As a pet owner, you know the struggle of keeping your home clean and free from fur. Enter the Roomba – a robotic vacuum designed to make your life easier. But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the best Roomba for pet hair? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and keep your home fur-free.
Understanding the Pet Hair Cleaning Challenge
Before we dive into the world of Roombas, let’s take a moment to understand why pet hair poses such a unique cleaning challenge.
The Nature of Pet Hair
Pet hair isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a persistent problem that requires specialized cleaning solutions. Unlike human hair, pet fur is often finer, lighter, and more prone to becoming airborne. It can easily embed itself in carpets, cling to upholstery, and find its way into the most unexpected corners of your home.
Different pets shed differently. For instance:
- Dogs typically shed seasonally, with heavier shedding in spring and fall.
- Cats tend to shed year-round, with slight increases during season changes.
- Some breeds, like Siberian Huskies or Maine Coons, are known for shedding more than others.
This constant influx of fur can quickly overwhelm traditional vacuum cleaners, leading to clogged filters and reduced suction power.
Why Regular Vacuums Fall Short
While standard vacuums can handle occasional pet hair, they often struggle with the volume and persistence of fur from our furry friends. Common issues include:
- Tangled Brushrolls: Pet hair can wrap around brush rollers, reducing their effectiveness and requiring frequent cleaning.
- Clogged Filters: The fine particles in pet dander can quickly clog filters, diminishing suction power.
- Inadequate Suction: Many regular vacuums lack the power to lift embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
- Limited Reach: Traditional vacuums may struggle to access areas where pet hair accumulates, like under furniture or in corners.
Enter the Roomba
This is where Roombas shine. These robotic vacuums are designed with features that specifically address the challenges of pet hair:
- Powerful Suction: To lift stubborn pet hair from various surfaces.
- Tangle-Resistant Brushes: Specially designed to prevent hair from wrapping around and clogging the brush roll.
- HEPA Filtration: To trap fine pet dander and allergens.
- Smart Navigation: To reach those hard-to-access areas where pet hair likes to hide.
- Regular Automated Cleaning: To keep up with constant shedding.
Now that we understand why Roombas are a game-changer for pet owners, let’s explore the key features you should look for when choosing the best Roomba for your furry household.
Key Features to Look for in Pet Hair Roombas
When shopping for a Roomba to tackle pet hair, certain features can make a significant difference in performance. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
1. Suction Power
The heart of any vacuum cleaner is its suction power, and this is especially crucial when dealing with pet hair. Look for Roombas with:
- High-power motors: These provide the necessary force to lift embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
- Multiple power settings: Some models offer boost modes for tackling areas with heavy pet hair accumulation.
- Consistent suction: The best Roombas maintain strong suction even as the dustbin fills up.
2. Brush Design
The brush system is your Roomba’s first line of defense against pet hair. Key features include:
- Tangle-free brushes: These are designed to prevent long pet hair from wrapping around and clogging the brushroll.
- Dual-brush systems: Many high-end Roombas use two counter-rotating brushes to lift and capture more debris.
- Self-cleaning brushes: Some models have brushes that actively prevent hair accumulation, reducing maintenance needs.
3. HEPA Filtration
For pet owners, especially those with allergies, a high-quality filtration system is crucial. Look for:
- True HEPA filters: These can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pet dander and allergens.
- Washable filters: These allow for easy maintenance and can save you money on replacements.
- Multi-stage filtration: This ensures that even the finest pet hair and dander are trapped inside the Roomba.
4. Smart Mapping and Navigation
Efficient navigation ensures your Roomba covers all areas where pet hair accumulates. Advanced features include:
- Smart mapping technology: This allows the Roomba to create and store maps of your home for more efficient cleaning.
- Object detection: Advanced sensors help the Roomba navigate around furniture and avoid getting stuck.
- Cliff detection: Essential for homes with stairs to prevent falls.
- Zone cleaning: This feature allows you to target specific areas needing extra attention due to pet traffic.
5. Dustbin Capacity
With pets, you’ll likely need to empty your Roomba more frequently. Look for:
- Large dustbin capacity: This allows for longer cleaning sessions without interruption.
- Easy-to-empty designs: Some models have lift-out bins for simple disposal of collected pet hair.
- Self-emptying capabilities: High-end models can automatically empty themselves into a larger bin, reducing your maintenance tasks.
