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11 Best Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Cleaners

best self-emptying robot vacuum

123RF.com (dolgachov)

Kick up your feet and relax while your robot vacuum handles the dirty work. No more coughing and sneezing as you empty the bin into a trash can! This handy setup also means you don’t have to babysit your robot vac during every cleaning.

From powerful cleaning solutions for pet owners to budget-friendly bundles, we’ve tested, researched and reviewed the best self-emptying robot vacuums for your money. Here are our top picks.

Picking up after pets? Browse our best robot vacuums for pet hair or best stick vacuums for pets.

shark self empty robot vacuum Amazon Customer Reviews
  • XL bin holds up to 60 days' worth of debris
  • Runs up to 120 minutes per charge
  • Targeted cleaning with No-Go zones
Price: $399.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550) Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Carefully avoids pet messes
  • Holds 60 days' worth of debris
  • Works with Alexa and Google Home
Price: $599.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
eufy RoboVac L35 Hybrid+ Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Includes extra dust bags
  • Maximum 3,200Pa suction power
  • Runs up to 145 minutes
Price: $549.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
roborock q5+ Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Creates precise 3D maps for full navigation
  • Runs up to 180 minutes per charge
  • Compatible with Alexa, Siri and Google Home
Price: $699.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
dreametech w10 review Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Runs up to 210 minutes per charge
  • Relatively quiet operation
  • D-shaped body effectively cleans corners
Price: $1,089.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
yeedi vac station Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Vacuums and mops
  • Cleans up to 200 minutes per charge
  • Can edit home maps
Price: $499.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
roborock s7+ Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Holds up to 120 days' worth of debris
  • Intense suction power
  • Precise LIDAR navigation
Price: $949.98 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
yeedi vac 2 pro Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Automatic carpet detection
  • Holds up to 30 days of debris
  • Run time is 220 minutes
Price: $499.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
deebot x1 omni Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Runs up to 260 minutes
  • Automatically all-around cleaning system
  • Holds two 4-liter water tanks
Price: $1,549.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
irobot roomba reviews Amazon Customer Reviews
  • WiFi-enabled
  • Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Tangle-resistant brushes
Price: $434.25 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
neabot n2 Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Dual-action vacuum and mop
  • Convenient LED display screen on front of bin
  • Runs up to 150 minutes per charge
Price: $399.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
ecovacs deebot ozmo t8 aivi Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Live HD video monitoring
  • Advanced laser technology
  • Large water tank
Price: $499.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Our Unbiased Reviews
  1. 1. EDITOR’S CHOICE: Shark AV2501AE with XL Base

    Pros:
    • Suction is 30% more powerful than previous generations
    • HEPA filter captures most small allergens and dust particles
    • Complete hands-free control with app
    Cons:
    • Emptying bin can be noisy
    • Spinning brushes sometimes send debris to the sides
    • Can get tangled in cords

    Building on the success of previous generations, the Shark AV2501AE with XL Base is powerful and loaded with technology to clean your home better than ever. Its extra-large bin holds up to 60 days’ worth of debris, which is 15 days more than the Shark IQ Robot Vacuum AV1002AE. That’s two extra weeks that you can go without needing to empty out the bin, which is a big reason why this Shark vacuum is our top choice.

    Not only does the bin hold more debris, it’s also bagless. This cuts down on additional waste and saves you money over time, since you don’t have to replace bags. Equipped with HEPA filtration, it traps up to 99.97% of dust and allergens to purify the air in your home.

    Living with pets? We love our furbabies, but there’s no denying they can be downright messy. From muddy paws to frequent shedding, your floors and carpets need constant attention. This Shark self-emptying vacuum caters to pet parents. The suction power is 30% higher than in previous models, which means your floors and carpets are left cleaner with each pass. A self-cleaning brushroll picks up fur and long hair and prevents it from getting tangled.

    From heavy messes to routine maintenance, you can customize each cleaning session using the Shark app. In addition to on-demand deep cleaning, which directs the vacuum to the toughest messes, you can be selective about where the vacuum can (and can’t) go. For example, you can target specific rooms or high-traffic areas using your smartphone.

    If you don’t want to use your phone to control the vacuum, you can use your voice. This self-emptying robot vacuum works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can conveniently say, “Hey, Alexa. Tell the vacuum to start cleaning” and it will take off.

    The navigation technology in previous models was pretty good, but this one is even better. That’s because it uses LIDAR navigation. It’s the same technology found on many other premium robot vacuums, including the ECOVACS Deebot N8 Pro+. These highly precise lasers generate maps, detect obstacles and guide the vacuum along the fastest and most effective routes.

