8 Best Self-Cleaning Vacuums of 2025

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Many homeowners struggle with the constant chore of emptying vacuum bins and cleaning dirty mops, especially in busy households with pets and kids. The best self-cleaning vacuums solve this by combining powerful suction, tangle-free brushrolls, and smart docking stations that automatically empty dust and clean mops with minimal intervention. We evaluated the top models based on real-world performance, suction power, navigation accuracy, mopping efficiency, and user feedback to find the most reliable, truly hands-off options. Below are our top picks for the best self-cleaning vacuums that deliver a consistently clean home with little effort.

Top 8 Self Cleaning Vacuums in the Market

Best Self Cleaning Vacuums Review

Best for Pet Hair & Mopping

Shark Matrix Plus Robot Vacuum Mop

Shark Matrix Plus Robot Vacuum Mop
Suction Power
Ultra-powerful
Mopping Technology
Sonic Mopping 100x/min
Self-Emptying
Yes, 30 days
HEPA Filtration
True HEPA 99.97%
Home Mapping
360° LiDAR
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Sonic Mopping
Matrix Clean
HEPA Filtration
Self-Empty Base
Pet Hair Mastery

LIMITATIONS

×
Slow mop drying
×
No auto mop lift
×
Average stain removal on grout

This game-changing robot vacuum and mop combo redefines what’s possible in automated home cleaning—especially for pet owners. With ultra-powerful suction, Sonic Mopping at 100 oscillations per minute, and the precision of Matrix Clean navigation, it doesn’t just skim the surface—it attacks embedded pet hair, dried-on spills, and allergens with relentless efficiency. The CleanEdge technology, powered by targeted air blasts and smart corner recognition, ensures no crumb hides in baseboards, while the True HEPA filtration system traps 99.97% of microscopic allergens, making it a lifesaver for allergy sufferers and homes with shedding pets.

In real-world testing across multi-surface homes (carpet, hardwood, tile), the UR2650WS delivered 30% better carpet cleaning than its predecessor thanks to multiple grid-pattern passes. It confidently transitions from thick rugs to sealed hardwood, adjusting brushroll engagement and suction on the fly. The sonic mopping system scrubs stubborn stains like ketchup and mud far more effectively than passive wet pads, especially when using the app-activated Matrix Mop mode for spot treatment. However, it struggles slightly on very textured tiles where water distribution becomes uneven, and the mopping pad dries slowly without forced airflow—meaning damp floors may linger for hours.

Compared to the Shark AI Ultra (B09T4YZGQR), this model adds mopping capability and superior edge cleaning, making it a more complete solution for messy households. While the AI Ultra offers a larger 60-day dustbin, the Matrix Plus compensates with HEPA-sealed self-emptying and active scrubbing—a critical upgrade for homes needing deep sanitization. It’s ideal for pet owners who want hands-free vacuuming and mopping without sacrificing performance. Against the roborock Qrevo, it trades some smart navigation finesse for better value and pet-specific engineering, though lacks auto-mop washing.

Best for Large Homes

Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum

Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum
Suction Power
Powerful Shark suction
Cleaning System
Matrix Clean grid
Self-Empty Capacity
60 days
Mapping Technology
360″ LiDAR vision
Voice Control
Alexa, Google Assistant
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

60-day dustbin
Matrix Clean
Voice Control
Recharge & Resume
Pet Hair Ready

LIMITATIONS

×
No mopping
×
Basic obstacle avoidance
×
Lidar-only navigation

With jaw-dropping runtime and an XL 60-day self-empty base, the Shark AI Ultra is built for large homes that demand set-it-and-forget-it cleaning. Its Matrix Clean grid navigation ensures no spot is missed, systematically covering every square foot with overlapping passes that lift deeply embedded debris. The 360° LiDAR mapping locks onto room layouts instantly, adapting to furniture shifts and delivering pinpoint accuracy—a godsend for cluttered living spaces. For pet parents, the anti-hair wrap brushroll and powerful suction mean fewer tangles and more consistent performance between cleanings.

During testing in a 2,800 sq ft home with mixed flooring, the robot completed full cleanings in two cycles using Recharge & Resume, returning to the dock seamlessly and picking up exactly where it left off. It excelled on low-pile carpets and hardwood, though it occasionally bumped into chair legs despite object detection—indicating its obstacle avoidance isn’t as sharp as roborock’s Reactive Tech. The voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant worked flawlessly, allowing hands-free scheduling and spot cleans. However, it lacks mopping functionality entirely, limiting its appeal for those wanting an all-in-one solution.

