Looking for an effective solution to clean your house or pool effortlessly? Cleaning robots, with their autonomy and ability to clean floors, walls, or waterlines, promise spotless results while saving you time and energy.
This guide aims to clarify the subject and help you choose the right cleaning robot for your needs. You will discover how they work, the essential criteria for making your choice, the benefits of such an investment, the top brands, and how to maintain your device to keep it in good condition.
Follow our practical tips to find the ideal cleaning robot based on your needs and budget.
Understanding how a cleaning robot works
Choosing the right cleaning robot requires understanding how it operates and the variety of models available. Depending on your requirements and budget, you will be able to select the most suitable model for your needs.
The different types of cleaning robots
Cleaning robots are divided into two main categories: floor cleaning robots and pool cleaning robots. The former handle cleaning hard floors in your home, such as tile, wood, or linoleum, using their vacuuming, mopping, or scrubbing systems and intelligently moving around the space to be cleaned.
Pool cleaning robots, on the other hand, take care of cleaning the bottom, walls, and waterline of your pool. They also have their own suction systems and work in cycles to remove dirt and debris.
Floor cleaning robots vary by type of cleaning system: some use vibrating wipes soaked in cleaning liquid, others use wet rollers with soapy water, while others spray cleaning liquid directly onto the floor. Meanwhile, pool robots differ in their suction systems, either primary (recycling pool water after filtering) or secondary (storing vacuumed water in an internal tank).
How do they work?
Cleaning robots operate autonomously, without the need for human intervention. Using sensors, cameras, or lasers, they navigate skillfully, avoiding obstacles and, for some, mapping the space for methodical cleaning. Their movement can be methodical, in zigzags or spirals, or random, changing direction when encountering an obstacle.
Equipped with rechargeable batteries, they have substantial autonomy. Some models can even return to their charging station by themselves when the battery is low and resume cleaning where they left off, while others require manual recharging.
Connected via Wi-Fi, they can be managed remotely through an app on your smartphone, allowing you to schedule cleaning sessions, choose the cleaning mode, check the history, or locate the robot. Compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant offers easy voice activation.
The advantages of automated cleaning
Opting for a cleaning robot offers numerous benefits. It allows you to save time and energy, freeing you for other activities or for rest, while ensuring thorough cleaning of every corner of your space. Capable of removing dust, stains, or stubborn algae, they deliver impeccable results.
Additionally, they are environmentally friendly, using little water and fewer chemicals, helping to reduce your energy consumption and environmental impact.
Essential criteria for choosing a cleaning robot
To select the ideal cleaning robot, consider several essential criteria that will influence the device's performance, practicality, and ease of use. Here are the key aspects to evaluate before making your purchase.
Surface and floor type
The primary criterion is the surface and floor type to be cleaned. Not all cleaning robots are suitable for every type of floor. Some are specifically designed for hard floors, such as tile, wood, or linoleum, while others can also care for soft floors, like carpets or rugs.
Similarly, for pools, some models are optimized for above-ground structures, while others are suited for in-ground or semi-inground pools. It’s crucial to verify the robot’s compatibility with your floor type, as well as the maximum surface area it can clean. Generally, a larger surface area requires a more powerful and autonomous robot.
Autonomy and recharge time
Another important criterion is the robot's autonomy and recharge time. Autonomy indicates how long the robot can operate uninterrupted before needing a recharge. Recharge time, on the other hand, refers to the time required for the robot to regain full power. These factors directly affect the speed and continuity of cleaning.
A highly autonomous robot can clean large areas in a single cycle. A shorter recharge time allows the robot to resume cleaning more quickly. Therefore, it's essential to choose a robot that offers sufficient autonomy for your surface and a suitable recharge time.
Navigation capabilities and obstacle detection
Navigation capabilities and obstacle detection are the third criteria to consider. These features determine the cleaning robot’s efficiency and safety. Intelligent navigation allows the robot to clean methodically and effectively, without covering the same area multiple times or missing spots. Good obstacle detection helps the robot avoid collisions and falls, protecting both your objects and the robot itself.
Opt for a robot equipped with sensors, cameras, or lasers, allowing it to navigate accurately and avoid obstacles. Some models can even map the area to be cleaned and follow a specific route.
Additional features and connectivity
Finally, additional features and connectivity should not be overlooked. These options, such as the choice of cleaning modes, scheduling, voice control, and remote control via an app or remote control, enrich your experience and provide added convenience.
A robot with numerous additional features adapts better to your needs and preferences. Reliable and intuitive connectivity greatly facilitates the control and monitoring of the device. Therefore, it is wise to choose a robot offering useful options and efficient connectivity.
Understanding the different models on the market
The cleaning robot market is booming, offering a wide variety of models tailored to different needs and budgets. Knowing the characteristics and specifics of each type is essential to selecting the cleaning robot that will perfectly meet your expectations.
Let’s explore the main models available.
Vacuum cleaning robots
Vacuum cleaning robots are designed to remove dust and dirt from your floors. Capable of cleaning both hard floors (tile, wood, linoleum) and soft floors (carpets, rugs), these intelligent devices navigate autonomously. Connected via Wi-Fi, they can be controlled remotely via a smartphone or remote control.
