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The base station can: Wash & dry mops, refill the water tank, add cleaning solution and empty the mobile dust container.
No need for the Dreame L10s Ultra to shy away from comparison with the top dogs in the industry. 💪
The base station is particularly noteworthy. It performs the following tasks:
- (1) Adding cleaning solution
- (2) Self-cleaning of the mops (incl. extraction of dirty water) (cleaning station)
- (3) Emptying of the dust container (emptying station)
- (4) Drying the mop pads
- (5) Filling water tank
As you can see, daily floor cleaning is automated to a large extent. 🤖
Dreametech avoids flashy extras and focuses exclusively on providing a high-quality, intelligent cleaning solution.
You’ll particularly like this Dreamebot if the mopping ability is a top priority for you. 🤩
Conclusion: You get plenty of features for the price. ⚖️
Advantages:
Fair price |
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Excellent mopping ability |
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Mops are cleaned during the cleaning session |
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Mop can be lifted 7 mm to avoid carpets |
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Strong suction power, especially on carpets |
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Good climbing performance (approx. 2.1 cm) |
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Mop cleaning intervals adjustable to m² |
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Dries mop pads |
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Detection of flat obstacles |
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Home monitoring via camera |
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Automatic emptying of the mobile dust container |
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Quiet operation |
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Base station is easy to clean |
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Detergent is automatically administered during mopping |
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Quick mapping |
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Battery power |
Disadvantages:
Corner cleaning not optimal |
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Approx. 6 cm remains unmopped along skirting boards (vacuuming does reach, though) |
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Disposable dust bag in the base station |
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Limited voice control |
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Design and quality of workmanship could be better |
Enhanced automation and quality set this model apart from its predecessor, the S7 series.
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra makes a bold promise: "Forget cleaning - really!" and it does a good job living up to that.
This robot cleaner is packed with top-notch features, with the Ultra Station being the star. ⭐️
This handy station does four things for you:
- Cleans the mop
- Dries the mop
- Empties the mobile dust tank
- Refills the water tank
Essentially, it makes daily cleaning mostly hands-off. ✋🏻
It's evident that the makers have taken the best parts of their older models and added some neat improvements.
Highlights include a new way to dry the mop, an improved brush system, better obstacle detection, and two mop settings for a thorough clean.
This model feels more like a polished version of the previous ones rather than a brand-new invention.
During our tests, its wiping function worked extremely well. 🧽
Its strong suction was commendable too.
The device also showcased good navigation skills, especially in obstacle detection.
On the downside, its side brush could be better on carpets and edges, and the use of throwaway dust bags seems a bit old-fashioned.
Plus, it's on the pricier side. 🤑
So, if you're after the latest in robot cleaning and don't mind the cost, this is a great pick.
But if you're looking to save a bit, considering the slightly older S7 series might be a good idea.
Advantages
Powerful battery for extended cleaning sessions |
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Quick battery charging |
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Energy-efficient with "off-peak" charging times |
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High Suction Power (6000 Pa.) for optimal cleaning results |
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Ultra Station handles multiple tasks: extraction, mop head washing & drying, water tank filling |
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Efficient brush system with two rubber brushes |
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Can store up to 4 cards |
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Enhanced object recognition |
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User-friendly mobile app |
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Superior data handling with no built-in camera |
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High-quality build |
Disadvantages
High price point |
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Ultra Station occupies substantial space |
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Ultra Station doesn’t automatically add cleaning fluid to the mobile water tank |
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Uses disposable dust bags in the extraction station |
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Three-arm side brush has difficulty manoeuvring corners and performing on carpets |
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No spare parts are provided |
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Underdeveloped voice control |
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Non-removable wiping module |
Numerous premium features leave nothing to be desired with this Ecovacs model. 🎉
At first glance, you immediately notice the robot’s unique and attractive design. 👀
Top features of the Deebot X1 OMNI
But it's not just the look of the premium vacuum mopping robot that is impressive. The Ecovacs Deebot X1 OMNI is packed with top features:
- Emptying station
- Rotating mopping pads
- Washing station for the mop cloths
- Obstacle detection
- Integrated voice assistant ("Ok Yiko")
- …and more!
However, the numerous functions come at a price: this luxury robot is certainly not for bargain hunters... 💸
Mopping ability
The Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni has many highlights. One of them is its mopping capabilities. 💧
Let’s have a look at the role the station plays in the cleaning process.