  2. 2. RUNNER UP: iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550) Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum

    Pros:
    • Improved obstacle avoidance technology over previous Roombas
    • Powerful suction picks up stubborn debris on carpets
    • Smart mapping technology for precise cleaning around your home
    Cons:
    • Emptying base is loud
    • Methodical cleaning method isn't the quickest
    • Doesn't have bagless dirt disposal

    Attention pet parents who’ve had the misfortune of returning home to find dog waste smeared all over your floors. If you’re looking for a robot vacuum that can actually detect and avoid pet messes, consider the iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550). From its refined navigation technology to improvements over previous models, the j7+ is our second favorite best self-emptying robot vacuum for your money.

    Some other robot vacuum manufacturers offer obstacle avoidance technology in an effort to prevent such messes. iRobot backs the Roomba j7+ with its clever Pet Owner Official Promise (P.O.O.P.), and will send you a free replacement up to one year from your purchase date if your vacuum doesn’t avoid pet waste.

    The Roomba j7+ has more advanced navigation technology than previous Roombas. It’s called PrecisionVision Navigation. As a result, Roomba j7+ is more skilled at detecting and avoiding pet waste, cords and other hazards around your home. That makes it more independent, so you can confidently schedule cleanings when you’re at the office or running errands.

    As with the iRobot Roomba i7+ (7550) with dirt disposal, the Roomba j7+ holds up to 60 days’ worth of dirt and debris. The capacity isn’t larger than previous models, but it really doesn’t need to be, especially considering how many competitors offer 30 to 45 days’ worth of storage. When the bin is full, just throw the used bag away and replace it with a new one.

    If you’ve owned Roombas before, you’ll recognize several of the same features as previous models. One example is powerful suction with a multi-stage cleaning process of maximum pickup. This self-emptying Roomba also works with Alexa and Google Home devices for voice control. You can say something like, “Roomba, go clean under the kitchen table,” and the vacuum will make its way over to the kitchen table. An iRobot app is also available if you prefer to use your phone to give commands and set up Keep Out zones to avoid certain rooms.

    You can monitor the battery level on your phone, but you don’t need to worry about returning the Roomba to its base when it gets too low. That’s because j7+ automatically recharges and resumes cleaning.

    While the Roomba j7+ is similar in many ways to its predecessors, it has iRobot Genius technology. This lets you program the robot vacuum to start cleaning when you’re gone and stop when you get home. It’s really handy if you need to sleep or get work done, as the j7+ isn’t the quietest robot vacuum on our list.

  3. 3. eufy RoboVac L35 Hybrid+ Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

    Pros:
    • Responds to voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant
    • Hybrid vacuum and mop technology
    • Large wheels for climbing over thresholds and thicker rugs
    Cons:
    • Only one color available
    • Doesn't automatically empty and chance the mop water
    • Can't automatically clean the mop pads

    Enjoy hands-free vacuuming and mopping around your home with the eufy Clean L35 Hybrid+. It features an auto empty station that can hold up to 60 days of dirt and dust, and comes with a spare dust bag for added convenience. Each bag also has anti-bacterial and deodorizing properties for fresher air. You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck with this hybrid cleaner, which suctions debris and scrubs hard floors to leave your home sparkling clean. 

    From pet hair to tiny allergens that can cause bothersome symptoms, the strong 3,200Pa suction picks up large and small particles. It’s safe for hard floors and carpets. There’s also a controllable water tank that lets you switch using your smartphone. You can switch between three levels for different floor types.

    Rather than wander aimlessly around your home, this eufy uses LiDAR technology and a strategic Z-shaped cleaning pattern for accurate results. It even maps up to three home levels and maps its surroundings before launching on its next task. You can set up virtual boundaries and no-go zones for fully customized cleanings. And if there’s one really dirty area, a separate spot cleaning mode helps tackle tough messes.

    For your convenience, you can vacuum and mop at the same time. BoostIQ technology helps increase suction power when transitioning from hard floors to carpets. The vacuum won’t mop on rugs or carpets, so you don’t have to worry about watching its every move. 

  4. 4. Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum with Self-Empty Dock

    Pros:
    • Dust bag can hold seven weeks' worth of debris
    • Multi-room mapping for up to four levels
    • Floating main brush works on hard floors and carpets
    Cons:
    • Replacement dust bags can be hard to find
    • Not compatible with 5GHz networks
    • Can get tangled in wires

    The Roborock Q5+ won’t set you back as much as some of its competitors, yet it’s still loaded with features for the price. I received a review unit for in-depth testing and to see how this more affordable self-emptying bot vac stacks up against its pricier competitors. 

    At first glance, the base is noticeably more compact than some of the other units on this list. If you’re short on space, the 22″H x 18″W base can be tucked discreetly into a corner to get it out of the way. 

    Perched just underneath the lid is a 2.5-liter dust bag that holds up to 7 weeks’ worth of debris. That’s slightly less than some of the bigger bases on our list, such as the iRobot Roomba j7+
    that holds debris for up to 60 days, but it’s plenty for several weeks of hands-free cleaning.

