How to clean the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi Mi: from brushes to sensors

Why regular cleaning of Xiaomi Mi is the key to its long work

Robot vacuum cleaners Xiaomi Mi (series Robot Vacuum, Mi Robot, MiJia) have become indispensable assistants in cleaning, but their effectiveness depends on the system cleaning of internal components. Many users limit themselves to emptying the dust collector, overlooking that clogged brushes, filters and sensors reduce the suction power on the surface. 40-60% through 2-3 In fact, the accumulation of dust in the bearings of side brushes can lead to premature wear and tear, which is an additional cost of replacing them.

In this article, we will discuss step-by-step cleaning of all nodes of the Xiaomi Mi robot vacuum cleaner, including hidden elements that are not written about in the standard instructions. HEPA-The filter under running water destroys its microstructure and reduces filtration by 70%, what tools are really needed, and how often to carry out prevention for different models - from the budget Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite to the flagship Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra.

What you need to clean: tools and consumables

Before you start cleaning, prepare the tools you need, and most of them will be found in every home, but some will have to be purchased, especially if you plan on deep prevention (such as lubricating bearings or cleaning a laser sensor).

  • 🧹 Soft brush (dental or makeup brush) - to clean hard-to-reach places.
  • 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (70% and higher) - for degreasing sensors and contacts.
  • 🧽 Microfiber wipe – does not leave a pile, unlike paper towels.
  • πŸ”§ Flat screwdriver or plastic mediator - for careful removal of covers.
  • πŸ’§ Compressed air (cylinder) - blows dust from the ventilation holes.
  • πŸ› οΈ Silicone lubricant (optional) - for bearings of side brushes.

For models with wet cleaning function (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P and newer), additionally you will need distilled water to wash the tank and a special detergent (for example, Xiaomi Mi Robot Cleaning Solution).

⚠️ Attention: If your robot vacuum cleaner is warranty, avoid disassembling the body parts (such as removing the top cover to clean the fan). This may void warranty obligations.

πŸ“Š What Xiaomi Mi model do you use?
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra
Another model
I don't know.

Step-by-step cleaning of dust collectors and filters

The vacuum cleaner and the filters are the lights of the robot vacuum cleaner, and pollution not only causes the suction power to fall, but also causes the engine to overheat, which reduces the life of the device, and you have to clean them after every cleaning (for the dust collector) and once every time. 1-2 weeks (for filters).

Emptying the dust collector

Open the back of the robot by pressing the latch. Remove the garbage container and shake it into the urn. Don't knock the container on the edge of the bucket, it can damage the plastic latches. Use a soft brush to remove the adhesive dust.

2.Purge. HEPA-filter

The filter is located inside the dust collector (in some models, separately). Remove it by pulling a special loop. Never wash it. HEPA-The filter is water, it destroys its fibrous structure:

  • 🌬️ Blow the filter with compressed air on the back (where the air comes out).
  • 🧹 Clean carefully with a brush on both sides.
  • β˜€οΈ Dry in the open air 10-15 minutes before installing back.

If the filter is deformed, has ruptures or does not regain shape after compression - replace it. HEPA-filter in Xiaomi Mi β€” 6-12 months with intensive use.

Cleaning of the prefilter (net)

Prefilter (metal or plastic mesh) is located in front of the HEPA-You can wash it with warm water and soap, but be sure to dry it before installation.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist of dust collector cleaning

Done: 0 / 5
ElementFrequency of cleaningSigns of pollutionConsequences of neglect
Dust collectorAfter every cleaning.Visible debris, dust on the wallsReduced suction power by 30-50%
HEPA-filterEvery 1-2 weeksGray raid, deformation.Dust penetrates back into the room, overheating the engine
PrefilterOnce every 2 weeksClogged cells, debris between the mesh and the filterAccelerated wear and tear HEPA-filter
Sealing gumOnce a monthCracks, loss of elasticityLoss of leakage, dust leakage

Cleaning the main and side brushes: remove wound hair and threads

The brushes are the most problematic part of the robot vacuum cleaner, and the hair, the threads and the fur of the animals are wound onto the shafts, blocking the rotation, and if you don't clean the brushes regularly, it leads to:

  • πŸ”Š Increased noise during operation (due to imbalance).
  • πŸ”‹ Increased battery consumption (motors require more power).
  • ⚠️ Errors in operation (for example, code 02 - blocking the side brush).

