| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 04, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | IROBOT CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001159167 |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-28 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 04, 2022 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36414 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 77-0259335 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 8 Crosby Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bedford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01730 |
| City Area Code | (781) |
| Local Phone Number | 430-3000 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | IRBT |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | true |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
