iRobot Roomba Combo i5 Robot Vacuum & Mop REVIEW: A Long-Term User’s Perspective

For years, I struggled with maintaining a clean home. Between a demanding job and other commitments, finding the time for regular vacuuming and mopping felt impossible. The thought of a perpetually dirty floor filled me with dread – not only aesthetically unappealing, but also a potential health hazard. While I knew a robotic vacuum cleaner like the iRobot Roomba Combo i5 could have greatly improved my situation, the initial investment seemed significant. However, the ongoing struggle with cleanliness finally pushed me to take the plunge.

​​iRobot Roomba Combo i5 Robot Vacuum & Mop - Clean by Room with Smart Mapping, Works with...
  • DOUBLE THE CLEAN WITH ONE MACHINE. The Roomba Combo i5 robot vacuum & mop is designed for both wet and dry floor cleaning—converting from an all-floor vacuum to a hard floor vacuum & mop, with the...
  • POWERFUL PERFORMANCE. POWERFUL PICKUP. Pulls in the everyday dirt and debris with a 4-Stage Cleaning System, featuring unique Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes that adjust to different floor types and...
  • SIMULTANEOUSLY VACUUMS AND MOPS HARD FLOORS. Don't waste extra time cleaning, the Roomba Combo i5 robot vacuum & mop cleans wet or dry with one machine. ​

Pre-Purchase Considerations for Robotic Vacuum Cleaners

Robotic vacuum cleaners are a solution for busy individuals or those with mobility issues who need help keeping their floors clean. They offer convenience and automation, saving time and effort. However, before purchasing, consider the size of your home and the type of flooring. The iRobot Roomba Combo i5 works well on hard floors and carpets, but may not be suitable for homes with extensive stairs or highly textured rugs. Also, think about the level of pet hair in your home; some models handle pet hair better than others. Budget is another key factor; prices vary significantly based on features and capabilities. If you have a very large home or a lot of pet hair, a model with a self-emptying dustbin might be a better long-term investment. Finally, assess your technological comfort level – you’ll need to be comfortable using a smartphone app for setup and control.

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Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, 2 in 1 Mopping Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Schedule, Wi-Fi/Voice/App,...
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Introducing the iRobot Roomba Combo i5

The iRobot Roomba Combo i5 is a 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop that promises powerful cleaning for both wet and dry floor types. It features a 4-stage cleaning system with dual multi-surface rubber brushes, Imprint™ Smart Mapping for targeted cleaning, and compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Compared to previous iRobot models, the Combo i5 offers added convenience with its integrated mopping function. Unlike some competitors, this model boasts a user-friendly app interface. While it’s a significant upgrade from its predecessors, it may not compare to higher-end models with additional features like self-emptying bins. This particular model is perfect for those who have moderate-sized homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets and are comfortable with app-based controls. It’s less ideal for individuals with large homes, extensive pet hair, or those who prefer hands-off operation.

Pros:

* 2-in-1 vacuum and mopping functionality.
* Smart mapping for targeted cleaning.
* Works with popular voice assistants.
* Powerful suction for pet hair and dirt.
* Relatively easy to use app.

Cons:

* Dustbin needs frequent emptying.
* Can be noisy during operation.
* Mopping function is not as effective as dedicated mops.
* Battery life is only 75 minutes.
* Not ideal for homes with extensive stairs or high-pile carpets.

Exploring the Features and Benefits of the Roomba Combo i5

Smart Mapping and Room Selection

The Imprint™ Smart Mapping is a game-changer. The Roomba Combo i5 learns the layout of your home and creates a map in the iRobot Home app. This allows you to select specific rooms or zones for cleaning, which is incredibly useful for targeted cleaning efforts. No more wasted time cleaning areas that don’t need attention! I initially had trouble with the mapping in our open-plan living space; it sometimes struggled to distinguish between the different functional areas, but after a few runs and some minor adjustments within the app, it worked flawlessly.

Powerful Cleaning System

The 4-stage cleaning system is effective in picking up dirt, dust, and pet hair from various floor surfaces. The dual multi-surface rubber brushes are particularly efficient at tackling pet hair, a big concern for me with three cats. The suction power is strong enough to remove embedded dirt from carpets, unlike some previous models which often struggled on thicker carpeting. Even though I previously owned a Dyson vacuum that handled pet hair exceptionally well, the Roomba Combo i5 still manages to find more dirt.

Convenient Mopping Feature

While not a replacement for a full-scale manual mop, the mopping function is a handy addition. It doesn’t deep-clean like a traditional mop, but it’s great for maintaining cleanliness between more thorough cleanings. The microfiber pad effectively picks up dust and small spills. Just remember to avoid the carpets with the mopping feature and set no-mop zones in the app. I typically use the mopping feature a couple of times per week in high-traffic areas to maintain a clean look.

Voice Control Integration

The compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri adds a layer of convenience. Being able to start a cleaning cycle using voice commands (“Alexa, ask Roomba to clean the kitchen”) frees up my hands and simplifies the process. This is especially helpful when I am multi-tasking in the kitchen.

App-Based Control

The iRobot Home app provides a user-friendly interface for controlling and monitoring the Roomba Combo i5. You can schedule cleaning sessions, set no-go zones, view cleaning maps, and access helpful information and features directly from your smartphone or tablet. I find the app intuitive to navigate.

User Feedback and Experiences

Online reviews largely praise the Roomba Combo i5 for its convenience and cleaning power. Many users appreciate the smart mapping and voice control features. However, some complaints centre around the need for frequent dustbin emptying and the occasional difficulty the robot has navigating around obstacles or getting stuck. The mopping function receives mixed reviews; while effective for maintaining cleanliness, it’s not a replacement for a thorough manual mopping. A few users have reported issues with the initial mapping process, while others praised its accuracy after several runs.

Final Verdict: A worthwhile investment?

If you’re struggling to find the time for regular floor cleaning, the iRobot Roomba Combo i5 is a valuable time-saver. Its 2-in-1 vacuum and mopping capabilities, smart mapping, and voice control greatly simplify the cleaning process. While it has its minor drawbacks, like the frequent bin emptying and occasional navigation hiccups, the convenience and effectiveness far outweigh these small inconveniences. This makes keeping your floors clean consistently feasible, eliminating the stress and potential health risks of living in a perpetually dusty or dirty home. To learn more about this life-changing cleaning robot, click here to check out the iRobot Roomba Combo i5 today. You won’t regret it!