    Not only does this Roborock vacuum empty its bin, you can also choose from several different modes to fit your needs. Just open the Roborock app and choose from Smart, Light, Balanced and Max modes. I mostly opted for Smart mode, which automatically adjusts the bin emptying according to your cleaning habits and emptying frequency. However, it can get loud when emptying, especially on Max mode, which is something to consider if you have sleeping family members or sensitive pets.

    Powered by a high-capacity 5200 mAh lithium-ion battery, this Roborock can run up to 180 minutes per charge. It’s rated over 3,000 square feet and can easily tackle my 1,500 sq. ft. home without needing to recharge. My house is a mix of hardwood floors and area rugs, both of which the vacuum tackles with ease. It can also handle medium-pile carpets but may struggle a bit on thick, shaggy carpets, like most robot vacuums.

    To guide your vacuum on the most efficient path possible, a LiDAR navigation system acts as the brains behind the robot. This advanced 3D mapping technology makes it easy to carefully coordinate cleanings around furniture, floor materials and other obstacles. You can view a detailed layout of your home and even add furniture and other items virtually. If your home has more than one level, multi-level mapping technology improves navigation. Up to four levels are supported.

    You can also have the vacuum carefully map out its course before the first cleaning. Quick mapping helps the robot quickly learn its surroundings so it can clean accordingly. It doesn’t actually clean during this time, so this function is ideal before you set it off for its inaugural run around your home.

    Want to avoid cluttered spaces and messy rooms? Simply define your No-Go Zones. You can also set up Invisible Walls to contain the vacuum inside designated areas. Every level can have up to 10 No-Go Zones and Invisible Walls. The app requires a 2.4GHz connection and doesn’t currently support 5GHz networks. If you prefer hands-free communication, Roborock Q5+ supports Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant so you can command the robot to start cleaning without lifting a finger.

    It also has a really handy feature called “Pin n Go,” where you can set a target area to spot clean and send the vacuum there immediately. This is great to have for sudden spills, like Cheerios falling onto the floor, or if you noticed an especially dirty area and want the vacuum to tackle it before everything else. You’ll be notified when the vacuum reaches the target point, and review the precise parameters that it cleaned.

    To clean your living space as efficiently as possible, a floating main brush hugs hard floors and agitates carpets to effectively remove pet hair, dirt and other debris. It’s also tangle-resistant to make cleaning up much easier. If necessary, an all-rubber replacement brush is available.

    While it left my floors super clean, the combination robot vacuum mops, like the Roborock S7+ Robot Vacuum and Sonic Mop, which we’ve also reviewed, are second to none if you want sparkling clean surfaces. However, if you don’t need a mop function, this automatic emptying robot is an awesome value. 

  5. 5. Dreametech W10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner & Mop

    Pros:
    • Long roller brush makes cleaning more effective
    • Self-empties dirty mopping water
    • Compatible with Alexa for voice control
    Cons:
    • Doesn't automatically empty its bin
    • Auto pad cleaning is noisy
    • Not the best at avoiding cords

    Tired of floors not shining like they used to? One of the Dreametech W10 robot vacuum’s best features is its dual spinning integrated mop pads that whisk away debris for a cleaner home. Premium mopping performance aside, is it worth it to splurge on this high-end robot vac? We spent hours with our test unit to find out. Here’s our honest review.

    Unlike its rivals, what really sets the W10 apart is that it doesn’t empty its own dustbin once it docks. Instead, you’ll need to manually dispose of the bin contents yourself. We think it’s only fair to mention this issue up front, since it could be a dealbreaker for shoppers who need a self-emptying dustbin. 

    Instead, the huge base caters to the machine’s mopping functionality. There are two large storage containers: one for clean water and one for dirty water. If you choose to mop your floors, the vacuum will automatically separate the dirty contents and dispose of them once it docks. It then cleans and dries the mop pads using hot air to prevent damp and stinky surfaces. A small digital display on top of the base shows every step of the vacuuming, mopping and cleaning process.

    You don’t have to choose whether to mop or vacuum. There are several available modes, including a sweeping and mopping function that tackles both dilemmas at once. It can save a bunch of time and is really handy if you have just a few minutes to clean before guests arrive. 

    As expected given its steep price tag, the W10 is loaded with technology to make your life easier. For example, innovative LiDAR navigation helps guide the robot around avoid cords and other obstacles. Our tester mostly avoided small and large items, but cords were occasionally an issue. To be fair, as of this writing, we haven’t tested a single vacuum that completely avoided cords while cleaning. 

    The same suite of sensors that offer precise guidance also creates highly accurate maps. Before your W10 sets out for its inaugural run, you can send it on a map-building mission so that it knows precisely which areas to clean — and which ones to avoid. Some competitors require multiple trips around your home to build a map, so the fact that this machine does it before it begins cleaning is a really nice touch.

    Smart connectivity is another perk. You can use a smartphone or your voice to give the vacuum commands. If you have a compatible device you can use Alexa for hands-free cleaning.

