Xiaomi Roborock S5 Max is one of the most popular automatic cleaning devices, combining powerful suction, wet cleaning and smart navigation. However, even the most advanced technology requires regular maintenance: accumulation of dust, hair and fine debris in filters, brushes and turbines can lead to reduced performance, increased noise or even breakage. In this article, we will discuss how to properly clean the Roborock S5 Max so that it lasts longer and works at maximum efficiency.
Many users make common mistakes: neglecting to clean the side brush, forgetting to wash the water container, or using inappropriate detergents. Meanwhile, regular cleaning of the main HEPA filter and turbine every 1-2 weeks increases the life of the vacuum cleaner by 30-40%, as confirmed by service centers. We have collected proven recommendations, including hidden nuances that are not mentioned in the official instructions.
This article will be useful for both beginners and experienced owners of the Roborock S5 Max. Here you will find step-by-step instructions with photos, a service frequency table, as well as answers to frequent questions - for example, can you wash the filter under running water or how to remove stuck hair from a roller brush without damage.
1.Preparation for cleaning: what will be needed and safety measures
Before you start disassembling the Roborock S5 Max, prepare the necessary tools and materials.
- 🧹 Soft brush (for example, art or toothbrush) - to clean hard-to-reach places.
- 🧴 Soap solution (warm water) + neutral detergent) or specialized cleaner for robot vacuum cleaners.
- 🧻 Microfibre wipe - for wiping the body and sensors.
- 🔧 Plastic spatula or tweezers – to gently remove hair from brushes.
- 💧 Distilled water (for washing the wet cleaning container).
Important: Do not use abrasive sponges, alcohol or harsh chemicals, which can damage plastic parts and rubber seals. Also avoid direct water entering electronic components (sensors, buttons, connectors). If the vacuum cleaner is heavily contaminated, let it cool after cleaning - the hot turbine can deform when in contact with cold water.
⚠️ Warning: Never immerse the vacuum cleaner body in water or wash it under the tap. Moisture can enter the engine or battery, which will lead to a short circuit.
Before starting work, disconnect the vacuum cleaner from the charging station and remove the battery (if you plan to clean the turbine), this will prevent the device from accidentally turning on, and we also recommend cleaning on a table or other flat surface so that you do not lose small parts.
2. Cleaning of the main components: filter, dumpster and turbine
These three elements are the most susceptible to contamination and require weekly maintenance.
- Press the container release button (located on the top panel) and remove it.
- Remove the garbage in the urn, then rinse the container with warm water. Use a soap solution for persistent contaminants.
- Dry the container in the air or wipe with a napkin. Don't collect the vacuum cleaner if the container is wet, it will lead to mold.
Next is the HEPA filter, which is located inside the dumpster (under the lid):
- 🔄 Carefully remove the filter by pulling the plastic handle.
- 💨 Blow it on the back (you can use a hair dryer at minimum power) or rinse under running water if the contamination is severe.
- ⏳ Allow the filter to dry completely (at least 12 hours) and assembly of the wet filter will reduce the suction capacity by 50 hours%.
The most difficult step is cleaning the turbine, which is hidden under the removable cover at the bottom of the vacuum cleaner.
- Turn the vacuum cleaner over and unscrew 4 screws (use a screwdriver with a cross nozzle).
- Remove the lid and carefully remove the accumulated dust with a brush. Don't touch the turbine blades with your hands - they are sharp!
- In case of severe contamination, use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle to pull dust from the internal cavities.
Removal and washing of the garbage container |
Clean the HEPA filter (bleed or rinse) |
Check the turbine for dust and hair |
Dry all the details before assembly-->
3. Care for brushes: roller and lateral
Roborock S5 Max brushes are workhorses that come into direct contact with garbage. Roller brushes (with rubber blades) require cleaning after each cleaning if there are pets or long-haired residents in the house.
- 🔧 Click on the latches on the sides of the brush and remove it from the axis.
- 🧶 Remove the hair and threads with tweezers or scissors. Don't pull the hair with your hands, so you can damage the brush.
- 🧼 Wipe the blades with a wet wipe. Use vinegar solution (1:1 with water) to disinfect).
The side brush is less frequent, but it's also important for cleaning the walls well.
1. Turn the brush counterclockwise before clicking.
2. wash under water, removing dust between the bristles.
3. Make sure the brush axis is dry before placing it back.⚠️ Attention: If the side brush is rotating with difficulty or creaking, check its axis for hair wrapped around the shaft.
The brushes last about 6-12 months, and if the bristles are worn or the rubber blades are elastic, replace them with the original ones (RRS5-MOP01 for roller brush, RRS5-SIDE01 for side brush).
Maintenance of the wet cleaning system
The Roborock S5 Max is equipped with a water container and a microfiber wipe, which also require maintenance.
| Component | Frequency of cleaning | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Water container | After each use | Empty the remaining water, wash with warm water. Disinfect once a month with a solution of citric acid (1 tsp. per 1 liter of water). |
| Microfiber wipe | After 2-3 cleanings | Wash by hand at 30°C without bleach. Dry in straightened form. |
| Water supply tube | Once in 3 months | Blow with compressed air or rinse with water with vinegar (if clogged). |
One important caveat: don't use hot water to flush the container, which can warp the plastic, and avoid fragrance detergents, which leave a film on the walls that can clog the water supply tube.
If the wet wipe has lost its absorbent properties, replace it with a new one (original article: RRS5-MOP02). Don't wash the wipe in the washing machine, it destroys its structure.
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To avoid the unpleasant smell of the water container, add 1-2 drops of tea tree essential oil at each filling. It has antibacterial properties and is safe for the technique.
5. Sensor and wheel cleaning
Contaminated sensors and wheels can cause incorrect navigation or a vacuum cleaner to get stuck, and clean them at least once a month.
- 👁️ Collision and altitude sensors: wipe them with a dry microfiber wipe. Don't use alcohol - it can damage the lenses.
- 🚗 Wheels: Remove the coiled hair with axles with scissors. Use a toothpick to clean the tread.
- 🔋 Charging station contacts: wipe with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol (only contacts, not plastic!).
If the vacuum cleaner has started to "lose" in space or often runs into furniture, check the lidar (the rotating sensor on the top panel). Clean its glass with a soft brush. Dust on the lidar reduces the accuracy of mapping by 20-40%, which can cause the vacuum cleaner to skip areas or take longer to clean.
⚠️ Warning: If the vacuum cleaner still behaves inadequately after cleaning the sensors, reset the card in the Mi Home app: go to Device Settings → Map. → Reset the card.
6. Deep cleaning: when disassembly is required
If the vacuum cleaner is louder than usual or loses its suction power, deep cleaning of the internal components may be required.
- Disassembly of the housing for access to the ventilation channels.
- Cleaning the suction engine from dust (a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle is required).
- Checking the bearings of wheels and brushes for wear.
To disassemble the Roborock S5 Max, you will need a set of screwdrivers (cross and flat) and a plastic mediator.
Step-by-step disassembly of the body (for experienced users)
If you are not sure of your skills, it is better to contact a service center. Incorrect assembly can lead to loss of leakage of the dust collector or damage to electronics.
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Deep cleaning with disassembly of the body is recommended to be carried out no more than 1 time in 6 months. Frequent disassembly increases the risk of damage to seals and contacts.
7. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when caring for the Roborock S5 Max.
- 🚫 Using a vacuum cleaner without a filter - this leads to dust entering the turbine and its premature wear.
- 🚫 Cleaning brushes with a knife, you'll damage rubber blades or bristles. Use only tweezers or scissors.
- 🚫 Storing the vacuum cleaner in a wet room (for example, in the bathroom) - this provokes corrosion of contacts and mold in the container.
- 🚫 Filling a water container with dirty water – this clogs the tube and leaves divorces on the floor.
Another common problem is that the vacuum cleaner doesn't return to base, and 80 percent of the time it's due to contaminated sensors or charging station contacts.
- Clean infrared sensors on the base and vacuum cleaner.
- No obstacles within a 1 meter radius of the station.
- Contacts should be on the same level.