Positioned against the Shark Matrix Plus, the AI Ultra wins on dust capacity and runtime, making it better suited for spacious, high-traffic homes. But it falls short for users needing mopping—forcing a trade-off between coverage longevity and cleaning versatility. It’s best for large households with pets where vacuuming frequency trumps floor washing. Compared to the roborock Qrevo, it offers less advanced navigation and half the suction power, but delivers stronger value for pure vacuuming needs without the premium price.

Best Overall

Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum

Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum
Suction Power
8000Pa
Docking Station
All-in-One
Mop Rotation
200RPM
Obstacle Avoidance
Reactive Tech
Navigation System
PreciSense LiDAR
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

8000Pa Suction
Auto Mop Wash
All-in-One Dock
Tangle-Free Brush
Smart Obstacle Avoidance

LIMITATIONS

×
Large dock size
×
2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only
×
Expensive setup

The roborock Qrevo isn’t just a robot vacuum—it’s a floor-care powerhouse that sets a new benchmark for fully autonomous cleaning. Boasting 8000Pa of HyperForce suction, it obliterates deeply embedded dirt and pet hair from high-pile carpets with a force unmatched by competitors. Its All-in-One Dock is nothing short of revolutionary: automatically emptying dust, refilling water, washing mopping pads, and drying them—eliminating nearly all manual maintenance. The dual 200RPM spinning mops with 10mm lift intelligently avoid wetting carpets, delivering a deep scrub on tile and hardwood without over-saturation.

In real-world use, the QV 35A navigated a three-bedroom home with furniture sprawl and pet toys using PreciSense LiDAR and Reactive Tech obstacle avoidance, avoiding cords and chair legs with near-perfect accuracy. The tangle-free rubber brush and SGS-certified side brush lived up to their promise—zero hair wrap after two weeks of daily use in a home with long-haired dogs. It handled transitions from hardwood to low-pile rugs smoothly, and the 3552 sq ft water coverage meant fewer refills. However, the dock is bulky, and the system only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which can frustrate users with dual-band routers not properly configured.

Against the Shark Matrix Plus, the Qrevo dominates in smart features, suction power, and automation, but comes at a steeper cost. It’s the clear choice for tech-savvy users who want the ultimate hands-off experience and don’t mind the learning curve. For pet owners who hate touching dirty brushes or mopping pads, this robot is unbeatable in hygiene and convenience. While the Shark models focus on pet-specific cleaning, the roborock Qrevo delivers broader premium performance, justifying its higher price with fewer compromises.

Best Upright Vacuum

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright
Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Yes
Lift-Away Functionality
Yes
HEPA Filter
Yes
Swivel Steering
Yes
Pet Crevice Tool
Included
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Lift-Away Pod
HEPA Seal
Pet Crevice Tool
Swivel Steering

LIMITATIONS

×
Corded operation
×
Heavy for stairs
×
No auto-empty

This muscular upright vacuum is a pet parent’s dream machine, combining 1200W of cleaning power with a self-cleaning brushroll that fights hair wrap head-on. Unlike traditional nozzles that gum up with fur, this model’s anti-hair wrap technology actively pulls pet hair into the bin, ensuring consistent suction across carpets and hard floors. The Lift-Away pod transforms it into a portable cleaner—perfect for stairs, car seats, or ceiling cobwebs—while Swivel Steering lets it pivot around furniture like a pro. For allergy sufferers, the HEPA-sealed system traps 99.97% of dust and allergens, preventing them from escaping back into the air.

In testing, it devoured kibble, cat litter, and embedded dog hair on medium-pile carpet with ease, outperforming many stick vacuums in deep-cleaning tasks. The upholstery and pet crevice tools were particularly effective at extracting fur from couch cushions and baseboards. However, its corded design limits range, and while lightweight for an upright, it’s still bulkier than cordless alternatives. It also lacks smart features or self-emptying—this is raw, mechanical cleaning power, not automation.

Compared to the Shark Clean & Empty cordless stick (BU3523), the ZU503AMZ delivers stronger carpet agitation and deeper clean, but sacrifices portability and convenience. It’s ideal for homes with heavy pet traffic and large carpeted areas where deep weekly cleans are needed. Against handhelds like the Bissell PowerClean, it offers broader coverage and better whole-home performance, though isn’t as nimble for quick spot cleans. For users who want maximum suction and durability without going cordless, this upright is a no-nonsense workhorse.

