21 Dec The Pros and Cons of Robot Vacuums on Hardwood Flooring

Robot vacuums have a variety of benefits over traditional vacuums. They’re smaller than a regular vacuum and easier to store. They’re also able to reach places that’s impossible for other types of vacuums. A robot vacuum is convenient, never gets tired, and they’re great for flat and carpeted floors. They’re particularly beneficial for pet owners.

Many people question their effect on hardwood floors. The flooring is expensive and represents a substantial investment in a home. Manufacturers design the vacuums so they will sweep hardwood floors without damaging them. The brushes used to gather debris won’t scratch a hardwood floor.

However, there are a couple of problems. They have rear wheels that are typically made of rubber. If small grains of sand or pebbles adhere to the rear wheels, it can scratch the finish on hardwood floors.

Robot vacuums also have a front caster wheel typically made of plastic that allows the device to swivel, pivot and turn. If something gets caught in the front wheel, it can jam and cause the wheel to drag instead of roll, which can result in scratching. It’s not recommended to leave the vacuums unattended for long periods on hardwood floors.

A robot vacuum is especially convenient for people with pets to minimize hair on the floor, but it can also interfere with the device’s free wheeling abilities. Pet hair can get wound around the wheels and prevent any of them from rotating properly.

Robot vacuums are great for any household and with appropriate care and regular cleaning of the wheels, they’re a real convenience for busy households and those with pets. They can be used on hardwood floors, but individuals should bear in mind that the potential for scratching does exist.

Anyone thinking of investing in a robot vacuum will need to weigh the cost and potential for damage against the convenience of the device. Canister vacuums also contain wheels that can scratch floors if they become jammed and those designed with wheels of hard plastic increase the risk.