Are Robot Vacuums Good For Hardwood Floors?

Published by Bassam Mohammed on September 19, 2022 | Last updated on May 13, 2023

If you’re considering buying a robot vacuum, you might wonder “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors?”. Since robot vacuums can be pricy, it’s important to check if your vacuum model is compatible with your flooring type, to help prevent the hassle and expense of having to return and order a new vacuum.

In this CleanersAdvisors article, I will be answering your question “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors” I will explain in depth, what specific flooring types work best with robot vacuums.

Additionally, I will be explaining how to maintain a clean and polished hardwood floor utilizing robot vacuums.

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What Is a Robot Vacuum?

Before I can respond to the question “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors?” you need to have a fundamental understanding of what a robot vacuum is.

A robot vacuum is an automated device that keeps your home spotless without you having to lift a finger. The machine essentially works all day long to keep your home tidy.

AI and sensors are used by robot vacuums to plan their travel routes. While some robot vacuums have excellent navigation systems, some don’t quite measure up.

Here is a little video that will answer any questions you might have regarding what robot vacuums are and “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors?”.

How to Prevent Robot Vacuums from Damaging Hardwood Floors?

In order to maintain clean unscratched hardwood floors, there are a few precautions I recommend taking when using your robot vacuum around hardwood flooring.

Pick up any cords or wires:

Robot vacuums are prone to tangle with cables or other objects, drag them around, and damage floors.

Pick up any substantial waste:

Leave no trace of rocks, dirt, sand, or plastic. These objects run the risk of being dragged around by the wheels, which could result in denting, scratching, or scuffing.

Tape the pivot wheel:

Scratches can be avoided by covering the pivot wheel of the Roomba with electrical tape or a strong rubber band. The tape will need to be changed frequently, but it’s a simple and quick remedy.

Clean your robot vacuum:

To ensure that the wheels on your robot vacuum can spin freely, clean it frequently. Always make sure the wheels are clear and spinning normally before using your vacuum.

Make the right vacuum choice:

Select a robot vacuum that is made for hardwood floors or a variety of surfaces. Consider Shark, Roborock, or Eufy as well, as they receive the least number of complaints for scratching hardwood.

Pick up debris:

Before using your robot vacuum, remove any sand, gravel, or other trash. It might be able to be sucked up by the vacuum, but there’s a danger it might get caught in the wheels and drag on the floor.

Sweep Hair:

The wheels may become clogged with hair and become incapable of rotating. The wheels can drag and rub the floor when they don’t rotate properly.

Keep an eye on it while it’s running:

Even while it could be tempting to leave your vacuum running while you sleep or go to work, it’s important to keep an eye on it for at least the first few cycles. That way, if something goes wrong, you can be there.

If these steps are followed neither the pricy robot vacuum nor your special flooring will get damaged. And You won’t be wondering “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors?”

How to Maintain Clean Hardwood-Flooring with a Robot Vacuum?

When looking to maintain clean hardwood flooring it is important to make use of the above tips and tricks when using. But in simple terms. Before any cleaning session, make sure to be present and in the room, while the vacuum is hovering to make sure it doesn’t get damaged.

If your vacuum or any part of it gets damaged or scratched, there is a high chance that it will scratch and damage your flooring, so make sure to keep cautious of your vacuum.

To actually clean your floors and maintain the cleanliness of your flooring, its as simple as turning your vacuum on and keeping a keen eye on it.

Also, note that just a robot vacuum will not suffice in fully maintaining a hardwood floor. You also need to mop 2 times a week and on special occasions, other treatments for your flooring.

What Different Manufacturers Say About the Use of Robot Vacuums on Hardwood Floors

While searching online to answer your inquiry of “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors?”, I reached out to a handful of robot vacuum manufacturers and sent them all the following message:

“I’m considering getting a robot vacuum, but I’m worried it’ll damage my hardwood floors. Are the hardwood floors damaged by your robot vacuums? Do you have any equipment that helps prevent scratches on wood floors, such as special wheels, brushes, or other devices?”

Responses:

iRobot (Roomba manufacturers) –

“Our numerous Roombas are equipped to clean a wide range of hard flooring materials in addition to carpets and can switch between them. I’d give you two pieces of advice. The first is to get in touch with the company that made your floor and find out if a rubber beater bar vacuum is okay to use on it. I would suggest any of our robots, with the exception of the 600 series, should your floor maker give you the go-ahead. The typical bristle brush used by the 600 series is far more prone to becoming clogged with debris. The rest of our robots employ firm, multi-surface rubber brushes that are less likely to catch trash.”

“Finally, only by monitoring the robot in your home can the actual results be determined. We have a 60-day “try in your home” return policy for this reason. No matter what you decide to buy, you can do it with confidence since everything you buy straight from us at iRobot.com has a 60-day return policy. You can send it back to us for free, no questions asked, by calling us to arrange a return. To be sure the robot you chose is the best fit for you and your family, we allow for it to be trialed for a full 60 days in your house.”

Eufy (manufacturers of RoboVac) –

“We don’t have any advanced technologies, such as special wheels or bushes. Please note that, in most cases, if the brush shield is set correctly, our RoboVac won’t scratch hardwood floors.”

Roborock –

“Our robots can operate on hard surfaces. The S6 is designed to be used on hard floors and comes with a DuPont nylon brush, so your floors should be well-treated. If you’re still worried, I’d advise posting the same query in the Roborock subreddit. Customers of Roborock form a strong community and have a wealth of experience between them.”

Elephant in the Room: Are Robot Vacuums Good for Hardwood Floors?

To answer the question of “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors” I tested multiple vacuums and determined that no make or model of robot vacuum heavily damages your hardwood flooring.

There are of course a multitude of robot vacuums on the market that are designed specifically for hardwood floors. Models similar to the Roborock S7 MaxV and Ecovacs DEEBOT OZMO T8 AIVI will give you the best performance on hardwood floors.

If want more detailed buyer’s guide on robot vacuums, I’d recommend checking out this article.

So, to simply answer the question “are robot vacuums good for hardwood floors”, The answer is yes, hardwood floors have always been the greatest surfaces for robot vacuums because they are smooth, bare, simpler to operate on, and have less minuscule cracks for dirt and debris to get trapped in.

Are Robot Vacuums Good for Hardwood Floors FAQ

Why do robot vacuums move randomly?

There are many factors and limitations that cause you to wonder why robot vacuums move randomly

How Long does a Robot Vacuum Last?

Most robot vacuum will last you 5-6 years, as long as you properly maintain them.