3i

In the world of robot vacuums, finding a balance between price and performance is no easy task. Most budget models are forced to compromise—offering basic features while cutting corners on cleaning effectiveness or smart navigation. But with the release of the 3i G10+, that trade-off is finally a thing of the past.

Launched at an accessible price of $399, the 3i G10+ stands out as the best budget robot vacuum from 3i that delivers premium performance without the premium price. Backed by proprietary innovations, smart automation, and eco-conscious engineering, the G10+ is here to redefine what budget-friendly cleaning can look like.

What Makes the 3i G10+ Truly Unique?

When evaluating a robot vacuum, it’s not just about whether it vacuums and mops—it’s about how well it does these tasks, how little you have to intervene, and how much value it offers over time. That’s where the 3i G10+ shines.

Let’s take a closer look at its standout features—especially those that are truly game-changing.

1. Patented Debris Compression: Store More, Empty Less

One of the most revolutionary technologies packed into the G10+ is Auto Debris Compression. Unlike traditional robot vacuums that either rely on frequent manual emptying or noisy, bulky auto-empty docks, the G10+ uses an internal mechanical paddle to compress debris in real time—quietly and efficiently.

What this means for you:

• 60 days of hands-free cleaning without emptying the bin.
• No disposable bags required—less waste, lower cost.
• Quieter operation compared to typical auto-empty stations.
• Integrated UV light for added hygiene and peace of mind.
  

Whether you live in a large home or a compact city apartment, this smart compression system keeps dust out of sight and out of mind, without adding clutter or noise to your space.

2. UltraReach™ Extendable Mop & Side Brush: Better Coverage

Corners and baseboards are where most robot vacuums fall short—but not the G10+. With UltraReach™ technology, the G10+ is equipped with an extendable side brush and mop that automatically stretch out to sweep and wipe hard-to-reach areas.

What this means for you:

• No more dust lines along baseboards.
• True gap-free edge cleaning in just one pass.
• More effective cleaning under furniture, along edges, and in corners.

Combine this with 18,000 Pa of powerful suction—more than double that of many budget competitors—and you’ve got a robot that tackles both fine dust and heavy debris with ease.

3. AI-Powered Intelligence at a Budget Price

The G10+ brings flagship-level smarts to an affordable price point. Equipped with the same advanced ApexVision™ dToF LiDAR navigation and AI obstacle avoidance as 3i’s premium models, it maps your home with remarkable precision.

Smart Features You’ll Actually Use:

• 128+ object types recognized—from socks to cables to pet bowls.
• LED spotlight for accurate cleaning in dark areas like under beds.
• Customizable room-by-room cleaning routines via the 3i app.
• Voice control through Google Assistant and Alexa.
• Real-time adjustments to suction and water flow based on floor type.

This level of intelligence not only prevents bumps and missed spots, but also means you don’t need to babysit your vacuum anymore. Set it and forget it—it knows what to do.

4. Smart Carpet Handling with Ultrasonic Detection

Carpets can be a challenge for mopping robots—but the G10+ tackles this with ease. It uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect carpets before touching them and automatically lifts the mop pad by 10mm (0.4 inches) to prevent wetting your rugs.

Carpet Cleaning Benefits:

• Avoids wet carpets, protecting fibers and floors.
• Boost suction on low-pile rugs for deeper cleaning.
• Custom cleaning rules: skip, boost, or mop-around specific carpets via the app.
• Great for mixed flooring homes—hardwood, tile, carpet, and more.

This feature is typically reserved for premium robots, yet the G10+ includes it at a fraction of the price.

5. Compact, Eco-Friendly Charging Dock

Gone are the days of bulky auto-empty stations. The G10+ comes with a minimalist charging dock that’s easy to place even in tight spaces.

It’s:

• Lightweight and portable
• Visually unobtrusive
• Free from disposable components

This reflects 3i’s commitment to building a smarter, more eco-conscious robot vacuum.

3i G10+ at a Glance

Why the G10+ is the Best Budget Robot Vacuum Today

In today’s market, robot vacuums range from ultra-basic models under $200 to luxury machines that cost upwards of $1,000. For most people, especially first-time buyers or budget-conscious families, the sweet spot lies somewhere in between. But unfortunately, many budget-friendly robot vacuums offer only the bare minimum—basic suction, random navigation, no mop, and minimal intelligence.

