How to Wash a Xiaomi Vacuum Cleaner Filter: Instructions for All Types of Filters

Why cleaning the filter of the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi is not just hygiene, but the key to the long-term operation of the device

The filter in a Xiaomi vacuum cleaner is like a human lung: if it is clogged with dust, dirt or hair, the entire system begins to “choke.” But unlike the human body, the vacuum cleaner will not be able to signal the problem itself until it loses half the power or begins to make a suspicious whistle. Owners of Mi Robot vacuum cleaners, vertical Dreame models or Deebot cyclone vacuum cleaners often face the same mistake: they either do not wash the filters at all, or do it wrong – with detergents, boiling water or coars, which reduces the life of the device by 2-3 times.

In this article, we will understand what filters are in vacuum cleaners Xiaomi, how to properly wash them (and whether it can be done at all), and also uncover the myth of “eternal” vacuum cleaners» HEPA-You will learn why the vacuum cleaner can work worse after cleaning the filter than before cleaning, and how to avoid it. Instructions are suitable for popular models: Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Dreame V12, Deebot T20 Omni and others.

What filters are used in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners and whether they can be washed

Not all filters in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners are cleanable, some can only be replaced. To avoid spoiling the device, first determine the type of filter:

• 🔄 Washable filter – usually made of plastic or synthetic fiber marked “Washable” found in cyclone vacuum cleaners (Dreame) V11, Xiaomi Handheld Vacuum and some robot vacuum cleaners.
• 🚫 HEPA-filter (H11–H13) — paper or nonwoven material that cannot be washed, only replaced every 3-6 months (depending on the intensity of use).
• 🌀 Cyclone filter: A metal or plastic mesh in a garbage collection container that washes under running water.
• 🧽 Sponge filter -- used in some robot vacuum cleaners to protect against moisture, can be washed, but with caution.

Usually, the vacuum cleaner manual has a note about the type of filter. If the documentation is lost, check the detail: washable filters often have a water icon (💧) Or the words "Washable». HEPA-filters usually white or gray with a corrugated structure - they can not be washed, as they lose filtering properties.

Step-by-step: how to properly wash the washing filter

If your filter is a washable filter, follow this instruction to avoid damaging its structure:

1. Remove the filter from the vacuum cleaner. It is usually in a dust container or behind a special cover (see model instruction). For example, in the Dreame V12, the filter is hidden under a cyclone block, and in the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2, it is hidden in the rear of the housing.
2. Remove large debris by hand or with a soft brush. Don't use sharp objects, they can damage the net.
3. Wash under warm water (not higher than 40°C.) Do not use detergents, soaps or harsh chemicals - they destroy the filter material.
4. Dry the filter for 24 hours at room temperature. Do not dry with a hair dryer, battery or direct sunlight - this deforms the plastic and fibers.
5. Install the filter back only after drying completely. A wet filter can cause short circuits or mold.

For models with sponge filters (for example, in some robot vacuum cleaners), the process is similar, but it takes longer to dry it - up to 48 hours, because the sponge absorbs a lot of moisture.

⚠️ Warning: If the vacuum cleaner is louder or worse at suction after washing the filter, check if you installed it correctly.

How to clean HEPA-filter if it cannot be washed

HEPA-filters in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners (for example, in Mi Air Purifier or Dreame) V10) They can't be washed, but they can and should be cleaned dry:

• 🧹 Carefully vacuum the filter at minimum power, keeping the nozzle at a distance of 2-3 cm This will remove surface dust.
• 🖌️ Use a soft brush (for example, for drawing) or a brush with natural pile to clean the dust from the corrugated.
• 🌬️ Blow the filter with compressed air (such as a canister for cleaning equipment). Keep the balloon at a distance of 10-15 cm so as not to damage the material.

These methods will prolong life. HEPA-They can't replace it completely, they can't replace it for 1-2 months. HEPA-filter - 6 months with regular use of the vacuum cleaner. If you notice that the vacuum cleaner has become worse to cope with fine dust or there is an unpleasant smell, it is time to change the filter.