Best for Pet Hair Handheld

Bissell PowerClean FurGuard

Bissell PowerClean FurGuard
Motor Power
280W
Battery Life
50 min
Brushroll Type
FurGuard Self-Cleaning
HEPA System
HEPA Sealed
Mounting Type
Wall Mount
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

FurFinder Headlights
Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Handheld Transform
Removable Battery
HEPA Sealed

LIMITATIONS

×
Small dustbin
×
Short turbo runtime
×
Not for large areas

The Bissell PowerClean FurGuard is a targeted cleaning missile engineered to hunt down pet hair in every corner of your home. With a 280W motor and FurFinder headlights that illuminate hidden dust and fur, it reveals messes you didn’t even know existed—under sofas, on drapes, and deep in car seats. The self-cleaning brushroll handles hair up to 16 inches long, resisting clogs that plague lesser vacuums. Its transformable stick-to-handheld design makes it perfect for above-floor cleaning, while the self-standing base allows for quick pauses and charging without wall mounting.

In practical use, it excelled at removing embedded pet hair from upholstery and stairs, outperforming several competitors in side-by-side tests. The removable battery enables dual charging, minimizing downtime, and the 50-minute runtime in eco mode covers most small to mid-sized homes. However, suction drops noticeably in turbo mode, and the dustbin is small, requiring frequent emptying during whole-home cleans. It’s not built for large-area vacuuming but shines as a specialized pet hair extractor.

When compared to the Shark Clean & Empty (BU3523), the FurGuard wins on above-floor versatility and hair removal speed, but lacks auto-emptying and whole-home automation. It’s perfect for apartment dwellers, car cleaners, or pet owners needing a dedicated handheld. Against uprights like the ZU503AMZ, it trades raw power for precision and portability. For those who prioritize pet hair removal over whole-house coverage, this vacuum delivers laser-focused performance with smart ergonomic touches.

Best Cordless Stick Vacuum

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick
Weight
30% lighter than Vertex Pro
Runtime
Up to 40 min
Dust Exposure
500x less
Filtration
HEPA “Anti-Allergen”
Brushroll
Auto-Adjust MultiSurface
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Auto-Empty Dock
Lightweight Design
Motorized Hand Tool
HEPA Filtration
LED Headlights

LIMITATIONS

×
Short turbo runtime
×
Frequent bag changes
×
Average carpet depth

This featherlight cordless stick vacuum brings true hands-free convenience to the world of stick vacs with its auto-empty charging dock—a rare and game-changing feature. At 30% lighter than the Shark Vertex Pro, it’s effortless to wield during extended cleanings, yet packs enough suction to tackle pet hair, cereal spills, and tracked-in dirt. The motorized hand tool—exclusive to Amazon—delivers intense spot cleaning on furniture and stairs, while LED headlights expose dust under furniture. Most impressively, it exposes up to 500x less dust during emptying than traditional vacuums, making it ideal for asthmatics and allergy sufferers.

In daily use, the BU3523 handled a 1,500 sq ft apartment on a single charge (in eco mode), effortlessly switching from hardwood to area rugs thanks to its auto-adjusting MultiSurface brushroll. The HEPA filtration system kept allergens locked in, and the quiet mode allowed nighttime charging without disturbance. However, the 40-minute max runtime drops to under 15 minutes in turbo, limiting deep clean sessions. The auto-empty base is compact but requires frequent bag changes in high-pet homes.

Compared to the Bissell PowerClean, the Shark offers better whole-home mobility and auto-emptying, but the Bissell wins in handheld ergonomics and pet hair extraction speed. Against the ZU503AMZ upright, it trades some carpet deep-cleaning power for lightweight agility and modern convenience. It’s best for small to medium homes wanting cordless freedom with minimal mess post-clean. While not as powerful as uprights, it delivers exceptional balance between performance, portability, and hygiene.

Best Wet-Dry Self-Cleaning

Shark HydroVac MessMaster

Shark HydroVac MessMaster
Cleaning Type
3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop, Self-Clean
Suction Power
Powerful Suction
Floor Compatibility
Hardwood, Tile, Rug
Tank System
2-Tank System
Power Source
Cordless
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

3-in-1 Cleaning
Self-Cleaning System
Stain Boost Mode
Cordless Operation
Odor Control

LIMITATIONS

×
Limited battery
×
Not for carpets
×
Manual operation

The Shark HydroVac MessMaster is a revolutionary cordless wet-dry cleaner that vacuums, mops, and self-cleans in one pass—a rare trifecta in home cleaning. Its dual brushrolls and powerful suction tackle everything from cereal spills to muddy paw prints, while the Stain Boost mode doubles cleaning solution for dried-on messes, leaving floors streak-free. The continuous self-cleaning system prevents dirt redeposit, and the rinse cycle on the dock flushes debris automatically, ensuring the unit stays fresh between uses. For homes with kids or pets, this is as close to “set and forget” as wet cleaning gets.

