How to wash properly NERA-filter in the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions with photos and tips

NERA-Xiaomi vacuum cleaners (including Mi Robot Vacuum, Dreame and Viomi) are a key element of the air purification system, which traps up to 99.97% of microparticles up to 0.3 microns in size. However, over time, the filter becomes clogged with dust, animal hair and even bacteria, which leads to a decrease in suction power, the appearance of an unpleasant odor and an increase in the load on the engine. Many users make critical washing errors, which reduces the life of the filter from 12-18 months to 3-6 months.

In this article you will find a step-by-step cleaning instruction. NERA-filter (including differences between the models) HEPA + NERA clean NERA), We will also discuss the differences between the care of filters in the vacuum cleaners Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro and DreameBot. L10 Pro, and what to do if after washing the vacuum cleaner began to make noise or suck poorly.

If you have never cleaned a filter or are in doubt about its condition, look out for three key signs of clogging:

• 🔊 The vacuum cleaner began to work louder (the load on the engine increased)
• 🌬️ The power of suction has decreased (garbage is going worse)
• 🤢 There was a musty smell when working (bacteria reproduction in the filter)

1. NERA-filter is different HEPA Why you can’t wash it like a regular sponge.

NERA (Nano Electrostatic Removal Air is an electrostatic filter that uses charged fibers to attract the smallest particles. HEPA-filter (which works on the principle of mechanical capture), NERA It is more effective in trapping viruses, allergens and tobacco smoke, but is more sensitive to moisture and aggressive detergents.

The main differences:

Many users mistakenly believe that NERA-filter can be washed as HEPA — This is a major mistake: the electrostatic layer is destroyed by contact with aggressive detergents (such as Domestos or White), or by drying with a hair dryer or battery, and the filter loses up to 40% of its effectiveness after the first improper washing.

Another myth: "NERA-filter can be replaced HEPA". It's not! In Xiaomi vacuum cleaners with a system NERA + HEPA (For example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P, both filters work in pairs, and removing one of them will cause the engine to overheat and shorten the life of the vacuum cleaner.

2. Step-by-step instructions: how to wash properly NERA-filter in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners

Before cleaning, make sure to remove the filter from the vacuum cleaner and check it for visible damage (breaks, deformities). If the filter has black mold spots or an unpleasant odor that cannot be removed by washing, it must be replaced.

What you need:

• 💧 Warm water (not above 30)°C)
• 🧼 Liquid soap without fragrances (such as Baby Line or Ecover)
• 🧽 Soft brush (dental or electronic cleaning)
• 🪟 Microfiber wipe
• 🕒 Timer (to control drying time)

Washing algorithm:

1. Dry cleaning. Carefully tap the filter on the trash can to remove large particles of dust. Use a vacuum cleaner at minimum power to remove dust from the folds.
2. Soak. Pour warm water into your pelvis, add 2-3 drops of liquid soap. Plug the filter for 5-7 minutes (no longer!).
3. Soft cleaning. Brush gently through the folds of the filter, avoiding heavy friction. Do not use sponges with an abrasive layer!
4. Rinse the filter under a weak stream of running water (temperature up to 30)°C) until the soap divorces are completely removed.
5. Dry. Put the filter on a clean napkin in a shady place for 24 to 48 hours. Don't dry with a hair dryer, battery or direct sunlight!

The filter is completely dried (no wet spots)

No visible damage (breaks, deformities)

There's no bad smell.

All folds are straightened (no dust lumps)-->

⚠️ If your Xiaomi vacuum cleaner is equipped with a combined system NERA + HEPA (Like DreameBot. D9), You can only wash. NERA-filter. HEPA-filter in such models only vacuum or replace - its washing will lead to loss of filter properties.

3. Washing frequency: how to know that it is time to clean the filter

Xiaomi manufacturer recommends cleaning NERA-filter every 1-3 months, but this interval depends on the intensity of the vacuum cleaner use. Below is a table with recommendations for the frequency of washing depending on the operating conditions:

The exact condition of the filter can be determined by color:

• 🟢 Light gray/white – the filter is clean, no need to wash.
• 🟡 Yellow/Gray – Cleaning is required soon.
• 🔴 Dark gray/black filter critically clogged, may need replacement.

If you use a Xiaomi vacuum cleaner with automatic washing function (e.g. DreameBot) W10), piece NERA-The filter in such models is washed less often - it is enough to clean once every 4-6 months, since the self-cleaning system automatically removes part of the dust.