6. Battery Life and Recharge Behavior
To keep up with constant shedding, your Roomba needs to be cleaned consistently. Consider:
- Long battery life: Look for models that can clean for at least 60-90 minutes on a single charge.
- Recharge and resume: This feature allows the Roomba to recharge and continue cleaning where it left off automatically.
- Quick charging: Some models can quickly top up their battery for shorter cleaning cycle interruptions.
Now that we’ve covered the essential features, let’s dive into the top Roomba models specifically great for tackling pet hair.
Top Roomba Models for Pet Hair
iRobot offers several Roomba models that excel at handling pet hair. Here’s a detailed look at the top contenders:
Roomba i7+
The Roomba i7+ is a powerhouse when it comes to tackling pet hair. Here’s why it stands out:
- ALWAYS GETTING SMARTER - Quality that lasts; Intelligence that grows; equipped with advanced hardware capable of...
- COMPLETE CONTROL OF YOUR CLEAN - With Smart Mapping, your robot knows your kitchen from your living room, so you...
- Roomba, CLEAN MY KITCHEN - Enjoy hands-free control with Alexa and the Google assistant*
Key Features:
- Smart mapping technology for efficient navigation
- Automatic dirt disposal system
- High-efficiency filter captures 99% of pet allergens
- Dual multi-surface rubber brushes resist tangling
Performance on Pet Hair: The i7+ excels at picking up pet hair from both carpets and hard floors. Its rubber brushes are particularly effective at agitating and lifting fur without getting tangled. The smart mapping feature ensures it covers your entire home systematically, leaving no fur ball behind.
Pros:
- Self-emptying base reduces maintenance
- Excellent navigation and mapping capabilities
- Powerful suction for thorough cleaning
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons:
- Higher price point
- The self-emptying base can be noisy
Best For: Pet owners who want a low-maintenance, high-performance robot vacuum and don’t mind investing in a premium model.
Roomba s9+
The s9+ is iRobot’s top-of-the-line model, designed for the toughest cleaning jobs.
- A DEEP, DETAILED CLEAN. Groundbreaking technology makes the s9+ our legacy powerhouse robot vacuum. With 40x more...
- EMPTIES ITS VACUUM BIN, SO CLEANING IS OFF YOUR MIND - Cleans up after itself, emptying its Vacuum Bin into an...
- CLEANS WHEN AND WHERE YOU WANT - Only IRobot brings you Imprint Smart Mapping allowing you to control and schedule...
Key Features:
- D-shaped design for better corner and edge cleaning
- 40x suction power compared to 600-series Roombas
- Advanced 3D sensors for precise navigation
- Automatic dirt disposal system
Performance on Pet Hair: The s9+ is a pet hair powerhouse. Its strong suction and unique shape allow it to get into corners where pet hair often accumulates. The rubber brushes are excellent at picking up fur without tangling.
Pros:
- Unmatched suction power
- Excellent at cleaning corners and edges
- Self-emptying capability
- Advanced smart mapping and zone cleaning
Cons:
- Most expensive Roomba model
- Can be louder than other models due to powerful suction
Best For: Pet owners with multiple pets or those dealing with heavy shedding who want the absolute best cleaning performance.
Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 offers a balance of features and affordability, making it a popular choice for pet owners.
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Key Features:
- Visual navigation for efficient cleaning paths
- 5x suction power compared to 600-series Roombas
- Compatible with iRobot HOME app for scheduling and reports
- High-efficiency filter for capturing allergens
Performance on Pet Hair: While not as powerful as the i7+ or s9+, the 960 still does an admirable job with pet hair. Its stronger suction compared to base models allows it to lift fur effectively from various surfaces.
Pros:
- Good balance of features and price
- Efficient cleaning pattern
- Tangle-free extractors handle pet hair well
- Wi-Fi connectivity for smart home integration
Cons:
- No self-emptying capability
- Less advanced mapping compared to newer models
Best For: Pet owners looking for solid performance at a more accessible price point.
Roomba 675 (Budget Option)
For those on a tighter budget, the Roomba 675 offers basic but effective cleaning for homes with pets.
- Capacity volume - .6 liter. Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
- Clean and schedule from anywhere with the iRobot HOME App; compatible with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant
- Patented 3-Stage Cleaning System and Dual Multi-Surface Brushes pick up everything from small particles to large...
