Robot vacuums are advertised as “set-it-and-forget-it” devices. Unfortunately, this excitement can quickly turn to disappointment in the real world. I should know: I’ve tested countless robot vacuums over the years, and no matter how many options they add and how much “better” the technology becomes, I still run into the same problems.
Today’s manufacturers of robot vacuums promise a lot. Earlier versions were typically all-in-one devices that included a dustbin that had to be emptied numerous times during a run. In recent years, vacuums have gained self-emptying dustbins, automatic mopping capabilities, and even self-cleaning brushes. These extras are in addition to precision mapping technology, AI-powered obstacle avoidance, and even voice control.
Unfortunately, none of these extras improve the situation, and some of these issues don’t even involve the machine itself.
Reasons not to buy that shiny new robot vacuum
The little things add up
Probably the number one reason homeowners consider robot vacuums is convenience: no more pushing a bulky vacuum around the house, no more hassle. Unfortunately, even the most innovative models need a little bit of help. You have to clear their paths of objects like pet toys, stray socks, and those nasty cords that you thought you put away. Some high-end units even struggle to maneuver around table legs or under certain furniture.
Mapping is another source of frustration. Most of today’s models use LiDAR technology or onboard cameras to build a virtual floor plan and also let you designate “no-go zones.” In practice, they can still get tripped up by smaller stationary objects, such as non-bulky chairs or tables, pet water bowls, and area carpets. And if something messy hits the floor, such as a spilled drink or, worse, a pet accident, you suddenly have more than dust to worry about. You have a big manual cleanup on your hands. Hair caught in the wheels is another common headache that almost always requires manual cleanup.
There’s only the issue of product maintenance. Robot vacuums have several components that need to be replaced regularly to stay effective. This starts with the many brushes that should be replaced at least once a year, and HEPA and dustbin bags that should be replaced even more often. In between, you also need to clean the machine itself, inside and out, as robot vacuums don’t just pick up dust; they also accumulate it on surfaces, sensors, and the wheels.
Another negative is how bulky all-in-one robot vacuums are and how much space they take up when not in use. I’m talking about the models with self-emptying docks and mopping functions. These devices are huge.
You also need to consider the noise. Depending on the size of your home, the vacuum could run for hours. This can affect watching TV, sleeping, and at-home working. Most robot vacuums include a scheduling option. Unfortunately, for all the reasons mentioned above, you still need to be in your home when the vacuum is working.
Have more than one floor in your home? You need to be there to move it from floor to floor.
It should also be noted that, like other smart devices, vacuum robots are disposable tech, unlike regular vacuums. This means that over time, it might become more challenging to find replacement parts. Eventually, the vacuum app might degrade as well. Without the app, your machine can no longer do many things.
To truly benefit from and use the best robot vacuum features, it’s best to use its mobile app. Unfortunately, these apps aren’t always user-friendly, which can lead to even more frustration.
And finally, let’s be honest: unless you go out and buy a cheap robot vacuum, which I don’t advocate, these beasts are expensive. Think anywhere between $400 and $1,500. Sure, there are also costly stand-up models (think Dyson), but most fall below this range.
There are several other drawbacks to using a robot vacuum.
The silver linings
It’s not all bad
I won’t deny that robot vacuums can be a valuable tool for some users. They do a great job, for example, in compact apartments, dorm rooms, and smaller spaces with fewer objects. The vacuums are also beneficial if you’re looking for a daily cleaning solution and when you don’t have the energy to do the work yourself. Again, this is especially good in smaller spaces.
I’d also say robot vacuums are good on flat surfaces like those in a kitchen. These areas typically have fewer obstacles, and the dirt is easier to find and clean. Spot-mopping with compatible robot vacuums is especially effective.
Limited benefits
Robot vacuums promise effortless cleaning but often deliver headaches. Between unreliable navigation, frequent maintenance, and the constant need for supervision, the convenience they promise is frequently outweighed by the problems they cause. While they have their place in small, simple spaces, anyone expecting a truly hands-free experience with robot vacuums will be disappointed.
My advice: get a good old-fashioned vacuum and an everyday mop, which gives a better mix of control, performance, and general peace of mind.