    If you want a machine that empties its own dust bin, check out the Dreametech Z10 Pro Robot Vacuum. It’s a combination robot vacuum and mop that’s also much cheaper than the W10. However, it doesn’t automatically clean and dry its mopping pads like the more premium version.

  6. 6. yeedi Vac Station

    Pros:
    • 3000Pa strong suction power works well for pet hair and allergens
    • Visual mapping technology creates detailed maps
    • Avoids carpets when mopping floors
    Cons:
    • Small bin capacity
    • Doesn't always completely release fur into the bin
    • Won't automatically empty when the bin is full

    You can save quite a bit of money by choosing the yeedi Vac Station Robot Vacuum and Mop over some of the more expensive self-emptying stations on our list. But is it worth it? We tested out the yeedi Vac Station ourselves to find out.

    At surface level, the Vac Station shares many similar features as the premium vacuums on our list. For example, it empties its own waste and uses advanced sensors to create accurate maps and cleaning patterns. However, the bin only holds up to 30 days’ worth of debris. This is still enough to last around a month without emptying the bin yourself, but some bins hold twice as much (or more). 

    One of this vacuum’s most impressive features is its powerful suction. Clocking in at 3000Pa suction power, it’s just as powerful, if not slightly more, than some of the most expensive vacuums on our list. We used it on hardwood floors and carpets and even scattered cereal around as an ultimate test. The yeedi picked up virtually all debris and suctioned the cereal directly instead of flinging it around the room with its side brushes.

    Besides its powerful suction, it’s pretty quiet. You won’t be forced to leave the room on the highest setting, and may not even have to turn up the volume on your TV or headphones on the other settings. The vacuum runs up to 200 minutes per charge and automatically returns to its bin to recharge. It simply picks up where it left off when it’s ready to clean again.

    This robot vacuum and mop identifies various rooms in your home and creates detailed maps along the way. It’s quite accurate, although the vacuum might require up to five passes to generate a really detailed map. It took four passes around our apartment to learn the layout. You can easily edit maps and tell the vacuum which rooms to clean using the accompanying app.

    As with the other self-empty vacuums on our list, the yeedi Vac Station is designed to make your life more convenient. It comes with an accompanying app that has all the essential functions. Plus, it’s voice-enabled. You can ask Alexa to tell the vacuum to start cleaning or make adjustments, as long as you have an Alexa-enabled device.

  7. 7. Roborock S7+ Robot Vacuum & Sonic Mop with Auto-Empty Dock

    Pros:
    • Can be controlled via app or Alexa
    • Multi-layer filtration traps most particles
    • Various emptying modes to control the noise level
    Cons:
    • Lacks anti-tangle brushes
    • Bin requires emptying bags
    • Only compatible with 2.4GHz WiFi

    Do you dread emptying dirty bins? The Roborock S7+ Robot Vacuum and Sonic Mop holds up to 120 days’ worth of debris. That’s 2-3 times more than many other bins on our list. This vacuum isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every penny if you want to avoid handling dirt for as long as possible.

    I tested the Roborock S7 vacuum and mop, followed by the self-empty base when it was released. In short, it’s efficient and packed with technology to clean your home very efficiently. It’s also one of the quietest vacuums I’ve tested, even on the maximum setting. Here’s the full review for more details.

    With 2500Pa intense suction power, the Roborock S7+ picks up large and small debris. It’s really effective on carpets, where dander and dirt hide. One pass can draw dirt from carpets and lift it up from cracks and other spaces.

    It isn’t just the large dust bin that makes this Roborock worth the splurge. Unlike most self-emptying vacuums on our list, this one vacuums and mops. The feature works best if you vacuum once before mopping. Equipped with carpet detection technology, the mop head automatically lifts up to avoid getting the carpet wet or dragging dirt onto the base. 

    You can set No-Go zones to prevent if from vacuuming certain areas, and No-Mop zones for the same purpose. Invisible walls contain the vacuum and keep it from wandering off, which is really convenient when you’re not around to monitor cleaning sessions.

    Equipped with LIDAR navigation, the Roborock S7+ creates accurate maps of your home and tracks its progress, so you can see everything it’s accomplished. This information is available in the accompanying app, along with multi-level mapping. The robot automatically recognizes up to four levels for efficient home cleaning.

    Most vacuums are relatively quiet, but the automatic emptying process can be quite loud. With the Roborock S7+, you can adjust the emptying modes to control the noise level. For example, you can choose between Light and Max settings. The bin can get loud on Max mode, but it takes around 20 seconds at most to empty its contents.

  8. 8. yeedi vac 2 pro

    Pros:
    • Oscillating mopping technology for spot cleaning
    • SLAM navigation technology for accurate cleaning
    • Powerful suction removes dust, dander and other debris
    Cons:
    • Small water storage bin is only good for spot cleaning
    • Struggles to find its docking station
    • Relatively loud operation, even on quieter settings

    The yeedi vac 2 won’t set you back much more than the original yeedi vac station, but it comes with several noteworthy improvements to make your life easier. Some quick examples include 3D obstacle avoidance, so it’s less likely to run over kids’ toys or socks, and aims to do a more thorough cleaning job with oscillating mapping technology.

