I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Robot Vacuum For Pet Hair (2023)

I recently decided to replace the carpeting in my home with LVT and was surprised to discover that the carpet had been hiding dog hair. Not wanting to constantly sweep, I decided to invest in a Roomba, specifically the 694 model, after reading reviews and comparing different brands.

Upon receiving the Roomba, I proceeded to set it up by connecting it to my router and downloading the app. The setup process was straightforward and allowed me to create different cleaning routines for various areas of my house. For its first cleaning, I chose to have it vacuum the dining room, which is elevated and separated from the living room.

During the cleaning process, I realized that I needed to make sure there was enough space for the Roomba to access all areas of the room, such as pulling out chairs from the table. It was fascinating to watch the Roomba in action and see it learn as it cleaned. At one point, it got stuck near the edge of the raised area, but it called for help and I was able to easily move it to another location.

After successfully cleaning the dining room, I decided to test the Roomba in a larger area that included the LVT flooring. Surprisingly, my dog, who had ignored the Roomba in the dining room, became curious and watched it as it cleaned the living room. It was interesting to see that she simply stepped out of the way when the Roomba approached her.

As the Roomba continued cleaning in the laundry room, it eventually ran out of battery and sent a message requesting to be returned to its base station. We found it in a corner, exhausted and in need of recharging. After emptying the dust bin, we placed it back on the base station to charge fully before using it again.

I recently purchased the robot vacuum and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. This vacuum is truly worth every penny and I highly recommend it to everyone. Even my wife agrees! As they say, happy wife, happy life. In fact, I'm thinking of buying another one for my upstairs.

When it comes to robot vacuums, I have realistic expectations. I understand that they perform best with small debris, so I don't make it pick up large debris. I've noticed that if you try to pick up large debris, it may get stuck or caught. However, for its intended purpose, this vacuum does a fantastic job.

One of the standout features of this robot vacuum is its Lidar technology. It works phenomenally well in mapping the house, with only a few hiccups that were mostly due to human error. The vacuum is able to efficiently route around obstacles, slowing down when necessary. If it bumps into anything, it's so light and cushioned that it's not a problem at all.

I would give this vacuum 5 stars overall. However, I do believe that there is room for improvement when it comes to deep cleaning and suction. But let's be realistic, it's a robot vacuum, so I didn't expect it to perform at the level of a traditional vacuum cleaner. It does a good job considering its limitations.

In terms of integration with smart home assistants, I believe it has Alexa integration, but personally, I use Google Assistant and it works great. So you have options depending on your preference.

I ordered this vacuum in July 2022 and received it at the end of the month. I wanted to give it some time before posting a review to see if the initial excitement would wear off, but it never did. This is my first robot vacuum and I can confidently say that it's one of the best purchases I've made this year.

When I first opened the box, I was tempted to start using it right away. However, after reading reviews of other robot vacuums, I realized the importance of reading the instructions first. This vacuum has some unique features and it's important to take proper care of it to avoid any potential damage. So my advice to anyone considering this vacuum is to read the instructions thoroughly and clean it regularly, as recommended by other reviewers.

Now, to address some common questions. Is it quiet? Well, it's a robot vacuum, so it's not completely silent. But it's definitely quieter than a regular vacuum cleaner. I can still watch TV while it runs, I just need to turn up the volume slightly.

As for its cleaning capabilities, it's important to remember that it's not designed to pick up everything. It performs best with small debris. So don't expect it to handle large debris effectively. However, for its intended purpose, it does a great job.

I have had the opportunity to test and compare several robotic vacuums, including high-end models like the Roomba, and I must say that the Shark IQ Robot Vacuum AV993 is truly impressive. It offers a range of advanced features that make it stand out from the competition.

One of the key differences I noticed is the navigation system. While cheaper models rely on basic collision sensors and move around in a somewhat haphazard manner, the Shark IQ vacuum utilizes optical sensors and vSLAM technology. This allows it to create a precise map of the cleaning area and clean in a more orderly and efficient manner. Additionally, higher-end models also use lasers to avoid objects and create custom maps, but unfortunately, this particular model does not have those features.