Key Features:
- 3-stage cleaning system
- Dirt Detect sensors focus on high-traffic areas
- Auto-adjust cleaning head adapts to different floor types
- Wi-Fi connectivity for app control and scheduling
Performance on Pet Hair: While it may not have the advanced features of higher-end models, the 675 can still effectively clean up pet hair, especially with regular use. It’s particularly good on hard floors and low-pile carpets.
Pros:
- An affordable entry point into Roomba technology
- Good performance on hard floors
- Easy to use and maintain
- Wi-Fi connectivity at a lower price point
Cons:
- Less powerful suction compared to higher-end models
- No smart mapping or zone cleaning
- Smaller dustbin capacity
Best For: Pet owners on a budget or those new to robot vacuums who want to test the waters without a significant investment.
Comparison of Models
To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare these Roomba models across key factors:
Cleaning Performance
- Suction Power:
- s9+: Highest (40x power of 600 series)
- i7+: Very High (10x power of 600 series)
- 960: High (5x power of 600 series)
- 675: Standard
- Effectiveness on Pet Hair:
- s9+: Excellent on all surfaces
- i7+: Very Good on all surfaces
- 960: Good on most surfaces
- 675: Fair, better on hard floors
Smart Features
- Mapping and Navigation:
- s9+: Advanced 3D sensors, best-in-class mapping
- i7+: Imprint Smart Mapping
- 960: Visual navigation
- 675: Basic navigation with Dirt Detect
- App Control and Scheduling:
- All models offer app control and scheduling
- s9+ and i7+ offer more advanced features like zone cleaning
- Voice Control:
- All models compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- s9+ and i7+ offer more voice command options
Price Points
- s9+: Premium pricing ($999 – $1299)
- i7+: High-end pricing ($799 – $999)
- 960: Mid-range pricing ($499 – $649)
- 675: Budget-friendly ($249 – $349)
Note: Prices may vary based on retailer and promotions
Best for Different Home Types
- Large Homes with Multiple Pets: s9+ or i7+ for their advanced navigation and self-emptying capabilities
- Medium-sized Homes with 1-2 Pets: 960 offers a good balance of performance and price
- Small Apartments or Homes with 1 Pet: 675 can be sufficient, especially if mainly hard floors
This comparison should help you weigh the features against your specific needs and budget. Remember, investing in a more advanced model can pay off in terms of cleaning efficiency and reduced maintenance over time, especially in homes with multiple pets or heavy shedders.
User Experience and Maintenance
Owning a Roomba isn’t just about the cleaning performance; it’s also about how well it integrates into your daily life and how much maintenance it requires. Let’s explore these aspects:
Setup Process
Setting up a Roomba is generally straightforward, but the process can vary slightly between models:
- Unboxing and Assembly:
- Most Roombas come pre-assembled
- For models with self-emptying bases (i7+ and s9+), you’ll need to set up the base station
- Charging:
- Place your Roomba on the charging dock
- Initial charge can take up to 3 hours
- Wi-Fi Connection:
- Download the iRobot HOME app
- Follow in-app instructions to connect your Roomba to Wi-Fi
- Mapping (for advanced models):
- i7+ and s9+ will need to run a few cleaning cycles to create a smart map of your home
- You can name rooms and create no-go zones in the app
App Control and Scheduling
The iRobot HOME app is a central hub for controlling and monitoring your Roomba:
- Scheduling: Set up recurring cleaning schedules
- Remote Start/Stop: Control your Roomba from anywhere
- Cleaning Reports: View cleaning coverage and duration
- Smart Map Management: For i7+ and s9+, manage room layouts and cleaning preferences
- Maintenance Tracking: Get notifications for filter changes and other maintenance tasks
Noise Levels
Roomba noise levels can vary:
- Standard Operation: Most Roombas operate at around 60-70 decibels (similar to a normal conversation)
- Carpet Boost: Noise may increase on carpets as suction power increases
- Self-Emptying: Models with automatic dirt disposal (i7+ and s9+) can be quite loud during the emptying process (around 80 decibels)
Tip: Schedule cleanings when you’re out of the house if noise is a concern.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
To keep your Roomba performing at its best, regular maintenance is key:
- Filter Replacement:
- Frequency: Every 2 months for homes with pets
- Process: Remove the old filter and snap in a new one
- Tip: Tap the old filter against your trash container to remove debris before replacing
- Brush Cleaning:
- Frequency: Weekly for homes with pets
- Process:
- Remove the brush cage
- Clear hair and debris from brushes and end caps
- For rubber brushes (i7+ and s9+), wipe clean with a dry cloth
- Tip: Use scissors to cut away tangled hair before removing it
- Battery Care:
- Keep your Roomba on the charging dock when not in use
- Avoid exposing the Roomba to extreme temperatures
- If storing long-term, remove the battery and store in a cool, dry place
- Sensors and Wheels:
- Frequency: Monthly
- Process: Clean sensors and wheels with a dry cloth
- Tip: Pay special attention to cliff sensors to ensure accurate navigation
- Dustbin Maintenance:
- For non-self-emptying models: Empty after each use
- For self-emptying models: Replace the disposal bag every 1-2 months
- Wipe the bin with a dry cloth regularly
By following these maintenance steps, you can ensure your Roomba continues to effectively tackle pet hair and other debris, maintaining a clean home with minimal effort on your part.
