Finding ways to enjoy your home more often means reducing the time spent on chores. While you can't eliminate them entirely, smart technology can lighten the load, allowing you to maintain a tidy space with less effort.
We consulted cleaning professionals to uncover six tech-savvy tools that can keep your home pristine, letting you unwind while they handle the heavy lifting. Incorporating these gadgets into your routine can also help you develop smart cleaning habits.
Smart Cleaning Solutions
With numerous smart devices on the market, it's crucial to discern which ones are worthwhile investments and which could create more work. Here are six essential tech-driven cleaning tools that experts trust.
1. Robot Vacuums
When considering technology for cleaning, robot vacuums are often the first option that comes to mind — and with good reason. The right model can tackle various floor types and even self-empty and recharge, freeing you up to enjoy quality time with family or to relax with a film.
“Robot vacuums are essential for efficient home cleaning,” says a cleaning expert. “They handle routine floor maintenance, decreasing manual effort by around 20%, allowing us to focus on detailed cleaning tasks.”
iRobot Roomba j9+ Combo
After testing numerous models, Roomba consistently ranks at the top. The latest j9+ Combo vacuums, mops, and even empties itself.
VacTidy Nimble T7
While the VacTidy Nimble T7 may not boast the power of pricier models, its affordability makes it a tempting option.
Proscenic M8
If your home features various types of flooring, consider a versatile robot vacuum and mop combo for comprehensive coverage.
2. Appliances with Timers
Smart upgrades are now available for more than just vacuums. Everything from smart dishwashers to washing machines and AI refrigerators can enhance your daily routine.
Choosing appliances with built-in timers and customizable settings can simplify laundry tasks, allowing you to fill the machine and forget about it until it's time to unload. You can even set them to run just in time for fresh towels after your morning shower.
3. Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers
While these may not be traditional cleaning tools, air purifiers and dehumidifiers help maintain a clean atmosphere by capturing dust and preventing mold and mildew.
Selecting models with timers and sensors that operate only when necessary can keep your home clean and minimize the time spent on cleaning tasks during the week.
Dreo Macro Pro
This budget-friendly air purifier, priced under $100, offers impressive 360-degree filtration.
Shark NeverChange Air Purifier MAX
Covering areas up to 1,400 square feet with smart air quality detection, this purifier features cleanable filters that last up to five years.
GE ADEL50LZ 50-Pint Dehumidifier
This model excels in wet spaces like basements, capable of extracting up to 50 pints of moisture daily.
4. Smart Plugs
In your smart home setup, don't overlook the benefits of smart and timer plugs, notes a cleaning expert.
“Smart plugs for scheduling cleaning devices automate tasks effectively,” she explains. They can also manage air purifiers and dehumidifiers, helping save on energy costs, or charge cleaning gadgets like cordless vacuums just before you need them.
Philips Hue Smart Plug
This plug allows you to control various devices with an app or timer, and can even integrate with voice assistants.
BN-LINK Indoor Mechanical Outlet Timer
For those who prefer a simpler solution, these mechanical timer plugs offer a budget-friendly smart alternative.
Osprey Smart Plug
These WiFi smart plugs work with Alexa and Google Home, making them straightforward additions to your cleaning routine.
5. Smart Mops
Similar to robot vacuums, smart mops can maintain the cleanliness of your hard floors without you needing to lift a mop. They reduce water usage while keeping your floors pristine, says a cleaning professional. “A smart mop is great for spills and requires little supervision,” she adds.
Many robot vacuums now include mopping capabilities, making them versatile smart cleaning devices.
6. Steam Cleaners
While not automated, steam cleaners are invaluable for professionals looking for an easier way to clean, according to an expert.
“Using a steam mop makes grout in my bathroom look cleaner and brighter without any chemicals. When the grime lifts, I just spray it with water and wipe it off,” he explains.
Black+Decker 7-in-1 Steam-Mop
This popular steam cleaner is excellent for various cleaning tasks, from tiles and grout to upholstery and carpets.
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
The HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool tackles tough stains from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors.
Wagner Spraytech On-Demand Steam Cleaner
This versatile steamer uses only steam to easily remove wallpaper and clean multiple household surfaces without chemicals.
Utilizing these smart cleaning tools alongside your regular cleaning tips can greatly cut down the time spent tidying up, giving you more opportunities to relax. However, remember that these devices are meant to assist with cleaning, not replace it entirely — tackling kitchen grease and bathroom grime is still essential for a truly clean home.