Setting up the Shark IQ vacuum was a breeze, and the accompanying app makes it even more convenient to use. The vacuum has a slim profile, allowing it to clean under furniture easily. The battery life is excellent, and I was able to clean an entire floor with 30% battery remaining. In comparison, some Roomba models often require recharging before completing a floor. The dust bin is also of good size, and the suction power is impressive, thanks to the high-efficiency filter. The side brushes turn slowly to capture particles effectively without flinging them around the room. Furthermore, I was pleased to find that the brush does not get tangled with hair, which is a common issue with many other vacuums.

The most important aspect for me was the navigation capabilities, and I can confidently say that the Shark IQ vacuum delivers. It cleans in rows, avoiding collisions with walls by stopping just before reaching them and gracefully turning around to continue cleaning. This is a significant improvement compared to other vacuums that tend to bump into furniture or walls. Moreover, it thoroughly cleans about 75% of the floor on its initial pass and then goes back to double-check and clean any missed spots. It even cleans hard-to-reach areas and edges of rooms effectively. I tested it on both hardwood and carpeted floors, and it performed exceptionally well in both cases. The accompanying map in the app provides a visual representation of the areas cleaned, which is a great feature to have.

The noise level of the Shark IQ vacuum is also relatively low compared to other vacuums I have used in the past. This is a welcome feature, especially if you plan on using it during quiet hours or when you're working from home.

The app offers additional functionalities such as scheduling cleanings, viewing previous cleaning maps, and sending the vacuum back to its dock. It also supports Recharge & Resume, allowing the vacuum to automatically recharge and resume cleaning if the battery runs low. Furthermore, you can control the vacuum using voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant.

I recently purchased the Shark robot vacuum after conducting extensive research to find a solution for my fur-filled home. With a golden retriever and three cats, I have an abundance of animal fur to contend with, especially on my hardwood floors. Sweeping multiple times a day was becoming tiresome, which led me to explore the world of robot vacuums.

The suction power of the Shark robot vacuum is exceptional, almost to the point of being too powerful. I frequently need to clear the brush due to the amount of fur it collects. However, the dustbin has a generous capacity, allowing me to empty it less frequently than anticipated. Setting up the vacuum was a breeze, and I appreciate the convenience of the accompanying app, which enables me to operate the Shark even when I am not at home.

While the Shark lacks specific mapping capabilities or the ability to clean specific areas, I initially did not consider these features necessary, and I still find them unnecessary at this point. However, the vacuum does offer the option to adjust suction power, which proves beneficial on days when there is an abundance of kid crumbs and shedding from my pets. Setting it on full power ensures a thorough cleaning.

One standout feature of the Shark robot vacuum is its self-emptying capability. After a designated amount of time, it automatically returns to its base to empty its contents. I have configured it to recharge and then resume cleaning afterward. This feature has been a time-saver and a relief for my back, eliminating the need for me to sweep multiple times daily.

The Shark robot vacuum is adept at maneuvering into various areas, although there are instances where it appears to become momentarily "confused" and may miss a spot. However, it typically rectifies this on subsequent runs, so I am unsure if this is a sensor issue or a minor glitch.

In comparison to my previous robot vacuum, the Shark outperforms it in every aspect. The previous vacuum would frequently get stuck without any means of alerting me, ultimately draining its battery completely. Additionally, it required frequent emptying after each run and was not as efficient at covering every inch of a room. The self-emptying feature of the Shark, coupled with its efficiency, has truly exceeded my expectations.

I was initially skeptical about robotic vacuums, considering them to be nothing more than gimmicks. However, after receiving one as a Christmas gift, I was pleasantly surprised and ended up purchasing two more. With all hard flooring and multiple pets contributing to the mess, I found myself constantly sweeping or vacuuming to keep up with the pet hair and debris. The robots have been a game-changer, saving me countless hours of cleaning and delivering better results.