⚠️ Some users are trying to “reanimate» HEPA-This causes the filter to lose up to 80% of its effectiveness and starts to pass fine dust and allergens back into the air. If your budget is limited, it is better to buy a non-original filter from a proven manufacturer (such as Filtero or Karcher) than risk your health.

Frequent mistakes when washing filters and how to avoid them

Even if you follow the instructions, it's easy to make a mistake that will shorten the life of the filter or vacuum cleaner.

• 🔥 Hot water use – plastic parts can deform and glue joints can become unstuck. Always use water up to 40.°C.
• 🧼 Cleaners - they leave a film on the filter, which clogs the pores and worsens the absorption. To remove greasy stains (for example, in vacuum cleaners for wet cleaning), use only soft soap without fragrances and thoroughly wash.
• ⏳ Insufficient drying - a wet filter can become a hotbed of mold. If you are in a hurry, use a fan to speed up the process, but not heating appliances.
• 🔧 Incorrect assembly - if the filter is installed crooked or not to the end, the vacuum cleaner will lose power.

Another common mistake is ignoring the cyclone filter in vacuum cleaners such as Dreame. V11. Many users only wash their hands. HEPA-filter, forgetting that the metal mesh in the cyclone block is also clogged with hair and hair, and it must be cleaned after every 3-5 use, otherwise the suction power will drop by 30-40%.

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If the vacuum cleaner is louder after washing the filter, check if water has entered the engine. To do this, let the device stand off for 12 to 24 hours in a dry place. If the noise is still there, contact the service.

How often should you clean the filters in the vacuum cleaners Xiaomi

The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of vacuum cleaner, the intensity of use and the conditions in the house.

• 🏠 Robot vacuum cleaners (Mi Robot, DreameBot): cleaning the washing filter - 1 time every 2-4 weeks, replacement HEPA — once-in-a-lifetime.
• 🧹 Vertical/manual vacuum cleaners (Dreame) V10–V12): Cyclone filter after each 5th use, HEPA — 3 months.
• 🐕 Homes with animals: filter cleaning is needed 1.5-2 times more often, as the wool quickly clogs pores.
• 🚬 Smokers in the house: HEPA-The filter needs to be replaced every 2-3 months, as tar and nicotine reduce its effectiveness.

If you notice any of these signs, the filter should be cleaned or changed immediately:

• The vacuum cleaner has become worse at sucking up garbage.
• There was an unpleasant smell when working.
• Cleaning time has increased (the robot vacuum cleaner cleans the same area longer).
• On the filter, a layer of dust with a thickness of more than 1-2 mm is visible.

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If you use a vacuum cleaner for wet cleaning (like Dreame W10), filters need to be cleaned after each use, as moisture accelerates mold formation.

How to replace the filter if the original is too expensive

Original filters for vacuum cleaners Xiaomi often cost expensive – for example, HEPA-filter V12 It could cost 1,500 to 2,000 rubles. Fortunately, there are more budgetary alternatives:

• 🔍 Universal. HEPA-Third-party filters (e.g. Filtero, Karcher) are 30 to 50 percent cheaper, but check compatibility with your model.
• ♻️ Stainless steel wash filters are suitable for cyclone vacuum cleaners, and can be washed as much as you want, but they don't trap fine dust as effectively as they do. HEPA.
• 🛒 AliExpress filter kits are often sold at 2-3 units per kit, and the downside is that the quality may be lower than the original, and the filter will have to be changed more often.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• Size - the filter should fit exactly in size.
• Filtration class – only HEPA H12-H13 is suitable for allergic patients.
• Material – Cheap filters made of low-quality fiber can decay over time.

If you're saving on the original filter, you'll have to change it more often. HEPA-The filter can last not 6 months, but 3-4 months.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions About Xiaomi Vacuum Filters