Addressing Common Issues
Even the best Roombas can encounter issues from time to time, especially in homes with pets. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Connectivity Problems
If your Roomba is having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi:
- Ensure your Wi-Fi network is working and broadcasting on 2.4GHz (some Roombas don’t support 5GHz).
- Restart your router and Roomba.
- Move the Roomba closer to the router during setup.
- Check for interference from other electronic devices.
- Update the Roomba’s firmware through the iRobot HOME app.
If problems persist, contact iRobot customer support for further assistance.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery issues can significantly impact your Roomba’s performance:
- Short Battery Life:
- Ensure the Roomba is charging properly when docked.
- Clean the charging contacts on both the Roomba and the dock.
- Consider replacing the battery if it’s more than 2-3 years old.
- Roomba Not Returning to Dock:
- Ensure the dock is in an open area with clear paths on all sides.
- Clean the Roomba’s sensors and the dock’s infrared window.
- Manually place the Roomba near the dock to help it reorient.
Dealing with Tangled Hair
Despite anti-tangle features, pet hair can sometimes still wrap around brushes:
- Regular Cleaning: Remove and clean brushes weekly in homes with pets.
- Use Brush Cleaning Tools: Many Roombas come with a hair removal tool.
- Consider Upgrading: Newer models like the i7+ and s9+ have improved anti-tangle brushes.
Navigating Different Floor Types
Roombas can sometimes struggle to transition between floor types:
- Ensure Smooth Transitions: Use transition strips between different flooring types.
- Clean Sensors: Dirty sensors can cause navigation issues.
- Create No-Go Zones: Use the app (on compatible models) to avoid problematic areas.
Roomba vs. Competitors for Pet Hair
While Roombas are excellent for pet hair, it’s worth considering how they stack up against other robot vacuum brands:
Roomba vs. Shark
Similarities:
- Both offer models with self-emptying bases
- Comparable prices at various tiers
Differences:
- Roomba generally has better smart mapping features
- Shark often has larger dust bins in non-self-emptying models
Pet Hair Performance: Roomba’s rubber brushes often outperform Shark’s bristle brushes for pet hair, especially in preventing tangles.
Roomba vs. Neato
Similarities:
- Both offer advanced navigation and mapping
- Comparable cleaning performance on pet hair
Differences:
- Neato’s D-shape design (similar to Roomba s9+) is good for corners
- Roomba offers more model options at various price points
Pet Hair Performance: Both perform well, but Roomba’s wider availability of replacement parts can be advantageous for long-term maintenance in pet-heavy households.
Roomba vs. Eufy
Similarities:
- Both offer budget-friendly options
- Good performance on hard floors
Differences:
- Roomba has more advanced features in higher-end models
- Eufy often has quieter operation
Pet Hair Performance: While both can handle pet hair, Roomba’s more powerful suction in higher-end models gives it an edge for homes with heavy shedders.
Unique Roomba Features for Pet Owners
- iRobot Genius™ Home Intelligence: Learns your cleaning habits and suggests personalized schedules.
- Imprint™ Link Technology: Allows Roomba to communicate with Braava jet mops for sequential vacuuming and mopping.