I have three robots in total. The first one, Finigan, is a smaller model and vacuums in a random pattern. While he does a great job, his battery tends to run out before completing the entire space. I decided to use him in the smaller bedroom area, where he spends about 45 minutes thoroughly cleaning. I do need to manually empty his cup every day, but it only takes a couple of minutes. Initially, the cup was almost full, but after a few months of daily vacuuming, it's only about a quarter full. So, I adjusted his schedule to three times a week, and he still effectively maintains cleanliness.

The second robot, Dixie, is an i3+ model. She covers the downstairs area and operates in a more methodical and planned straight line pattern. After an initial learning phase, where she spent about 1.5 hours exploring, she now completes the job in about 45 minutes. Dixie effortlessly navigates around open and closed doors, skipping the closed ones. Once she finishes, she returns to her base and the collected debris is automatically sucked out. The base is a fantastic feature as it reduces the need for daily maintenance. I only need to change the bag every few months, making it a convenient and efficient solution for keeping the downstairs area clean.

Lastly, I acquired Nick, an i4+ model, for the upstairs area. Nick is similar to Dixie in terms of planning and mapping capabilities, making him a smart and efficient cleaner. Despite the upstairs area being the most heavily used and prone to dirt and fur, Nick gets the job done quickly, completing the cleaning in just 50 minutes. Like Dixie, he also returns to his base for automatic debris disposal. While I occasionally need to manually clean hard-to-reach areas under furniture, Nick significantly reduces my overall cleaning workload.

With three robots working for over three hours each day, I have experienced a significant reduction in the time and effort required to maintain a clean home. Once they have thoroughly cleaned the entire house for a couple of months, I can even reduce their cleaning schedule to three times a week. The robots' brushes effectively reach corners and edges, surpassing my manual sweeping or vacuuming efforts. The consistent daily cleaning effort pays off in the long run.

I truly cannot imagine going back to manually cleaning my floors. Reflecting on the hours I spent on this task, I now consider it a thing of the past. These robots have revolutionized my cleaning routine, allowing me to enjoy a clean home without the labor-intensive work. I eagerly look forward to sharing stories with my grandchildren about the "good old days" of manually sweeping floors, just like I reminisce about walking to school uphill in the snow and using rotary phones.

I recently purchased Simon, a robot floor cleaner, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. From the moment I opened the box, I was captivated by its sleek design and modern features. The user manual advised me to let Simon charge overnight before its first use, but my curiosity got the better of me, and I couldn't resist testing it right away. It operated flawlessly for about ten minutes, showcasing its efficiency and effectiveness.

Initially, I struggled to figure out how to direct Simon back to its charging station, but to my surprise, it was able to find its way home effortlessly. However, I do recommend taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the remote control and instructions to maximize your experience. After approximately four hours of charging, Simon was fully powered and ready to tackle the task at hand.

I must admit, I had underestimated the cleanliness of my floors before Simon entered the scene. It effortlessly collected an astonishing amount of fur, dirt, and dust, leaving my floors spotless. Even hard-to-reach areas under the bed were no longer a concern, as Simon effortlessly navigated through them. With hardwood and tile floors, Simon performed exceptionally well, effortlessly gliding over throw rugs of various thicknesses. Although it occasionally turned up a corner, it promptly corrected itself and continued its cleaning routine.

It's worth noting that Simon may encounter difficulties accessing certain areas, such as rooms with humps or elevated entry points. However, this is a minor inconvenience for me, as I prefer to have control over when it enters certain spaces. I simply place a bar stool to block its path when necessary. Despite lacking a predefined cleaning pattern, Simon demonstrates remarkable thoroughness, ensuring that no area is left untouched. Trusting its autonomous navigation proves to be the key to achieving a spotless floor.

Simon's sensors are a valuable feature, allowing it to detect furniture and walls, reducing the risk of damage. When encountering obstacles, it slows down, gently bumping into them before changing direction. Additionally, it showcases its attention to detail by maneuvering in circles around chair and table legs to ensure a comprehensive clean.

