As someone who has used a robot vacuum for a while, when talking to someone who wants to get a robot vacuum for herself, I am often asked: will robot vacuums go over thresholds? It may seem like a small thing, but for those of us with different floor levels in our homes, it’s an important consideration. In my experience, I’ve found that the answer isn’t always straightforward. Today, I’d like to share what I’ve learned about whether or not robot vacuums can handle thresholds, as well as offer some tips for using them effectively.
Will Robot Vacuums Go Over Thresholds?
Robot vacuum cleaners can usually cross small thresholds without any problems. On average, they can go over thresholds up to 0.7 inches (1.77 cm) while the average threshold height is around 0.5 inches (1.27 cm). Some robot vacuums can climb higher up to 2 cm (like Roborock models). Knowing how high your robot vacuum can climb helps to decide whether it needs some help to navigate and clean the house.

How High Can Your Robot Vacuum Can Climb
I’ve done some research between different robot vacuum brands to see how high can they climb. Below is what I’ve found out. The order is ranging from the highest to the lowest they can climb.
- All Roborock Models: 2 cm (0.79 inch)
- Ecovacs Deepbot Ozmo: 2 cm (0.78 inch)
- Roomba S9 and S9+: 2 cm (0.78 inch)
- All Neato Models: 1.9 cm (0.75 inch)
- Shark – ION: 1.9 cm (0.75 inch)
- Other iRobot Robot Roomba Models: 1.6 cm (0.62 inch)
- Eufy RobotVac: 1.6 cm (0.63 inch)
- Eufy RobotVac: 1.5 cm (0.59 inch)
- Samsung POWERbot: 1.3 cm (0.5 inch)
Why Does Your Robot Vacuum Get Stuck At Thresholds

Robot vacuums can go over thresholds, but the height and shape of the threshold will be a major factor in how successful it is at crossing. Higher thresholds are more difficult for robot vacuums to cross, as they will have to climb higher and use more power.
The shape of thresholds can make your robot vacuum stuck. For example, if the threshold has a ramp-like shape, a robot vacuum can easily climb over it.
Tips for using a robot vacuum on thresholds
Using ramp
Robot vacuums can go over small thresholds, but they may need help if the threshold is too high. A ramp can be used to help the robot vacuum climb over the higher threshold.
To do this, place the ramp on top of the threshold so that it is easy for the robot vacuum to climb up and over. This will make it easier for your robot vacuum to get around your home without getting stuck at thresholds.
Some ramps you can try out: Rubber ramp, Curb ramp.
Using a bathroom carpet

A bathroom carpet is short and easy to climb over. You can place a bathroom carpet next to the threshold to help your robot vacuum climb over it.
Using the carpet as a makeshift approach for the robot vacuum to climb over the threshold may not be visually appealing for your home decor.
FAQ

Can EUFY go over thresholds?
Yes, Eufy RobotVac can go over thresholds up to 0.63 inches (1.6 cm). Some other models from Eufy like the RoboVac 11S and RoboVac 15C can also climb over thresholds up to 1.5 cm (0.59 inch).
Do Roombas get stuck on thresholds?
Yes, Roombas may get stuck on thresholds if the threshold is higher than 1.6 cm (0.62 inch). To help your Roomba get over thresholds, you can use a ramp or a bathroom carpet next to the threshold.
Can Roomba go over high thresholds?
Yes, some models from Roomba like the s9 and s9+ can go over high thresholds up to 2 cm (0.79 inch). Other models from Roomba may not be able to climb over higher thresholds, so it is best to check your model’s specifications before attempting to cross any thresholds with it.
Can robot vacuums go over doorsteps?
Yes, robot vacuums can usually go over doorsteps as long as they are not too high. Most robot vacuums can climb thresholds up to 0.7 inches (1.77 cm). However, if the threshold is higher, you may need to use a ramp or a bathroom carpet next to the threshold in order to help your robot vacuum climb over it.
Conclusion
Robot vacuums can go over thresholds, but the height and shape of the threshold will be a major factor in how successful it is at crossing. Higher thresholds are more difficult for robot vacuums to cross, as they will have to climb higher and use more power. To help your robot vacuum get over thresholds, you can use a ramp or a bathroom carpet next to the threshold. Additionally, it is best to check your robot vacuum’s specifications before attempting to cross any thresholds with it. All in all, there are many options available for helping your robot vacuum get around your home without getting stuck at thresholds.