How to properly open the dispenser of soap in Xiaomi devices: detailed instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi’s automatic soap dispensers have become an integral part of modern bathrooms and kitchens, combining stylish design, smart features and practicality. However, even such advanced devices periodically need maintenance, whether it be changing soap, deep cleaning or eliminating blockages. The main problem that users face is how to open the dispenser without breaking fragile latches or the feeding mechanism.

In this article, we’ll take a look at all of Xiaomi’s existing dispenser models (including the popular Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser and Viomi Smart Soap Dispenser), show hidden fixes that are often overlooked, and give step-by-step instructions for typical errors, and learn why some dispensers are blocked after prolonged downtime and how to fix them without going to the service.

What are the models of Xiaomi dispensers and their features

Xiaomi and its sub-brands have produced several generations of automatic soap dispensers that look similar but have fundamental differences in the opening mechanism.

• 🔹 The Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser (first generation) is a classic model with a mechanical latch on the bottom and a touch button on the top.
• 🔹 Viomi Smart Soap Dispenser – improved version with magnetic mounting of the upper cover and the ability to control through the Mi Home app.
• 🔹 Xiaomi Youpin Smart Soap Dispenser - budget version with a simplified mechanism (opens with a counterclockwise turn).
• 🔹 Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro – premium model with UV sterilization and electronic lid lock.

Important: Pro models often have an additional blocker that works when the battery is low. If the dispenser does not open in the standard way, check the charge through the app or indicator on the case.

If you are not sure about your dispenser model, look for the inscriptions on the bottom or in the accompanying documents. Viomi models usually have a green leaf logo, and Mijia is the classic orange Xiaomi sign.

Step-by-step: how to open the dispenser of Xiaomi soap

Let's take a generic algorithm that works for most models, and if your dispenser has a specific mechanism (e.g., electronic locking), the additional steps will be described separately.

Make sure the device is turned off (if there is a power button)

Prepare a soft cloth or napkin to wipe.

Check the battery level (for models with electronic lock)

Take a picture of the original position of the cover (useful for assembly)-->

Method 1: Standard discovery (for mechanical models)

This method is suitable for Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser (first generation) and Xiaomi Youpin:

1. Place the dispenser on a flat surface bottom up (so it is more convenient to press on the latch).
2. Find a small recess or arrow on the bottom panel - this is the location of the retainer.
3. Press the thumb on the recess with a force of 2-3 kg (should be heard clicking).
4. Carefully pull the lower part down - the cover should separate.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers) to press the latch! Xiaomi plastic is fragile and you risk breaking the lock. If the cover does not lend itself, try heating the dispenser with a hairdryer (temperature 40-50).°C) - plastic will become more elastic.

Method 2: Magnetic fastening (for Viomi)

Viomi models are magnetically locked to the top of the top, so you can open it.

1. Take the top of the dispenser (where the soap supply button is located).
2. Turn the cover counterclockwise 10-15 degrees before clicking.
3. Lift the lid up, the magnets will separate.

If the cover does not turn, check:

• 🔋 Battery level (at a discharge below 10%, the magnet is locked).
• 🧲 The presence of foreign metal objects nearby (they can interfere with the magnet).
• 🔒 Mi Home does not activate "children's mode" (blocks the opening).

Method 3: Electronic Unlocking (for Mijia Pro)

Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro has an additional protection – electronic lock, which works when:

• 🔋 Battery power below 5%.
• 🔒 Activation of the “Protection from Children” regime in the appendix.
• 🚫 Detection of hacking attempts (for example, if you press the latch for a long time).

To unlock:

1. Connect the dispenser to charging for 10-15 minutes (even if the indicator does not burn).
2. Press the soap button for 5 seconds and a double beep will sound.
3. Turn the cover counterclockwise (as in method 2).

If the lock is not removed, reset the settings through the Mi Home app:

Device Profile → Settings → Reset to factory

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If the dispenser has not been used for a long time and the soap inside has thickened, before opening, put it in warm water (no more than 40).°C) for 10 minutes, which will soften the deposits and make cleaning easier.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seemingly simple process, many users make mistakes that lead to a breakdown of the dispenser.

⚠️ Warning: If you see rust on metal parts after opening the lid (like the Viomi model), immediately wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in vinegar solution (1:1 with water). Ignoring corrosion will lead to a jamming of the soap supply mechanism.

