In theory, vacuuming isn’t the hardest chore to do. It’s just pushing and pulling your vacuum across the floor so all of the dust, dirt, and forgotten snacks and crumbs is gone. Unfortunately, that’s not the real-life vacuuming experience. Depending on the model, vacuums can be heavy and you end up exhausted after finishing. Plus, if there’s a second floor in your home, there’ll be an even bigger challenge.
Enter, the Robot Vacuum
Yet again, technology swoops in to save the day. After its first prototype in 2002, the robot vacuum has come a long way and gained notable popularity as an alternative to the classic, upright vacuum. Rather than having to go to each room yourself, a robot vacuum automatically makes its way around your home and does it for you.
With all of the technological improvements in robot vacuum technology, the electric cleaners have become smarter and more efficient. You can have your vacuum clean on a schedule, clean only some rooms, or even only clean a certain area of a room! You can do that and more from your phone anywhere you are meaning you don’t have to get up for anything.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Robot Vacuums
Thinking about trading your old vacuum for a robot vacuum? Consider its pros and cons:
Pros of a Robot Vacuum
- Convenient: saves you time from vacuuming yourself at any time you choose.
- Cleans multiple surfaces: no need for any attachments since robot vacuums can clean carpet, laminate, and hardwood floor with ease.
- Cat-like: quieter than a traditional vacuum, the robot vacuum won’t scare pets or children, and it can run overnight while you sleep.
- Compatible with other smart devices: if you already use smart devices in your home, you can start your vacuum with a simple voice command.
Cons of a Robot Vacuum
- Container size: with a traditional vacuum, it takes some time before you have to empty it unlike a robot vacuum which you may need to empty more often, possibly every time it completes a clean.
- Capable only for level surfaces: unfortunately, robot vacuums aren’t able to climb steps yet, so you may need an upright vacuum for stairs, or carry the robot vacuum up to the second floor.
- Costly: prices for robot vacuums start around $200 and can cost thousands for higher end ones quite a jump for traditional vacuums, which can be as low as $60.
- Convenience standard: making the best of a robot vacuum means that your home should be robot-friendly and if there tends to be more items on the floor bigger than dust like little toys, coins, forgotten bagels, and the like, it might not be the right choice for you.
Popular Robot Vacuums
One brand of robot vacuums has shone brighter than others and has become synonymous with robot vacuums, the Roomba. Still popular and improving, the iRobot Roomba 614 is one of the best models at an affordable price at about $220. It’s reliable, durable, and rarely gets stuck on its mission.