1. Cleaning the main brush

Remove the main brush by pressing the locks on the sides, remove the caps on both ends of the shaft and remove the wound hair.

  1. Use scissors to cut the dense lumps.
  2. Put a toothpick under the winding and pull it on yourself.
  3. Treat the shaft with isopropyl alcohol to remove sticky residues.

Check the bearings at the ends of the brush – if they creak or luftate, they need to be lubricated with silicone lubrication.

Side brush cleaning

The side brushes are removed by turning counterclockwise. Remove the hair from the axle and check the drive mechanism β€” often under the protective cap, dust accumulates that blocks rotation. For Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro models and the newer side brushes have a quick-removal mechanism β€” they can be removed without tools.

⚠️ Warning: If the side brush doesn't rotate after cleaning, check the drive gear inside the case. 2 Lite is a weak spot - plastic gears wear out over the 6-12 Solution: Replace the gear or the entire brush assembly.

πŸ’‘

To remove hair from brushes, use an old credit card - its sharp edge easily fits the windings without damaging the bristles.

Cleaning sensors and sensors: why the robot is blind

Sensors are responsible for navigation, obstacle detection and altitude control, and pollution causes the robot to become blind, bumping into furniture, not seeing stairs, or moving around the room chaoticly, and are particularly vulnerable to:

  • πŸ‘οΈ Laser rangefinder (LDS) β€” Laser navigation models (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Ultra).
  • πŸ“± Infrared sensors are responsible for detecting obstacles.
  • πŸ“ Fall sensors – prevent falling from stairs.
  • πŸ”³ Optical sensors in camera models (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra).

1. Cleaning the laser rangefinder (LDS)

The laser module is located under a rotating cover (in models with a LDS-Carefully remove the lid by pulling up. Rub the laser glass with a dry microfiber wipe. Don't use alcohol, it can damage the coating. If there are greasy spots on the glass, use special wipes for optics.

Cleaning of infrared sensors

The IR sensors are located around the perimeter of the body (usually under a black film), wipe them with a wet napkin, then dry them, check if there are scratches or chips on the film, which can distort the signal.

3.Apply sensor checks for fall

The drop sensors are on the underside of the robot (small round holes). Blow them with compressed air and make sure there is no dust inside. If the robot ignores the stairs, the sensor probably clogged or malfunctioned.

What if the robot can't see the base?
If Xiaomi Mi is not returning to base, check out: 1. Purity of the IR sensor on the base (wipe with alcohol). 2. The location of the base should be at least 0.5 (m) the free space in front of the 1 sideways. 3. Power base - try another power supply (in the kit comes) 12V/1.5A). 4. Settings in the application - in Mi Home, check the option "Return to base after cleaning".

Deep cleaning: fan, engine and bearings

If the robot vacuum cleaner becomes very noisy, poorly suction or discharge quickly, the problem may lie in the contamination of the fan or engine. This part of the cleaning requires partial disassembly and is suitable for users with experience in repairing equipment.

1. Access to the fan

Unscrew 4 screws on the bottom cover of the robot (use a screwdriver). T8 or T9). Carefully remove the lid without damaging the wire.The fan is located next to the dust collector - it looks like a plastic turbine.

Cleaning of fan blades

Remove dust from the blades with a soft brush or compressed air. Do not use wet wipes - getting moisture on the engine can cause a short circuit. If the blades are deformed, the fan must be replaced.

3. Bearing lubrication

The bearings of the side brushes and the main shaft dry out over time, leading to creaking. 1-2 silicone lubricant drops on the axle (don't overdo it - the surplus will attract dust). 2 Ultra lubrication is required once in a while 6 months.

⚠️ Warning: If you find black dust inside the body during disassembly (not ordinary dirt, but fine powder), this is a sign of wear and tear of the graphite brushes of the engine. In this case, the robot requires professional repair - further operation can lead to a breakdown of the control board.