    But how does this combination vacuum and mop stack up against the competition? Is the higher price tag worth it, or can you save some money by going with the previous version, which is less expensive? I received a test yeedi vac 2 to find out.

    The first step is to set it up, which is a straightforward process that took less than 5 minutes. You’ll need to turn on the vacuum and open the app for guidance. 

    Once setup is complete, smart visual navigation and mapping technology creates a clearer path around obstacles such as furniture and shoes. To sense and avoid these obstacles, 3D technology guides the vacuum around clutter. These are upgraded features compared to the previous version for improved navigation and efficiency around your home. 

    On its first test run, my vacuum crashed into my dog’s water bowl, spilling water everywhere. It also got stuck while cleaning around my dining room chairs and needed some assistance to break free. Fortunately, navigation was improved during subsequent runs, although it still struggles with cords. To be clear, yeedi recommends tidying up as much as possible before letting the vacuum loose. This is actually true with all robot vacuums, not just this one. I intentionally left some clutter behind to test how well this latest yeedi detected and avoided obstacles.

    Another improvement is carpet detection technology. It’s a crucial feature in mopping mode to ensure the vacuum doesn’t dump water on your carpets and rugs. I have two larger area rugs, both of which the yeedi steered clear of as it made its rounds. When vacuuming, suction power is automatically increased for the most efficient clean possible.

    Whether it’s on hard floors or carpets, there are three cleaning modes: . Depending on which one you select, power is boosted from 200 to 3000 Pa for optimal results. If you’re sensitive to noise or have family members who are trying to sleep, it’s worth noting that the yeedi isn’t super quiet. It was fairly noisy even on the lower settings and would be hard to nap through at peak power. 

    It comes with yeedi’s self-empty station, which holds up to 30 days of dirt. While the 2.5L dust bag is on the smaller side, it means you can go for several weeks without exposing yourself to dust, dirt and debris. The disposal base is also more compact than some of the other vacuum and mop combinations on our list, but you’re giving up that extra dust storage space and a large water reservoir to mop larger areas. 

    Unlike some of the pricier vacuum and mop combinations on this list, such as the x, which has a huge water reservoir for prolonged cleaning, the vac station 2 has a compact water storage bin. It’s best for spot cleaning and cleaning surfaces in high-traffic areas, rather than entire floors or even rooms. 

    When it’s done cleaning, or the battery is critically low, the vacuum will automatically return to its base. However, it’s worth mentioning that my test unit consistently struggled to find its way home. 

  9. 9. ECOVACS DEEBOT X1 Omni Robot Vacuum & Mop

    Pros:
    • Hand-like mop pads scrub floors clean
    • Automatically avoids carpets when mopping
    • Can be set to quiet mode
    Cons:
    • Docking station is huge
    • Quite expensive
    • Mops must be manually removed for vacuuming

    Now you can vacuum and mop your home and avoid touching dirty dustbins and pads. The DEEBOT X1 Omni from ECOVACS is an innovative combo that takes care of all the cleaning to make your life easier. Similar products exist, such as the Dreametech W10, but the X1 exclusively offers automatic dustbin disposal and mop cleaning.

    DEEBOT sent me an X1 Omni for an in-depth hands-on review. There’s no doubt that this is an expensive machine, but it appears to be well-made (we’ll update this review if that changes) and does a great job scrubbing off stubborn dirt and debris. But is it really worth the high price? Here’s my honest opinion.

    If you want the convenience of a self-emptying disposal bin and a self-cleaning mop pad station, then this ECOVACS machine is a worthy investment for a cleaner home. However, you can save some money if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty. For example, the Dreametech W10 is cheaper but requires you to empty the dustbin.

    Also, the docking station is huge. Even with its attractive silver and black design, it’s harder to hide than a traditional automatic dirt disposal base. However, it holds two 4-liter tanks. One is for clean water and the other holds dirty water. Plus, the bin holds up to 60 days’ worth of debris. That means less time spent refilling and emptying the containers. 

    In terms of cleaning performance, the X1 has 5000Pa suction power to effectively remove debris from hardwood floors and carpets. But it’s the hand-like mop pad scrubbing action that really gets your floors clean. The pads spin rapidly to agitate and gently scrape dirt off the surface. As a dog mom, I was impressed by how quickly and effectively this vacuum and mop cleaned high-traffic areas around my home.

    As with most premium vacuums, the X1 is also loaded with technology to make cleaning easy and even fun!

    But while most of its competitors offer Alexa voice assistance, you can talk to Yiko on the X1. The innovative AI voice control technology lets you interact more naturally with your vacuum. This technology is exclusively for vacuuming and is specifically designed for controlling the X1. Unlike Alexa-compatible vacuums, you don’t need a separate device. Just enable the feature in the app during setup and you’re good to go.

