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The robot vacuum cleaner that can climb stairs independently, just like a human, will soon be a reality for the first time. For most households, this represents real progress.
Vacuum robots climbing stairs: What it means – and how realistic it is
Until recently, no robot vacuum cleaner for private households was able to climb real stairs.
- Many premium models can easily handle door thresholds or steps of up to 3–5 centimeters. But normal stairs with a step height of 15 to 20 cm were the end of the line – because this requires powerful mechanics and safety systems that classic wheels cannot offer.
- The challenge is not only to recognize steps and protect against falls, but also to overcome them with confidence. This requires caterpillar platforms or carrier systems that transport suction robots independently from one floor to the next in the house.
Which robotic vacuum models can now climb stairs – and how it works
The world’s first near-series solutions were presented at IFA 2025 – they are not yet available, but the market launch has been announced:
- Dreame Cyber X with chain platform: The vacuum robot drives onto a separate platform that uses a chain drive to climb steps up to 25 cm high. Safety features such as brakes and spacers are integrated. The robot can continue working fully automatically after climbing the stairs – making the system truly suitable for everyday use for the first time.
- Eufy MarsWalker system: The MarsWalker is a special ascending and descending aid for robot vacuum cleaners. It independently transports compatible models (e.g., RoboVac Omni S2) over straight, L-shaped, and U-shaped stairs. The concept is modular: the actual robot vacuum cleaner can handle thresholds up to 4 cm on its own, and the MarsWalker takes care of anything higher or more complex.
- Mova Zeus 60: Unlike Eufy and Dreame, Mova uses a kind of lifting platform/transport module that takes the robot to the next floor. Here, too, the robot vacuum cleaner drives itself into the module, which then overcomes the difference in height.
- All systems use a “two-component” approach: the robot itself does not climb the stairs autonomously, but is transported by a technical platform. The systems will be available in stores from 2026 at the earliest and are often only compatible with selected robot models from the respective brand.
- However, all three systems already demonstrate in everyday use that stairs no longer have to be an insurmountable obstacle for vacuum robots.
What this means for everyday life in a multi-story building
For smaller thresholds or carpet edges, many robot vacuums are still sufficient without additional technology. For real stairs, platform or MarsWalker solutions offer a new option – however, they are not yet mass-produced and are likely to involve significant additional costs. Tips for making a decision:
- Some devices can handle thresholds up to approx. 5 cm on their own.
- Specialized stair platforms are required for thresholds approx. 15 cm and higher.
- These systems are currently only compatible with certain robot vacuum models.
- If you are looking for a flexible solution right away, you will still need one device per floor or carry the robot vacuum manually.