The 3i G10+ disrupts that entire landscape by delivering high-end performance and intelligent design at a truly affordable price. For just around $400, it doesn’t just match features with flagship models—it introduces category-first innovations that even premium robots haven’t offered yet.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a budget robot vacuum that outperforms its price tag, the 3i G10+ is your answer. With cutting-edge technology, intelligent features, and a thoughtful, eco-friendly design, it offers a premium clean at a truly accessible price.

For anyone who wants smarter cleaning, less hassle, and more peace of mind—the G10+ is not just the best budget robot vacuum from 3i. It’s a whole new class of its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often do I need to empty the G10+?

A: Thanks to 3i’s debris compression technology, the G10+ can store up to 60 days of dust and debris before needing to be emptied. Actual frequency may depend on household conditions, such as dirt level and pet numbers.

Q: Is the G10+ compatible with smart home systems?

A: Yes. The G10+ works seamlessly with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control cleaning with your voice.

Q: Does the G10+ require disposable dust bags?

A: No. Unlike traditional vacuums with bagged auto-empty systems, the G10+ features a bagless onboard 1L dustbin, making it more eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Q: Will it work in a small apartment or tight space?

A: Absolutely. The G10+ has a compact dock and smart laser navigation that adapts to both spacious homes and smaller rooms.

Q: How does it handle carpets and rugs?

A: The built-in ultrasonic sensor detects carpets and lifts the mop pad automatically. You can also customize carpet behavior in the app—boost suction, avoid mopping, or skip entirely.

Q: Can it avoid obstacles like pet bowls or cables?

A: Yes. With AI-powered object recognition, the G10+ identifies over 128 types of objects, reducing the risk of tangles or disruptions.

Q: Is the mop pad washable or disposable?

A: The mop pad is washable and reusable, keeping ongoing costs low and making it easier to maintain.

Q: Does it support multi-floor mapping?

A: Yes. The G10+ can store multiple maps of up to 5, making it suitable for homes with more than one level.

Carpets and rugs add warmth, style, and comfort to any home. But over time, they also collect dust, allergens, pet hair, and stains—making regular carpet cleaning essential not only for appearances but also for a healthier living space. Whether you're deep-cleaning a plush area rug or trying to maintain wall-to-wall carpeting, knowing the right carpet cleaner, tools, and methods for each carpet type is key to success.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about carpet cleaning, including tried-and-true tips, tools you should have, DIY methods, and modern solutions like robotic vacuums. 

Why Carpet Cleaning Matters

Carpets act like giant filters, trapping dirt, bacteria, and allergens. Over time, these particles accumulate and not only make carpets look dull but can also affect air quality and even contribute to allergies. Proper rug cleaning and carpet care extend the life of your carpet and improve your indoor environment.

Whether you're dealing with everyday debris, deep-seated pet hair, or stubborn stains, regular cleaning is essential—and easier than you think with the right strategy.

Carpet Cleaning Tips for Everyday Maintenance

1. Vacuum Frequently

Vacuuming is your first line of defense against dirt and dust. For high-traffic areas, aim to vacuum at least twice a week. Low-traffic areas can get by with once-a-week maintenance.

• Use slow, overlapping strokes.
• Pay special attention to edges and corners.
• Empty the vacuum dust box regularly for maximum suction.

Use a handheld vacuum cleaner or robot vacuum with strong suction power for daily carpet cleaning. If you have pets or children, consider a robot vacuum that can run daily to stay ahead of the mess.

2. Address Spills Immediately

The faster you act, the better your chances of preventing a stain.

• Blot (don’t rub) the spill with a clean cloth or paper towel.
• Use a carpet-specific spot cleaner or a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water.
• Rinse the spot with a clean damp cloth and blot dry.

3. Deep Clean Regularly

Even if you vacuum religiously, dirt eventually settles deep into the fibers. Experts recommend a deep carpet cleaning every 6–12 months using either professional services or a home-use carpet cleaner.

Right Tools for Effective Carpet Cleaning

Having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you should have in your carpet-care arsenal:

1. Traditional Vacuum Cleaner

A good upright or canister vacuum with a rotating brush roll is essential. For delicate rugs, use the suction-only setting to avoid damaging the fibers.

2. Carpet Cleaner (Machine)

These machines spray a cleaning solution deep into the carpet, then suction out the water and debris. They’re ideal for deep cleaning high-traffic areas or stubborn stains.

