DIAGNOSIS The s9+ uses a rubber dual brushroll design that actively pulls in debris. Loose rug fringe and tassels are physically drawn into the brushroll cavity, causing immediate tangles and motor stall.
FIX Create a Keep Out Zone in the iRobot app. On your Smart Map, draw a zone around the rug that extends at least 8 inches inward from the fringe. The robot will avoid this entire area during cleaning.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Physically block access. Use small, flat magnetic boundary strips (the Virtual Wall type) placed just before the fringe. The robot will detect these and turn around before contacting the tassels.
HEADS UP The s9+ lacks a traditional bristle brushroll that might spit out fringe. Its rubber extractors will always ingest and tangle with loose strings, which can damage the motor over time.