In this article: Sweeping Changes: How AI is Reshaping Home Cleaning On the Market Now: AI-Powered Cleaning Solutions for Your Home • Robot vacuums: From simple dust collectors to AI-powered home assistants • Beyond Vacuums: Exploring Other AI-Enabled Home Cleaning Tools AI Advantage: Transforming Home Cleaning for the Better Navigating the Clean Scene: Unpacking Challenges of AI in Home Cleaning The Next Clean Thing: Future Prospects of AI in Home Cleaning Conclusion
Sweeping Changes: How AI is Reshaping Home Cleaning
An introduction to AI and how it can be applied to home cleaning.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that aims to create systems capable of performing tasks that would normally require human intelligence. These tasks include learning from experience, understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, and making decisions.
AI has been making waves in various sectors, and home cleaning is no exception. The advent of AI has brought about a paradigm shift in the way we perceive and execute our cleaning tasks.
The current state of home cleaning is largely manual, time-consuming, and often viewed as a mundane chore. However, the integration of AI into this sphere has the potential to revolutionize it completely.
In the context of home cleaning, AI can be applied in various ways.
AI-enabled devices can automate cleaning tasks, learn from patterns, adapt to different environments, and even make decisions based on the data it collects.
AI-powered software tools are available to help with the planning and scheduling of home cleaning and maintenance.
Such devices and tools exemplify streamlining home cleaning with AI.
AI-powered home cleaning devices, such as robotic vacuum cleaners, use AI algorithms to navigate around your home, identify areas that need cleaning, and adjust their cleaning mechanisms accordingly. They can learn from their environment, remember the layout of your home, and even make decisions like when to return to their charging dock.
These devices and tools not only save time and effort but also enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of cleaning.
On the Market Now: AI-Powered Cleaning Solutions for Your Home
An overview of existing AI tools designed for home cleaning.
Robot vacuums: From simple dust collectors to AI-powered home assistants
Robot vacuums are the most prevalent AI-enabled home cleaning tool on the market today.
The first robot vacuum cleaner, known as the ‘Trilobite’, was introduced by Electrolux in 1996. It was not AI-enabled, but was a rather basic device that relied on a single motor and sensor to detect obstacles.
It was not until 2002 that the first commercially successful robot vacuum, the well-known iRobot Roomba, was launched.
The 2002 Roomba was equipped with sensors that enabled it to navigate the floor area of a home and detect the presence of obstacles. It used algorithmic programming to change its direction when it bumped into something or sensed an obstacle. This behavior, known as a “random walk” – not to be confused with the random walk algorithms of graph theory – was a form of reactive behavior based on sensor input and allowed the Roomba to cover a large area without needing to map out the room.
While the 2002 Roomba was a significant step in the evolution of home cleaning devices, its capabilities were still quite basic compared to today’s standards. So, while the 2002 Roomba was a pioneering device in robotic home cleaning, it was not “AI-enabled” in the way we understand the term today.
Over the years, robot vacuums have evolved dramatically. The latest models – like the highly regarded iRobot Roomba s9+ – incorporate AI-enabled features, such as advanced navigation, object identification, and decision-making based on collected data making them truly smart machines.
Modern robot vacuums not only boast an array of intuitive features and significant advancements in navigation and functionality, but they also harmonize with other smart devices, such as Alexa and Google Assistant, catering to a convenient, thorough, and hands-free cleaning experience.
Beyond vacuums: Exploring other AI-enabled home cleaning tools
While robot vacuums were the first and remain the most prevalent AI-enabled home cleaning tool, modern AI-enabled home cleaning tools have expanded beyond vacuums to include a variety of devices such as smart mops and scrubbers as well as AI-enabled planning tools.
Here are several other notable types of AI-enabled home cleaning tools on the market today.
Robot mops
Devices like the Samsung Jetbot Mop and the iRobot Braava Jet 240 are robotic mops designed to automate the process of mopping floors.
Likened to motorized Swiffers, robot mops zip across hard surfaces sweeping up dust and dirt and spraying water and a cleaning solution as they go. Their absorbent pads mop and scrub sprayed areas, effectively tackling sticky messes, grime, and grease, and providing a comprehensive clean for your tile, hardwood, and stone floors.
But the iRobot Braava Jet M6 Ultimate Robot Mop takes automated mopping one step further by incorporating AI.
A high-tech, Wi-Fi connected device that aims to revolutionize floor cleaning, the iRobot Braava Jet M6 Ultimate Robot Mop uses smart mapping and navigation to learn and map your home, adapting to your space to ensure every corner is reached.
In addition to its advanced navigation, the Braava Jet M6 also offers selective room cleaning. This means you can control and schedule which rooms are cleaned and when.
The Braava Jet M6 also boasts Imprint Link Technology. This allows it to team up with select Roomba Robot Vacuums to vacuum and then mop automatically in perfect sequence.