πŸ’‘

Deep cleaning of the fan and engine is recommended once in a while. 6-12 If you are not sure about your skills, contact the service center - errors in disassembly can lead to loss of warranty.

Cleaning of the wet cleaning system (for models with mop function)

Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop models are equipped with a wet cleaning system that requires separate care. If you do not clean the water tank and fabric nozzle, bacteria and mold multiply inside, and the floor leaves the divorce.

1. Washing of the water tank

After each cleaning, empty the tank and rinse it with warm water. Use vinegar solution (1:1 with water) once a week for disinfection. Don't use aggressive detergents - they can damage the plastic.

Cleaning of the fabric nozzle

Remove the fabric nozzle from the bottom of the robot and wash it by hand in cool water with a mild detergent. Dry outdoors, not in the car β€” high temperatures warp the microfiber. Replace the nozzle every time. 3-6 months.

Cleaning pump (for models with electronic water control)

The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro/Ultra If the robot doesn't moisten the floor or leaves puddles, check:

  • πŸ’§ Water supply tubes – blow them with compressed air.
  • πŸ”§ Pump contacts - clean from alcohol oxidation.
  • πŸ“± Settings in the application - in Mi Home check the level of humidification.

Cleaning frequency: a schedule for different models Xiaomi Mi

Cleaning regularity depends on the intensity of use, the type of coatings (carpets collect more garbage) and the availability of pets.

ModelDust collectorFiltersBrushes.Sensors.Wet cleaning
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 LiteAfter every cleaning.Every 1-2 weeksOnce 3-5 cleaningOnce a monthAfter every cleaning.
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 ProAfter every cleaning.Once a week.Every 2-3 cleaningsOnce every 2 weeksAfter every cleaning.
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 UltraAfter every cleaning.Every 5-7 daysOnce in a cleanup.Once a week.After every cleaning. + weekly
Mi Robot Vacuum (1st generation)After every cleaning.Once every 2 weeksEvery 5 cleaningsOnce a monthNot supportive.

For homes with animals, increase the frequency of brush cleaning in the 1.5-2 If the robot is operated daily, do a deep cleaning (fan, sensors) once in a while. 3 month.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I wash the dust collector in the dishwasher?
No, it is strictly forbidden. High temperatures and detergents destroy plastic and sealing gums. Wash the dust collector with only warm water (up to 40).Β°C) with soft soap, then dry thoroughly.
Why did the robot become worse after cleaning?
Probable causes: Incorrect installation HEPA-Filter (check seal) Fan contamination (deep cleaning required) Wear of brushes (bristles should be no shorter than 5 mm) Firmware failure (reset the robot with 10 seconds power button). If the problem persists, check the suction power in the Mi Home app settings (section "Cleaning Settings").
How do you cleanse a robot of its smell?
The unpleasant smell is caused by: 🧼 Bacteria in a dust collector - wash it with acetic solution (1:1). πŸ’¦ Molds in a wet cleaning system - replace water with distilled and add 1-2 drops of tea tree essential oil (antibacterial effect). 🐾 Animal hair in brushes -- remove it completely and treat the brushes with alcohol. For prevention, leave the robot with the open dust collector on the top of the brush. 1-2 half-hour after cleaning.
What if the robot doesn’t turn on after cleaning?
Check: Proper assembly β€” all connectors must be connected, covers fixed. Charging β€” connect the robot to the base for 30 minutes. Reset button β€” on some models (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro) it is located under the dust collector cover (press it with a pin). Battery contacts β€” if the robot is unpacked, check the reliability of the battery connection. If the robot does not respond, try resetting through the Mi Home application (section "Reset to factory settings").
What types of equipment should be changed regularly?
Lifetime of consumables for Xiaomi Mi: πŸ”„ Side brushes, every one. 3-6 months. πŸŒ€ The main brush is every 6-12 months. 🧹 HEPA-filter-- every 6-12 months (or in case of visible damage). πŸ’§ A cloth nozzle for a mop - every 3-6 months. πŸ”‹ Battery - once in a while 2-3 year (when reducing the working time to 30 Use original consumables or certified equivalents (e.g., from Yeedi or Ecovacs). Cheap fakes can damage the engine.