    And if you need to monitor your home or pets, you’ll appreciate the onboard live monitoring system. It’s great for detecting whether your vacuum is stuck or wandering into a dirty room. But with two-way audio, you can also check on pets and family members when you’re not home. The feed looks crisp and clear in low-light settings for real-time monitoring.

    If you share your living space with pets, kids or other people, you’ll really appreciate the quiet mode. It’s ideal for after-hours cleaning and tackling messes without disturbing others. This quieter function applies to the vacuum and its cleaning station. The vacuum is fairly quiet, but the cleaning station can get loud as it’s emptying the dust bin and cleaning the mop pads. You can also create schedules and “do not disturb” times to work around your family’s needs.

  10. 10. iRobot Roomba i3+

    Pros:
    • Holds up to 60 days' worth of debris
    • Personalized schedule suggestions
    • Smart home connectivity
    Cons:
    • Can't create cleaning or no-go zones
    • Lacks custom cleaning controls
    • Can't choose specific rooms for cleaning

    If you’re in the market for a self-emptying robot vacuum cleaner but are hesitant to splurge, the entry-level iRobot Roomba i3+ is a sensible choice. While it’s a bit more expensive than the iRobot Roomba i3 (3150) robot vacuum without the self-emptying base, the extra money you’ll spend to get an automatic disposal base could be worth it.

    I was sent an iRobot Roomba i3+ (3550) self-emptying vacuum for review. It took about 15 minutes to assemble the Roomba i3+, including connecting it with my existing WiFi network. This Roomba works with 2.4 and 5GHz networks and connected to my mixed network without any issues. Before sending it out you’ll need to dock the Roomba on its base so that it recognizes the base when it’s time to return. This is true for every robot vacuum in the Plus series.

    In addition to WiFi connectivity, the i3+ also works with Google Assistant and Alexa. This means you can use your voice for hands-free cleaning and control the vacuum from your phone, even if you’re not home. 

    Each Plus series Roomba, which includes the i3+, i7+ and s9+, is accompanied by the same self-emptying base. iRobot’s AllergenLock bags have four layers of anti-allergen material to trap almost all pollen and mold.

    The base holds up to 60 days’ worth of debris and comes with allergen bags to capture and trap even the smallest pesky particles for cleaner air.  Considering how most other automatic disposal bases on our list hold roughly half that amount, the Roomba series bins stand out among competitors for their cavernous storage capacity. These aren’t bagless bases, so you’ll have to replace the disposal bags as needed. Each bin also has a built-in charging indicator to let you know when your Roomba is ready to go.

    As with any entry-level model, you’re giving up some of the conveniences found on the pricier self-emptying Roombas. One of the most notable differences is the lack of mapping technology. The i3+ does provide a map showing where it’s cleaned after each session. However, you can’t send it to clean specific rooms or set up no-go zones. Those features are found on the i7+ and s9+ automatic emptying Roombas. 

    The iRobot Roomba i3+ relies on smart navigation technology to map and navigate around the home. I found its mapping function to be highly accurate, even in somewhat cluttered spaces. This entry-level Roomba even excels at nighttime cleanings thanks to its advanced navigation sensors.

    Each Plus-series Roomba cleans in neat rows to avoid confusion and works on hard floors and carpets. The i3+ and i7+ increase suction power up to 10 times on carpets to pick up debris; that number increases to 40x the normal suction power on the s9+. If you’re vacuuming up after a pet or are in the midst of a particularly tough allergy season, that extra suction power is quite noticeable.

    These powerful Roombas excel at cleaning just about any mess, but they’re not the quietest robot vacuums on the market. I found the noise levels to be virtually identical between the i3+ and i7+ on hard floors and carpets. It’s also worth noting that the bin emptying process is quite noisy, so you might want to hold off if you’re vacuuming during off-peak hours or you want to avoid disturbing others.

    All three Plus-series Roombas have an edge-sweeping brush that’s specifically angled for deeper cleaning in corners and edges. Each vacuum also has Dirt Detect Technology that automatically increases power when it’s needed. However, only the Roomba s9+ offers specialized corner cleaning, as it uses advanced sensors to get deep into corners and along edges.

    Tangle-resistant brushes are a huge perk if you’re a pet owner. Each Plus series Roomba comes with tangle-resistant brushes, including the i3+. You’ll also find a high-efficiency filter that captures and contains almost all cat and dog allergens for cleaner air around your home. The premium s9+ is currently the only Roomba with whole-system filtration to trap nearly all pollen and mold allergens for cleaner air.

    Roomba i3+ is a smart robot vacuum that learns your cleaning habits and offers personalized schedules to better suit your cleaning needs. Whether your dog is shedding heavily at certain times or local pollen counts are high, the i3+ recognizes these changes and suggests additional cleanings to keep your home pristine. You’ll find the same innovative feature on the i7+ and i9+ models.