3. Spot Cleaners

Portable spot cleaners or handheld units are great for dealing with spills, pet messes, and localized stains.

4. Steam Cleaner

Steam cleaners use hot water vapor to break down grime and sanitize surfaces. However, always check your carpet type—some materials like wool don't respond well to steam.

5. Robot Vacuum

For modern homeowners, a robot vacuum is a game-changer. These devices automatically navigate your home, vacuuming dust and debris daily to maintain clean carpets with zero effort.

Carpet-Type Specific Cleaning Tips

Not all carpets are created equal. Here's how to tailor your carpet cleaning based on material and weave:

1. Wool Carpets

Wool is luxurious but delicate.

• Avoid alkaline cleaners and high heat.
• Use wool-safe detergents.
• Vacuum gently to avoid damaging the fibers.

2. Nylon Carpets

Durable and stain-resistant, nylon is great for families.

• Deep clean every 6–12 months.
• Use a rotating brush head for effective vacuuming.

3. Polyester Carpets

Soft and budget-friendly, polyester is prone to oil-based stains.

• Blot spills quickly.
• Avoid oil-based spot cleaners.

4. Berber (Looped) Carpets

The loops can trap dirt and snag easily.

• Use suction-only vacuum heads.
• Avoid vacuums with beater bars or brushes.

5. Shag or High-Pile Rugs

These cozy carpets require extra care.

• Use a vacuum with adjustable height settings.
• Shake them out or beat with a broom outdoors when possible.

Natural and DIY Carpet Cleaning Tips

Prefer to avoid harsh chemicals? Try these natural alternatives:

• Baking soda: Great for deodorizing. Sprinkle, let sit, then vacuum.
• Vinegar and water: Mix equal parts in a spray bottle for spot cleaning.
• Club soda: Effective on red wine and coffee stains.
• Hydrogen peroxide: Great for protein-based stains like blood (spot-test first).

Introducing the P10 Ultra: Our Best Robot Vacuum for Carpet

If you’re looking to simplify your carpet care routine, the 3i P10 Ultra is the ultimate solution. Designed with carpets in mind, this intelligent cleaning assistant offers features that outperform the average robot vacuum.

Key Features of the P10 Ultra:

• Powerful Carpet Suction: Equipped with a high-torque motor and adaptive suction up to 18,000 Pa, the P10 Ultra lifts embedded dirt, pet hair, and debris from carpets with ease.
• Auto Carpet Boost: It automatically detects when it’s on carpet using ultrasonic and increases suction power for a deeper clean—without you lifting a finger.
• Auto Mop Lifting over Carpets: Upon stepping on carpets, the P10 Ultra automatically lifts its mops by 0.4 inch / 10.5 mm to keep the carpets dry, ideal for short-pile carpets.
• Hot-Water Mop Washing: The mops are automatically washed with hot water at 140℉ / 60℃ and dried with hot air at the base station. This keeps them dry and fresh without dripping dirty water onto carpets.
• Custom Carpet Cleaning with the 3i App: Choose to clean twice, skip, or cross carpets—giving them the care they truly deserve.
• Advanced Mapping and Navigation: Using LDS LiDAR technology, the P10 Ultra maps your home with precision, ensuring complete coverage without repeating or missing spots.

If you’re tired of juggling manual vacuuming and deep cleaning, the P10 Ultra is truly the best robot vacuum for carpet care—keeping your home spotless, effortlessly.

When to Call the Professionals

While regular home maintenance is essential, some situations require a professional touch:

• Persistent odors that don’t go away with cleaning
• Flood or water damage
• Extensive staining from wine, ink, or pet urine
• Annual deep cleaning to maintain warranty requirements

Many professional services use industrial-grade steam cleaners or dry chemical methods for superior results.

Final Thoughts

Carpet cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right schedule, tools, and techniques—plus smart help from innovations like the P10 Ultra robot vacuum and mop—you can keep your carpets clean, fresh, and looking like new.

Whether you're dealing with plush bedroom carpets, family room rugs, or hallway runners, understanding your carpet type and treating it with care will ensure years of comfort and beauty underfoot.

FAQ

Q: How often should I do carpet cleaning at home?