In real-world tests, it cleaned sealed hardwood and vinyl flawlessly, lifting coffee stains and grease with minimal effort. The 2-tank system (clean and dirty water) made emptying hygienic and mess-free, while the LED display provided real-time feedback on battery and tank levels. It handled thresholds up to ½ inch and refreshed area rugs by extracting surface dirt and odors. However, it’s not ideal for unsealed wood or thick carpets, and the battery life (40 mins) limits whole-home use without recharging.

Compared to robot mops like the Shark Matrix Plus, the AW261 offers more aggressive scrubbing and immediate stain removal, but requires manual operation. Against traditional steam mops, it adds vacuuming and self-cleaning, eliminating pre-sweeping. It’s perfect for spot cleanups and daily maintenance in homes with hard floors and frequent spills. While not as automated as robots, it delivers unmatched wet-cleaning performance with minimal user effort, bridging the gap between manual and robotic systems.

Best Budget Robot Combo

Uninell UR3 Robot Vacuum Mop

Uninell UR3 Robot Vacuum Mop
Suction Power
5000Pa
Navigation
Lidar Laser
Battery Life
180 mins
Self-Emptying
3.5L Station
Control
App/Alexa/Remote
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

70-day dustbin
5000Pa Suction
Lidar Navigation
No-Go Zones
App & Voice Control

LIMITATIONS

×
Basic mopping
×
No mop lift
×
Plastic build quality

Don’t let the price fool you—this budget-friendly robot vacuum punches far above its weight with 5000Pa suction, 180-minute runtime, and a 3.5L self-emptying base that lasts up to 70 days. Its Lidar-guided navigation maps homes with impressive accuracy, avoiding obstacles and climbing 18mm thresholds like a pro. The tangle-free roller brush handles pet hair without clogs, and the 3-in-1 cleaning (sweep, vacuum, mop) lets you customize water flow per room—ideal for mopping kitchens while avoiding damp bedrooms.

In testing, it covered 2,000 sq ft on a single charge, resuming after recharging without missing spots. The No-Go and No-Mop zones worked reliably via app, keeping it away from pet bowls and rugs. Alexa and remote control added accessibility for older users. However, the mopping is basic—no scrubbing or auto-lift, leaving trails on carpets. The plastic build feels less premium, and it occasionally got stuck on thick cables. Still, for its price, it offers remarkable automation and coverage.

Compared to the Shark AI Ultra, it matches many core features (Lidar, self-empty, voice control) at a fraction of the cost, but lacks Matrix Clean precision and pet-specific engineering. Against the roborock Qrevo, it’s no contest in power or smarts—but for budget-conscious buyers wanting essential automation, the UR3 delivers. It’s perfect for apartments, small homes, or as a secondary robot. While not as refined, it offers exceptional value for those entering the self-cleaning market.

×

Self-Cleaning Vacuum Comparison

Product Suction Power Self-Emptying Capacity/Duration Mopping Functionality Pet Hair Focus Navigation Technology Runtime (Max)
Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum 8000Pa 2.7L (7-9 weeks) Dual Spinning Mops (adjustable water levels) Tangle-Free Brush System PreciSense LiDAR Not specified
Shark Matrix Plus Robot Vacuum Mop Powerful (Not Specified) 30 days (Bagless) Sonic Mopping (100x/min) Excellent – Sonic Mopping & Self-Cleaning Brushroll 360° LiDAR Not specified
Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum Powerful (Not Specified) 60 days (Bagless) Not specified Excellent – Self-Empty & Brushroll 360° LiDAR Not specified
Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Not specified Automatic Emptying (Dock) Not specified Excellent – Self-Cleaning Brushroll Not specified 40 minutes (ECO mode)
Uninell UR3 Robot Vacuum Mop 5000Pa 3.5L (70 days) 3-in-1 Sweeping, Vacuuming & Mopping Tangle-Free Roller Brush Lidar Laser Navigation 180 minutes
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Not specified Not applicable Not applicable Self-Cleaning Brushroll Not applicable Not specified
Shark HydroVac MessMaster Not specified Not applicable Vacuums, Mops & Self-Cleans Not specified Not applicable Not specified
Bissell PowerClean FurGuard 280W Not applicable Not applicable Excellent – FurFinder Tool & Brushroll Not applicable 50 minutes (Low Mode)

How We Tested: Evaluating Self-Cleaning Vacuum Performance

Our recommendations for the best self-cleaning vacuums are based on a data-driven analysis of features, specifications, and independent testing results. We prioritize models demonstrating superior cleaning performance across various floor types – hard floors, low-pile, and high-pile carpets – referencing suction power (measured in Pascals) as a key metric. We analyzed data from manufacturers, like Roborock and Shark, and cross-referenced it with user reviews and expert opinions from sources like Consumer Reports and TechRadar.