Once Simon completes its cleaning cycle, it autonomously returns to its charging station. However, it is important to provide it with sufficient space to navigate. Clearing a few feet in front and to the sides of the charging station ensures a smooth return. Furthermore, it is advisable to empty the dust bin after each use to maintain optimal performance.

One unexpected benefit of having Simon is the motivation it provides to maintain a clean environment. Its impressive cleaning abilities inspire me to tidy up the entire house, ultimately creating a domino effect of cleanliness.

The only minor drawback of Simon is its noise level, which is not excessively loud but may require adjusting the volume of the television slightly when running it in the background. However, this is a small price to pay for the exceptional service it provides.

securely in place. It would be great if the app could allow us to set specific areas as no-go zones so that the robot doesn't get stuck or go into places where it shouldn't.

– While the mapping feature is efficient, there are times when the robot still misses certain spots, especially on carpets. It's not a big issue for us since we have mostly hardwood floors, but if you have a lot of carpets, this might be a drawback.

– The robot requires you to keep your floors free of obstacles in order for it to clean efficiently. This means picking up toys, moving chairs, and keeping the floors clear. While this has helped us develop better cleanliness habits, some people might find it inconvenient or disruptive to their daily routines.

– The robot does a great job of picking up dust and hair, but it may struggle with larger debris. Although it generally handles larger debris well, there have been instances where some things were missed during the first go-around. However, this is a minor issue for us as it doesn't happen frequently.

– The app, while helpful overall, could use some improvements. It lacks a no-go zone feature, which would be useful in managing the robot's path. The magnet strips provided with the robot are not always effective in preventing the robot from going into unwanted areas. Adding a no-go zone feature would greatly enhance the overall experience.

– Finally, the maintenance routine for the robot is relatively simple and quick, with the need to empty the dust bin only once a month. However, it's important to remember to do a monthly maintenance check and clean the filter. This routine takes about 5 minutes and is much easier than using a bulky vacuum cleaner.

I recently purchased this robot vacuum and I have been pleasantly surprised by its performance. The build quality is good and it is very easy to handle. It comes with an infrared remote control that allows you to select different cleaning modes.

One of the features I really like is the Auto mode. In this mode, the vacuum moves randomly around the floor and effectively cleans the edges and corners of the room. It also has Spot cleaning mode, Zig-zag cleaning, Edge cleaning, and manual cleaning modes, giving you the flexibility to choose the cleaning method that suits your needs.

The vacuum is equipped with anti-drop sensors that detect stairs and change directions to avoid falling down. This is a great safety feature, especially if you have stairs in your home. When the battery needs recharging, it automatically goes back to the charging station, saving you the hassle of manually recharging it.

I haven't used the wet mop feature, but the dust box is easy to remove and clean. The rotating brushes and filter are replaceable if needed, which is a convenient feature.

I have two large dogs that shed a lot, and this vacuum has exceeded my expectations in handling their fur. It does a fantastic job of keeping my floors clean, even with the amount of dog hair that accumulates. I have all hard floors in my house, and I must say that this little vacuum has done an exceptional job.

Although it doesn't have Wi-Fi connectivity, the auto button on the vacuum is sufficient for my needs. It cleans better than I expected and hasn't gotten clogged once. Occasionally, it may get stuck on something, but overall, it performs well.

The mop function is decent, and I use it about twice a week. However, you need to keep an eye on it and clean the mop pad 2 to 3 times per session. Sometimes, the mop pad may slip off, so you need to be cautious about that. I would say it mops about 70% as well as our Bissell CrossWave mop does.

One thing to note is that the vacuum doesn't identify obstacles very well. It tends to run into them and then go in the opposite direction. It may suck up papers and similar items, so you need to ensure your floors are clear of such objects. Additionally, if you have a puppy, be cautious as it may vacuum up their waste and create a mess.

