With so many vacuum types on the market today, it can be tricky to determine the best fit for your home. For example, do you like to go for a robot vacuum cleaner that takes care of cleaning chores independently?
Or, you might lean towards a traditional vacuum more because of its stronger suction and more control over the appliance. If you are in a city like Dubai, where dust and dirt never seem to stop, the choice of the vacuum cleaner can impact the cleaning routine.
Let’s check out the details of robot vacuums vs. traditional ones so you can make an informed decision.
Introduction to Robot Vacuum Cleaners
These are the automatic vacuum cleaners designed to navigate and clean your floors. Robot vacuums don’t require much human input, by the way. Instead, they use cameras, sensors, and AI-powered technology. Thus, they can map out your residence to avoid falling off stairs and other edges.
Also, they can detect obstacles while dusting or mopping the floors. After a proper setup, your robot vacuum can stick to a specific schedule or clean particular rooms. Additionally, you can command the vacuum cleaner through voice commands or smartphone apps.
Here are some more unique features of robot vacuum cleaners:
- After programming, robot vacuums can clean automatically, unlike traditional Dyson vacuum cleaners.
- You can integrate robot vacuums with smart home devices and apps. Indeed, you can unlock easy scheduling and control.
- Also, robot vacuum cleaners are compact and lightweight. So, they can sneak under furniture and tight spots for better cleaning.
- Robot vacuums are self-charging devices. Most models go back to their charging stations when the battery hits the minimum.
- On the other hand, their advanced sensors help them detect obstacles and avoid them.
Pros and Cons of Having a Robot Vacuum Cleaner
Now, let’s review the advantages and disadvantages of a robot vacuum cleaner. So, you are aware of everything before making an important change in your vacuuming routine.
Pros:
- Nothing can be more convenient and time-saving than a robot vacuum. Simply schedule its routine, and the vacuum cleaner is good to go on its own. Hence, it’s an ideal choice for pet owners, busy individuals, and those who have limited time for cleaning.
- So, you get to enjoy a hands-on operation. Once programmed, you can relax or focus on other important tasks while the robot vacuum keeps cleaning.
- Another benefit of having a robot vacuum cleaner is its small and flat design. So, they can easily swoop into hard-to-reach areas where your traditional cordless vacuum cleaners can barely fit.
- Most robot vacuums come with smart features, so they can create a floor plan for your home. Hence, you get systematic spot cleaning.
- On the other hand, robot vacuums operate quietly, unlike traditional Eureka or Dyson vacuum cleaners. So, robot vacuum cleaners are perfect for cleaning your home in the middle of the night or early morning.
Cons:
- Without any controversy, you get less suction power if you choose automatic vacuum cleaners. So, you can’t deep clean your carpets or pick up large debris using a robot vacuum cleaner.
- Robot vacuum cleaners require emptying the bin, checking for tangled hair, and cleaning their brushes. Otherwise, their efficiency can deteriorate. In short, robot vacuum cleaners are high-maintenance.
- Compared to traditional models, robot vacuums come with shorter battery life. So, they might struggle to clean entire homes on a single charge, especially if used in larger houses.
- Though robot vacuum cleaners exhibit advanced mapping capabilities, larger homes require more frequent charging. Hence, it can take longer hours for automatic vacuum cleaners to cover the whole home.
What are Traditional Vacuum Cleaners?
Traditional ones typically include upright, stick, canister, stick, and handheld cordless vacuum models. Well, they are the classic choice for cleaning floors. Also, they require manual operation. For instance, you need to push, pull, and carry them across your home.
However, many traditional models are available with different attachments for specific vacuuming needs like upholstery, pet hair, etc. Moreover, their suction power varies depending on the model and design.
Here are the key features of traditional vacuum cleaners:
- Generally, traditional models are more versatile since they use various attachments. These attachments are for specialised cleaning tasks such as cleaning stairs, tight corners, upholstery, picking up pet hair, etc.
- If you favour powerful suction and deep cleaning, then traditional Dyson vacuum cleaners are the best choice. Even you can use them on carpets and rugs.
- Unlike robot vacuum cleaners, you can have precise control over traditional models. So, you can clean particular spots with more accuracy.
- Reportedly, traditional vacuum cleaners offer longer lifespans. Also, they are designed for heavy-duty use.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Vacuum Cleaners
Like the robot vacuum cleaners, traditional cordless vacuum cleaners have two flips. Let’s learn about the perks first.
Pros:
- Traditional (with-cord or cordless) vacuum cleaners offer stronger suction power than automatic vacuum cleaners. So, deep cleaning, thick carpet cleaning, and handling pet hair become easy with traditional models.
- Additionally, you can have more control over a traditional vacuum cleaner for cleaning tasks. Be it an open large area, upholstery, or stairs, you can directly use the vacuum where you need it.
