How to choose a robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi with wet cleaning 2021

Choosing an automatic home assistant in 2021 has become a challenge because of the sheer number of models that have hit the market. Xiaomi and its sub-brands (Roborock, Dreame, Viomi) offer solutions for everything from basic cleaning to advanced navigation. It was during this period that a significant leap in technology took place, allowing devices to move around in a chaotic manner, but to build accurate maps of the room.

The focus of the purchase should be shifted to the quality of wet cleaning, as older models only slightly dusted, leaving a wiring. New devices 2021 equipped with vibration platforms and smart water dosing, which allows you to remove dried contaminants. The right choice depends not only on the budget, but also on the type of flooring in your home.

In this article, we will explore the key differences between models released during this period so you can make an informed decision, learn which parameters are really important and which overpay for it does not make sense. Understanding the difference between laser navigation and a gyroscope will help you avoid the disappointment of buying.

Key differences of 2021 models

The year 2021 was a watershed for the smart cleaning industry as manufacturers began to massively introduce laser rangefinders (LDS) even in the middle price segment. LDS-Navigation was the domain of flagships, but now it's the standard for building a detailed map of an apartment. Laser-free models are already seen as a budget solution for smaller studios this year.

Another major change was the introduction of combined containers or their complete separation. In top-end models Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ Critical parameter was the ability to install virtual walls and no-go zones through the application, which was previously not available everywhere.

The suction power has also increased: if previously the standard was considered to be 2000 Pa, then 2021 year-round 2500-3000 It allows the devices to deal more effectively with the fur of animals in carpets, but it's worth remembering that dry cleaning and wet cleaning are different processes, and high suction power does not always correlate with the quality of floor washing.

When choosing, look for support for voice assistants such as Aliexpress (error, fix current: Yandex Alice, Google Assistant or Siri).Integration with the Smart Home ecosystem allows you to run a cleaning schedule or script, for example, immediately after you leave home.

Types of navigation and map construction

The navigation system is the robot’s brain, which determines how well it works. In 2021, two main types dominated the market: laser navigation (LDS) and gyroscope navigation. A laser sensor located in a characteristic bump on the body scans the room 360 degrees, creating an accurate floor plan.

Gyroscope devices move in straight lines, but they don't see obstacles as well as laser models. They can build a map, but it's often less accurate, and the cleaning process takes longer because of idle passages. For large apartments and complex layouts, a laser rangefinder is the no-choice.

• 🚀 LDS-Navigation: Builds an accurate map, divides into rooms, allows you to set cleaning areas.
• 🌀 Gyroscope: Moves zigzags, map approximate, worse bypass obstacles.
• 📷 Visual navigation (VSLAM): Uses a camera, sees obstacles in the dark worse than a laser, but recognizes objects.

It’s worth noting that some advanced 2021 models have begun to feature additional sensors to recognize objects like wires or socks, which prevents the robot from getting stuck and damaging things. The Mi Home app allows you to save up to 4 cards, which is ideal for multi-storey homes.

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When you first set up, be sure to remove all wires and small objects from the floor. The robot must "get acquainted" with the room in its pure form so that the map is correct.

Wet cleaning systems: the evolution of technology

Wet cleaning by robot vacuum cleaners has gone a long way from a simple rag that the robot would drag around to complex vibration systems. In 2021, electronic water control became the de facto standard, meaning that the device delivers water in small portions just before the brush or rag, preventing drying or overhydration.

Special attention should be paid to models with a vibration platform. In such devices, for example, in the series Xiaomi Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, the cloth makes thousands of micro-movements per minute, simulating manual washing, which allows you to wipe dry spots that a regular static cloth can not cope with.

⚠️ Note: Do not use wet cleaning on carpets unless your model has the function of automatically lifting the rag or determining the carpeting.

The volume of the water tank also plays a role: for apartments up to 60 square meters, 150-200 ml is enough, but for large areas it is better to choose models with a tank from 300 ml. This will allow you to clean the entire apartment in one aisle without refueling. Some models allow you to adjust the intensity of the water supply directly in the application, choosing the Min, Medium or Max modes.

Comparison of popular models of 2021

To make it easier to choose, we have compiled a comparison table of popular models released or up-to-date in 2021, which have proven to be reliable assistants with good value for money, and prioritize your choices: some people care about suction strength, others about the quality of washing.

The Roborock S7 has been a hit with its unique Sonic Mopping system, which actually wipes out stains. At the same time, the Xiaomi Vacuum-Mop 2 offers a great entry ticket to the world of laser navigation at an affordable price, the choice between them depends on whether you are willing to overpay for premium materials and a vibration wash.

Smart functions and management through the application

The Mi Home ecosystem (or Xiaomi Home) provides a wide range of tools for janitor management, so you can install virtual walls, restricted areas and high-power zones right on a map, which is especially useful for protecting animal water bowls or areas with a lot of wires.

The carpet recognition function works differently depending on the model: Some robots simply increase suction when entering the carpet, others (more expensive) can lift a wet cloth to avoid wetting the pile. In the application, this is often configured under the "cleaning settings" -> "Carpet mode".

• 📱 Remote Start: Start cleaning from the office via the Internet.
• 🗣️ Voice control: Integration with Yandex Station or Google Home.
• 📅 Schedule: Set up automatic cleaning by week and time.

Remember to update your device’s firmware regularly through the app. Manufacturers often release updates that improve map-building algorithms and fix bugs. The path to update is usually in the device’s menu: Settings → About the device → Check for updates.

⚠️ Warning: When changing the furniture arrangement in the room, it is recommended to remove the old map in the application and build a new one. Otherwise, the robot may try to drive into non-existent areas or ignore new obstacles.

Maintenance and care of the device

A long and efficient robot vacuum cleaner requires regular maintenance. The main HEPA filter, which traps fine dust, is recommended to be washed with water every 2-3 weeks and must be dried for at least 24 hours before re-installation. Wet filters are prohibited - this can burn the engine.

The side brush and the main turbo brush also require attention, often wrapping hair and hair, which can lead to a jamming of the brush engine. Use a special blade that comes with the kit or scissors. The robot wheels should also be wiped with a wet cloth, removing the adhesive dust.

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Regular cleaning of sensors (wiping with a dry wipe) prevents false signals about obstacles and falling from a height.

The wet rag should be washed after each use or at least thoroughly rinsed. Over time, the fabric loses its absorbent properties and may start to leave crooks. It is recommended to have several replaceable rags to use in turn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)