A: For most homes, vacuuming 1–2 times per week and deep carpet cleaning every 6–12 months is ideal. Homes with pets, kids, or allergy concerns may need more frequent cleaning. Using a robot vacuum like the P10 Ultra for daily upkeep can greatly reduce the need for frequent deep cleans.

Q: What’s the difference between carpet cleaning and rug cleaning?

A: While the principles are similar, rug cleaning often involves portable or delicate textiles like wool or silk and may require gentler cleaning methods. Carpet cleaning typically refers to wall-to-wall installations and can involve deeper, more aggressive cleaning tools or machines.

Q: Is it worth buying a carpet cleaner machine for home use?

A: Yes—if you have lots of carpeting or frequently deal with spills and stains, owning a carpet cleaner can save time and money compared to renting one or hiring professionals. Models range from compact spot cleaners to full-size machines for deep cleaning.

Q: What is the best robot vacuum for carpet cleaning?

A: The P10 Ultra is regarded as the best 3i robot vacuum for carpet thanks to its powerful suction, auto carpet boost, auto mop lifting, and smart cleaning settings. It’s designed specifically to handle carpeted surfaces effectively while offering hands-free convenience.

Q: Can robot vacuums replace traditional vacuuming and carpet cleaning?

A: While a robot vacuum like the P10 Ultra can handle daily dirt and debris, it complements rather than replaces deep carpet cleaning. You’ll still need periodic deep cleans using a carpet cleaner or professional service for the best long-term results.

Robot vacuums have transformed home cleaning by bringing hands-free vacuuming into daily life. But in recent years, the capabilities of both vacuuming and mopping have made these devices even more versatile. As mopping tech advances, one thing becomes increasingly clear: not all robot mop pads are created equal. The type of mop pads—and the technology behind it—directly affects how well your robot can handle dirt, sticky spills, and everyday messes.

In this blog, we’ll explore the three most common types of mop pads found in robot vacuums: flat mop pads, dual spin mops, and roller mop systems. We'll evaluate them based on cleaning performance, ease of maintenance, floor compatibility, and more. Finally, we’ll take a closer look at the 3i S10 Ultra, a next-generation robot vacuum with a real-time self-cleaning roller mop, showing how it's redefining mopping performance.

Flat Mops

Flat mop pads are the simplest and most widely used in robot vacuums and mops, especially in budget and mid-range models.

How It Works:

The robot drags a flat microfiber pad behind it, typically mounted under a removable mopping plate. Water from a built-in tank drips onto the pad to keep it moist while it scrubs the floor.

Pros:

Affordable: Flat mop pads are inexpensive to produce and easy to replace.

Simple design: Fewer mechanical parts mean fewer chances of failure.

Quiet operation: Since there are no moving mop components, these systems are nearly silent.

Cons:

Low pressure scrubbing: These mop pads mainly rely on the robot's weight and dragging motion, which limits their ability to remove dried stains.

Uneven moisture control: Some models soak the pad too much or too little, leading to streaking or ineffective cleaning.

No active cleaning: The pad gradually becomes dirtier as it moves, meaning it could end up spreading grime rather than removing it.

Best For:

Light daily maintenance on hard floors like wood, tile, and laminate. Not ideal for sticky spills or high-traffic zones.

Dual Spin Mops

Dual spinning mop systems use two circular pads that rotate in opposite directions, adding active scrubbing power.

How It Works:

Mounted on a rotating platform, each mop head spins while the robot moves forward. Water from the tank wets the pads evenly, and the rotating motion mimics hand-scrubbing for better cleaning.

Pros:

Improved scrubbing performance: Spinning motion helps lift dried-on stains and grime.

Even coverage: Constant rotation keeps mop pads evenly damp and in contact with the floor.

Often self-lifting: Many models lift the mop pads when crossing carpet or returning to base, preventing cross-contamination. E.g., the dual spin mops of the 3i P10 Ultra can auto-lift 0.4 inch over carpets.

Cons:

Limited edge cleaning: Round mops can miss corners and wall edges due to their circular shape.

Requires frequent washing: Although more effective than flat mops, the pads still accumulate dirt and need regular cleaning.

Best For:

Homes with frequent spills, sticky messes, or pets. These are more effective for deeper cleaning than flat pads but still need some maintenance.

Roller Mop Systems

Roller mops are the latest innovation in robot vacuum mopping. They use a rotating cylindrical mop—often powered by a dedicated motor—that scrubs the floor while rolling.

