Start with your floor types, home size, pet hair levels and the obstacles or thresholds between rooms. Then compare suction, mopping system, navigation, obstacle avoidance, edge cleaning and whether the dock can empty dust, wash and dry mop pads or refill water.

Many models can clean mixed flooring and lift or adjust their mop system when carpet is detected, but performance and carpet clearance vary. Check the product specifications for your carpet pile, thresholds and any areas that may need no-go zones in the app.

Routine care usually includes emptying or replacing dust bags, refilling clean water, disposing of dirty water, washing filters and removing hair from brushes and wheels Self-maintaining docking stations reduce daily upkeep, but both the robot and its base station still require regular cleaning.