    The Roomba i3+ is a connected smart vacuum that’s WiFi-enabled and works with Google Assistant and Alexa. Not only does this mean you can control the vacuum from the accompanying app using your phone, you can give simple voice commands for cleaning.

    Other self-emptying Roombas include:

    iRobot Roomba i6+ (6550) – This Amazon.com exclusive model features upgraded Imprint Smart Mapping technology, which allows it to learn your cleaning habits. You can also avoid certain areas by setting up no-go and cleaning zones and target specific areas for deeper cleaning.

    iRobot Roomba i7+ (7550) – Upgrading to the i7+ gets you built-in smart mapping technology. Instead of relying on an internet connection to access this feature as you would with the i6+, the technology is built directly into this vacuum cleaner.

    iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) – The premium s9+ Roomba has four times the suction power of other Roomba models, making it particularly handy for deep cleaning. Other exclusive features include edge-cleaning technology, complete with a special brush for cleaning corners, and an anti-allergy system.

  11. 11. Neabot N2 Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop

    Pros:
    • Works with Alexa and Google Home for hands-free cleaning
    • Electronic monitoring system automatically adjusts when floors are too wet
    • Can set suction power, no-go zones, manage maps and more in the app
    Cons:
    • Small dustbin capacity
    • Suction power isn't the strongest
    • Scheduling isn't very intuitive

    A more affordable alternative to some of the more expensive machines on our list, the Neabot N2 is a no-frills solution for cleaner floors. It can even sweep, mop and vacuum simultaneously, saving you lots of time and energy. To ensure your floors don’t get too saturated, an integrated system monitors the wetness of the floor and adjusts as needed.

    As a vacuum, its 2700Pa suction power isn’t the highest on our list. Still, it’s enough for most light to moderate household cleaning needs. You can choose between three suction levels to boost performance or conserve battery when necessary. If you’re picking up after pets or kids, the highest setting will do the trick. Otherwise, the low or medium settings should be plenty. The N2 works on hard floors and carpets. Powerful carpet boost technology kicks up the performance to pick up stubborn dirt and debris. 

    Once it’s done cleaning, the Neabot automatically docks and deposits its waste. The dustbin holds up to 30 days of debris, so you can avoid pet dander and dirt for as long as possible. When the bag is full, the display on the front of the dock lights up to let you know it’s time to empty it. 

    The Neabot N2 is guided by smart technology to make your life easier. Advanced LiDAR technology helps it detect obstacles and avoid them when cleaning. It’s also more efficient when mapping your home and planning routes. You can use the accompanying app to schedule cleanings, set no-go zones, divide zones and more. Alexa and Google Home compatibility lets you clean using just your voice.

  12. 12. Ecovacs Deebot T8 AIVI & Auto-Empty Station

    Pros:
    • Battery lasts up to three hours per charge
    • Combination mop and vacuum
    • Works with 2.4 and 5GHz networks
    Cons:
    • Emptying bin is sold separately
    • Sensitive cliff detection sensors can cause issues around dark carpets
    • Some competitors offer sharper mapping technology

    The addition of an automatic dirt disposal station elevates your home cleaning experience to a new level, as you don’t have to do the dirty work every time the bin is full. Each time the Ecovacs Deebot T8 docks at its emptying station, it automatically empties its contents for stress-free cleaning. 

    The Ecovacs Deebot 2.5L Auto-Empty Station is an add-on accessory to the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI and T8 robot vacuums. In other words, you’ll need to buy the bin separately. Purchase the Deebot Auto-Empty station here.

    The dust bin holds about 30 days’ worth of dirt, dust and debris, and comes with disposable dust bags for easy emptying. A full bag alert function lets you know when it’s time to replace the bag.

    I was sent an Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 robot vacuum cleaner and auto-empty station for a hands-on review. Since the T8 is compatible with more than one base, the auto-empty station is shipped separately. You’ll need to swap it out with the battery that’s specifically designed for the self-emptying base. The good news is that this process is fast and simple and requires just a few extra minutes of your time.

    After swapping out the battery, I needed to secure the base to its holder. All of the necessary hardware and tools for the task are included, which makes this step a quick and straightforward process. Once the base is successfully set up, you’ll need to slide the dirt disposal bag into place to prevent debris from escaping as the vacuum deposits its debris.

    Setup is fast and straightforward. It took about 15 minutes to get the vacuum up and running, including time spent switching the battery, securing the base and properly installing the dirt disposal bags. Some of its competitors only work with 2.4GHz networks, but this Ecovacs robot vacuum supports 2.4GHz and mixed 2.4 and 5GHz networks. I have a mixed network and was able to set up the T8 without a hitch.

    The first time I ran the T8, I let it loose for whole-home cleaning. T8 only got tangled up in one cord. The vacuum also expertly avoided my dog’s water bowl. Although I normally pick up obstacles before sending a robot vacuum out to clean, I intentionally left a few out to test the vacuum’s avoidance technology. Advanced object recognition technology steers the vacuum around obstacles such as shoes, dog bowls and cables.

