If the robot was carried during cleaning or the dock area changed, check the return path and model-specific placement requirements before ordering parts.
Record the most recent move
Note whether the robot was carried or its dock moved. Failure to locate the dock differs from poor charging contact after arrival.
Use the matching dock guide
iRobot warns that a Roomba moved during cleaning may struggle to locate its dock. Button commands and placement conditions depend on the model.
Map the docking position
Map the dock, furniture, stairs, other docks and return corridor. Record clearance requirements from the particular manual.
| Check | Record |
|---|---|
| Robot and dock | Full model of each |
| Recent movement | Robot carried / dock moved |
| Surface | Hard, level location |
| Return path | Furniture, stairs and other docks |
| Outcome | Command and error message |
Change one condition at a time
Remove one path obstruction and observe the normal return command. Do not cover sensors or bypass protection. Send model and location records to support if failures continue.
A worked example
Hypothetical case: moving a chair blocked the dock approach. Restore only the chair position and record the return result. A successful return does not prove that every docking failure is caused by furniture.
Official sources checked
Official sources checked on 12 October 2026. Apply the cited model and market conditions. Examples are hypothetical records, not hands-on tests.