The dawn of domestic robots could dramatically cut gender inequality when it comes to household work

Robot vacuum cleaners are already a feature in some homes. Daniel Krason / Shutterstock

Domestic work is vital for society to function. Meals need to be cooked, clothes and homes cleaned, and people need to be cared for. These tasks take time and, generally speaking, are not shared equally within households.

Some of these tasks are now becoming automated. This could benefit gender equality, but we also need to monitor some of the risks.