybrid robot vacuum is designed to handle both dry debris and mopping, but when it comes to cleaning wet messes, its effectiveness depends on the model, the type of mess, and the mop pads used. While some robot mops can handle light spills, most struggle with larger, sticky, or deeply set stains.

The effectiveness of a hybrid robot vacuum in cleaning wet messes largely depends on the mop pads. These mop pads are designed to absorb water and wipe the surface, but they are not the same as traditional mops.

Unlike a manual mop, where pressure can be applied to scrub a stain, most robot vacuums simply drag damp mop pads across the floor. If a wet mess is too thick, the mop pads may only smear it around instead of absorbing it properly.

Many models require frequent washing or replacement of the mop pads, as dirty mop pads can reduce cleaning efficiency. Some advanced robot mops have automatic mop pad washing systems, but budget models will need the mop pads changed manually.

Most robot vacuum mop combo units do not have the suction power needed to remove liquid messes entirely. Instead, they rely on damp mop pads to wipe the surface.

This works well for light spills but fails when dealing with thick or sticky liquids like spilled juice or sauce. If the mop pads become too saturated, the robot vacuum mop combo may spread the mess instead of cleaning it.

Additionally, the side brush found in many robot vacuums is designed to sweep dry debris into the suction path, but it does not help with wet messes. In fact, the side brush can sometimes push liquid outward, making the mess worse.

Advanced robot vacuum mop combo models include obstacle avoidance features that prevent them from running into furniture or cables. However, most units are not designed to detect wet messes, meaning they may unintentionally spread liquid if they roll through a spill before the mop pads can clean it up. While a good obstacle avoidance system helps navigate around objects, it does not necessarily help the robot identify or clean wet messes more effectively.

Although an auto-empty station is useful for dry vacuuming, it does not contribute to mopping performance. The mop pads still require manual intervention, such as rinsing or replacing after cleaning a wet mess. Without proper maintenance, dirty mop pads can lead to streaky floors and unpleasant odors.

While a robot vacuum mop combo is effective for regular maintenance cleaning and light spills, it is not the best option for tackling significant wet messes. The mop pads play a crucial role, but they are limited in their ability to scrub and absorb liquid efficiently. Users looking for a deep-cleaning solution for wet messes may still need to rely on manual mopping for the best results.


Keeping your robot vacuum mop combo in top condition requires regular maintenance, especially when it comes to the mop pads and side brush. These components play a crucial role in ensuring your floors remain clean, but if left dirty, they can spread grime rather than remove it.

The mop pads play a key role in wiping the floor and picking up fine dust and dirt. Over time, they absorb grime and moisture, which can cause streaks and bad odors.

Start by removing the mop pads from the vacuum. Most robot vacuum mop combo models have detachable mop pads that are easy to take off. Before washing, shake off any loose debris to prevent clogging your sink or washing machine.

You can wash the mop pads by hand or in a washing machine using mild detergent and cold water. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can reduce the pads’ absorbency and effectiveness.

Once clean, let the mop pads air dry completely before reattaching them. Damp mop pads can lead to mold and unpleasant odors. To maintain performance, wash the mop pads after every mopping session, especially if tackling sticky spills or large areas.

The side brush helps sweep debris into the vacuum’s suction path, but it can get tangled with hair and dust over time.

To clean the side brush, first, detach it from the vacuum. Most models allow easy removal by unscrewing it from the base. Use scissors or a cleaning tool to cut away any hair or fibers wrapped around the bristles.

Next, wipe the side brush with a damp cloth to remove built-up dust. If the bristles look worn or damaged, replacing the side brush will help maintain optimal cleaning.

By keeping the mop pads and side brush clean, your robot vacuum mop combo will continue to deliver excellent results, ensuring spotless floors after every cleaning cycle.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shark better than Roomba?

Is a Wyze Robot Vacuum good?

Are robot vacuums expensive?

Can a robot vacuum replace a normal vacuum?

What is a good robot vacuum for pet hair?


Final Note

We’re all lucky to live in a time when robots can do even the most taxing chores for us. Whatever your needs may be, we hope this guide on the best robot vacuums was helpful in your hunt for the perfect clean-up buddy. Should you need more guidance, then do check out our ultimate robot vacuum buying guide to help you determine the right model for you.


Best Robot Vacuums for 2023

Editor’s Choice

iRobot Roomba S9+

It’s hard not to think of the iRobot Roomba S9+ when someone says robot vacuum — the two words are practically synonymous. It’s no surprise. iRobot makes some of the best robot vacuums in the market, and if you’re looking for an appliance to actually last a long time, the Roomba is your best bet.

We all love a self-emptying bin, and it’s safe to say the S9+ has the best one out of the box. Wired named this model the “absolute best” robot vacuum you could get. We could only guess why: it’s programmed with advanced technology that actually works. 

A self-emptying bin, impeccable mapping capabilities, trustworthy navigation software, and a sensor with top-of-the-line edging capabilities are just some of the things that make the S9+ a vacuum bot a reliable investment and the top in our best robot vacuum list.


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Sota Takahashi

Sota Takahashi is a Japanese-born electrical engineer. At the age of 18, he moved to Seattle and completed his Electrical Engineering degree at the University of Washington, Seattle. Being a fan of all things tech, he channels his geeky side through this website, and with his wife Linda, shares knowledge about robot pets and how they can be lifelong and advantageous companions for both children and the elderly.

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