Go easy on this Roomba 405. It’s just a kid.

This isn’t one of those refurbished Roombas that have been around the living room a few times. It’s brand new. Never been touched by consumer hands. Never learned the hard truths a refurb knows. Never felt the pain of a broken side brush – or a broken heart.

No, this Roomba 405 is still blinking its nonexistent eyes with wonder at the world around it. As far as it knows, every floor is a wonderland of dust and dander waiting to be swept up into its debris bin. It has an automatic stair avoidance system, sure, but it’s never had to use it. It knows the difference between hardwood, tile, linoleum, and carpet, and it knows how to detect dirtier areas and give them extra attention. But there’s a big difference between the theory and the messy reality.

So be patient. Understand that this Roomba 405 will need some time to adjust. With some understanding on your part, you and your Roomba 405 can grow together. You’ll find Roomba ownership a cleaner, cheaper, less demanding alternative to parenthood. And when it asks the uncomfortable question “Where do Roombas come from?”, you won’t have to squirm when you answer: “From Woot, mainly.”

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