- Moreover, traditional vacuum cleaners don’t depend on batteries, except for the cordless ones. Hence, you need not worry about losing power in the middle of the use.
- Corded traditional vacuum models are likely to have longer lifespans compared to robot ones. So, they are a better choice for frequent or heavy-duty use.
Cons:
- As you already know, using traditional Shark or Dyson vacuum cleaners requires you to manually pull, push, or carry the equipment around your home. Consequently, the whole process can be tiring and time-consuming.
- Upright traditional vacuum cleaners are bulkier, and they need more storage space. Hence, investing in such a vacuum cleaner is not right if you reside in a compact apartment.
- Unfortunately, traditional models don’t offer hands-free cleaning like robot vacuum cleaners. So, you might feel them to be less convenient.
- On the other hand, traditional vacuum cleaners make louder noises. Therefore, they can be disruptive, especially when you use them while others are working or napping.
Which Vacuum Cleaner is Right For You?
If you are thinking about a new purchase or upgrade, then you might be confused between a robot vacuum cleaner and a traditional model. Now, let’s find out which one should be your prime choice depending on your home’s layout, budget, cleaning preferences, and more.
Floor Types and Home Layout
Robot vacuum cleaners are known for their effective cleaning on hard floors like wood, laminate, or tile. So, you can choose a robot vacuum if your home is made up of these materials. However, selected models offer robust brushes and sensors to clean low-pile carpets.
However, if your home is covered with carpets or rugs, then a traditional model will do the justice for you. Indeed, they offer superior suction, and it’s perfect for deep cleaning rugs and carpets. Also, you can switch between carpet and hard floors for cleaning if you get a model with adjustable settings.
Budget
The cost of an automatic vacuum cleaner depends on suction power, battery life, smart features, etc. High-end models tend to have better qualities. So, you might have to compromise on features if you are tight on budget.
On the other hand, traditional vacuum cleaners offer more variety in terms of pricing. Budget models can be as low as AED 89. However, premium models can go as high as AED 699. Whatever you choose, make sure you settle down for more suction power, durability, and versatility at a price you can afford.
Pet Hair Cleaning
Robot vacuum cleaners are quite convenient for pet owners to maintain clear floors often. However, Eufy RoboVac or similar automatic vacuum cleaners may struggle with long pet hair. So, you might have to run frequent maintenance to clean out tangled hair from brushes.
On the contrary, traditional vacuum cleaners are available with specialised pet hair attachments. They are more efficient for managing stubborn pet hair, especially on stairs, upholstery, and carpets. Traditional models offer more versatility for areas with heavy shedding.
Maintenance Requirements
In terms of manual operation, robot vacuum cleaners are low maintenance. However, that’s not true if you pay attention to their upkeep. For example, you need to clean the brushes, empty the bin, and clean the clogs in the filter. Overlooking the maintenance can reduce its efficiency.
Whereas traditional cordless vacuum cleaners also require regular maintenance. For instance, you must clean filters or replace bags in bagged models. Also, high-end Dyson vacuum cleaners have self-cleaning filters and other components that are easy to access. So, maintenance becomes more straightforward.
Cleaning Needs
If you prefer light cleaning and daily maintenance, robot vacuums are great options. Also, automatic vacuum cleaners are perfect if you don’t have to deep clean every day.
In case you need a deep clean for high-traffic areas, a traditional vacuum is likely the better choice. In fact, they are designed for more intensive or specialised cleaning tasks.
Climate Considerations
In Dubai, dust and sand are a constant concern. Robot vacuums are great for light cleaning and daily dusting. So, you can program them to keep your home free from fine particles. Also, their small and compact size lets them reach tight spots.
However, robot vacuum cleaners are not equipped with the suction power you might be looking for. On a contrary note, traditional vacuum cleaners can tackle heavier debris like sand. So, you can switch to a traditional model if the dust buildup is significant.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Are you interested in smart home integration? Then, you can go for robot vacuums, as they offer app control, smart mapping, voice command compatibility, and comprehensive connectivity. So, robot vacuum cleaners are more convenient options if you want remote controls and smart features.
While smart features are limited in traditional models, newer iterations are welcoming Bluetooth connectivity and more. So, you can monitor its performance or adjust the configurations using a dedicated app. Still, they can’t offer complete hands-free operations.
So, What’s Your Choice?
As far as you see, the ultimate decision relies on your lifestyle, home layout, and cleaning requirements. In case you are looking for a more smart approach, convenience, and time-saving quality, then robot vacuum cleaners are the deal.
On the other hand, traditional vacuum cleaners are great for carpeted areas. Many people also find that a combination of both works great. Now, it’s your time to decide—no matter what your choice is, this will make your home fresher and healthier.