How It Works:

The roller mop rotates against the floor as the robot moves. Unlike flat or spinning mops, the roller covers a wider surface area and maintains continuous contact. High-end models such as the 3i S10 Ultra also include systems to wash the roller in real time, ensuring it stays clean throughout the mopping session.

Pros:

Superior scrubbing pressure: Rollers can apply consistent pressure across the surface, delivering better results on stubborn dirt.

Larger coverage per pass: Cylindrical design covers more ground, reducing cleaning time.

Best for liquid spills: Roller mops absorb and remove liquids more effectively than flat or spinning pads.

Cons:

Higher cost: Roller mop robots are usually found in premium models, with more advanced engineering.

Roller maintenance: While the roller cleans better, it also needs to be washed regularly unless the system includes self-cleaning features.

Best For:

Large households, families with pets or children, and users looking for a high-performance mopping solution.

3i Real-Time Self-Cleaning Roller Mop

One standout in the roller mop category is the 3i S10 Ultra, which pushes cleaning technology even further by introducing a real-time self-cleaning system for its roller mop. This smart feature ensures the mop hardly spreads dirt—it always stays clean and ready for more.

How It Works:

As the 3i S10 Ultra mops your floor, it sprays a mixture of clean water and detergent through 12 precision nozzles, evenly distributing moisture across the roller mop. While the mop rotates at 330 RPM, the system actively scrubs the floor with strong 12N downward pressure, efficiently removing sticky stains, footprints, or spilled drinks.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Right after the mop cleans the floor, a squeegee blade presses against the roller to remove dirty water and debris. This contaminated water is then immediately vacuumed into a separate wastewater tank, preventing any reapplication of grime.

Why It Matters:

Cleaner mop, cleaner floor: Since the mop is washed in real-time, you're always cleaning with a fresh mop—not a pad already soaked with dirt.

Great for messy spills: Whether it’s milk, coffee, or muddy paw prints, the S10 Ultra handles it without smearing.

Effortless maintenance: No need to manually wash the mop pad after every cleaning. It gets itself always clean during mopping.

Summary of Key Features:

Real-time self-cleaning roller mop

12-nozzle water and detergent spray

Squeegee and suction system for dirty water removal

Rotates at 330 RPM, 12N downward pressure

10.6-inch contact length, covering a larger area

Ideal for cleaning both solids and liquids

Final Comparison Table

Which Mop Pad Is Right for You?

Choosing the right mop system depends on your cleaning needs and budget:

• Go with flat mop pads if you're looking for a basic robot vacuum with occasional light mopping capabilities.
• Consider dual spin mops if you deal with frequent spills, pet messes, or want better scrubbing without too much added cost.
• Invest in a roller mop system, like the 3i S10 Ultra robot vacuum and mop, if you want the most powerful, hygienic, and intelligent cleaning experience. 

The best mopping robot isn’t just about what it drags across your floor—it's about how clean that mop stays while it works. And when it comes to that, the 3i S10 Ultra is in a class of its own.

FAQ

Q: Are mop pads reusable?

A: Yes. Flat, spinning, and roller mop pads are typically machine-washable and can be reused multiple times. However, for optimal hygiene and performance, it's recommended to replace them periodically—especially if you notice lingering odors or wear.

Q: Which type of mop pad is best for sticky messes like coffee or juice spills?

A: Roller mop systems, especially those with real-time self-cleaning like the 3i S10 Ultra, are best for sticky messes. They combine scrubbing pressure, continuous cleaning, and dirty water extraction to thoroughly remove residue without smearing it around.

Q: Is it worth upgrading from a flat mop robot to a roller mop system?

A: Absolutely—if deep cleaning, hygiene, and convenience matter to you. A roller mop system with self-cleaning features like the one in the 3i S10 Ultra provides significantly better performance, less manual upkeep, and superior handling of tough messes and liquid spills.

Q: What’s the maintenance like for a roller mop robot?

A: Roller mop systems generally require less frequent manual maintenance, especially when equipped with auto-cleaning features. With the S10 Ultra, maintenance is reduced even further thanks to its advanced base station, which performs deep mop cleaning after each mopping session. It also automatically replaces the mop water using WaterRecycle™ technology—eliminating the need to manually empty the wastewater tank or refill the clean water tank. This makes it significantly more hands-free than any other robot vacuum and mop on the market.