After a predetermined interval (10, 15 or 25 minutes), the two mopping pads are wrung out and rinsed at the station.
The benefit here is that your floors are always cleaned with freshly rinsed mops. The collected dirt ends up in the dirty water tank (and not on your floors).
Furthermore, the mobile water tank is refilled at the multifunction station.
So you are spared this (annoying) task as well.
The two mopping pads rotate in opposite directions, creating a "scrubbing effect". This results in a more thorough cleaning of your home. 🧼
And don't forget: when the job is done, the two pads are blown dry at the station (with hot air). 🍃
All these functions together mean that the wet floor cleaning process runs almost completely independently, so you can sit back and relax. 🏖️
And the mopping performance also impressed us. 👇
(Even if stubborn, dried-in stains take a bit more effort).
The combination of an impressive mopping ability and a huge range of other premium features makes the Deebot X1 a compelling option.
Although that’s only if you have the necessary funds: because the price will set you back a bit... 💸
Advantages:
Greatly improved mopping ability |
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Mopping pads are automatically wrung out, rinsed and dried at the station |
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Water tank is refilled automatically |
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Auto-empty station |
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Elegant design by Jacob Jensen |
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Gently skirts furniture (hardly any collisions) |
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Obstacle detection (also of flat objects) |
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Can detect objects even in poor lighting conditions |
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Floor cleaning (vacuuming and mopping) is mostly automatic |
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Integrated voice assistant ("Ok Yiko") |
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Quick mapping |
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Security features (surveillance camera) |
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2-way video calls possible |
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Quiet |
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Mobile phone app with many functions |
Disadvantages:
Very expensive |
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Emptying station uses disposable bags |
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Station is beautifully designed, but quite large (not everyone's cup of tea) |
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AIVI 3D obstacle detection sometimes causes difficulties with navigation |
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Individual features are sometimes not perfectly coordinated |
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App has minor bugs |
Mid-range series of Roborock.
The most impressive thing about the Robrock Q7 Max+ is the value for money.
Unnecessary “bells and whistles” and some premium functions have deliberately been dispensed with to keep the purchase price low.
Some weaknesses, like the mopping capabilities, are clearly made up for by its many strengths (suction power, emptying station, navigation, app).
For all Roborock fans who are looking for an absolutely reliable and at the same time affordable robot vacuum (with emptying station), the Q7 Max+ is a good choice. 💃
Best-selling robot vacuum cleaner from iRobot.
This robot is a real pioneer. 🦸♂️
With the iRobot Roomba i7+, the US manufacturer launched the first vacuum robot with a self-emptying dock and revolutionised the industry.
And the model has not lost much of its shine since launch. Our tests have revealed that this robot vacuum cleaner still plays in the big leagues in many categories.
Want Roomba quality but don't want to fork out the high price for the latest flagship model? 💰
Then the i7+ is a good choice.
Advantages
Save up to 10 maps (suitable for multi-storey homes) |
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User-friendly app |
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High quality design |
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Impressive voice control |
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Self-empty station |
Disadvantages
Navigation system not "state of the art" |
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Quite high price |
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Rather weak battery |
Best alternatives
The Ecovacs Deebot t20 omni features innovative technologies like hot water mop washing and automatic mop lifting.
The Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni stands out with its innovative features.
A key feature is its hot water mop washing technology, which cleans the mops at 55 degrees. 🌡️
This effectively removes stubborn stains and improves your mopping result.
It has also introduced an auto-mop lifting function, allowing carpets and hard floors to be cleaned in one go.
The robot vacuum has a powerful 6000 Pascal suction, delivering excellent cleaning results on hard floors and carpets.
Hard floor cleaning
Carpet cleaning
The "YIKO" voice assistant further enhances user experience with easy-to-use voice commands.
Additionally, the all-in-one OMNI cleaning station automates many tasks, contributing to a high level of convenience. 🏝️
Despite its strengths, the Deebot T20 Omni has a few drawbacks: the size of the OMNI station is quite large, and the mobile dust bin is relatively small.
Also, its higher price range may not be suitable for all budgets.
Overall, the Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni offers a comprehensive and advanced cleaning package, although it might be a significant investment for some.
