Why Is My Roomba Going in Circles? (7 Fixes)

If your Roomba is stuck going in circles instead of cleaning your floors, you're not alone. This frustrating issue can turn your trusty robot vacuum into a dizzying nuisance, leaving you with dirty floors and a headache. Many Roomba owners report this problem, often after months or years of reliable use, and it can stem from simple sensor issues to more complex hardware failures.

This guide will walk you through the most common causes of a circling Roomba, from debris buildup to sensor malfunctions. You'll learn 7 actionable fixes to get your robot vacuum back on track, starting with the easiest solutions. We'll also cover when it's time to consider an upgrade and recommend reliable alternatives if repairs aren't worth the hassle.

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or just want a quick fix, this guide has you covered with detailed steps, prevention tips, and expert advice based on real user experiences.

Common Causes

• Debris or hair wrapped around wheels or brushes
• Dirty or malfunctioning cliff sensors
• Bumper sensor stuck or damaged
• Uneven wheel wear or motor issues
• Software or firmware glitches

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check for Debris Around Wheels and Brushes

Difficulty: easy | Time: 5 minutes

Turn your Roomba upside down and inspect the wheels and brushes for hair, string, or debris that might be restricting movement. Use your fingers or a small tool to remove any buildup, especially around the side brush and caster wheel. This works because debris can cause uneven movement, making the Roomba spin in circles. If the fix works, your Roomba should move in straight lines during a test run. If it still circles, debris might not be the issue—move to the next step.

Warning: Ensure the device is powered off before cleaning to avoid accidental activation.

Tools needed: Small brush or cloth

2. Clean the Cliff Sensors

Difficulty: easy | Time: 5 minutes

Locate the cliff sensors (small black dots or strips under the Roomba near the edges). Wipe them gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust or dirt. Dirty sensors can misread the floor, causing erratic circling behavior as the Roomba thinks it's near a drop-off. After cleaning, test the Roomba on a flat surface. If it navigates normally, the issue is resolved. If not, the sensors might be damaged—proceed to the next steps.

Tools needed: Dry cloth

3. Inspect the Bumper for Obstructions

Difficulty: easy | Time: 10 minutes

Gently press the front bumper of your Roomba to ensure it moves freely and springs back. If it feels stuck, check for dirt or small objects lodged around it, and clean with a cloth or compressed air. A stuck bumper can confuse the Roomba's navigation, causing it to spin in place. After clearing obstructions, test the device. If it moves correctly, great! If the bumper remains stuck or damaged, it may need repair or replacement.

Tools needed: Compressed air, Cloth

4. Reset Your Roomba

Difficulty: easy | Time: 2 minutes

Perform a soft reset by holding the 'Clean' button for 10 seconds (or refer to your model’s manual for specific instructions). This can resolve software glitches that cause circling behavior. After resetting, test the Roomba in an open area. If it navigates properly, the issue was likely a temporary glitch. If circling persists, there may be a deeper hardware or firmware issue.

Warning: Resetting may clear saved maps on some models, so you might need to remap your home.

5. Check Wheel Alignment and Wear

Difficulty: medium | Time: 15 minutes

Examine both drive wheels for signs of uneven wear or damage. Spin them manually to ensure they rotate smoothly without resistance. Uneven wheels or a failing motor can cause the Roomba to favor one side, resulting in circling. If a wheel is damaged, consider replacing it (check iRobot’s website for parts). Test after inspection or replacement—if it moves straight, the fix worked. If not, the issue might be internal.

Tools needed: Screwdriver (if replacing wheel)

6. Update or Reinstall Firmware

Difficulty: medium | Time: 20 minutes

Connect your Roomba to the iRobot app or Wi-Fi (if applicable) to check for firmware updates. Outdated software can cause navigation errors. Follow the app’s instructions to update. If no update is available or the issue persists, try a factory reset via the app or manual instructions. Test after updating—if the Roomba navigates normally, the software was the culprit. If not, hardware issues are likely.

Warning: A factory reset will erase all settings and maps.

7. Contact iRobot Support or Test for Hardware Failure

Difficulty: hard | Time: 30+ minutes

If none of the above steps work, the issue may be a failed sensor, motor, or internal component. Run a diagnostic test if your model supports it (check the manual or app). If diagnostics show errors or you suspect hardware failure, contact iRobot support for repair options. Alternatively, test the Roomba in a completely different environment to rule out floor-specific issues. If it still circles, professional repair or replacement is needed.

Warning: Opening the Roomba yourself may void the warranty—proceed with caution.

When to Upgrade

If your Roomba continues circling even after trying all troubleshooting steps, it might be a sign of permanent hardware failure, such as a broken sensor or motor. For models over 3-5 years old, the cost of professional repair (often $50-$150) can approach or exceed the price of a new, more advanced unit. Check your warranty status on the iRobot website—if it’s still covered, opt for a free or discounted repair. However, if the warranty has expired and repair costs are high, upgrading makes more sense.

Red flags that it’s time to upgrade include frequent breakdowns, inability to hold a charge, or outdated technology (e.g., no app control or mapping features). Safety isn’t typically a concern with a circling Roomba, but constant malfunctions can lead to frustration and wasted time. If you’re spending more time fixing than cleaning, consider investing in a newer model with improved navigation and reliability.

Ultimately, weigh the emotional attachment and remaining lifespan of your Roomba against the benefits of a modern robot vacuum. Newer models often have better sensors and obstacle avoidance, preventing circling issues from the start.

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Prevention Tips

• Regularly clean wheels, brushes, and sensors to prevent debris buildup.
• Avoid running your Roomba on overly cluttered floors to reduce bumper jams.
• Keep firmware updated via the iRobot app to avoid software glitches.
• Store the Roomba in a dry, dust-free area when not in use.
• Schedule regular maintenance checks every 1-2 months to catch issues early.