How to Choose a Robot Vacuum for Pet Hair
Published on Oct 22, 2024
With a golden retriever puppy arriving in a few weeks, we’ve decided to invest in a robot vacuum to handle the impending tsunami of pet hair.
So, what’s the best robot vacuum to buy for pet hair? We’ve done a lot of research, and here’s what we’ve learned.
Key Features to Consider
As a starting point, we’ve created a list of considerations to help us choose the right robot vacuum:
- Suction Power: The stronger the suction, the better the cleaning performance, especially for pet hair. However, greater suction usually means a more expensive vacuum and a larger drain on the battery.
- Battery Life and Charging: Battery life is critical, especially for larger homes. We need a model that automatically returns to its charging station and resumes cleaning once charged, making it easy to cover our house without interruption.
- Smart Navigation: Most advanced robot vacuums use laser or camera-based mapping systems to learn the layout of your home. This feature allows for more efficient cleaning, fewer missed spots, and the ability to define no-go zones or specific rooms for focused cleaning. I know we need a vacuum with smart navigation, but I must admit to being nervous about the setup.
- Surface Adaptability: We need a vacuum that can transition from timber floors to rugs to carpet.
- Dustbin Capacity: A larger dustbin means less frequent emptying.
- App Control and Smart Integration: Some high-end robot vacuums can be controlled via smartphone apps. I’m not the best with technology, so this isn’t high on my list, but it’s something to consider.
- Price: I’m looking to get the best bang for my buck.
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Should You Buy a Robot Vacuum with a Mop?Our Top 4 Robot Vacuums
Dreame L10s Ultra
Why we like it:
It has both a mop function and a vacuum, with very strong suction (5,300Pa). AI technology allows the Dreame L10s Ultra to adjust its cleaning routine to the needs of your home. It also has a self-refilling and self-emptying base station.
What everyone says about it:
It has both a mop function and a vacuum, with very strong suction (5,300Pa). AI technology allows the Dreame L10s Ultra to adjust its cleaning routine to the needs of your home. It also has a self-refilling and self-emptying base station.
What everyone says about it:
This is the top-ranking robot vacuum on ProductReview, with a score of 4.3 out of 5. Several other online reviews also give this model a solid rating.
The cost:
Earlier this year, the Dreame L10s Ultra retailed for over $2,000. The current retail price is $1,799, but Dreame.com.au has it on special for $1,299.
iRobot Roomba j7+
Why we like it:
The dirt detection system starts mopping when it senses a dirty area, and the mop brushes retract when the vacuum detects a carpet or rug.
What everyone else says about it:
Choice Magazine rates the Roomba j7+ as the best robot vacuum of 2024. It scored 96% for dirt pickup and 70% for pet hair pickup.
The cost:
This vacuum also had a retail cost of $2,000+ earlier this year but now retails for $1,500.
iRobot Roomba 692
Why we like it:
A lower-spec iRobot model, the 692 has great suction and pet hair removal, with Choice scoring 96% and 60% respectively. However, it struggles with picking up dirt from carpets. It doesn’t include a smart navigation function, but it’s very economical at $400.
What Everyone else says:
Choice gives this vacuum a high score of 73%, and ProductReview scores it at 3.3 out of 5. While it’s a great value option, many online reviews mention complaints about the navigation system, with the vacuum constantly bumping into objects.
The cost:
$400
Roborock Q8 Max+
Why we like it:
Dual spinning mops ensure high-end mopping performance, while PreciSense® LiDAR Navigation with active obstacle avoidance technology prevents the vacuum from bumping into objects. It works with Alexa, Google Home, and Siri.
What everyone else says:
A search on ProductReview rates this model at 4.4 out of 5, with very positive customer feedback. Gizmodo also gives it a thumbs up. However, one online reviewer mentioned the Roborock Q8 bumped into more furniture than expected.
Cost:
$1,200
Conclusion: Which Robot Vacuum is Right for Us?
What stands out is the amazing progress robot vacuum technology has made in recent years, along with the cost savings that have come with these improvements. A vacuum that sold for $2,000 12 months ago now retails for $1,000 to $1,500.
I’m looking for excellent results with great value. At this stage, the Dreame L10s Ultra is at the top of my list due to its smart navigation functionality and the current sale price of $1,300. The iRobot Roomba j7+, with its retractable mop system, is a close second.