Privacy & Safety
Keeping Robot Vacuums Away from Kids’ Toys and Cords
Homes with young children have their own clutter challenges. Here is how to protect the robot from toys and cords, and protect small children from the robot.
Quick answer
Do a quick floor sweep before scheduled runs, use no-go zones for play areas, lift cords, and keep the robot and dock out of reach of small children. Read the manual's safety notes.
Small parts
Small toy pieces and building blocks can be picked up, jammed or damaged by the brush. A short sweep before each run avoids both the mess and the jam.
Play areas
Where a corner is reliably covered in toys, a standing no-go zone during play hours is easier than tidying every day; see no-go zones. Remember zones only work when the map is accurate.
Cords from kids' electronics
Tablet chargers and toy cables tangle a robot like any cable. Route them up and off the floor. The full checklist is in preparing your home.
Child safety around the robot
- Keep the dock and its cable out of reach.
- Keep bags, bins and small parts such as brushes away from small children.
- Use the app's child lock, where offered, to stop button presses.
- Do not let children sit on or ride the robot.
Schedule with the household
Runs while children nap or play on the floor are best avoided; see scheduling around your day.
When something goes wrong
If a toy jams the brush, power off and clear it; see brush roll cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Are robot vacuums safe for toddlers?
Follow the manual's safety notes, supervise, and keep small parts out of reach.
What about liquid or mopping near children?
Keep tanks, pads and cleaning solution away from children and follow the manual.
Does a child lock exist on every robot?
No. Check your model.