The four-layer filtration system traps particles as small as PM0.3 (particles with a diameter 300 times smaller than a single human hair), ensuring dust and allergens don’t end up recirculating around the house. High-performance lithium battery cells from LG are used to power the vacuum cleaner (and give you peace of mind).

In line with other devices from the brand associated with Xiaomi, the F8 Storm connects to your phone using the Roidmi Intelligent Life app via Bluetooth. The app keeps track of statistics such as the cumulative cleaning time of the vacuum cleaner, and the remaining lifespan of the HEPA filter.

Despite its powerful 100,000rpm (revolutions per minute) motor, the F8 Storm was comparatively quiet compared to the older Dyson vacuum cleaners – one corded, one wireless – I have in the house. Nonetheless, the F8 Storm efficiently picked up dust and lint from around the house, which shows up in the transparent dust bin.

A row of five LED lights along its side offers an indication of how much power it has left; a charge should be good for at least 30 minutes of normal use. For charging, the bundle comes with a power adaptor and a magnetic holder that installs onto your wall using screws. The simplistic holder doesn’t work very well though and propping it against a corner will probably work just as well.

Price: US$197

Kärcher K2 high-pressure cordless washer

Take cleaning to new heights with the Kärcher K2 Follow Me Cordless high-pressure washer. Equipped with a built-in Li-Ion battery pack and water tank, the K2 washer frees you from the hassle of finding a power point or water hosepipe connection. With water pressure that’s adjustable up to 50 bars, it can easily wash a bicycle, your vehicle, and places around your home such as steps, windows or hard-to-reach ledges.

The water tank of the K2 washer is detachable and collapsible, allowing for easy storage when not in use. To use, detach the water tank and fill it with 12 litres of water. Slot the tank back in place, power up the device, grab the spray lance with three metres of high-pressure hosepipe, and you are ready to go. Wheels installed on the K2 washer allow the device to move as you clean.

Depending on the selected water pressure, you can get up to five minutes of continuous high-pressure jet use per tank refill. To avoid damaging the motor, remember to switch off the device when you run out of water. An LED battery display offers a quick visual indicator of the battery’s status, and the bundled power adaptor lets you recharge the K2 washer.

Price: US$333

Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum Cleaner

We all know how quickly dust, hair or fur (if you have a pet) can accumulate, resulting in grimy floors in just a few days. This is where the Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum Cleaner can help, with its ability to regularly vacuum your home unsupervised. Equipped with a suite of advanced sensors, the Mi Robot Vacuum Cleaner creates a detailed map of your rooms which it uses to efficiently navigate its way around your home on its cleaning rounds.

Less than 10cm tall, the Robot Vacuum Cleaner can slide under most furniture, allowing it to reach parts of the house that may be a hassle with traditional vacuum cleaners or brooms. High-pressure suction fans and the strategically placed roller and brush ensure that dust, hair and debris are picked up with ease.

The battery offers over two hours of usage, and you don’t need to worry about it running down: the Robot Vacuum Cleaner can find its way back to the integrated charger/base station to recharge when its work is completed and the battery has run low. You can pair the device with your Google Home Hub as part of your smart home, giving you the ability to initiate a cleaning cycle with a voice command.

Price: US $256

Novita Hot/Cold Water Dispenser W9

Are you still fiddling with water boilers for hot drinks? Get instant access to hot, cold or room-temperature water from the Novita Hot/Cold Water Dispenser W9. The dispenser converts tap water into fresh drinking water regardless of the state of your pipes.

To work its magic, an advanced filtration system is used to deliver purified water by running it through several sets of filters to remove sediments, improve the taste and eliminate a range of harmful chemicals. An internal ultraviolet lamp also offers protection against an array of microorganisms such as virus, bacteria and algae.

The user-replaceable filter is shaped like a cylinder and can be removed with a simple twist; it is available in two options – one that can dechlorinate water, and another to produce water with a more alkaline pH value. The W9 Water Dispenser connects directly to your water pipe, so a basic installation by a plumber or handyman is required. Novita says overseas buyers can order online, and the company will separately for shipping.

Price: US$1,477

Google Nest Hub

Complete your household line-up with the Google Nest Hub, which is a souped-up Google Home that comes with a built-in touch screen. The upgrade gives you an additional way to interact with Google Assistant other than by speaking, allowing for responses and interactions on the vibrant 7-inch colour display. The device is compact enough to fit into most spaces within your house, be it your nightstand or kitchen top.

As your handy home assistant, the Google Nest Hub can play your Spotify playlist through its integrated speakers, bring up recipes of your favourite dishes, or play YouTube videos showing how they can be cooked – without the need to lift a finger. The Google Nest Hub can also serve as a connected digital photo frame that leverages AI technology to identify and displays photos of those closest to you.

But how does that save time? For a start, a “Home View” capability lets you monitor and control compatible smart home devices through the Google Nest Hub. This means that devices such as lights, camera controls – or even your Mi Robot Vacuum Cleaner – are but a voice command or swipe of the screen away.

A published list of supported devices is not available, but Google says more than 200 million devices made by more than 3,500 brands globally are currently supported.

Price: US$129