    You can use the app to set specific zones and areas to avoid, which I did after the vacuum’s inaugural run. To specify where the vacuum should and shouldn’t clean, you can simply use your finger to draw zones accordingly.  This feature was pretty accurate and helped save time.

    The two-in-one Deebot T8 simultaneously vacuums and mops to really clean your floors. You can also use it to just mop or vacuum your floors as needed. The water tank is equally large and holds 240 milliliters, which is enough to cover over 2,000 square feet. If you want a HEPA vacuum to really suction up allergens, this two-in-one vacuum is particularly handy.

    T8 relies on TrueMapping advanced laser technology to get a precise feel for your home. Once it creates a detailed interactive map, Deebot gets to work tidying up your living space.

    You can choose between three cleaning modes to tackle different messes. There’s a noticeable change in pitch when the vacuum upgrades to either setting from its base eco mode. It’s still relatively quiet, though, even on maximum power mode. Every self-emptying robot vacuum I tested made a fair amount of noise when docking to empty its contents. The T8 is no exception. 

    Want to keep an eye on your home when you’re out and about? Don’t miss the Video Manager mode, which streams live HD video on demand. With the app open and running, you can remotely check in on pets and maneuver the vacuum to answer specific questions, such as whether you forgot to shut the door on your way out. This feature is easily accessible using the accompanying app.

    Deebot advertises a run time of at least three hours per charge. My review unit averaged roughly three hours of use per charge, which is right on track with the company’s estimates. There’s plenty of juice for extended cleaning sessions per charge.

Which Robot Vacuums Empty Themselves?

All of the robot vacuums listed above empty themselves. While most are sold with their accompanying automatic disposal bins, a few are sold separately. 

Deebot Auto-Empty station works with the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI and T8 robot vacuums and must be purchased separately.

Each self-emptying robot vacuum docks and empties its bin into the base. However, not every base holds the same amount of debris. The iRobot Roomba i- and s-series vacuums hold up to 60 days' worth of debris. Other vacuums on our list hold about half that amount.


What Is the Best Self Emptying Robot Vacuum?

Our list includes the best self-emptying robot vacuums for pet owners, so you can rest assured that any vacuums on our list will get the job done right.

However, no two robot vacuums with automatic disposal are alike. You can splurge on the priciest vacuums that come with all the bells and whistles or take a more budget-friendly approach.

We all know that a clean home is a happy home, but it can take more than a robot vacuum to get your home in pristine condition.

Pets can be messy, from the dirt and germs they track into the home to sloppiness around food and water bowls. Vacuuming and disinfecting in and around your pet's living space can keep your home clean and protect against fleas, according to PetMD. You can also wash pet beds and furniture covers as needed.

If you're looking for a robot vacuum and mop, we suggest the Ecovacs Deebot T8 AIVI, which has a large water tank that covers over 2,000 square feet per cleaning session. You'll need to purchase the self-emptying base separately, though. 

Which Are the Best Self-emptying Robot Vacuums for Pet Hair?

Having a pet comes with many perks, but constantly dirty floors and carpets isn't one of them. All that dust, dirt and debris that gets tracked into your home often settles in carpets and other areas that are hard to clean. Not to mention the mounds of fur that quickly pile up when your furry friend sheds their thick coat.

As a dog mom, I rely on my Roborock S7+ self-emptying robot vacuum to clean up after my little guy. The large bin holds up to 60 days of debris, so I can go for 2 months or longer without dealing with dust and dander. Plus, the vacuum is quiet enough to avoid scaring my anxious pup.

Another great choice is the iRobot Roomba j7+. Its hallmark feature is that it avoids smearing pet waste, so you won't return home to a disaster. This is a really clever feature that really puts your mind at ease if you're not around to monitor cleanings.

How Often Should You Empty a Robot Vacuum?

Most robot vacuums will let you known when it's time to empty their dust or automatic disposal bin. Several of the best self-emptying robot vacuums on our list come with indicator lights that alert you when the bags are full.

To keep your home looking its best, the experts at Merry Maids suggest vacuuming before your floor surfaces start to look dirty. This is especially true if you have carpets or rugs -- as well as pets and/or kids. 

Interested in stick vacuums that empty themselves? Check out the Samsung Jet, which releases its bin contents into a charging stand with the push of a button.

Do Any Robot Vacuums Avoid Poop?

The iRobot Roomba j7+ is specifically designed to detect and avoid dog poop. If you've ever returned home to find that your robot vacuum ran over poop and smeared it across the floor, the j7+ avoids that gross scenario with intelligent sensors that guide it around pet messes.

The iRobot team is so confident about this vacuum's capabilities that the Roomba is backed by the P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise). If your vacuum doesn't avoid pet waste, they'll replace it for free.

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