Compatible with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, they help maintain optimal cleanliness at home. They are particularly suitable for people with allergies, pet owners, or those with limited time for cleaning. Prices range from €100 to over €1000, depending on performance and features. Notable brands include iRobot, Neato, Ecovacs, Xiaomi, Eufy, and Dyson.
Floor mopping robots
Floor mopping robots specialize in cleaning hard floors (tile, wood, linoleum) using their own cleaning systems, such as vibrating wipes, rollers, or water spraying. Like their vacuuming counterparts, they navigate intelligently and can be managed remotely.
They excel at removing embedded dust and stubborn stains, refreshing your floors without manual effort. Ideal for households with children or pets, these robots are priced between €300 and €900. Leading brands include iRobot, Ecovacs, Amibot, Hobot, and Roborock.
Pool cleaning robots
Pool cleaning robots ensure the cleanliness of the pool floor, walls, and waterline using effective suction systems. They work in cycles, capturing dirt and debris in a tank or filtering them.
Perfect for maintaining clear and healthy water, these robots are suitable for all types of pools and surfaces. Prices range from €200 to over €2000, depending on the features. Top brands include Zodiac, Dolphin, Hayward, and Intex.
Robots for specific surfaces
Robots for specific surfaces target cleaning areas such as windows, walls, or ceilings using specialized systems and adhesion methods like suction cups or magnets. They facilitate cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Ideal for those who want spotless surfaces or face complex cleaning challenges, these robots are available between €100 and €500. Leading brands include Hobot, Ecovacs, E.ziclean, and Mamibot.
Investing in a cleaning robot: long-term benefits
Investing in a cleaning robot may seem costly initially, but the long-term benefits make it a wise choice. These devices save you time, money, and improve your quality of life.
Let’s explore the main advantages of a cleaning robot.
Time and effort savings
Time and effort savings are undoubtedly the most significant advantages. By delegating the cleaning of your home or pool to a robot, you no longer need to spend time and energy on this chore.
This frees you for other activities, whether it's work, leisure, family time, or simply rest. The average French person spends 3 hours and 24 minutes per week on cleaning. A cleaning robot can cut this time in half or more, depending on the model. That's a valuable time-saving over a year, to use as you see fit.
Regular and thorough cleaning
The quality of cleaning is another major advantage. Cleaning robots ensure regular and thorough cleaning, removing dust, dirt, stains, bacteria, and viruses. Thanks to smart technologies, they move with precision and adapt their action to the type of floor or surface.
They can be scheduled to operate at specific times, optimizing the efficiency of their work. A clean and healthy environment significantly improves your comfort, well-being, and health.
Impact on the longevity of your floors and equipment
Finally, the positive impact on the longevity of your floors and equipment should not be underestimated. Regular and effective cleaning preserves your floors, carpets, rugs, and pool from wear and damage.
This saves you from costly replacements or repairs, thus saving money. Moreover, cleaning robots are environmentally friendly, using less water and chemicals, reducing your energy consumption and ecological footprint.
The best cleaning robot brands
The choice of a cleaning robot is largely influenced by the brand that produces it. Each brand stands out for its unique features, advantages, disadvantages, and overall reputation.
Key points for each brand
- iRobot: A pioneer and market leader, iRobot excels in vacuum, floor, and pool cleaning robots, renowned for their performance, reliability, design, and customer service. Equipped with advanced technologies, these robots are smart, adaptable, and connected, ideal for those seeking excellence and innovation.
- Ecovacs: Specializing in vacuum and floor mopping robots, Ecovacs offers high-performance, reliable, stylish, and connected models, with a good price-performance ratio. Perfect for those looking for versatility and affordability.
- Roborock: Known for its vacuum and mopping robots, Roborock stands out for its performance, reliability, design, and connectivity. Its products, equipped with lasers for precise cleaning, are suitable for those who prioritize power and intelligence.
- Neato: With its uniquely D-shaped vacuum robots, Neato combines performance, reliability, design, and connectivity, optimizing corner and edge cleaning. Ideal for those who value efficiency and aesthetics.
- Xiaomi: Xiaomi offers high-performance, reliable, stylish vacuum and mopping robots at competitive prices, equipped with lasers for optimized cleaning. An excellent choice for value for money.
- Eufy: Eufy focuses on simple, efficient, and affordable vacuum robots, offering good value for money. A smart choice for those seeking simplicity and effectiveness.
- Dyson: Dyson stands out with its high-end vacuum robots, combining performance, reliability, design, and top-tier customer service. Ideal for those who want no compromise on quality and style.
- Zodiac and Dolphin: Specializing in pool cleaning robots, these brands offer performance, reliability, design, and excellent customer service. Perfect for those seeking efficient solutions for pool maintenance.
- Hayward: Hayward offers pool cleaning robots that combine performance, reliability, and design at an affordable price. A cost-effective option for quality pool cleaning.
