Question 1

Do robot vacuums actually work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with caveats. Modern robot vacuums with LiDAR navigation are excellent at maintaining clean floors between deep cleans. They're not a replacement for a traditional vacuum for deep cleaning carpets or tackling stubborn messes, but they're fantastic for daily maintenance. Expect them to handle 80-90% of your regular vacuuming needs.

Question 2

How much should I spend on a robot vacuum?

Accepted Answer

For most people, $300-600 is the sweet spot. This range gets you LiDAR navigation, app control, room mapping, and decent suction (4,000-6,000 Pa). Budget models under $300 often lack smart mapping. Premium models over $600 add self-empty docks, mopping, and obstacle avoidance - useful but not essential for everyone.

Question 3

What's the difference between cheap and expensive robot vacuums?

Accepted Answer

Navigation is the biggest difference. Cheap models ($100-200) use random or gyroscope navigation, bumping around until they cover your floor. Mid-range models ($300-600) have LiDAR mapping for efficient cleaning and room selection. Premium models ($600+) add self-empty docks, advanced mopping, AI obstacle avoidance, and better app experiences. The performance gap between budget and mid-range is huge. Mid-range to premium is more about convenience features.

Question 4

Can robot vacuums handle pet hair?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most modern robot vacuums handle pet hair well. Look for models with anti-tangle brush systems (rubber rollers or hair-cutting features) and strong suction (6,000+ Pa for heavy shedders). Self-empty docks are highly recommended for pet owners - you won't have to clean the dustbin after every run. Expect to clean the brushes weekly even with anti-tangle features.

Question 5

Do robot vacuums work on carpet?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but performance varies. Low-pile carpet: Most robots handle this well with 4,000+ Pa suction. Medium-pile carpet: You'll want 6,000+ Pa and bristle or combo brushes. High-pile/shag carpet: Many robots struggle here. Look for models specifically rated for thick carpet with 8,000+ Pa suction. For best results, get a model with automatic carpet boost that increases suction on carpets.

Question 6

How often do I need to empty the dustbin?

Accepted Answer

Without self-empty dock: Every 1-3 runs depending on your home. Pet owners and large homes will need to empty after every run. With self-empty dock: Every 30-60 days. The dock holds 30-60 dustbins worth of debris. Maintenance becomes "empty the dock bag once a month" instead of "empty the dustbin every other day."

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying & Performance

Daily Use & Maintenance

Mopping Features

Compatibility & Setup

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