How to clean HEPA-filter in the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: a complete guide with photos and tips

Why the cleaning HEPA-Filter is important for Xiaomi vacuum cleaners?

HEPA-High Efficiency Particulate Air – a key element in the vacuum cleaners Xiaomi, Dreame and Roborock, responsible for capturing 99.97% microparticle-size 0.3 Over time, the filter gets clogged with dust, animal hair and even bacteria, leading to a drop in suction power, increased engine load and the risk of spreading allergens around the room. 2 Pro or Dreame V12 A filter can reduce the efficiency of cleaning 30-40%.

The manufacturer recommends replacing HEPA-filter-in 6-12 In the months since, but with heavy use (such as in homes with animals or allergies), cleaning is required more often. Official service centers Xiaomi confirm that the correct washing of the filter with water prolongs its life. 20-30%, But only with strict rules of drying and installation, and in this article, we'll discuss how to clean the filter yourself without damaging its structure, and when it's time to buy a new one.

What Xiaomi models are HEPA-filter?

HEPA-Filters are installed in almost all modern Xiaomi vacuum cleaners, but their design and location may differ:

• 🏠 Robot vacuum cleaners: Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2/Pro/P, Roborock S7/S7 MaxV, DreameBot L10/Z10 Pro
• 🧹 Vertical vacuum cleaners: Mi Handheld Vacuum Cleaner (all generations), Dreame V11/V12/V15
• 🔄 Hybrid models: Xiaomi Smartmi Air Purifier + Vacuum (with air purification function)

In robot vacuum cleaners, the filter is usually located under the top cover next to the garbage container, and in vertical vacuum cleaners, inside the cyclone block. V12 HEPA-The filter is hidden under the removable cover at the base of the case, while in Roborock S7 It can be removed by removing the back panel. Importantly, before cleaning, check the instructions for your model - some filters (for example, in Mi Air Purifier) have an additional carbon layer that you can not wet.

When it's time to clean HEPA-filter: 5 obvious signs

Manufacturers often manually indicate average replacement times, but the real signs of filter clogging can be seen well before the recommended period expires.

1. Lower suction power: A vacuum cleaner collects less debris, especially fine dust or wool. In models with a display (for example, the Roborock S7 MaxV), an E5 or E6 error may appear, signaling problems with airflow.
2. Stagnant dust and moisture in the filter become a breeding ground for bacteria, and if you smell musty or moldy after cleaning, it's a sure sign that the filter needs urgent cleaning.
3. Extended charging time: A clogged filter makes the engine run at power limits, which increases power consumption, for example, the Dreame V11 normally charges in 4 hours, and with a problem filter, up to 6 hours.
4. Noisy work. The vacuum turbine starts to buzz louder than usual because of airflow resistance. In the Mi Handheld Vacuum, this manifests as a high-frequency whistle.
5. Visible contamination: If the filter is gray or black (normally white or light gray), it should be cleaned regardless of its life.

⚠️ Note: In vacuum cleaners with wet cleaning function (e.g. Roborock) S7) HEPA-If the filter is in contact with moisture from the tank, if the filter remains moist for more than 2 hours after washing the floor, this is a sign of wear or improper installation.

Step-by-step instructions: how to clean HEPA-filter in the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi

The cleaning process depends on the filter type and the vacuum cleaner model, but the overall scheme is the same. Below is a universal instruction, suitable for most Xiaomi, Dreame and Roborock devices.

1. Filter extraction

In robot vacuum cleaners (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro):

1. Turn the vacuum cleaner over and remove the bottom cover (usually attached to the latches).
2. Remove the garbage container – the filter is nearby, under plastic protection.
3. Carefully pull the filter by the tongue or press the locks on the sides.

In vertical vacuum cleaners (for example, Dreame V12):

1. Disconnect the pipe and remove the cyclone block.
2. At the base of the block, find a round or rectangular cover with the inscription HEPA Filter.
3. Turn the lid counterclockwise or press the latch.

2. dry cleaning (for mild contaminants)

If the filter is slightly contaminated (light gray coating), it can be cleaned without water:

• 🧹 Use a soft brush (such as a toothbrush) or vacuum cleaner with minimal power to remove dust from the surface.
• 💨 Blow the filter with compressed air (boiler or compressor) on the back (against the direction of the airflow).
• ☀️ Leave the filter on. 10-15 minutes in direct sunlight - ultraviolet light will help destroy bacteria.

3. Wet cleaning (with severe contamination)

For deep cleaning:

1. Fill the basin with warm water (maximum 40°C) and add a few drops of neutral detergent (e.g. baby bottle remedies).
2. Submerge the filter in water and massage it gently without twisting it – this can damage the fibers.
3. Wash under a weak stream of water (do not use tap pressure!).
4. Shake the filter to remove excess water, but don’t squeeze it out!