• 🔧 Use of force. Plastic latches break at pressures above 5 kg. If the lid doesn't open, check the lock instead of pressing harder.
• 💦 Water gets in. When you wash the dispenser under the tap, water penetrates the electronic unit (especially in models with a UV lamp), which leads to a short circuit.
• 🔋 Battery discharge to 0%. In electronically locked models, this can cause magnets to stick. Always keep the charge above 20%.
• 🧴 Using thick soap. Particle gel compounds (scrabs) clog the nozzle. Xiaomi only uses liquid soap up to 500 mPa·s.

One of the most common failures is a soap level sensor wire break (available in Viomi and Mijia Pro models), which occurs when you pull the lid up without first turning it.

• The app shows a "0%" of soap, although the tank is full.
• The dispenser gives out soap in portions 2 times less than usual.
• The UV lamp is not switched on (in the Mijia Pro).

For repairs, you will need a soldering iron and a thin wire with a cross section of 0.1 mm2. If there is no soldering experience, it is better to contact the service - the cost of repair does not exceed 500-800 rubles.

Cleaning the dispenser: a step-by-step guide

Once the dispenser is successfully opened, it must be cleaned, and the accumulation of soap deposits is the main cause of malfunction (short-stopping, delays in feeding, sensor errors).

• 🧼 1 time every 2 weeks if you use liquid soap.
• 🧴 1 time per week if you pour shower gel or shampoo.
• 🚫 Immediately - if the dispenser began to make creaks or give out soap with bubbles.

You'll need to clean:

• 🧽 Warm water (not above 40)°C).
• 🧂 Vinegar or citric acid (for dissolving sediments).
• 🧻 Cotton swabs and a soft toothbrush.
• 🔦 Lantern (to illuminate hard-to-reach places).

Step-by-step:

1. Remove the residue of soap from the tank.
2. Rinse the container with warm water, then fill with a solution of vinegar (1:1 with water) for 10 minutes.
3. Clean the soap nozzle with a cotton swab dipped in vinegar. In the Viomi and Mijia Pro models, you can remove the nozzle by pulling up.
4. Wipe the contacts of the level sensor (if any) with an alcohol wipe.
5. Wash all parts under running water and dry for at least 2 hours before assembly.

For models with a UV lamp (Mijia Pro):

• 💡 Do not touch the lamp with your bare hands - fatty traces reduce its lifespan.
• 🔦 Clean the lamp with a dry microfiber wipe only.

Removal of malfunctions: the dispenser does not open

If the meter cap is blocked and does not open by any of the described methods, the reasons may be as follows:

If the dispenser doesn't open anyway, we'll have to disassemble the body.

1. Remove the rubber gasket from the bottom (plug the screwdriver).
2. Unscrew 2-3 screws under the gasket (usually Torx) T5).
3. Carefully disconnect the body, starting with the latches on the sides.

⚠️ Warning: Inside the body of the Mijia Pro is a lithium battery. Do not puncture it or heat it above 60.°C, it can cause fire! If the battery is swelling, dispose of the device immediately.

How to prolong the life of the dispenser Xiaomi: tips for care

The life of the automatic dispenser Xiaomi is 3-5 years when used correctly.

• 🔄 Change the soap every 2 months. Even if the tank is not empty, the liquid will eventually delaminate and clog the mechanism.
• 🔋 Charge the battery once a month. Full discharge reduces battery capacity. Use the original Xiaomi cable. 5V/1A).
• 🧼 Use only certified detergents. Soap with abrasives or high pH (above 9) destroys plastic and rubber seals.
• 📱 Update the firmware. New versions of Viomi and Mijia Pro fix sensor and lock errors.

For models with UV lamps:

• 💡 Turn on sterilization no more than 1 time a day - this will extend the life of the lamp up to 5 years.
• 👁️ Don’t look at a lamp working – UV radiation is bad for vision.

If you are going on a long vacation, do the following:

1. Empty the tank and wash it.
2. Remove the battery (if possible) or discharge it to 40%.
3. Keep the dispenser in a dry place at a temperature of 10–25°C.

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Never use acetone, gasoline or other solvents to clean the dispenser! They break down plastic and rubber seals, which will lead to leaks.

Frequent questions about Xiaomi dispensers