The standard MIUI Cleaner app is not just a memory freer, but also a key optimization tool for removing cache, managing auto-launch applications, scanning for viruses, and even controlling battery consumption. However, many Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO users are faced with the problem of suddenly disappearing after resetting, manually deleting, or updating. It is not as easy to recover as it seems — unlike third-party programs, MIUI system utilities do not download from Google Play.
In this article, we will look at 5 proven ways to get the Cleanup app back in place, from basic methods through MIUI settings to advanced solutions using ADB and manual APK installation. We will focus on the nuances for different firmware versions (from MIUI 12 to MIUI 14/HyperOS) and smartphone models. If you manually deleted the application or it disappeared after the update, here you will find a solution.
Why the “Cleanup” app on Xiaomi is missing
Security (or Cleaner in global firmware) can disappear for several reasons, most often because of:
- 🧹 Manual removal through Settings → Applications or third-party uninstallers (e.g, SD Maid? MIUI Some system applications can be removed without root rights, but they cannot be restored using standard methods.
- 🔄 Resetting settings to factory, especially if a custom firmware or modified version was installed beforehand MIUI.
- 📱 Firmware updates with errors, such as when switching from MIUI 13 on MIUI 14 Some system components may not be installed correctly.
- 🛠️ Intervention of system files through ADB, Magisk or manual editing /system/app.
It is important to understand that the Cleanup app is closely integrated with other MIUI services such as Security and Optimization.
- ⚠️ No possibility of cleaning the cache in one click.
- ⚠️ Loss of virus scanning functions (unless a third-party antivirus is installed).
- ⚠️ Incorrect performance mode in games.
⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T Or the Redmi Note 11 Pro.+) The Cleanup application could be part of the com.miui.securitycenter package, and its removal would lead to the collapse of system services related to app resolution and notification management.
Method 1: Recovery through Hidden Settings MIUI
If the application is missing after an update or reset but has not been manually removed, it can be returned via a hidden MIUI menu, which works on most devices with MIUI 12-14 firmware and does not require superuser rights.
Instructions:
- Open Settings** and go to About Phone.
- In the list, find “Cleaner”** (Cleaner or Security) and click “Restore”.
If this item is missing, try an alternative path:
- If the application appears as disabled, click Enable.
If the app doesn’t show up even in hidden settings, move on to the next method.
Method 2: Install the APK manually (without root)
On devices with MIUI, you can install system applications manually if you pre-download the correct version of APK. This method is suitable for most models, but requires caution - an inappropriate version can cause crashes.
Steps:
- Download the APK of the Cleanup app for your version of MIUI from a trusted source (e.g. MIUI APK Archive).
Settings → Applications → Special permissions → Installation of unknown applications
APK
"An appendix not installed"
- 🔹 Use it. APK Installer from Google Play.
If the team doesn’t work, try:
- 🔧 Reinstall the package forcibly:
- 🔧 Check for the presence of the file in /system: