Xiaomiβs oral irrigators are not just a hygiene gadget, but a complete tool for preventing tooth decay, gingivitis, and tartar. Unlike traditional dental floss, they clean interdental spaces and gum pockets with a pulsating jet of water under pressure, removing up to 99.9% of bacteria. But many users make mistakes when they first use: choosing an inappropriate mode, holding a nozzle or ignoring device care. In this article, we will discuss how to make the most effective use of irrigators Mi Oral Ig and Mirrigator, Electric Irrigator, and Mirrigator, the typical problems.
The peculiarity of Xiaomi irrigators is in their compactness and smart functions: for example, the Mi Oral Irrigator 2 model is equipped with 3 modes of operation and a water capacity of 200 ml, and the Mi Portable weighs only 250 grams and works from USB-C. But even with such devices, it is important to observe safety precautions: the wrong jet pressure can damage the gums, and late replacement of nozzles can lead to the reproduction of bacteria. Next - detailed instructions with nuances for different models.
1. Preparation of the irrigator for the first use
Before the first switching on, you should wash all removable parts of the device: water tank, nozzles and filter (if any). Use warm water and a soft detergent, then thoroughly rinse. Xiaomi recommends also soaking the nozzles in an antiseptic solution (for example, chlorhexidine) for 10-15 minutes for disinfection.
Check the complete setup further:
- π Charger (for models with a battery) or cable USB-C.
- π§ Water tank - usually 150-300 ml, with level labels.
- π§ Nozzles: standard (for teeth), periodontological (for gums) and orthodontic (for braces).
- π Instructions with QR-code for downloading the Mi Home app (for smart models).
If your model supports connection to an application (such as Mi Oral Irrigator Pro), install Mi Home and sync the device via Bluetooth, which will allow you to track usage time, jet pressure and reminders about the replacement nozzles.
2. How to fill the irrigator: water, solutions and their temperature
You can only use purified water in an irrigator, boiled, distilled or filtered. Tap water with high salt and chlorine content can clog the filter and shorten the life of the pump. The optimal water temperature is 35β40 Β°C (warm but not hot), since cold water can cause discomfort, and hot water can burn the mucous membranes.
To enhance the cleaning effect, it is allowed to add special liquids for irrigators (for example, Xiaomi Mi Oral Irrigator Cleaning Solution) or rinses without alcohol.
- β Washing with alcohol - corroding seals.
- β High concentration salt solutions β crystals will damage the pump.
- β Essential oils - can leave a greasy coating on the details.
| Type of liquid | Can we use it? | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Boiled water | β Yes. | Refrigerate to 35-40Β°C |
| Filtered water | β Yes. | Use reverse osmosis filters |
| Liquor-free rinse | β Yes. | Dilute with water 1:1 |
| Salt solution (0.9%) | β οΈ Limitedly. | Not more than 1 time per week |
| Essential oils | β No. | Risk of damage to seals |
β οΈ Warning: If after using the solution in the tank there is a sediment, immediately rinse the system with clean water and start the device at maximum power without nozzle for 30 seconds.
3. Step-by-step instructions: how to properly brush your teeth with an irrigator
The technique of using an irrigator is different from a regular toothbrush.
βοΈ Correct cleaning sequence
Step 1. Set the nozzle in the holder and lock it before clicking. For the first use, select Soft mode or Minimum Pressure.
Step 2. Lean over the sink and place the nozzle in your mouth. Lips should be slightly open so that the water can flow out freely. Don't close your mouth, this will create excessive pressure and can damage the gums.
Step 3: Start the treatment with the back teeth, moving along the gum edge. Hold the nozzle at a 60-90 angle.Β° Take 2-3 seconds for each tooth, then move on to the next one.
Step 4: After all the teeth are processed, turn off the device, remove the nozzle, and rinse it under running water. If there is any water left in the tank, drain it and dry the device.
π‘
For the best effect, use an irrigator after brushing your teeth - this will help to wash the remnants of paste and bacteria from hard-to-reach places.
4. Working Modes: Which to Choose for Your Teeth
Xiaomi irrigators are equipped with several modes of operation, which differ in jet pressure and pulsation frequency, and their choice depends on the condition of your gums and teeth:
- π Normal (Standard) β pressure of 520-620 kPa, suitable for daily use with healthy gums.
- π§ Soft (Soft) β pressure 380-450 kPa, recommended for sensitive gums, bleeding or after dental procedures.
- π Pulse (Pulse) - alternating pressure, effective for massage of gums and removal of plaque.
- π¦· Ortho (orthodontic) β special mode for braces and implants (available in not all models).
If you use an irrigator for the first time, start with the "Soft" mode and gradually increase the pressure. If you experience discomfort or bleeding gums, immediately reduce the intensity or interrupt the procedure.
β οΈ Note: Pulse mode is not recommended for periodontitis or bare teeth roots β pulsating pressure can aggravate inflammation.
5. Care of irrigator: how to extend the service life
To make the device last longer, follow these rules:
- π§Ό Weekly cleaning: wash the tank and nozzles in soapy solution, then rinse.
- π Charging: Do not leave the device on charge for more than 12 hours (for models with a battery).
- π« Storage: Do not keep the irrigator in a wet room (for example, in a bathroom without ventilation).
- π Replace nozzles: Every 3-6 months, even if they look clean.
UV sterilizers (e.g. Xiaomi Mi UV Sterilizer) or boiling (if permitted in the model instructions) can be used to disinfect the nozzles. Do not use abrasive cleaning products - they will damage plastic parts.
What happens if you don't change the nozzles?
6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that reduce the efficiency of the irrigator or harm health.
- πΏ Too high blood pressure can injure your gums and cause bleeding. Always start with a minimal regimen.
- β±οΈ Too short procedure β for a complete cleaning it takes at least 1-2 minutes.
- π Use without charging β a discharged battery reduces jet pressure.
- π¦ Storing with water in a tank β this leads to the reproduction of bacteria.
Another common problem is the wrong angle of inclination of the nozzle, which if you hold it parallel to the tooth, the jet will not get into the gum pocket and clean it. Optimal angle is 60-90.Β° The surface of the tooth, with emphasis on the gum line.
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The irrigator does not replace the toothbrush, but complements it. β rinse β irrigator.
7. Model comparison: which Xiaomi irrigator to choose
Xiaomi offers several irrigation models, varying in functionality and price. Here is a quick comparison:
| Model | Volume of the reservoir | Working hours | Autonomy | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Oral Irrigator 2 | 200 ml | 3 (Normal, Soft, Pulse) | Up to 30 days. | Compact, suitable for travel |
| Mi Portable Electric Irrigator | 150 ml | 2 (Normal, Soft) | Up to 20 days. | Lightest (250g), USB-C charging |
| Mi Oral Irrigator Pro | 300 ml | 4 (includes Ortho) | Up to 45 days. | Smart control through Mi Home, display |
For home use, the Mi Oral Irrigator Pro is optimal thanks to its large tank and advanced settings. For trips, you should choose the Mi Portable - it takes up little space and quickly charges from the powerbank.