Start with the cleaning job
Map your home before comparing specifications. Open floor areas suit scheduled cleaning; stairs and upholstery need a different approach. Low furniture, thresholds and loose rugs can determine whether a robot reaches the places that matter. For a cordless vacuum, judge weight in the hand, tool reach and usable runtime on the floor setting you need.
Automation still needs preparation
iRobot warns that clothes, cords and shoelaces can obstruct or entangle a robot and recommends clearing floors before mapping. Obstacle detection varies by model and object. A hands-on review should show what the robot actually avoided, rather than repeat the presence of a camera or navigation feature.
Source: iRobot: preparing the home for cleaning ↗Count the chores left behind
An automated dock can remove some emptying or mop-washing tasks. You still need to check the exact model's instructions for rollers, filters, tanks and trays. Ask what must be cleaned, replaced or refilled each week. For pet hair, favour tests on your floor type and upholstery over headline suction numbers or a generic pet label.
Your pre-purchase checklist
- Check under-furniture height, thresholds and docking space.
- Look for real obstacle and hair-pickup tests.
- Include bags, filters and dock cleaning in the ownership cost.
Sources and scope
Original editorial guidance with linked source material. Manufacturer guidance describes operation and features; it is not independent testing. Calculator results use your inputs and stated assumptions.
- iRobot: preparing the home for cleaning ↗Manufacturer support guidance