President’s Day is fast approaching, and you all know what that means. Aside from appreciating the meaning of the celebration, it’s the perfect time to consider a new addition to your cleanup roster. After all, many companies give consumers the opportunity to save on some furniture and home improvement appliances during that time.
We all know where this is going, right? For a busy household, nothing could improve home life quality than a machine which can assist with everyday cleaning. If you’re one of the millions who could certainly use the help, then robotic vacuums are the answer. Or if you’re already a robot vacuum user, maybe your friends, family, and acquaintances need it, and you’re thinking of buying one as a gift. Either way, we will help you choose a robotic vacuum cleaner that’s suitable for you or for your loved ones.
Who May Need a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner?
The most significant advantage of a robotic vacuum is that it can do everyday cleaning upkeep without you lifting a finger or getting up on the couch (at least for some models). While it’s true that robot vacuums could not match the muscle of the old upright and canister vacuums, the convenience it brings is a game-changer.
If you know an old couple or someone who may not be able to do everyday tasks because of physical limitations, this is the perfect time to be a Good Samaritan and help them out. Former American presidents Herbert Hoover and JFK were known for donating their entire salaries to charities, so why not gift someone you care about something that could improve the quality of their lives? Or, at the very least, you could just do yourself or your spouse a favor and buy one for your own home!
We could be wrong, but chances are, nobody in your house, or any other house for that matter, likes cleaning. You are all tired after a day of work, and you all have no energy left to at least sweep the floor. And would you really trust the kids to do it for you? Uh-uh! So with all these things considered, we honestly believe every busy household needs a robotic vacuum.
How to Choose a Robotic Vacuum On President’s Day
We have adequately pointed out that a robovac (robot vacuums) are not just for gadget geeks or the filthy rich (no pun intended). If you don’t have enough time to tidy up your house or know someone that don’t, here are some things that you should consider when buying a robot vacuum, especially on President’s Day. After all, there are literally dozens of brands that you can choose from, and each of these brands offer half a dozen models.
- Size of the house. If you’re planning to buy or gift a robovac for someone who has a tiny house, you won’t need a particularly big robot that could run for hours. Looking for something that’s enough for a tiny house will also save you money. On the other hand, there are also models designed for larger homes and can automatically adjust their suction settings based on the surfaces and floor types.
- Purpose. We buy things according to our goals, and the same is true for robot vacuums. Your decision and choice will be affected if you intend to use the robot vacuum to clean high foot traffic areas or simply clean floors. Cheaper models should be enough for small-scale cleaning projects, but a mid-range model should be your choice if you need it to clean a larger area.
- Technology and features. All models feature several cleaning modes and return to the dock if the battery dies down. But then the similarity stops there. The more advanced models pick up where they left off after charging, have mapping capabilities and superior navigation. Also, there are robot vacuums with HEPA filters, something you should consider if you have pets around the house. The top-of-the-line robovacs empty their trash bins, and some are hybrids that can mop the floor and vacuum it after. If you want and need the tech and features the top models offer, you may have to shed north of a thousand dollars.
- Budget. The budget is directly tied with the features; the more affordable the model is, the more basic its characteristics are. But as we previously mentioned, some of the cheapest models are good enough to do light cleaning. Models that cost $300 to $500 are considered mid-tier, while the top-of-the-line complex machine could go as high as $1,200.
What We Recommend
Best Entry Level: iRobot Roomba 694
The iRobot Roomba 694 costs just under $160, but it is more than just an entry-level robovac. It has advanced sensors, dual multi-surface brushes, scheduling support, and more. It also automatically adapts when it has to clean other types of surfaces, whether carpets or hard floors. One of the caveats of the Roomba is that its sensors may not work that well in oddly-shaped areas like advanced models do, and it makes a considerable amount of noise.
Best Mid-Level: Eufy BoostIQ Robovac 11s
At under $188, the Eufy BoostIQ 11s can still pass as an entry-level robovac. But considering its advanced features and the fact that it’s originally priced at $230, yes, it’s a mid-level robot vacuum. Unlike the Roomba 694, it operates quietly and has a powerful 1300 Pa suction. Moreover, because of its slim build, it can easily slide under furniture to clean hard-to-reach areas and clean for 100 minutes per charge. Its triple-filter system also makes it a great robot vacuum for removing pet hair and dander.
One common complaint about the 11s is it dies after a couple of months of use. The customer service can help you with that one, but it could be a source of inconvenience.
Best Top-of-the-Line Model: iRobot S9 & Braava Jet M6 Combo
Remember when we warned you about having to spend over $1,000 on a top model? Well, here it is! However, apart from a robot vacuum, it also comes with a Braava Jet M6. That means this is a perfect gift for someone who cannot move around and clean the house thoroughly. It is also self-emptying and excels in cleaning the edges of a room.
Of course, even with its top features, you still have to set the table to maximize its function. For instance, you must clear the area first so that the robots can use their mapping capability. By the way, its outstanding navigation features only work with the lights on, so you shouldn’t just leave it there wallowing in the dark. Overall, though, if you could afford the price tag and have a pretty big house, this machine is perfect.
Something you might also consider: Roborock S4
The Roborock S4 is originally priced at $430 but is now down to $380 at some stores. If you can go over the original prices of the Roomba 694 and Eufy 11s, this may be a worthy model. It has a 2000 Pa suction power, functions as a mop/vacuum hybrid, and has LiDar navigation, a technology that enables it to maneuver even in dark areas.
Bottom Line
Giving knows no season. But quite honestly, it is more practical to give gifts during President’s Day or Black Friday than the Holiday season in December. Home improvement appliances and furniture are on sale, with some models going down as much as 70%. Well, you cannot expect that much of a bargain with modern machines like robotic vacuums. But still, allow yourself to be steered in the right direction, and you’ll find something that fits your goals and budget. You can thank us later!