⚠️ Note: Never use it for cleaning. HEPA-In the case of a filter, hot water (destroys the glue layer), bleach (corrodes the fibers) or hard brushes (damages the microstructure). In carbon-based models (such as the Xiaomi Smartmi Air Purifier), wet cleaning is prohibited, only dry cleaning is prohibited! 4. Drying and installation The proper drying is the most important step. You can't install a wet filter! It will cause mold and engine failure: ⏳ Dry the filter at least 24 room-temperature (20-25°C). 🌬️ Place it in a well-ventilated place, but not under direct sunlight (may be deformed). 🚫 Do not use a hair dryer, microwave or battery to speed up drying. 🔄 Before installing, check that the filter is completely dry - shake it, there should be no moisture inside. After drying, set the filter in place, following the reverse disassembly sequence. In models with an airflow sensor (e.g., Roborock) S7) After cleaning, you may need to reset the error through the Mi Home app (Settings section) → Reset → Cleaning the filter). 💡HEPA-filter can be washed with water no more often 3-4 After each wash, its effectiveness decreases by 5-10%. What not to do when cleaning HEPA-Even small errors in the care of the filter can lead to its irreversible damage or breakage of the vacuum cleaner. Here's the top.-5 Prohibited actions that users often do: Error Consequences The right approach Using hot water (>40°C) Destruction of the adhesive layer, filter deformation Wash only in warm water (up to) 40°C) Hand-press filter Damage to microfibers, reduced filtration Remove water by shaking or wet with a napkin Dry with a hairdryer or on a battery Drying material, cracks, loss of shape Dry at room temperature 24+ Hours Clean filter vacuum cleaner at full capacity Breaking fibers, formation of holes Use minimum power or brush Install filter wet mold, engine corrosion, unpleasant smell Check dryness before installation Especially careful need to be with filters in vacuum cleaners with laser sensors (e.g. Roborock) S7 MaxV: Moisture on electronics can disrupt navigation systems. If after cleaning the vacuum cleaner began to behave inadequately (for example, it goes in a circle or does not see obstacles), immediately remove the filter and check it for residual moisture. HEPA-The filter has holes or gaps, and needs to be replaced, and even a small damage reduces the filtration efficiency to a very low level. 60-70%, So the solution is to wind the filter in a thin layer of gauze, but it's only good for low-pollution spaces and no longer than that. 1-2 How to extend life HEPA-filter: 7 Practical advice Average service life HEPA-filter in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners — 6-12 months, but with proper care, it can be increased to 18 Here are the proven ways: 🧹 Clean the garbage container after each cleaning, and the less dust that gets into the filter, the longer it will last. 🌬️ Use a prefilter (if included) that traps large particles and protects against them. HEPA-quick-clogging. 🚫 Do not remove building dust or sand. Abrasive particles wear out the filter quickly. For such tasks, use a vacuum cleaner with a cyclone system (for example, Dreame). V15). ☀️ Keep the vacuum cleaner dry, and the humidity helps the bacteria in the filter to multiply. 🔄 Alternate dry and wet cleaning. Wash the filter with water no more than 1 time in 3 months. 🛒 Cheap alternatives (like the no-name with AliExpress) often have low fiber density and pass up to 30% of microparticles. 📱 Watch out for notifications in the app. Wi-Fi models (like Roborock) S7) Send reminders about the need to clean the filter. 💡In Dreame and Roborock vacuum cleaners with tank self-cleaning function (e.g. DreameBot) X30) HEPA-The filter lasts longer because of automatic flushing, but even in these models, it has to be removed and dried every time. 2-3 When is the time to change? HEPA-- Even with perfect care, the filter is new. HEPA-The filter loses its properties over time, and here are the signs that it's time to buy a new one: 🔍 Visible damage: holes, tears or deformation of material. 🌫️ Smell: If after cleaning and drying the filter continues to smell of mold or rot. 📉 Power reduction: vacuum cleaner does not suck fine dust even after replacing all other consumables (brush, pre-filter). ⏳ The service life has expired: for most Xiaomi models, it is 12 months at average load. 🚨 Mistakes in the Work: For example, in Roborock S7 code may appear E6 (airflow problem that does not discharge after cleaning. The cost of the original filters for vacuum cleaners Xiaomi varies from 500 to 1500 rubles depending on the model: ~800 rubles Dreame. V12: ~1200 rubles (complete with pre-filter). Roborock S7 MaxV: ~1500 rubles (with a coal layer) When buying, pay attention to the filter article - it is indicated in the instructions or on the filter itself. V11 The original filter has an articular DR11-FILTER-01. Counterfeit products are often sold under similar numbers (e.g., for example, DR11-FILTER-01X), They have a worse quality of filtration. FAQ: Frequent questions about cleaning HEPA-Filters in Xiaomi can be washed HEPA-No, it's strictly forbidden. The vibration and centrifuge of the washing machine will destroy the microfibers of the filter, and then it will lose its properties. Only hand washing in warm water without pressing is allowed. How often should the filter be cleaned if there are animals in the house? HEPA-filter-in 1-2 Then, for a month, wash with water every day. 3 Animal hair quickly clogs the filter, making it less efficient, and it's also worth emptying the garbage container more often, which will reduce the strain on the filter. HEPA-coal-filter? HEPA-The filter picks up small particles (dust, pollen, bacteria), and the carbon filter neutralizes odors and gases. In some models (for example, Xiaomi Smartmi Air Purifier), they are combined. The carbon filter can not be washed - it is only replaced every time. 6 Can you use a vacuum cleaner without a vacuum? HEPA-Technically, but it's highly discouraged, because without a filter, dust and allergens will blow back into the room, and the vacuum cleaner engine will be running at a higher load, which will reduce its lifespan. In models with air quality sensors (e.g. Roborock) S7) The vacuum cleaner may refuse to turn on altogether. HEPA-Official filters can be purchased: on the Mi Store website (guarantee of originality); in Xiaomi branded stores (for example, in the shopping center "Europesky" in Moscow); on Wildberries or Ozon from trusted sellers (look for the mark "Original"). Xiaomi service centers (sometimes sell discounted replacement consumables) Avoid shopping on AliExpress or Avito - there is a high risk of running into a fake.