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After washing the filter, check the condition of the prefilter (net before the filter) NERA). It can be washed under water without restrictions, as it has no electrostatic coating.

4.Typical errors in washing NERA-filter and its consequences

Even experienced users often make mistakes that cause permanent filter damage, and the most common ones are:

⚠️ Attention, if the filter starts to crumble after washing, or if it gets white, it's a sign that the electrostatic layer is broken, and it's a must-replace filter, because it doesn't clean the air, it can also be a source of bacteria.

Consequences of improper washing:

• 🔥 Drying with a hair dryer or on a battery → Fiber deformation, loss of filtering properties.
• 🧴 Use of aggressive detergents → Destruction of the electrostatic layer.
• 💦 Rinse in hot water (above 40)°C) → Shrinkage of material, cracks.
• 🧽 Brushing with a hard brush or sponge → Microdamage through which dust passes.
• ☀️ Drying under direct sunlight → Fiber burnout and destruction.

It is especially dangerous to use bleach (for example, whiteness or whiteness). VANISH). They destroy not only dirt, but also the polymer coating of the filter, which causes it to pass fine dust and allergens. If the filter is heavily contaminated (for example, after repair), it is better to soak it in a solution of vinegar (1:10 with water) for 10 minutes, and then rinse with clean water.

5. Features of washing NERA-filters in different models of Xiaomi

Not all. NERA-The filters are the same! depending on the model of the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi (or brand). Dreame/Viomi) The filter design may vary. The key differences below are:

📌 Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro / 2 Lite:

• NERA-round-shaped filter located in a separate compartment.
• You can wash no more than 1 time a month (risk of damage to the sealing gum).
• After washing, be sure to check the density of the fitting - if the filter is not tightly sitting, the dust will penetrate the engine.

📌 DreameBot L10 Pro / D9:

• NERA-filter is rectangular, often paired with HEPA.
• You can only wash. NERA, HEPA — vacuum-suck or replace.
• In these models, the filter is mounted on latches - when washing, avoid water entering the fastening mechanism.

📌 Viomi V2 / V3:

• NERA-The filter has an additional carbon layer to absorb odors.
• You can wash, but without soaking (washing under a weak stream of water is enough).
• The carbon layer loses its properties over time - the filter must be replaced every 6 months.

6.Than to replace. NERA-filter, if the original is not found

Original. NERA-Xiaomi vacuum cleaner filters cost between 500 and 1500 rubles, but sometimes they are difficult to find (especially for older models:

✅ Suitable analogues:

• 🛒 Dreame filters (suitable for most Xiaomi models with rounds) NERA).
• 🛒 Universal. HEPA-electrostatic coated filters (e.g, 3M Filtrete).
• 🛒 Filters from Roborock (compatible with some Xiaomi Mi Robot models).

❌ What can't be used:

• 🚫 Normal. HEPA-filters without electrostatic layer (does not delay viruses and allergens).
• 🚫 Self-cut filters made of improvised materials (for example, from syntepon).
• 🚫 Vacuum filters from other brands (e.g. Dyson or Philips) unless certified for Xiaomi.

If you decide to use an analogue, be sure to check:

1. Coincidence of dimensions (diameter/length/width).
2. Electrostatic coating (should be indicated on the package).
3. Compatible with the cleaning system (if you have a vacuum cleaner with the function of floor washing).

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Using a non-original filter can lead to the loss of warranty for the vacuum cleaner if the failure occurs due to the fault of the filter (for example, dust entering the engine).

7 What to do if the vacuum cleaner becomes worse after washing

After cleaning, NERA-filter you notice that the vacuum cleaner:

• 🔊 More noise
• 🌬️ It sucks garbage badly.
• 🔥 Overheating and off.

So, here's the possible causes and solutions.

If the problem persists after re-drying and properly installing the filter, the engine may be damaged or the air channel clogged, in which case it is recommended:

1. Check the pre-filter (grid before) NERA) — he could have clogged.
2. Clean the air pipes of the vacuum cleaner with a thin brush.
3. If the problem remains, contact the Xiaomi service center.

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Before contacting the service, try resetting the vacuum cleaner to the factory. In some models (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro), this can be done through the Mi Home app in the Settings section. → Reset.

FAQ: Frequent questions about washing NERA-filters in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners