( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Joe DeGenova Joe DeGenova of Big D Print & Logistics LLC Highlights the Role of Effective Project Management in Sales Support and Quality Initiatives DENTON, TX, UNITED STATES, December 26, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Effective project management is the backbone of successful sales support and quality improvement initiatives, according to Joe DeGenova of Big D Print & Logistics LLC . With years of experience in technical and managerial roles, DeGenova emphasizes the importance of structured project management in delivering results that drive revenue and enhance operational efficiency. “Project management is not just about meeting deadlines; it's about aligning resources, people, and goals to deliver measurable outcomes,” explains DeGenova, acting General Manager at Big D Print & Logistics LLC in Denton, Texas. He emphasizes how robust project management practices can transform sales support functions and quality improvement efforts across industries. Project Management as a Sales Support Tool “In sales, project management ensures that customer expectations are met consistently,” DeGenova notes.“It's about having the right processes in place to manage everything from initial inquiries to post-sales support.” By creating clear workflows and aligning teams to client objectives, businesses can secure long-term agreements and deliver exceptional results. Key to successful project management is regular communication.“From the shop floor to the C-suite, every stakeholder must be on the same page,” DeGenova explains. Implementing systems to track progress and ensure accountability allows businesses to address issues proactively and maintain strong relationships with clients. Driving Quality Through Structured Initiatives DeGenova highlights the critical role of project management in quality improvement initiatives.“Quality improvement is not a one-time effort; it's a continuous process that requires clear goals and meticulous execution,” he says. By leveraging data and involving cross-functional teams, organizations can drive projects that improve efficiency and reduce errors. For example, quality initiatives can streamline production workflows and identify bottlenecks.“By implementing targeted solutions, businesses can significantly enhance production timelines without compromising quality,” DeGenova adds. Such initiatives not only improve customer satisfaction but also contribute to a company's bottom line. Leadership in Cross-Functional Teams DeGenova stresses that successful project management depends on the collaboration of diverse teams with varying expertise.“The success of any project hinges on the ability to foster open communication and mutual respect among team members,” he asserts. By focusing on these principles, businesses can ensure projects meet their objectives on time and within budget. At Big D Print & Logistics LLC, DeGenova applies these principles to optimize logistics and introduce new service offerings.“Project management is as critical in small businesses as it is in large corporations,” he says.“It's the glue that holds everything together.” Training and Mentorship in Project Management Recognizing the importance of project management, DeGenova advocates for training and mentorship. He emphasizes that leadership in project management involves empowering others to succeed. By mentoring team members and sharing expertise, businesses can build a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Looking Ahead: The Future of Project Management DeGenova believes that the future of project management lies in leveraging technology and data-driven insights.“Digital tools are revolutionizing the way we plan and execute projects,” he says. From customer relationship management (CRM) systems to advanced analytics, these technologies enable more precise tracking and decision-making. At Big D Print & Logistics LLC, DeGenova is exploring ways to integrate these tools into daily operations.“The goal is to create a seamless experience for both the team and our clients,” he notes. By adopting innovative solutions, the company aims to stay ahead in a competitive market. Jon Smith News Live email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN26122024003118003196ID1109033408 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.It's high time to ditch the traditional upright vacuum, even if you have dogs, cats, or both. As a robot vacuum reviewer, pet hair is one of my pet peeves, so evaluating how a robot vacuum performs against it is one of the main characteristics I look for when testing these robots . With a very hairy dog and three young kids, the only thing that keeps my floors clean without manually vacuuming daily is a great robot vacuum that tackles the task for me. Also: The best robot vacuum mops you can buy When shopping for the best robot vacuum options to control the pet hair on your floors, there are quite a few features to consider. Look for robot vacuums with strong suction to pick up each strand of hair, obstacle avoidance to avoid larger items your pet may leave behind, ability to avoid hair tangles, capable navigation features you can trust, and any extra features important to you. Budget and floor types are also key factors when shopping for any robot vacuum. What is the best robot vacuum for pet hair right now? Since there are so many robot vacuums, you may wonder which is best for your home. We've tested dozens of robot vacuums at home and in everyday life, and our top choice to tackle pet hair is the iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max due to its outstanding suction power, self-emptying dust bin, self-washing mop pad, tangle-resistant brush rollers, and iRobot's Pet Owner Official Promise (P.O.O.P. guarantee). However, several other robot vacuum options are worth considering, depending on your floor type and how much your pet sheds. The best robot vacuums for pet hair of 2024 The Roomba Combo 10 Max is one of the top-performing robot vacuums against pet hair. Many robot vacuums go through my home for testing, but this one earned a permanent spot. Part of why it's so loved is because it can handle all of the pet hair on all our floor types, whether it's been one or several days since it last ran. The robot self-empties as soon as the dustbin is full instead of waiting until the end of the job, like other robot vacuums. If it is peak shedding season, it's common for the Combo 10 Max to empty four or five times during a single job, never leaving any pet hair behind, even on carpets. Review: iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max In addition, it's simply an intelligent robot. The Roomba Combo 10 Max comes with the P.O.O.P. guarantee, an innovative promise from the manufacturer that the robot vacuum will avoid pet waste instead of creating accidental smearing, or iRobot will replace your robot at no additional cost. This means the robot vacuum is also good at avoiding pet toys, shoes, cords, and other household objects. Customers agree, touting the vacuum's ability to navigate obstacles and deliver clean floors. One reviewer commented, "We have a combination of flooring in our house and especially like the mop option to clean our hardwood floors. I appreciate the smart capabilities of mapping our house and then using Alexa to run it. Having the AutoWash Dock is awesome as well, self-cleaning the robot and the dock. This saves me time and energy as it empties the debris, refills the mopping tank and washes and dries the mop pad." iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max specs: Price: $999 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 120 mins | Base station dimensions: 15.7 x 12 x 13.3 inches | Suction power: Not specified | Dustbin volume: 300 ml | Water tank capacity: 170 ml Self-emptying & self-washing Intelligent Smart Mapping technology User-friendly app Pet waste avoidance Loud when it self-empties Prone to bugs iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max The Roomba Combo 10 Max is one of the top-performing robot vacuums against pet hair. Many robot vacuums go through my home for testing, but this one earned a permanent spot. Part of why it's so loved is because it can handle all of the pet hair on all our floor types, whether it's been one or several days since it last ran. The robot self-empties as soon as the dustbin is full instead of waiting until the end of the job, like other robot vacuums. If it is peak shedding season, it's common for the Combo 10 Max to empty four or five times during a single job, never leaving any pet hair behind, even on carpets. Review: iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max In addition, it's simply an intelligent robot. The Roomba Combo 10 Max comes with the P.O.O.P. guarantee, an innovative promise from the manufacturer that the robot vacuum will avoid pet waste instead of creating accidental smearing, or iRobot will replace your robot at no additional cost. This means the robot vacuum is also good at avoiding pet toys, shoes, cords, and other household objects. Customers agree, touting the vacuum's ability to navigate obstacles and deliver clean floors. One reviewer commented, "We have a combination of flooring in our house and especially like the mop option to clean our hardwood floors. I appreciate the smart capabilities of mapping our house and then using Alexa to run it. Having the AutoWash Dock is awesome as well, self-cleaning the robot and the dock. This saves me time and energy as it empties the debris, refills the mopping tank and washes and dries the mop pad." iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max specs: Price: $999 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 120 mins | Base station dimensions: 15.7 x 12 x 13.3 inches | Suction power: Not specified | Dustbin volume: 300 ml | Water tank capacity: 170 ml The Eufy 11S Max robot vacuum has become a staple among budget-friendly robot vacuums, beloved by users and appreciated by wallets. Though its retail price is $250, it's common to see its price drop to as low as $120 -- it's currently available for $200. If you're looking for a no-frills robot vacuum to tackle your floors without paying for all the bells and whistles, the Eufy 11S Max is for you. This robot vacuum can offer up to 100 minutes of cleaning and features a slim build, at only 2.85 inches tall. Simplicity is the name of the game with the 11S Max, so it doesn't automatically empty its dustbin and doesn't create thorough maps of your home -- it simply gets the job done. Also: I compared a $90 robot vacuum to a $700 one. Here's my buying advice for budget shoppers This is a pretty popular Eufy robot vacuum, and it maintains a high rating despite its popularity, which speaks volumes about its performance. One buyer commented, "I really like this! It does a nice job cleaning up the dog hair and other things that get on my floor and saves me a lot of time not vacuuming daily. If you have a dog, I would watch them with this first before you use it. My dog was initially scared of it but sniffed its 'butt,' and now they are cool, and she does not mind it at all. Pleased with this product and would recommend!" Shark ION AV751 features : Price: $200 | Battery life: 100 mins | Suction power: 2,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 600 ml | Water tank capacity: No mopping feature Slim Small charging dock Boosts suction over carpets No mapping capability Can't self empty Eufy 11S Max The Eufy 11S Max robot vacuum has become a staple among budget-friendly robot vacuums, beloved by users and appreciated by wallets. Though its retail price is $250, it's common to see its price drop to as low as $120 -- it's currently available for $200. If you're looking for a no-frills robot vacuum to tackle your floors without paying for all the bells and whistles, the Eufy 11S Max is for you. This robot vacuum can offer up to 100 minutes of cleaning and features a slim build, at only 2.85 inches tall. Simplicity is the name of the game with the 11S Max, so it doesn't automatically empty its dustbin and doesn't create thorough maps of your home -- it simply gets the job done. Also: I compared a $90 robot vacuum to a $700 one. Here's my buying advice for budget shoppers This is a pretty popular Eufy robot vacuum, and it maintains a high rating despite its popularity, which speaks volumes about its performance. One buyer commented, "I really like this! It does a nice job cleaning up the dog hair and other things that get on my floor and saves me a lot of time not vacuuming daily. If you have a dog, I would watch them with this first before you use it. My dog was initially scared of it but sniffed its 'butt,' and now they are cool, and she does not mind it at all. Pleased with this product and would recommend!" Shark ION AV751 features : Price: $200 | Battery life: 100 mins | Suction power: 2,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 600 ml | Water tank capacity: No mopping feature If you're looking for a powerhouse robot vacuum and mop, the Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete is the machine for you. This 3-in-1 machine has 8,700Pa of suction power, dual rotating mop heads, a cordless vacuum for quick cleanups, and an Omni Station that does your dirty work. You can use the cordless vacuum to pick up pet hair from your area rugs or clean up crumbs from your couch, then set it to charge on the Omni station and watch as the contents of its dustbin automatically empty into the dust bag within. Review: Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete The AI-powered Robot intelligently navigates your home and recognizes your soft floors, carpet, and rugs versus tile, hardwood, or laminate. The mop heads can lift 0.60 inches, easily keeping your rugs dry during cleaning. The Deebot X2 Combo Complete has easily kept up with my three (messy) kids and my mutt mixed with some of the hairiest breeds -- husky, golden retriever, coonhound, and German shepherd. That should speak for itself. As a robot vacuum and mop, you can rest assured that your pet's hair will be vacuumed while the dirty paw prints are washed away. Customer reviews agree with my assessment: "The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo engineers, designers, and programmers did their homework and then went out and built an incredible, not just vacuum but a solidly built system that shines in its accomplishment." Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete features: Price: $1,240 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 210 mins | Base station dimensions: 20.6 x 17.4 x 21.8 inches | Suction power: 8,700Pa | Dustbin volume: 379 ml | Water tank capacity: 180 ml Cordless vacuum, robot vacuum, and mop in one 8,700Pa suction Dual oscillating mop heads Object avoidance could be better Expensive Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete If you're looking for a powerhouse robot vacuum and mop, the Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete is the machine for you. This 3-in-1 machine has 8,700Pa of suction power, dual rotating mop heads, a cordless vacuum for quick cleanups, and an Omni Station that does your dirty work. You can use the cordless vacuum to pick up pet hair from your area rugs or clean up crumbs from your couch, then set it to charge on the Omni station and watch as the contents of its dustbin automatically empty into the dust bag within. Review: Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete The AI-powered Robot intelligently navigates your home and recognizes your soft floors, carpet, and rugs versus tile, hardwood, or laminate. The mop heads can lift 0.60 inches, easily keeping your rugs dry during cleaning. The Deebot X2 Combo Complete has easily kept up with my three (messy) kids and my mutt mixed with some of the hairiest breeds -- husky, golden retriever, coonhound, and German shepherd. That should speak for itself. As a robot vacuum and mop, you can rest assured that your pet's hair will be vacuumed while the dirty paw prints are washed away. Customer reviews agree with my assessment: "The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo engineers, designers, and programmers did their homework and then went out and built an incredible, not just vacuum but a solidly built system that shines in its accomplishment." Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo Complete features: Price: $1,240 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 210 mins | Base station dimensions: 20.6 x 17.4 x 21.8 inches | Suction power: 8,700Pa | Dustbin volume: 379 ml | Water tank capacity: 180 ml The Eufy X8 Pro is a midrange two-in-one machine that keeps my carpets and rugs clean. The Dual TurboCyclone Suction has four different settings, and paired with the BoostIQ, the robot intelligently ramps up the suction when it encounters soft flooring. Dog and cat hair was easily lifted away, leaving behind beautiful carpet lines in its path. Review: Eufy X8 Pro The X8 Pro is equipped with iPath Laser Navigation to map your home and clean it with efficient rows, but it isn't equipped with object detection. If you can live with picking up your floors before the X8 Pro runs, you'll be impressed with its cleaning capabilities. Pet owners rave about the X8 Pro's cleaning ability, even without object detection. One customer said, "I'm thrilled with this purchase. I can walk around in socks or bare feet comfortably, and when my fam stops by unannounced I don't have to rush to clean up or be embarrassed that I can't keep up with all the things." Eufy X8 Pro features : Price: $325 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 100 mins | Base station dimensions: 13.8 x 18 x 15 inches | Suction power: 4 ,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 335 ml | Water tank capacity: No mopping feature Dual 4000Pa suction Self-emptying No obstacle avoidance No mopping feature Eufy X8 Pro The Eufy X8 Pro is a midrange two-in-one machine that keeps my carpets and rugs clean. The Dual TurboCyclone Suction has four different settings, and paired with the BoostIQ, the robot intelligently ramps up the suction when it encounters soft flooring. Dog and cat hair was easily lifted away, leaving behind beautiful carpet lines in its path. Review: Eufy X8 Pro The X8 Pro is equipped with iPath Laser Navigation to map your home and clean it with efficient rows, but it isn't equipped with object detection. If you can live with picking up your floors before the X8 Pro runs, you'll be impressed with its cleaning capabilities. Pet owners rave about the X8 Pro's cleaning ability, even without object detection. One customer said, "I'm thrilled with this purchase. I can walk around in socks or bare feet comfortably, and when my fam stops by unannounced I don't have to rush to clean up or be embarrassed that I can't keep up with all the things." Eufy X8 Pro features : Price: $325 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 100 mins | Base station dimensions: 13.8 x 18 x 15 inches | Suction power: 4 ,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 335 ml | Water tank capacity: No mopping feature The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra is the company's latest flagship robot vacuum and mop combination, featuring advanced cleaning capabilities. With 10,000Pa of suction power, I had a great time testing it over a few months with various debris types, including coffee grounds, crumbs, and pet hair. The S8 MaxV Ultra's vacuuming performance was exceptional, particularly in picking up pet hair from rugs and carpets. surpassing many other popular robot vacuums. The robot features a dual rubber roller brush system, which helps prevent hair tangles and empties periodically during cleansing sessions. Its AI capabilities let the S8 MaxV Ultra detect debris and adjust its cleaning power accordingly. Review: Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra This robot's mopping feature is pretty good, with room for improvement, as it often leaves streaks behind due to the brush design. I've come to prefer a robot vacuum and mop with dual rotating mop heads or a mop roller over a vibrating mop pad, which is what the S8 MaxV Ultra features. Despite this minor drawback, the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra's hands-free dock, outstanding vacuum performance, and comprehensive app features make it a compelling choice for automated cleaning in homes with pets. "Let me start off by saying that we have three Siberian Huskies in this house. That is a LOT of fur. We've had a couple of iRobot Roombas over the years, and they helped cut down the amount of time I spent sweeping up fur by a fair amount, but I had grown weary of the issues with them," one buyer wrote. "Both in removing it from the floors and being able to remove it from the machine, I give it a 12/10. Despite my Husky pack's best efforts, there are no fluff drifts. I still have to bust out the Dyson on the weekly to get the cracks and crannies, but I could probably get away with less often if I was slightly less extra about the fur removal. But seriously? Whoever designed the roller was a frigging genius." Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra features : Price: $1,500 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 180 mins | Base station dimensions: 16.1 x 17.6 x 18.5 inches | Suction power: 10,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 270 ml | Water tank capacity: 100 ml 10,000 Pa suction Good obstacle avoidance Self-cleaning mop head Expensive Mop is best suited for maintenance cleaning Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra is the company's latest flagship robot vacuum and mop combination, featuring advanced cleaning capabilities. With 10,000Pa of suction power, I had a great time testing it over a few months with various debris types, including coffee grounds, crumbs, and pet hair. The S8 MaxV Ultra's vacuuming performance was exceptional, particularly in picking up pet hair from rugs and carpets. surpassing many other popular robot vacuums. The robot features a dual rubber roller brush system, which helps prevent hair tangles and empties periodically during cleansing sessions. Its AI capabilities let the S8 MaxV Ultra detect debris and adjust its cleaning power accordingly. Review: Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra This robot's mopping feature is pretty good, with room for improvement, as it often leaves streaks behind due to the brush design. I've come to prefer a robot vacuum and mop with dual rotating mop heads or a mop roller over a vibrating mop pad, which is what the S8 MaxV Ultra features. Despite this minor drawback, the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra's hands-free dock, outstanding vacuum performance, and comprehensive app features make it a compelling choice for automated cleaning in homes with pets. "Let me start off by saying that we have three Siberian Huskies in this house. That is a LOT of fur. We've had a couple of iRobot Roombas over the years, and they helped cut down the amount of time I spent sweeping up fur by a fair amount, but I had grown weary of the issues with them," one buyer wrote. "Both in removing it from the floors and being able to remove it from the machine, I give it a 12/10. Despite my Husky pack's best efforts, there are no fluff drifts. I still have to bust out the Dyson on the weekly to get the cracks and crannies, but I could probably get away with less often if I was slightly less extra about the fur removal. But seriously? Whoever designed the roller was a frigging genius." Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra features : Price: $1,500 (limited-time deal) | Battery life: 180 mins | Base station dimensions: 16.1 x 17.6 x 18.5 inches | Suction power: 10,000Pa | Dustbin volume: 270 ml | Water tank capacity: 100 ml The Narwal Freo X Ultra is a $1,400 robot vacuum and mop that excels at picking up pet hair from hard floors. Its innovative technology makes it outstanding at cleaning without getting its brush roller tangled up in random objects. The Freo X Ultra has a self-emptying dustbin that allows up to seven weeks of debris storage before emptying. Review: Narwal Freo X Ultra ZDNET's Jack Wallen has been a Narwal user for some time and recently upgraded to the Narwal Freo X Ultra and loved the experience. "I can leave the house while the robot is doing its thing without worrying it's going to wrap up a cord and take something down (or stop the job because it doesn't quite understand that the corner of a rug isn't something it should suck up," Wallen wrote in his review. Overall, the Freo X Ultra performs exceptionally well compared to other high-end units, often matching the capabilities of more expensive models. One buyer says, "The Narwal Ultra X's performance is where it truly shines. After mapping my house, which features hardwood flooring and several area rugs, I tested it with both vacuuming and mopping. The vacuum noise level is comparable to my old iRobot, but the Narwal Ultra X boasts much higher suction power. It handled long hairs on the floor effortlessly, a particularly impressive feature." Narwal Freo X Plus features: Price: $1,400 | Battery life: 254 mins | Base station dimensions: 13.7 x 14 x 4.2 inches | Suction power: 7,800Pa | Dustbin volume: 800 ml | Water tank capacity: 280 ml Excels on hard floors 7-week dust storage Great obstacle avoidance Mop is best suited for maintenance It's expensive Narwal Freo X Ultra The Narwal Freo X Ultra is a $1,400 robot vacuum and mop that excels at picking up pet hair from hard floors. Its innovative technology makes it outstanding at cleaning without getting its brush roller tangled up in random objects. The Freo X Ultra has a self-emptying dustbin that allows up to seven weeks of debris storage before emptying. Review: Narwal Freo X Ultra ZDNET's Jack Wallen has been a Narwal user for some time and recently upgraded to the Narwal Freo X Ultra and loved the experience. "I can leave the house while the robot is doing its thing without worrying it's going to wrap up a cord and take something down (or stop the job because it doesn't quite understand that the corner of a rug isn't something it should suck up," Wallen wrote in his review. Overall, the Freo X Ultra performs exceptionally well compared to other high-end units, often matching the capabilities of more expensive models. One buyer says, "The Narwal Ultra X's performance is where it truly shines. After mapping my house, which features hardwood flooring and several area rugs, I tested it with both vacuuming and mopping. The vacuum noise level is comparable to my old iRobot, but the Narwal Ultra X boasts much higher suction power. It handled long hairs on the floor effortlessly, a particularly impressive feature." Narwal Freo X Plus features: Price: $1,400 | Battery life: 254 mins | Base station dimensions: 13.7 x 14 x 4.2 inches | Suction power: 7,800Pa | Dustbin volume: 800 ml | Water tank capacity: 280 ml Former ZDNET editor Elizabeth Mauder contributed to this story. The best pet hair robot vacuums compared Though the Roomba j7+ is the best robot vacuum for handling pet hair, the other options may be better for different situations. A typical robot vacuum for cleaning pet hair can cost $150-$1,900, depending on its extra features and autonomy. See how the best pet hair robot vacuums compare to other models we use to keep up with our pets. * Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts . Which robot vacuum is best for you? There are hundreds of robot vacuums, so how do you know which is best for you? Here's a quick breakdown: Robot vacuum vs. stick vacuum: Which is better for pet hair? If you're trying to decide whether a stick or a robot vacuum is the best option for tackling pet hair, the truth is that there isn't a black-and-white answer. Here's how they stack up: Robot vacuums are best suited for daily or every-other-day maintenance between deep cleaning sessions. They are ideal for low-pile carpets and hard floors, such as wood, tile, and vinyl. Stick vacuums are perfect for quick cleanups of crumbs or pet hair but can also be better suited to vacuum carpets more thoroughly than a robot vacuum. They provide stronger suction and versatility than robot vacuums, which helps them remove stubborn pet hair more effectively from carpets and rugs. I rotate both a stick vacuum and a robot vacuum in my home, while my old upright vacuum is relegated to monthly cleaning jobs for a deeper clean. I've found that combining a robot vacuum for daily automated cleanings and a stick vacuum for quick cleanups is the best way to keep my floors clean without a big hassle. Also: Forget Dyson: I tested Roborock's wet-dry hand vacuum and it left my floors spotless Some robot and stick vacuum combinations, like the Ecovacs T30S Combo and Deebot X2 Combo , are available on the market, which greatly helps. This is especially true as the stick vacuum's canister on these devices self-empties into the same bag as the robot vacuum, making the entire experience easier. Factors to consider when choosing a robot vacuum While trying to determine the best robot vacuum, I kept several factors at the forefront of my testing and research, which can also aid your search: Suction power: When weighing your options, compare each robot vacuum's different suction power features. Suction power is measured in Pascals (Pa); the higher the number, the better. Inexpensive options like the Eufy 11S Max feature a 2,000Pa suction, while more high-end options, like the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra, have 10,000Pa. Also, consider that this number is the robot's peak power, so you'll likely have to set it up in its highest setting to reach the advertised number of Pascals. Floor types: Some robot vacuums are best equipped to work with different floor types, like carpet or hardwood, and can even automatically increase suction when the carpet is detected. Others perform best on hard floors but fall short on carpets. Before you buy, consider the type of flooring in your home and which vacuum is most appropriate. Mapping: For full automation, your robot vacuum must have a mapping feature to navigate each room. Robots use different sensors to create floorplan maps, including LiDAR, laser, and even artificial intelligence through cameras. Many robot vacuums use these sensors to detect cliffs and stop so they don't fall down the stairs. Depending on the tech used for mapping, robot vacuums clean in linear or random patterns, which is also something to consider if you like the look of carpet lines. Many robots can also create multi-floor mapping, which lets you move your robot vacuum to clean different levels in your home and save each map. Obstacle avoidance: An obstacle avoidance feature can have the robot vacuum avoid things like furniture, wires, socks, shoes, and even pet waste so the robot doesn't get its brush roller stuck on it or spread the mess all over your carpet. This feature is a must-have in my home with a dog and young kids who constantly leave objects strewn about. Battery: Consider the runtime before choosing the best robot vacuum to ensure it has enough power to clean your home, especially if you want to clean a large area in one go. If you select a robot vacuum with the technical capability to pause its job, return to the charging base to refill its battery, and then resume the job where it left off, this may not be as big of a factor as others on this list. Connectivity: Many of the best robot vacuums offer voice control, some through Amazon Alexa or Google Home, and others with built-in voice assistants. Most feature a mobile app that lets you control your robot remotely, set schedules, track progress, and control the machine's efforts. Extra features: Robot vacuum manufacturers often market extra features that may or may not be important to buyers, so choosing which features you'd like before buying is worth it. These include tangle-resistant brushes, self-emptying dustbins, the ability to set no-go zones and create schedules, mopping capabilities, and many more. Also: I changed these 10 things to maximize my robot vacuum's battery life How did we test these robot vacuums for pet hair? ZDNET has several robot vacuum reviewers that have tested over 50 units thus far. We conduct tests in real homes with real challenges and in a controlled lab environment for comparison. Also: How we test robot vacuums at ZDNET in 2024 Here's what we consider when testing robot vacuums and mops at ZDNET: Determine evaluation criteria: For our key evaluation criteria, we consider how robots perform by assessing their suction power, navigation, mapping, and battery life. We also assess the user experience, the robot's versatility, longevity, and whether it delivers on its specifications. Unboxing: During this process, we assess the packaging and setup experience and note any accessories and unique features. Testing environments: We test the robot vacuums on different floor types (like carpet and hardwood) and see how they navigate various obstacles to test performance. Performance metrics: We test suction power with various debris types and assess obstacle navigation and mapping accuracy. Extra features : When testing robot vacuum and mop combinations, we evaluate their effectiveness at removing stains and overall cleaning quality. We also check how unique features work, like obstacle avoidance and recognition, extendable mop pads, etc. To top it all off, we gauge the device's longevity and long-term performance by using it over the course of a few months. Our review timelines vary, but we typically test robot vacuums for about a month before reviewing and keep our reviews updated while the device is available. FAQs on robot vacuums Shark and Roomba robot vacuums have pros and cons when handling pet hair. We've tested different models from both brands at ZDNET and have found that, while Shark robots tend to excel in suction, Roombas generally have better navigation and obstacle avoidance capabilities. Some Roomba robot vacuums also have dual brush rollers to help prevent hair tangles and advanced smart features, like P.O.O.P. But Shark tends to offer more affordable alternatives than Roomba, including in recurring expenses. Shark robot vacuums also notoriously handle pet hair well with self-cleaning brush rollers. In the end, choosing between Shark and Roomba will come down to the individual model and depend on the buyer's needs. Most of the vacuums on this list are self-emptying, so you don't have to worry about manually dumping the dust bin after every use. However, there are many on the market that you need to manually empty. How often you empty your robot vacuum dustbin depends on how much dirt, debris, and pet hair you have in your home. It's good to be realistic about your home's needs and proactive about emptying so your vacuum can continue suctioning up as much dirt as possible during its job. The self-emptying robot vacuums are typically emptied into a dust bag stored in the base station. The dust bags vary from one brand to another, but you can normally get around 60 days' worth of dirt and debris before needing to change the bag out. Robot vacuums are often good at getting pet hair out of short-pile carpets but don't always perform as well on medium and high-pile carpets, as they can get stuck in them. However, robot vacuums are not as great at removing stubborn hair from carpet and rugs as some upright and stick vacuums. While many robot vacuums have very powerful suction, their brush rollers often to reach deep enough in the carpet to loosen up stubborn hair. Robot vacuums are perfect for keeping floors clean, but your rugs and carpets will still require a more thorough cleaning every few weeks to remove all the pet hair. Most robot vacuums encourage you to replace the filter, rollers, and side sweeping brushes periodically to keep the devices performing optimally. Additionally, if your robot empties into a dust bag, it must be replaced every few months. Finally, some robot vacuum mops require a mop-cleaning solution that must be repurchased throughout the robot's lifetime. Robot vacuums are becoming increasingly intelligent with each new device, and they can now avoid various objects in your home, including pet waste. iRobot and Roborock are two robot vacuum companies claiming their devices can identify and avoid running over pet waste. Other robot vacuums we've tested Roborock Q5+ You really can't go wrong with any device from Roborock, including the Q5+. With its auto dust emptying base and 2700Pa suction, you can get many of the higher-end robot vacuum features for a cheaper price. Dreame X40 Ultra The Dreame X40 Ultra is ZDNET's pick for the best robot vacuum and mop combination, with 12,000Pa of suction power and reliable object avoidance capabilities. It'll cost you, though, as it's priced steeply at $1,900. Yeedi Cube With 4,300Pa suction, a mop head that vibrates 2,500 times per minute, and 150 minutes of runtime, you will be impressed. However, you may be disappointed in the robot's lack of object avoidance. ZDNET’s Robot Vacuum Guide Best robot vacuum overall Best robot vacuum and mop combo Best robot vacuum for pet hair Best robot mop Best Roborock robot vacuum Best Roomba vacuum Dreame X30 Ultra review Roomba j7+ review Braava Jet m6 review Roborock s8 Pro Ultra review Roborock s7 MaxV Ultra Neato d10 robot vacuum review The best smartwatches you can buy: Apple, Samsung, Google, and more compared The 5 best VPN services (and tips to choose the right one for you) The best Android phones you can buy (including a surprise pick) The best robot vacuum and mop combos (and if they're worth the money)
By Abby Badach Doyle, NerdWallet It won’t be impossible to buy a house in 2025 — just be prepared to play on hard mode. According to a November 2024 report from ICE Mortgage Technology, the monthly principal and interest payment on an average-priced home is $2,385. While that’s not the highest it’s ever been, it’s still a sharp increase — nearly 80% — from just three years ago. In November 2021, when mortgage rates averaged 3%, the monthly principal and interest on an average-priced home was $1,327 per month. So here’s the key to buying in 2025: Look ahead, not back. Regret won’t help you budget for today’s new normal. And with this year’s election also in the rearview mirror, so is some uncertainty among buyers and sellers that historically slows the market during every presidential election cycle. “People have just been kind of sitting waiting to see what’s going to happen,” says Courtney Johnson Rose, president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, an industry group for Black real estate agents. “I’m hopeful that the new year will bring more attention to real estate, more excitement to real estate, and more opportunities for first-time home owners to get in the game.” Check the forecast Preparing to buy a house is a lot like dressing for the weather. It’s easier when the outlook is sunny — but with some planning, you can gear up to face any condition. Here’s what housing market experts are forecasting for the upcoming year. Related Articles