How to empty and clean a Roomba vacuum

Robot vacuums are an excellent way to clean your floor with minimal effort. However, you need to do your part of the job, including moving furniture to make way for your robot. You’ll also need to empty and clean it once in a while. Some models, like the Dreamebot L10s Ultra, come with a docking station designed to collect dust, which makes it easier to maintain.

Whether you have a dock or not, a robot vacuum requires some maintenance, especially when clearing debris from its extractors and when removing hair and dust from the wheels. It’s recommended to perform these tasks at least every month. If you have a pet that sheds a lot, you may want to do it more frequently, preferably every week, for a good cleaning effect.

The iRobot Roomba is among the most popular smart vacuums, which is why we focus on these models in this guide. However, most of these tips apply to almost any robot vacuum on the market and should keep it in pristine condition, even after intensive use.

Emptying and cleaning the dustbin

If your smart vacuum doesn’t have a self-emptying dustbin, you’ll have to empty it after each use. It’s alright if you forget to do it once in a while, as the bin is big enough for a second run. Still, doing it daily ensures it won’t be full in the middle of a job.

1. Press the release button on the bin to pull it out.

   

2. Open the bin door and empty its contents by shaking it over in the trash.
3. Remove the filter and gently tap it a few times against the trash container to remove excess dust and debris.
4. Wipe inside the dustbin once in a while with a wet cloth to remove dust and debris. You can also wash it under lukewarm water to remove dust. Never put it in the dishwasher. Let it fully dry before placing it back in the Roomba.

   

5. Once you’re done, place the filter and the dustbin back by sliding them into your Roomba.

Cleaning the wheels

A Roomba uses wheels to move around, and although the two big side wheels aren’t easily removable, the front caster wheel can be quickly cleaned and replaced.

1. Firmly pull on the wheel to remove it.
2. Remove debris from the wheel well and the wheel.

   

3. Snap the wheel and the plastic casing together back to the Roomba.
4. Gently wipe the side wheels with a damp cloth to remove excess dust and debris.

Cleaning the brushes and debris extractors

A lot of people forget to clear debris from their brushes, which leads to poor cleaning results. This is especially important if you have a pet or loose hair in your house, as these hairs tend to get caught in the robot’s wheels and brushes, preventing them from moving properly. Clearing hair and dust from the brushes is easy.

1. Gently turn your Roomba upside down and place it on a flat surface.
2. Press the small tabs located on the cleaning head module door to open it.

   

3. Gently pull the brushes to remove them and clear out any dust and debris you see.
4. Pull on the bearings on the side to separate them from the brush. If you struggle to remove them, use a small screwdriver to gently lift them and separate them from the rest of the brush.

   

5. Remove any hair stuck on the brushes and the bearings.
6. Place the bearings back on the brushes.
7. Before putting the brushes back, remove the dustbin and check that the vacuum path is clear and that debris or dust doesn’t block the way.
8. Place the brushes back in by matching their shapes with the pegs on the Roomba.
9. Close the door and make sure it’s latched before putting your Roomba back on the floor.
10. Reinstall the dustbin.

Your Roomba also features an edge-sweeping brush, which needs to be replaced once in a while. Even if it looks good, use a screwdriver to remove it and clear any hair and dust before reinstalling it, as these may prevent it from spinning normally.

Cleaning the sensors

A Roomba is packed with sensors that help it find its way and detect when it’s time to empty the dustbin. These must be clear of any debris and dust, or they’ll send false notifications to you and impair your robot’s performance. They’re easy to clean.

1. Dampen a clean cloth with a few drops of rubbing alcohol.
2. Gently wipe the sensors located underneath the Roomba, as well as the charging pins.
3. Wipe them with another dry cloth immediately.
4. Remove the dustbin, open it, and gently wipe the sensors with the damp cloth and then with the dry one.

A clean Roomba equals clean floors

Looking after your Roomba takes minimal effort compared to what it can do for you and how clean it can keep your floors. It also ensures your robot lasts longer since removing debris and dust from it and replacing its components maximizes its longevity. The app’s notifications are also there to help you, especially those that tell you to replace its filter or a specific part.

With these tips, you’ll be able to keep your smart vacuum for years with the same efficiency it had the day you bought it! If you face issues with false notifications and poor cleaning results, these steps can improve your experience, as there won’t be any residual dust or debris triggering them.

Most Roomba smart vacuums are compatible with Google Assistant. Now that you know how to keep it in pristine condition, link it to your phone and smart speakers and make vacuuming less of a chore.