Advantages
Effective mopping with 6000 Pa suction power |
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Mops lift for efficient obstacle navigation |
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Low-maintenance rubber brush |
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Quiet operation |
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Mops cleaned with hot water |
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Mops dried with hot air |
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Integrated YIKO voice assistant |
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Durable rechargeable battery |
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Includes a suction station |
Disadvantages
Limited capacity of mobile dust container |
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Lacks a built-in mobile water tank |
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Higher water usage |
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App experiences minor glitches |
Is there a Roborock robot vacuum cleaner with a self-empty base?
The secret is out: Roborock gave a lot of information about their new robot vacuum at CES 2021.
They will launch the new Roborock S7 in the UK in mid-2021.
It will have numerous highlights such as a liftable water tank (for carpets) and a vibrating mop plate...
...and also an auto-empty dust bin!
All Roborock fans have something to celebrate here.
But there’s a minor drawback: The self-emptying base won’t be available in the UK until the end of 2021.
Big advantage: The self-empty base can be used with disposable bags or with a reusable container.
Advantages of a robot vacuum with an emptying station
Saves a lot of time and effort
A conventional robot vacuum cleaner (without self-emptying function) already takes a lot of work off your hands.
Nevertheless, you still have to empty the mobile dust container almost every day (depending on the degree of soiling).
The mobile dust bin is usually relatively small and quickly fill up with dirt.
And that’s where a robot vacuum with an auto-empty station comes in. It empties the mobile dust bin automatically. You won’t have to raise a finger anymore.
Cleaning is almost entirely automated
A conventional robotic vacuum WITHOUT a self-emptying function stops cleaning as soon as the dust container is full.
You have to empty the mobile dust bin, so it can resume its cleaning trip.
Thus, you have to empty it at regular intervals.
We can think of better ways to spend our time.
A robovac with an auto-empty dock does all the work for you.
As soon as the robotic vacuum cleaner comes to the docking station for charging, the automatic self-emptying function simultaneously empties the mobile dust container.
It keeps the entire contents of the mobile dust container in a separate dust bag in the auto-empty station.
That fully automates the cleaning process without interruption.
Now you only have to change the dust bag in the self-empty dust bin every few months.
Allergens don’t stand a chance!
Fine house dust is a massive burden for allergy sufferers.
A robot vacuum already provides a massive relieve. You won’t have to clean the flat by yourself anymore - just let your robot vac vacuum your home several times a day if necessary.
It will remove dust and dirt more thoroughly from your flat.
But one problem remains: emptying the mobile dust bin.
It’s almost impossible to avoid contact with aggressive house dust (and allergens).
But there’s a solution to this problem: a self-empty base.
It vacuums the mobile dust container automatically with every battery charge.
That’s a huge advantage, especially for people with severe allergies!
Read more about the best robot vacuums for allergies in our detailed review.
Suitable for pet owners
As much as we love our four-legged friends - it’s a fact that pets make a lot of mess?.
You can find pet hair and other dirt from outside all around the flat.
The mobile dust canister quickly fills up with all that dirt (e.g. with pet hair). Your robot vacuum can only continue its work once you have emptied the dust bin by hand.
A robot vacuum with an emptying station will take care of that, too. It empties the mobile dust container whenever it docks at the station for charging.
That makes the floor cleaning fully automated, and you won’t have to do anything manually for months.
Where do the robovacs with self-emptying base still have room for improvement?
Follow-up costs
You have to use disposable dust bags for the auto-empty base.
They do have quite a large capacity. But you still have to replace the bags after 2 - 3 months, depending on the degree of soiling.
That results in follow-up costs due to the additional purchase of dust bags.
A reusable dust bag would have been much more practical at this point.
Environmental impact of the disposable dust bags
Unfortunately, the dust bag in the emptying station is disposable.
You have to throw it into the trash can as soon as it’s filled with dirt.
That’s not what we’d call environmental friendliness.
A better and environmentally friendly solution would be to use a recyclable plastic dirt container in the clean base.
The clean base is very loud
It takes a lot of power (strong suction) to put the dirt from the robot vacuum’s mobile dust container into the clean base dust bag.
Therefore, the emptying process is quite loud (80-90 dB).
Nevertheless, it’s not exactly pleasant to be in the direct vicinity during the pick-up.
You shouldn’t use the auto-empty base at night either unless you want to start a fight with your neighbours ?♂️.
Size of the self-empty doch vs charging station
We don't want to beat about the bush.