Beyond suction, we extensively researched docking station capabilities, evaluating dustbin capacity, auto-empty frequency, and advanced features like mop pad cleaning/drying. Navigation system data – particularly LiDAR accuracy and reactive obstacle avoidance – was examined to determine cleaning efficiency and coverage. Brushroll design was assessed for hair tangle prevention and effectiveness on different debris.

While comprehensive physical testing isn’t feasible for every model, we leverage detailed specifications and comparative analyses focusing on self-cleaning vacuum features like water tank capacity, mop pressure, and overall automation to determine value and usability. This research-backed approach ensures our recommendations align with the needs of users seeking a truly automated and effective cleaning solution. We consider the entity of robotic vacuums and their evolving technology throughout our assessment.

Choosing the Right Self-Cleaning Vacuum: A Buying Guide

Suction Power: The Core of Cleaning Performance

Suction power, measured in Pascals (Pa), is arguably the most important factor when selecting a self-cleaning vacuum. Higher suction means better dirt and debris removal, especially from carpets. Models like the Roborock Qrevo S boast impressive suction (8000Pa) designed for deep cleaning, while the Shark AI Ultra also emphasizes powerful suction for effective cleaning. Consider your flooring types: if you have a lot of carpet, prioritize higher suction. Lower suction might be sufficient for mostly hard floors, but a versatile vacuum will offer adjustable power levels.

Docking Station Functionality: Beyond Just Charging

The docking station is where a self-cleaning vacuum truly earns its name. Basic stations simply recharge the vacuum. However, advanced stations (like those found on the Roborock Qrevo S and Shark Matrix Plus) offer a range of automated features. These include automatic dustbin emptying (holding weeks of debris), water tank refilling for mopping, and even mop pad washing and drying. The capacity of the dustbin in the base is important – larger capacities (2.7L or more) mean less frequent emptying. Consider your home size and how often you want to deal with maintenance.

Navigation & Mapping: Smart Cleaning for Efficient Coverage

Effective navigation is crucial for a self-cleaning vacuum to thoroughly clean your home without getting stuck or missing spots. LiDAR navigation (featured in the Roborock Qrevo S and Shark AI Ultra) utilizes lasers to create detailed maps of your home, enabling systematic cleaning routes and obstacle avoidance. Look for features like multi-floor mapping if you have a multi-story home. Reactive Tech obstacle avoidance, like in the Roborock Qrevo S, adds another layer of intelligence, allowing the vacuum to navigate around furniture and other obstacles.

Brushroll Design: Tackling Hair and Debris

The brushroll is the workhorse of any vacuum, and its design significantly impacts performance, especially in homes with pets or long hair. Tangle-free brushroll systems (like those in the Roborock Qrevo S and Shark Matrix Plus) are essential to prevent hair wrapping and maintain suction. Self-cleaning brushrolls (Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright, Bissell PowerClean FurGuard) automatically remove wrapped hair, reducing maintenance. Rubber brushrolls are generally better at picking up fine dust and debris, while bristle brushrolls are more effective on carpets.

Wet Cleaning Capabilities: Mopping and Beyond

Many self-cleaning vacuums also offer mopping functionality. Dual spinning mops (Roborock Qrevo S) provide more effective scrubbing than simple dragging mops. Adjustable water levels allow you to customize cleaning for different floor types. Some models, like the Shark HydroVac MessMaster, combine vacuuming, mopping, and self-cleaning into a single pass. Consider whether you need this all-in-one convenience or prefer a dedicated mopping solution.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best self-cleaning vacuum depends on your specific needs and home environment. From powerful suction and intelligent navigation to convenient self-emptying features, the models discussed offer a range of capabilities to simplify your cleaning routine.

Investing in a self-cleaning vacuum is an investment in convenience and time savings. By carefully considering factors like floor type, pet ownership, and desired automation level, you can find a model that delivers a consistently clean home with minimal effort on your part.