Guide Note

Scooba is an automated, programmable floor washer marketed as a domestic robot. It first vacuums, then scrubs, washes and dries. The Scooba is not meant for carpets, and knows how to avoid them.

Fast Facts

1. Maker: iRobot
2. Debut: Christmas 2005
3. Origin: Burlington, MA
4. Solution maker: Clorox
5. Solution nickname: "Scooba Juice"
6. One eight-ounce bottle equals four washing sessions
7. Vacuuming cousin: Roomba
8. List price at time of debut: $399.99
9. Entry-level model price lowered to $299.99
10. Deluxe model available for $499.99

The premium Scooba 380 model can cover about three or four rooms on one battery charge, which works out to around 850 square feet. It preps, scrubs and squeegees hardwood, tile and linoleum floors dry, and is able to sneak underneath cabinets, coffee tables, chairs and other furniture with ease.