The emptying station is much larger than a conventional charging station.
That’s not a big surprise, though.
After all, it has to clean up the dirt from the mobile dust container and store it in a large bag in the emptying station.
We don't think that size is a disadvantage.
In contrast to an ordinary charging station, the clean base is a real eye-catcher in your home ?. Curious looks and questions are guaranteed.
Automatic dirt disposal Process
The automatic dirt disposal process is simple and, at the same time, super ingenious.
A common robot vacuum has a relatively small (~ 400 ml) mobile dirt container.
It fills up with dirt quickly, depending on the housing situation and the degree of soiling.
The robot vacuum has to stop its cleaning cycle as soon as the dust container is full. That interrupts the cleaning process.
It can only resume cleaning sessions when you empty the dust bag by hand.
The self-emptying base takes care of that annoying - and above all, repetitive - work.
Every time the robot vacuum moves to the charging station, it empties the mobile dust container, too.
It collects the dirt in a large container in the emptying station.
The dust bag in the clean base is quite large and can hold up to 30 loads of the mobile dust container.
A robot vacuum with a self-emptying function makes household cleaning much more straightforward and is a significant step towards fully automated floor cleaning.
But be warned: once you get used to a robot hoover with an auto-empty station, you won’t want to do without it anymore. We speak from our own experience, as we have an iRobot Roomba i7+ and an iRobot Roomba i3+ ourselves ?.
Want to find out about the best Roomba models (with self-emptying bases)? Check out our review!
Tips on saving money
Empty the dust bag in the clean base with a conventional floor vacuum
If you want to save some money, we have a trick at hand.
You can suck out the dust bag in the emptying station with a conventional vacuum cleaner.
The solution may seem a little cumbersome at first (which it is).
But this way, you won’t have to buy new disposable dust bags for the auto-empty base and thus, save follow-up costs.
Use a recyclable dust bag
Another way to save some money: Use a "reusable bag" (available* on Amazon UK).
You can empty it manually (and reuse it afterwards).
That’s a bit cumbersome, too, but it works.
Just give it a try ?.
Our review of the best self-emptying robot vacuums
Of course, we also put the best self-emptying robot vacuum cleaners through the wringer.
They scored ratings from 5 stars (excellent) to 0.5 stars (very disappointing).
You can find an overview of the ratings in the table below.
Deebot OZMO T8 AIVI | Deebot OZMO T8+ | iRobot Roomba i7+ | Proscenic M7 Pro | |
Suction and cleaning performance | ||||
Wiping performance | - | |||
Volume | ||||
Navigation and driving | ||||
Battery runtime | ||||
App and functions | ||||
Design, dimensions and quality | ||||
Delivery scope | ||||
Price-performance ratio | ||||
Our Review | T8 AIVI Review | T8+ review | Roomba i7+ review | Proscenic M7 Pro review |
Offer | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* |
We linked the detailed reviews in the overview:
Best Robot Vacuums with Self-Emptying Base in the UK: Our Review & Conclusion
A robot vacuum with a self-emptying base takes care of the last remaining task (emptying the mobile dust container). This way, floor cleaning is almost entirely automated, so you won’t have to raise a finger.
A lot of dirt accumulates over time, especially in larger households. The mobile dust container of a robot vacuum quickly reaches its limits.
You’d have to intervene and empty the mobile dust bag almost every day. That’s not what we’d call automated household cleaning.
A robot vacuum with a self-emptying base takes a massive burden off your shoulders in daily cleaning.
Emptying the mobile dust container by hand is a thing of the past.
All you have to do is change the dust bag in the auto-empty station every few months.
That's all.
The robot vacuum with an auto-empty dust bin is a further step towards fully automated household cleaning.
P.S.: We love our robotic vacuum cleaners with the clean base (iRobot Roomba i7+ and iRobot Roomba i3+) and don't want to miss them anymore ?.
Table of Content
Reviewing the top 6 robot vacuums with self-emptying base (2024)
The best robot vacuums with self-empty base in the UK in 2021:
Find out more about our favorites now
Is there a Roborock robot vacuum cleaner with a self-empty base?
Advantages of a robot vacuum with an emptying station
Where do the robovacs with self-emptying base still have room for improvement?
Automatic dirt disposal Process
Our review of the best self-emptying robot vacuums
Best Robot Vacuums with Self-Emptying Base in the UK: Our Review & Conclusion