
Remember when a robot cleaner just bumped around your home? Those days are over. Today’s models are much smarter. They come with amazing new features that save you time and effort.
If you are thinking of getting a new one, or just want to see what is new, here are some great upgrades to look for.
Self-empty stations:
The best upgrade for a robotic vacuum cleaner and mop is a self-emptying base. Older robots have a small dustbin you must empty after every clean. Now, they can do it themselves. The robot returns to its station. The station sucks all the dirt from the robot into a larger bag inside it. This bag can hold weeks of dust and hair. You do not have to touch the mess for a long time.
Smart home integration:
Your robot cleaner can now work with your smart home. Use your voice to tell it to start cleaning. You can also use an app on your phone to schedule cleans when you are not home. It can even start cleaning automatically when you leave the house, if your phone is set up for it. This makes controlling your robot very easy.
Better mopping systems:
Mopping has improved a lot. Some robots now have vibrating mop pads that scrub tough spots on your floor. Others have two rotating mop pads for a better clean. The best part? Many new models have a mop pad that lifts up automatically when it senses a carpet. This stops your carpets from getting wet. It is a very clever feature for homes with mixed flooring.
Improved obstacle avoidance:
Early robots got stuck on socks and cables. New ones are much better at seeing these things. They use small cameras and sensors to look at objects in their path. They can see pet waste, shoe laces, and other clutter. Then, they simply drive around them. This means fewer rescue missions for you.
Lidar navigation:
For a super-smart clean, look for models with Lidar. This technology creates a detailed map of your home as it cleans. The robot uses this map to clean in neat, back-and-forth lines. It does not miss spots or bump into furniture. You can even use the app to tell it to clean just the kitchen or avoid the kids’ play area.