How to Clean Xiaomi Devices: From Smartphones to Smartwatches

Xiaomi devices are not only powerful technical solutions, but also everyday items that become covered with dust, greasy traces and bacteria over time. Improper cleaning can damage the display, connectors or even internal components. In this article, we will analyze safe cleaning methods for different types of gadgets of the brand: from Redmi smartphones and other products. POCO up to fitness bracelets Mi Band and wireless headphones Xiaomi AirDots.

Particular attention will be paid to materials that are strictly not to be used (for example, high concentration alcohol for screens with oleophobic coating or abrasive wipes for metal cases). USB-C Instructions are adapted to the current models of 2023-2026, but will also be suitable for earlier gadgets, subject to general rules.

1.Preparation for cleaning: what will be needed

Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary tools and materials, and the use of inappropriate means is the main cause of breakdowns after cleaning.

  • 🧴 Microfiber wipe (no pile, for glasses or appliances) will suit the original wipe from the Xiaomi kit or a quality analogue.
  • πŸ’§ Distilled water or specialized screen cleaning fluid (e.g. Xiaomi Screen Cleaner).
  • 🧼 Isopropyl alcohol (70–75%) – only for disinfection of enclosures (not for screens!).
  • πŸͺ₯ Toothbrush with soft bristles (new!) or makeup brush - to clean connectors.
  • πŸ”Œ Compressed air (cylinder) or rubber pear - to blow dust out of speakers.
  • πŸ“± Scotch or sticky tape (to remove persistent contaminants from enclosures).

⚠️ Warning: Never use household chemicals (such as glass washing or wet wipes with flavors), paper towels, rough fabrics or acetone, which destroy screen coverings and leave microcracks on plastic parts.

πŸ“Š What Xiaomi devices do you have?
Smartphone
Fitness bracelet
Wireless headphones
Smart watches
router
Other gadgets

2. Cleaning the screen of a smartphone or tablet Xiaomi

The screen is the most vulnerable part of the device, and it accumulates fingerprints, greasy marks and dust, which not only damage the appearance, but can also reduce the sensitivity of the sensor.

  1. Turn off the device (this will prevent accidental touches during cleaning).
  2. Blow dust off the screen with a rubber pear or a can of compressed air (keep at a distance of 5-7 cm).
  3. Apply 2-3 drops of distilled water or special liquid to a microfiber wipe (not on screen!).
  4. Wipe the screen with light circular movements, avoiding heavy pressure.
  5. For persistent contaminants, repeat step 3-4, but do not rub one place for longer than 10 seconds.

⚠️ Warning: If you have a protective glass on the screen, remove it before cleaning, it often accumulates dirt underneath. To clean the space between the glass and the display, use a plastic blade (from the glass sticker kit) and a tape.

Turn off the device

Remove dust with compressed air

Use only microfiber and distilled water

Don't push the screen too hard.

Dry the device for 5-10 minutes before turning on-->

For models with curved screens (like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Mix Fold 3), use a narrow brush to remove dust from the side edges. Do not apply liquids on flexible displays - dry microfiber is enough.

Cleaning of the case and buttons

The body of a Xiaomi smartphone or tablet can be made of plastic, metal, glass or a combination of materials.

Case materialRecommended methodWhat to avoid
Glass (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T)Microfiber + Isopropyl alcohol (70%) for persistent spots - scotch.Abrasive napkins, acetone.
Metal (e.g. Black Shark 5)Wet microfiber, for shine - dry wipe of suede.Hard brushes, chlorine-containing products.
Plastic (e.g. Redmi Note 12)Soap solution (5% soap) + Soft tissue. For textured surfaces, toothbrush.High concentration alcohol (corrodes the coating).
Skin/eco-skin (e.g. Xiaomi Civi 3)A dry brush or a slightly damp microfiber, and alcohol wipes for disinfection.Immersion, bleaching.

