Task | How to Automate | Devices/Services |
Cleaning | Robot vacuums & smart mops | Roomba, Roborock |
Laundry | Smart washers & auto ironers | LG Smart Washer, Effie |
Groceries & Meals | Delivery services & smart fridges | Instacart, HelloFresh |
Home Security | Smart locks & cameras | Ring, Arlo, August Lock |
Bills & Budgeting | Autopay & smart thermostats | Mint, Nest Thermostat |
Lawn & Garden | Robotic mowers & smart irrigation | Husqvarna, Rachio |
Cleaning and Vacuuming: Let robots do the dirty work
No one enjoys spending hours vacuuming and mopping, and with robot vacuums like Roomba or Roborock, you don’t have to. These smart devices clean up dust and dirt while you do other things. They navigate around furniture, avoid obstacles, and even return to their charging station when the battery is low.
If mopping is on your list of dreaded chores, a smart mop like the iRobot Braava Jet can get the job done with minimal effort. It works just like a robot vacuum but tackles sticky messes and spills instead. And if you have pets, a self-cleaning litter box, such as the Litter-Robot, can take care of the dirty work for you. No more scooping, no more odor—just a cleaner, fresher home.
Laundry and Clothes Care: Let smart machines take over
Smart washers and dryers from brands like LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool simplify laundry. Control them remotely to schedule cycles, get notifications, and let the machine adjust settings.
If you dread ironing and folding, automated systems like Effie and FoldiMate can help. Simply load your shirts, and they’ll press and fold them for you, easing your daily routine.
Grocery Shopping and Meal Planning: Smart solutions for the kitchen
Going to the grocery store takes time, and meal planning can feel like a chore in itself. That’s where automation comes in. Grocery delivery services like Instacart, Amazon Fresh, and Walmart+ can bring everything you need right to your doorstep, so you don’t have to make an extra trip.
Smart fridges like the Samsung Family Hub are another game-changer. They can keep track of what’s inside, remind you of expiration dates, and even suggest recipes based on what you have. If you want to take meal planning a step further, services like HelloFresh and Blue Apron deliver pre-portioned ingredients along with easy-to-follow recipes.
Even kitchen appliances are getting smarter. A smart coffee maker can start brewing before you even get out of bed, and devices like the Anova Precision Cooker can make sous vide cooking completely effortless.
Home Security and Monitoring: Keep your home safe without lifting a finger
Home security has never been easier, thanks to smart locks, video doorbells, and automated surveillance systems. Smart locks like the August Smart Lock let you control your doors from anywhere. You can grant access to guests, get alerts when someone enters, and never worry about losing your keys again.
Video doorbells like Ring and Nest Hello let you see and talk to visitors remotely with live streaming, motion alerts, and two-way audio.
If you want full home protection, security cameras from brands like Arlo and Blink can monitor your home 24/7. With motion sensors and night vision, they send real-time alerts if anything unusual happens. Even smart lighting systems can boost security by automatically turning on when they detect movement.
Bill Payments and Budgeting: Automate your finances
Nobody likes dealing with bills, but setting up automation can make managing them a lot easier. Automatic payments ensure your rent, utilities, and credit card bills are paid on time, so you don’t have to worry about late fees.
If budgeting is a struggle, apps like Mint and YNAB (You Need a Budget) can do the heavy lifting. They track spending, categorize expenses, and help you stay on top of your finances without the need for spreadsheets.
Smart thermostats like Nest and Ecobee cut costs by adjusting temperature to your habits, optimizing energy use, and lowering bills.
Lawn and Garden Maintenance: Keep your outdoors looking great
Taking care of a lawn and garden requires time and effort, but smart technology can help. Robotic lawn mowers like the Husqvarna Automower and Worx Landroid take care of mowing without you lifting a finger. These devices navigate around obstacles, work quietly, and even return to their charging station when needed.
Smart irrigation systems like Rachio and Orbit B-Hyve make watering easier by adjusting schedules based on the weather. Instead of manually turning on the sprinklers, these systems ensure your lawn and plants get the right amount of water.
Even indoor plants can benefit from automation. Devices like the Véritable Smart Indoor Garden use LED lighting and automated watering to help plants thrive, so you don’t have to remember to water them.
Key Takeaway: Automating homemaking tasks can save you hours each week, giving you more time to relax and focus on what matters most. With smart technology handling everyday chores, you can enjoy a cleaner, more organized, and stress-free home.
Conclusion
Managing a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By automating common tasks like cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, security, bill payments, and lawn care, you can simplify daily life and reduce stress.
With the right smart devices and automation tools, your home can practically run itself. Whether you start with a robot vacuum or a smart thermostat, every little bit of automation helps free up your time and makes home life more convenient.
FAQs
Are smart home devices hard to install?
Most smart home devices are easy to set up, with simple instructions and user-friendly apps. Many can be installed in minutes.
How much does home automation cost?
The cost varies widely depending on what you’re automating. Basic smart plugs and lights start at around $20, while more advanced systems like security cameras and robotic lawn mowers can cost a few hundred dollars.
Can I automate my home without a smart assistant like Alexa or Google Home?
Yes! Many smart devices work independently and come with their own apps. However, integrating them with Alexa or Google Home can make managing multiple devices easier.
What happens if a smart device stops working?
Most smart devices can be fixed with a simple reboot or firmware update. If problems persist, the manufacturer’s customer support can usually help troubleshoot the issue.
Do automated systems require a lot of maintenance?
Most don’t! Robot vacuums need occasional dustbin emptying, and smart thermostats might need software updates, but overall, maintenance is minimal.