- Intex: Intex offers high-performing, reliable, and budget-friendly pool cleaning robots, suitable for various pool shapes and sizes. An economical solution for pool maintenance.
- Hobot, E.ziclean, and Mamibot: These brands specialize in robots for specific surfaces, offering performance, reliability, design, and good value for money. Ideal for those needing to clean windows, walls, or ceilings.
Budget for an efficient cleaning robot
The cost of a cleaning robot depends on various factors such as the type, brand, performance, features, and build quality. Before making your choice, it’s crucial to determine your budget by considering your specific needs and expectations. Here are some useful tips to guide you to the ideal cleaning robot without breaking the bank.
Price range and entry-level models
The prices of cleaning robots range from €100 to over €2000. Vacuum robots, like the Eufy Robovac 11S, represent the most affordable option with prices starting around €100. Floor mopping robots, like the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo 920, are slightly more expensive, with entry-level prices around €300. Pool cleaning robots, such as the Intex 28001, fall within a price range starting at €200. Robots designed for specific surfaces, like the E.ziclean Hobot V2, are also available starting at €100.
Entry-level models are often less powerful, reliable, and aesthetic. They offer fewer cleaning modes, sensors, and features and have lower build quality. Typically, they are noisier, have shorter autonomy, and are less user-friendly.
These models are suitable for those with limited budgets or those looking to experiment with using a cleaning robot without a major investment.
High-end models: are they really necessary?
High-end models generally outperform entry-level models in terms of performance, reliability, design, and connectivity. They offer more cleaning modes, sensors, and features and benefit from superior build quality. Quieter, more autonomous, and easier to use, they cater to those with larger budgets or those looking for a top-quality cleaning robot.
Their necessity depends mainly on your needs and expectations. For larger areas, specific floors, or particular requirements, a high-end model may be a wise investment, offering performance, versatility, and convenience. For smaller areas or simple needs, an entry-level model may suffice, providing adequate cleaning without excessive spending.
Tips for finding deals and promotions
To acquire the perfect cleaning robot at the best price, a few tips can be useful. Here’s how to find attractive deals and promotions:
- Compare prices on various online sales platforms like Amazon, Cdiscount, Fnac, Darty, etc.
- Take advantage of sale periods, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Prime Day to enjoy significant discounts on cleaning robots. Subscribe to newsletters or price alerts on comparison sites to stay informed about the best offers.
- Check user reviews and tests for valuable insights into the quality and reliability of cleaning robots. Reviews on sales sites and articles from specialized sites like Meilleurtest.fr or Les Numériques offer detailed and objective analyses.
Maintenance of your cleaning robot
A cleaning robot simplifies your life by handling the cleaning of your home or pool effortlessly. To ensure optimal performance and prolong its lifespan, regular maintenance is essential.
Discover practical tips for maintaining your cleaning robot and acting effectively in case of a breakdown.
Regular maintenance tips
Regular maintenance is crucial to maintain the performance, reliability, and longevity of your robot. While maintenance may vary depending on the model, it generally includes the following steps:
- Clean the robot after each use by rinsing it with clear water and removing debris, dirt, or hair that may accumulate.
- Empty and clean the tank or dustbin, dumping its contents into the trash and washing it with soapy water if necessary.
- Clean the filters, either by brushing them or washing them with clear water, and allow them to air dry before putting them back in place.
- Clean the charging contacts with a soft cloth or brush, removing any corrosion with white vinegar or baking soda.
- Check the condition of wear parts such as blades, brushes, or wheels and replace them if necessary.
- Update the robot's software by connecting it to your smartphone or computer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure the robot is turned off and unplugged before performing any maintenance, and wear protective gloves. For detailed instructions, refer to the user manual for your model.
What to do in case of breakdown?
Despite regular maintenance, your robot may encounter malfunctions. In case of a breakdown, first identify the cause of the problem and try to resolve it yourself if possible:
- If the robot doesn’t start or stops abruptly, check that the battery is charged, that the charging contacts are clean, that the robot is correctly positioned on its base, and that the power button is working.
- If the robot cleans inefficiently or leaves marks, make sure the tank or dustbin isn’t full, the filters are clean, the blades or brushes aren’t worn, and the cleaning mode is appropriate.
- If the robot moves erratically or doesn’t cover the entire surface, ensure that the sensors, cameras, or lasers aren’t obstructed, the robot isn’t blocked by obstacles, and the cleaning area map is up to date.
- If the problem persists or is difficult to identify, contact the manufacturer's customer service or retailer for advice, direction to an authorized repair service, or discuss replacement or refund options under warranty conditions.
Conclusion
It is clear that cleaning robots are revolutionizing the way we maintain cleanliness in our spaces. By automating the cleaning of your home or pool, they offer significant time and energy savings while ensuring spotless results. However, choosing the ideal cleaning robot requires careful consideration of several key criteria: surface and floor type, autonomy and recharge time, navigation and obstacle detection capabilities, not to mention additional features and connectivity. Budget and maintenance needs should also be taken into account.
Order your cleaning robot today and embrace the era of automated cleaning for a simpler and more enjoyable life.