For years, my impression of robot vacuums was basically this: Cute little hockey puck wanders around the house, eats a phone charger, then gets trapped under a chair.

Super helpful.

But robot vacuums have gotten considerably smarter. Newer models can map rooms, avoid common obstacles, empty themselves, and—in some cases—wash their own mop pads.

We've apparently entered the era where my vacuum has a more elaborate morning routine than I do. So, is one finally worth buying?

They're Much Better at Knowing Where They're Going

One of the biggest improvements is navigation. Instead of randomly bouncing around until your floor is hopefully clean, many newer robot vacuums create maps of your home and clean in a more organized pattern.

Depending on the model, you may also be able to tell it which rooms to clean or create areas you'd like it to avoid.

Obstacle Avoidance Is Getting Better

A robot vacuum isn't useful if you have to spend 20 minutes preparing your house before you can use it. The good news is that newer models are getting better at recognizing obstacles instead of blindly attempting to consume them.

That doesn't mean you should leave absolutely everything on the floor and expect your tiny cleaning employee to figure it out. But ideally, we're moving closer to press button, floor gets cleaned.

That's the dream.

Self-Emptying Is the Upgrade I'd Want

The actual vacuuming is only part of the job. Eventually, somebody has to empty the thing.

Self-emptying models return to a base that automatically removes debris from the robot's bin, which means you can go considerably longer without dealing with it yourself.

Is this necessary? Absolutely not.

Do I love the appeal of owning a vacuum that empties its own vacuum? Completely.

Robot Mops Have Entered the Conversation

Many newer machines don't stop at vacuuming. They mop, too.

Some higher-end docks can clean and dry the mop pads between uses, making the whole setup much more automated than older combination models. Of course, expect to pay more for these models.

If your home is mostly carpet, paying extra for elaborate mopping features probably doesn't make much sense.

They're Still Not Magic

I wouldn't throw away the regular vacuum yet. You'll still need something for stairs and furniture. Corners may need attention, and there will inevitably be some weird spot your robot decides doesn't exist.

You also have to maintain the machine. Brushes collect hair. Filters need attention. Docks need cleaning.

The robot may do the vacuuming, but apparently it has not agreed to become entirely self-sufficient.

Rude.

So, Is It Finally Time?

If vacuuming is one of those chores you constantly put off, I think robot vacuums make more sense than ever. But I wouldn't buy one expecting never to touch a vacuum again.

I'd buy one because keeping everyday crumbs and pet hair under control means I have to drag out the big vacuum less often.

And any appliance that can handle a chore while I'm doing something else has a strong argument for joining my household.

Just stay away from my charging cords, little buddy.