How to Seamlessly Control Your Robot Vacuum with Google Assistant

Robot vacuums tackle the toughest cleaning jobs effortlessly—from under the couch to hard-to-reach spots. While their companion apps allow scheduling and quick starts, linking to Google Home unlocks powerful voice control via Google Assistant, letting you command chores hands-free.

Most robot vacuums with smartphone apps integrate with Google Home for Google Assistant voice control, though features vary. All support basic start and stop commands; many allow docking, and select models enable room-specific cleaning.

Use voice commands to locate a lost robot under furniture or switch modes—like from quiet to maximum power—on supported models.

After setup in the Google Home app, control your vacuum via any Nest smart speaker (such as Nest Mini) or smart display (like Nest Hub Max). Smart displays also offer on-screen touch controls for start/pause, stop, and dock, alongside voice options. These appear in the Google Home app too, where you can chat directly with the Assistant.

Screenshot by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy

Connect Your Robot Vacuum to Google Assistant

Link your robot vacuum via the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. First, install the manufacturer's app and create an account, then follow these steps:

• Open the Google Home app
• Tap the plus symbol at the top
• Tap Configure Device
• Tap Works with Google
• Search for your robot maker (e.g., iRobot, Roborock, Ecovacs, Eufy)
• Enter account credentials to link
• Select your compatible vacuum from the list
• Choose your home and tap Next (skipped if only one home)
• Assign to a room for easy organization, then tap Next
• Return to the home screen and find your vacuum icon
• Tap it, then settings gear to rename for clearer voice commands
• Now control from the app, voice on speakers, or touch/voice on displays.

Photo by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy / I/O Means

Essential Google Assistant Voice Commands for Robot Vacuums

With one vacuum, simple phrases work: "Hey Google, start cleaning." No device name needed.

Try these commands:

• Hey Google, start vacuuming/cleaning
• Hey Google, stop vacuuming/cleaning
• Hey Google, pause vacuuming/cleaning
• Hey Google, resume vacuuming/cleaning
• Hey Google, clean the kitchen (needs smart mapping)
• Hey Google, where is my vacuum? (mapping often required)
• Hey Google, is my vacuum charging?
• Hey Google, is my vacuum connected?
• Hey Google, dock my vacuum

For multiple vacuums, specify the name: "Hey Google, tell [name] to start cleaning." Unspecified commands may trigger all devices; Google will clarify if unsure.

Pro Tip: Avoid human names for your vacuum to prevent mix-ups with calls or messages. Opt for something like "Robot Overlord" instead—rename anytime in the Google Home app.