The buttons (on, volume) are cleaned using:

  • 🧹 Toothbrush – to remove dust around buttons.
  • πŸ’¨ Compressed air – to blow dirt from behind the buttons (do not direct the jet at right angles!).
  • 🩹 Cotton swab dipped in alcohol - for disinfection (carefully, without pressing).

For devices with retractable mechanisms (such as the Xiaomi Mix 4 with a front camera), avoid getting liquid into the slits. Use only dry cleaning methods.

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If the buttons began to "stick", apply a little silicone lubricant to the cotton swab (for example, WD-40 Specialist) and carefully treat the edges of the buttons. Do not use oil or liquid lubricants!

4. Clean connectors and speakers

Connectors USB-C, 3.5 mm (if any) and speakers are magnets for dust and debris. their contamination can lead to problems with charging, sound or connection accessories. Clean them at least 1 time every 2-3 months.

For connectors:

  1. Turn the device off the power.
  2. Light the connector with a flashlight to assess the degree of contamination.
  3. Use a plastic toothpick or a wooden stick wrapped in microfiber to gently remove visible dirt.
  4. Blow the connector with compressed air (short pulses, no more than 2 seconds).
  5. For persistent contaminants, moisten the cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol (70%) and walk through the contacts without pressing hard.

For speakers:

  • 🎡 Use sticky tape (scotch): glue it to the speaker grille and carefully remove it - this will remove the dust.
  • πŸ’¨ Blow the grille with compressed air (hold the spray vertically to avoid fluid intake).
  • 🚫 Do not use needles, pins or metal objects – they can damage the speaker membrane.
What to do if a liquid is in the connector?
1. Turn off the device immediately and turn it off from charging. 2. Turn the gadget down and shake it slightly to remove the liquid. 3. Wet the connector with a dry wipe (don't trite!). 4. Place the device in a silica gel bag (from the shoe box) for 12-24 hours. 5. Do not turn the gadget on until you make sure it is completely dry (at least 24 hours). If after turning on, you have problems with charging, contact the service center.

For models with wireless charging (such as the Xiaomi 13 Pro), clean the charging coil (usually located under the back cover) with a dry microfiber.

5. Disinfection of Xiaomi gadgets

Devices that are often picked up (smartphones, headphones, fitness bracelets) need regular disinfection, viruses and bacteria can persist on surfaces for up to 72 hours.

  • 🦠 For screens: Use wipes with 70% isopropyl alcohol or specialized antibacterial wipes (for example, Xiaomi Antibacterial Wipes). Do not apply alcohol on the screen more than 1 time a week - it destroys the oleophobic coating.
  • πŸ“± For cases: Wipe the device with a napkin dipped in alcohol solution (70–75%), then wipe dry. Use cotton swabs for textured surfaces.
  • 🎧 For headphones: Remove the silicone embroideries, rinse them with warm water and soap, and dry them.

⚠️ Note: Do not use ultraviolet sterilizers for Xiaomi gadgets – they can damage plastic parts and displays (especially in the case of the scalables). OLED). Also avoid steam cleaners - moisture can penetrate the device.

For smartwatches (e.g. Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro) and fitness bracelets (Mi Band 8):

  1. Remove the strap (if possible) and rinse it with warm water and soap.
  2. Clean the watch body with a wet wipe with isopropyl alcohol (do not immerse in water!).
  3. To clean the charging contacts, use a dry cotton swab.

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Disinfection with alcohol is carried out no more than 1 time a week. For daily cleaning, microfiber and distilled water are enough.

6.Cleaning wireless headphones and smartwatches

Headphones Xiaomi AirDots, Buds or FlipBuds require special care due to close contact with skin and earwax.

For ambusheries (silicone tips):

  1. Take the earbuds off your headphones.
  2. Wash them in warm water with soap (do not use aggressive detergents!).
  3. Dry on a clean towel for 1-2 hours (do not use a hair dryer!).
  4. For disinfection, wipe with an alcohol napkin (70% alcohol).