- Dirt Detect™ Technology: Focuses extra attention on high-traffic areas where pets often leave more hair and dander.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right Roomba for your pet-filled home involves considering several factors:
Factors to Consider
- Home Size:
- Smaller homes: Roomba 675 or 960
- Larger homes: i7+ or s9+ for better navigation and self-emptying
- Floor Types:
- Primarily hard floors: Any model will work well
- The mix of carpets and hard floors: Consider i7+ or s9+ for better transitioning and suction adjustment
- Number and Type of Pets:
- One short-haired pet: Roomba 675 or 960 might suffice
- Multiple pets or long-haired breeds: Invest in i7+ or s9+ for better handling of high volumes of hair
- Allergies:
- If pet allergies are a concern, opt for models with HEPA filters like the i7+ or s9+
- Budget:
- Determine your price range and balance features with cost
- Consider long-term savings from reduced manual vacuuming time
- Smart Home Integration:
- All Wi-Fi-connected Roombas work with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Higher-end models offer more advanced voice control options
Where to Buy
- Online Retailers:
- Amazon: Wide selection, competitive pricing, and fast shipping
- iRobot.com: Direct from the manufacturer, sometimes exclusive bundles or models
- Best Buy, Walmart, Target: Often have good deals and easy return policies
- In-Store:
- Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond: Opportunity to see models in person
- Local appliance stores: Might offer personalized service and advice
Tip: Check multiple retailers for the best price, and look for bundle deals that include extra filters or brushes.
Warranty and Support Options
- Standard Warranty: Most Roombas come with a 1-year limited warranty
- Extended Warranty: Available for purchase, can be worth it for higher-end models
- Robert Care: Premium support plan offering priority service and accidental damage coverage
Customer Support:
- iRobot offers support via phone, email, and live chat
- Troubleshooting guides and video tutorials are available on the iRobot website
Seasonal Deals and Discounts
- Black Friday/Cyber Monday: Often the best time for significant discounts
- Amazon Prime Day: Good opportunity for deals on Roombas
- Spring Cleaning Season: Look for promotions around March-April
- Holiday Sales: Christmas, Labor Day, and Memorial Day often feature Roomba deals
Tip: Sign up for newsletters from iRobot and major retailers to be notified of upcoming sales.
Future of Roombas for Pet Hair
As technology advances, we can expect even better solutions for pet hair cleaning from Roomba. Here’s a glimpse into what the future might hold:
Upcoming Models and Innovations
- AI-Powered Pet Hair Detection: Future Roombas might use AI to identify areas with high pet hair concentration and adjust cleaning patterns accordingly.
- Enhanced Self-Cleaning Mechanisms: We may see improvements in how Roombas prevent hair tangling, potentially with self-cleaning brushes.
- Improved Allergen Filtration: As air quality becomes a greater concern, expect advancements in HEPA filtration and perhaps even air purification features.
- Integration with Pet Care: Roombas could potentially track pet activity and adjust cleaning schedules based on your pet’s habits.
Emerging Technologies in Robot Vacuums
- Advanced Obstacle Recognition: Using machine learning to better identify and navigate around pet toys, food bowls, and other pet-related items.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Future models might use more sustainable materials in construction, appealing to environmentally conscious pet owners.
- Multi-Function Capabilities: We might see Roombas that can both vacuum and mop or even sanitize floors, addressing multiple pet-related cleaning needs.
- Enhanced Smart Home Integration: Deeper integration with other smart home devices for a more comprehensive pet care and cleaning system.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Roomba for pet hair ultimately depends on your specific needs, home environment, and budget. Here’s a quick recap of our top picks:
- Best Overall: Roomba s9+
- Unmatched suction power and corner cleaning ability
- Best Value: Roomba i7+
- Excellent performance with self-emptying at a more accessible price point
- Best Mid-Range: Roomba 960
- Good balance of features and affordability
- Best Budget: Roomba 675
- Solid performance for its price, great for smaller homes or as a secondary cleaner
Remember, while these robot vacuums are excellent tools for managing pet hair, they work best as part of a comprehensive cleaning routine. Regular grooming of your pets, using pet hair-resistant fabrics, and occasional deep cleaning can all contribute to a cleaner, more comfortable home for both you and your furry friends.
Investing in a Roomba designed to handle pet hair can significantly reduce the time and effort you spend cleaning, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with your pets. As technology continues to advance, we can look forward to even more innovative solutions that make living with pets easier and cleaner than ever before.
Whether you’re dealing with a constantly shedding St. Bernard or a few cats leaving fur on every surface, there’s a Roomba out there that can help keep your home clean and fresh. Happy cleaning, pet lovers!