And finally, for a more hands-free experience, the Braava Jet M6 integrates with voice assistants. You can simply make a request to your voice assistant or via the iRobot Home App to initiate mopping. The device also features smart charge and resume, enabling the robot to intelligently recharge for the amount of time needed to continue cleaning and get the job done.
Robot mops are not just stand-alone devices. Many robot vacuums also include mopping features.
Robot window cleaners
The famous phrase, “I don’t do windows,” originated as part of a 1960s ad campaign and stuck around for decades as a reference for jobs that nobody wanted to do.
AI to the rescue.
Devices like the Hobot 298, the Wexbi Window Cleaning Robot, and the Gladwell Gecko Robot Window Cleaner use AI technology to automate this notoriously thankless (and sometimes dangerous) chore.
For example, the Gladwell Gecko Robot Window Cleaner is a smart, remote-powered window cleaner that uses suction to stay attached to your window. Equipped with advanced artificial intelligence technology that enables it to clean windows quickly and efficiently, the Gecko is versatile and functional on different surface types and dimensions, making it a great choice for cleaning smaller windows or glass doors.
One of the key features of the Gecko is its intuitive cleaning technology. This smart AI-powered design ensures that every part of your window, including those hard-to-reach areas, is thoroughly cleaned. It’s also equipped with an edge detection feature that allows it to automatically detect the edges of the windows.
The Gecko offers both remote and app control, allowing you to control the device from the palm of your hand. The full access app lets you tailor the controls to fit your home.
Smart dishwashers
While window cleaning may not be an everyday chore, in most households dishwashing is. There is nothing like a sink piled full of dirty dishes to dull your house’s sparkle.
You will still have to load and put away the dishes, but smart dishwashers like the Bosch SGX78B55UC and the Samsung DW80R9950US use artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to assess the number of dishes, the level of grime, and the type of food residue. With this knowledge, they select the most appropriate washing cycle to achieve optimal cleaning results while conserving water and energy.
These AI-enabled dishwashers can be controlled remotely through a smartphone app or voice command. This allows users to start or stop the dishwasher from any location, change settings, get alerts, and even diagnose problems.
AI-powered To-Do Lists
In addition to these and other AI enabled devices, AI-powered software tools are available to help with the planning and scheduling of home cleaning and maintenance.
For example, Taskade, an AI-powered productivity platform, offers a suite of tools to supercharge productivity.
Primarily catering to office and workspace teams, Taskade also provides a range of To-Do List generators that are intended to assist you in maintaining organization, setting priorities, and completing tasks in your personal life.
Among Taskade’s AI To-Do List generators is an “AI Seasonal Cleaning To-Do List” generator.
Using artificial intelligence, this generator creates a well-organized schedule that divides your cleaning chores into several seasons. In addition to organizing cleaning chores, the generated To-Do List provides cleaning advice and is also customizable, allowing you to add or remove jobs, change the calendar, and input your preferences to better fit your lifestyle.
“This tool is all about simplifying tasks, optimizing time, and promoting a clean, healthy, and beautiful living space,” writes Taskade.
Moreover, in addition to helping you maintain “a clean and organized living space” Taskade has To-Do List generators for daily planning, meal prep, grocery shopping, and school activities.
AI Advantage: Transforming Home Cleaning for the Better
Benefits of using AI for home cleaning.
AI is revolutionizing various aspects of our lives, and home cleaning is no exception. The integration of AI in home cleaning tools has brought about numerous advantages, including efficiency, time-saving, and the ability to perform tasks without human intervention.
Efficiency
AI-powered cleaning tools are designed to be highly efficient. They can navigate around obstacles, clean hard-to-reach areas, and even adapt to different types of surfaces or dirt. For instance, some robotic vacuum cleaners can automatically adjust their suction power based on the level of dirt or the type of floor. This level of efficiency is difficult to achieve with traditional cleaning methods.
In the future, AI cleaning tools are likely to become even more efficient, detecting different types of dirt and adjusting their cleaning methods accordingly and learning from their past cleaning sessions in order to optimize subsequent cleaning paths for maximum efficiency.
Time-Savings
One of the most significant advantages of using AI tools for home cleaning is the time-saving aspect. In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. AI cleaning tools can operate independently, allowing homeowners to focus on other tasks, even cleaning your home while you’re at work, saving you a considerable amount of time.
As AI tools become more sophisticated, they will save even more time for homeowners. Future AI cleaning tools will integrate ever more household cleaning tasks, as singe devices capable of handling multiple cleaning tasks simultaneously – such as vacuuming, mopping, and dusting – become more prevalent.
Coordination with other smart home devices will also improve, ensuring that cleaning happens at the most convenient times.