If you're considering purchasing a Roomba, I highly recommend it. This review aims to provide objective insights and practical tips to ensure you make the most of your investment. From waiting for sales to maintaining your Roomba, here's everything you need to know.

1. Wait for Sales:

Patience pays off when it comes to buying a Roomba. Keep an eye out for Prime Day or similar sales events where you can find significant discounts. In Seattle, Amazon often offers special deals on Roombas, making it worthwhile to wait for these opportunities.

2. Stick to Genuine Parts:

When it comes to replacement parts, it's essential to purchase only genuine iRobot products. While knockoff versions may seem enticing due to their lower prices, they are generally of inferior quality. These fake parts can impact the performance and lifespan of your Roomba. For example, cheaper air filters may not seal correctly, allowing dust to enter the machine. Investing in iRobot products will save you from potential issues down the line.

3. Regular Maintenance:

To ensure optimal performance, develop a maintenance routine for your Roomba. After each use, clean the air filter with a toothbrush to prevent dust clogs. Replace the filter every three months to maintain efficient suction. Additionally, consider doing a deep cleaning of your Roomba every six months. Carefully remove the front cover using appropriate tools, such as a mini flathead and a small Phillips screwdriver. Pay extra attention to cleaning the small screw that attaches the spinning brush, as hair accumulation can hinder its functionality.

4. Realistic Expectations:

Some negative reviews focus on the shelf life of Roombas, often blaming pets or lack of durability. It's important to set realistic expectations and understand that regular maintenance is crucial for any machine's longevity. Roombas, while less complex than cars, still face wear and tear from dirt, hair, and dust. Like any appliance, proper care and maintenance are essential for optimal performance.

Investing just one hour every three months in maintaining your Roomba can save you over 50 hours of vacuuming per year. The Roomba may not clean itself, but with a little effort on your part, it will continue to purr like new. Remember to take advantage of sales, purchase genuine parts, and establish a regular maintenance routine. By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of the Roomba for years to come.

Disclaimer: This review is completely unbiased and solely based on personal experience. I have no affiliation with iRobot or any related company.

I am thrilled with my robot vacuum, Elvis. Not only is he a cleaning powerhouse, but he also handles the shedding of my Hound Dog with ease. Elvis runs every couple of days, ensuring that my home stays spotless like a museum, without any traces of dirt or hair. Unlike the famous song "In the Ghetto," Elvis keeps my living space immaculate.

With an open plan home spanning 885 ft2, Elvis effortlessly navigates through my kitchen, dining area, living room, front entryway, and back door. During his 90-minute cleaning cycle, he quickly learned his way around, although he did initially get stuck on the sliding glass door rails. However, on the second day, he seemed to have learned from his previous experience and avoided any obstacles. I was impressed by the battery power, which still had 40% remaining after completing the cleaning session.

The vacuum suction can be adjusted through the app, and I have found the mid suction setting to be perfect for my needs. It effectively picks up everything from the floor, with the exception of a piece of tissue paper that was swiftly dealt with by Elvis's brush. Cleaning the vacuum is a breeze as well, with instructions recommending cleaning the wheels and other parts outside of the vacuum. I follow this advice by using a Clorox wipe once a week and regularly emptying the trap, which is consistently full of hair, dirt, crumbs, and random paper. The mesh filter is easily cleaned with a small paintbrush.

I am extremely satisfied with my decision to purchase Elvis. This little robot vacuum allows me to focus on other tasks while it takes care of the big cleaning job. The convenience of having a clean house daily is invaluable to me.

Elvis surpasses my previous Roomba in several aspects. Firstly, he is much quieter, allowing me to go about my day without any disturbance. Secondly, he demonstrates superior intelligence by mapping the area as he cleans and following a pattern, unlike the erratic cleaning style of my previous Roomba. Additionally, Elvis rarely gets stuck, and I can even command him to clean specific rooms through Alexa integration. The dirt bin is spacious and the rollers do not get tangled with hair, which was a common issue with my previous Roomba. Considering the improved performance and lower cost compared to a Roomba, my experience with Elvis has been exceptional.