Real estate | Homeowners insurance company to pull out of California condo, rental markets Real estate | Marin Transit approves $3.7M contract for bus lot with solar canopy Real estate | California insurance crisis: Which Bay Area communities have lost the most coverage Real estate | California vs. Trump: How will the economic sequel go? Real estate | Farmers to write more California home insurance policies ahead of planned reforms First, home prices: We’ll likely see more modest growth in 2025, a change from skyrocketing prices in recent years. After 16 consecutive months of year-over-year price increases, the median existing-home sales price hit $407,200 in October, according to the National Association of Realtors. In 2025, with more supply trickling in to temper price increases, NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun forecasts a median existing-home sales price of $410,700, up just 2% over this year. Next, housing inventory: Demand still outpaces supply. While we don’t expect a return to a buyer’s market, competition should be less cutthroat. Realtor.com forecasts a balanced market in 2025 with an average 4.1-month supply of homes for sale, up from an average 3.7-month supply so far in 2024. That would make 2025 the friendliest market for buyers since 2016, which had an average 4.4-month supply. Finally, mortgage rates: After topping 8% in October 2023, the 30-year mortgage rate has slowly eased into the 6.5%-7% range this year. Rate cuts from the Federal Reserve have helped nudge that downward. Despite earlier optimism, forecasters’ latest consensus is for rates to effectively plateau above 6% throughout 2025. That said, every year has its wild cards. In 2025, it’s still uncertain how President-elect Donald Trump and a Republican-led Congress might shake up regulations and tax policies that affect the U.S. housing market. Set a budget National forecasts don’t analyze what matters most: Your personal cash flow. To get ready to buy, first meet with a financial advisor or use an online calculator to determine how much house you can afford . You can also get free or low-cost advice from a housing counselor sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Next, look into down payment and closing cost assistance from state housing finance agencies, local governments, nonprofits and mortgage lenders. Your employer or labor union might offer assistance, too. First-time buyers with income below their area median have the most options, but repeat or higher-income borrowers can qualify for some programs as well. “I think that there’s a lot of free money being left out there,” Rose says. Find a buyer’s agent Your not-so-secret weapon for buying in 2025 just might be an experienced buyer’s agent. “Anybody can write a contract,” says Sharon Parker, associate broker with Tate & Foss Sotheby’s International Realty in Rye, New Hampshire. “But you need somebody who’s seen the market, the ups and downs, who knows how to get creative because every transaction is different.” Following a settlement with the NAR , buyers can now negotiate their agent’s compensation up front. (Previously, home sellers took on that task.) While new norms are still shaking out, Rose says she hasn’t seen too much drama since the change took effect in August. “So as long as buyers remember that we have to talk about this in the beginning of our relationship, everything typically works out fine,” she says. Shop and negotiate Finally, it’s time to shop for a mortgage. To get the best interest rate, get a quote with at least three different lenders. You could also delegate the shopping to a mortgage broker, who can compare quotes and even negotiate a lower rate on your behalf. Though brokers charge a fee, their access to more mortgage options and lower rates can often mean net savings overall. With a mortgage preapproval in hand, it’s go time. And you don’t have to wait until spring: If you’re ready to buy now, buyers have less competition and more negotiating power from December through February, so you could snag a deal. “The people who are selling and the people who are buying in the off season are very serious,” Parker says. “They’re not just lookie-loos.” However, lower inventory means fewer choices for buyers. So start your search prepared to compromise — a “good enough” house will still help you build equity. Should you buy a house in 2025? If a down payment or monthly mortgage payment is financially out of reach, there’s no shame in postponing your search to pad your savings. And owning a home isn’t the right lifestyle choice for everyone, with the ongoing commitment of money and time. But once you’re ready to buy — whether for the first time, or to upgrade or downsize — avoid the trap of waiting for a dip in mortgage rates. “Nobody can predict what the market, or the world, is going to do,” Parker says. “There is no better time than right now.” Mortgage rates will always fluctuate, and if they drop significantly, you can refinance. For first-time buyers, homeownership is a major financial glow-up — and the sooner you jump in, the longer you’ll have to build home equity. “Time value of money is really, really critical when it comes to real estate,” Rose says. “So I would always encourage somebody to buy as soon as you can and get the clock ticking.” More From NerdWallet Abby Badach Doyle writes for NerdWallet. Email: abadachdoyle@nerdwallet.com. The article Buying a House in 2025: Your How-To Guide originally appeared on NerdWallet .Hospital car parks raise £1bn in six yearsWilllow's double success a unique feat among Victoria's best young talent