Autonomy
Perhaps the most impressive feature of AI cleaning tools is their ability to perform tasks without human intervention. Once programmed, these devices can carry out their cleaning tasks independently. Some models can even self-charge by returning to their docking station when their battery is low. This level of autonomy not only makes cleaning hassle-free but also ensures a consistently clean home.
The autonomy of AI cleaning tools is expected to reach new heights in the future. They might be able to self-diagnose technical issues and perform basic maintenance tasks. Some may even be able to order replacement parts or schedule a service appointment if needed. This level of autonomy could make home cleaning not only hands-free, but truly worry free.
Navigating the Clean Scene: Unpacking Challenges of AI in Home Cleaning
Challenges … and solutions!
While AI tools for home cleaning offer numerous benefits, users may face certain challenges. This could include issues like cost, maintenance, and learning to use new technology.
Following are several challenges associated with AI home cleaning tools and also suggested solutions.
Technical Difficulties
AI cleaning tools, like any technology, can experience technical difficulties. They may malfunction, fail to navigate obstacles, or struggle with complex tasks.
Solution: Regular maintenance and software updates can help prevent these issues. If problems persist, professional repair services should be sought.
High Initial Costs
AI cleaning tools can be expensive, making them inaccessible for some users.
Solution: As technology advances and becomes more commonplace, prices are likely to decrease. Additionally, considering the long-term time and effort saved, these tools can be seen as a worthwhile investment.
Dependence on Electricity
AI cleaning tools rely on electricity, which can be a challenge during power outages or in areas with unstable power supply.
Solution: Battery-operated models can be used as a backup during power outages. Solar-powered models could also be a future solution.
Privacy Concerns
Some AI cleaning tools, especially those connected to the internet, may raise privacy concerns.
Solution: Users should ensure they purchase devices from reputable companies that prioritize data security. Using strong, unique passwords and regularly updating software can also enhance security.
Limited Functionality
While AI cleaning tools can handle basic cleaning tasks, they may struggle with complex tasks like deep-cleaning or organizing.
Solution: AI technology is continually improving, and future models may be capable of handling more complex tasks. Until then, users may need to perform these tasks manually.
While there are challenges associated with using AI tools for home cleaning, many of these can be mitigated through regular maintenance, smart purchasing decisions, and staying informed about technological advancements. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect these tools to become even more user-friendly and efficient.
The Next Clean Thing: Future Prospects of AI in Home Cleaning
The future of home cleaning with AI.
AI is poised to revolutionize the future of home cleaning, ushering in a new era of efficiency and convenience.
Noting that 71 percent of consumers expressed satisfaction with today’s smart home devices – with home monitoring and security devices, home automation devices (such as robot vacuums), and networked entertainment devices leading satisfaction ratings – Roborock and IDC observed that the future of smart home cleaning technology is evolving from discrete smart home devices toward integrated and autonomous smart home environments.
"In the past, human labor played a major role in maintaining comfortable home spaces, but fueled by advancements in technology such as IoT and AI, the smart-home industry is developing in the direction of holistic housekeeping solutions, where the user-device interaction is becoming more and more autonomous." - Autonomous Cleaning Changes the Game for the Future of Smart Vacuums
For instance, the robot vacuum, originally a bit of a cleaning novelty, has advanced to the point where users now consider it to be a “serious” cleaning tool.
Familiarity with robot vacuums and other smart home devices, has set paved the way for smart home ecosystems.
These wholistic smart home ecosystems will encompass devices that achieve new levels of:
Functionality. Future cleaning devices will get better and better at doing the jobs for which they were intended.
Simplicity. Future cleaning devices will be more intuitive, simple to assemble, and easy to use, which will lessen the aggravation and learning curve that come with complicated technologies. The requirement for users to “learn” how to utilize devices will vanish. Rather, the machine will gather information about the man, facilitating its ability to execute commands.
Autonomy. Future cleaning devices will sense changes in the home environment and user behavior, becoming more proactive and managing themselves in a more personalized, human-like, and self-aware manner. Improved autonomy will offer a smooth and uncomplicated user experience, enabling people to clean their homes quickly and efficiently with the least amount of trouble.
In the future, the cleaning ability of smart vacuums and other smart cleaning devices will be measured by how completely they free humans from the labor of cleaning.
Conclusion
As we stand on the brink of this transformation, it’s fascinating to speculate on the potential advancements in technology and the emergence of innovative AI cleaning tools.
These advancements are not only expected to enhance the effectiveness of cleaning but also significantly reshape our cleaning habits. From autonomous robots capable of performing complex cleaning tasks to smart devices that adapt to our routines and preferences, the future of home cleaning with AI promises to be an exciting journey of discovery and innovation.
K. ("Kristen") Powell is a technical writer and ghost writer for a firm that represents advanced degree STEM professionals, many of whom work on the cutting edge of AI and robotics. While fascinated by the research and the high-tech innovations she learns about through her professional life, in her personal life Kristen seeks simplicity and a welcoming and uncluttered home.