For the headphone case:

  • 🎧 Remove visible dirt with a dry brush.
  • 🧴 Wipe the body with a wet wipe with isopropyl alcohol (do not pour liquid into the holes!).
  • πŸ”Š To clean the speaker grilles, use sticky tape or compressed air.

For the charging case:

  • πŸ“¦ Remove the dust from the inside with a dry brush.
  • 🧽 Wipe the inner surface with a napkin soaked in alcohol.
  • 🚫 Do not use liquids to clean charging contacts - only dry cotton swab.

For smart watches (for example, Xiaomi Watch) S3):

  • πŸ•’ Remove the strap and rinse it under running water (if the material allows it).
  • 🧼 Wipe the watch body with a wet wipe with soapy solution, then wipe dry.
  • πŸ”‹ Charging contacts clean dry cotton swab 1 time per month.

⚠️ Note: If the headphones or watch have a protection rating IP68 (For example, Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro, they can be washed under a weak stream of water, but not immersed in the liquid for a long time. IP54 Or below, use only dry cleaning methods.

7. Cleaning up Xiaomi routers and smart devices

Xiaomi Mi Routers, Yeelight smart lamps or Xiaomi Home cameras also need care, especially if they are in dusty rooms.

For routers:

  • πŸ“‘ Turn the device off the power.
  • 🧹 Remove dust from ventilation grilles with compressed air or a soft brush.
  • 🧽 Wash the body with a wet wipe (without alcohol!).
  • πŸ”Œ Ethernet connectors and USB clean with a dry cotton swab.

For smart lamps and cameras:

  • πŸ’‘ Wipe the lamp body with a dry microfiber. For persistent stains, use a napkin dipped in soapy solution.
  • πŸ“· Camera lens (e.g. Xiaomi Home Camera 360)Β°) Clean only with a dry microfiber, without pressing.
  • πŸ”Œ Charging contacts of cameras (if any) wipe with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use wet wipes to clean the infrared sensors of smart devices - this can disrupt their work. Also avoid direct air jets on microphones or speakers of smart speakers (for example, Xiaomi Smart Speaker).

8 What to do if the device does not work after cleaning

If after cleaning the gadget stopped turning on, does not charge or behaves unstable, follow the following steps:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Not included.Moisture on the boardPlace the device in rice or silica gel for 24 to 48 hours. Don't try to turn it on.
No charge.Connector contamination or contact oxidationClean the connector with alcohol and check the cable. Try wireless charging (if supported).
The screen doesn't respond to touch.Damage to the oleophobic coating or getting liquid under glassWipe the screen with a dry microfiber. If the problem persists, contact the service.
The speakers are wheezing or not workingMoisture ingestion or damage to the membrane during cleaningLet the device dry for 24 hours. If it doesn't work, it needs repair.

If the problem is not solved, do not disassemble the device yourself, this can lead to loss of warranty. Contact the official Xiaomi service center or authorized workshop. When contacting, report that you have cleaned - this will help specialists to diagnose the problem faster.

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If the device is unstable after cleaning, first of all, disconnect it from the power supply and let it dry for 12-24 hours. Do not use a hair dryer or other heat sources to speed up the process!

FAQ: Frequent questions about cleaning Xiaomi devices

Can you clean a Xiaomi smartphone with wet hand wipes?
No, wet hand wipes contain aggressive chemicals and flavorings that can damage the oleophobic screen covering and plastic body parts.Use only specialized appliance wipes or microfiber with distilled water.
How often should the speakers and connectors be cleaned?
Recommended frequency depends on the conditions of use: For speakers: 1 time in 2-3 months (or more often if you notice a deterioration in sound). USB-C: 1 time per month (if the device is frequently connected to a charger or PC) For a 3.5mm connector (if any): check it for dust before each use of the headphones.
How to clean the screen of the Xiaomi smartphone from persistent stains (for example, from cream or lipstick)?> For persistent stains: Apply 1-2 drops of distilled water to a microfiber wipe. Gently rub the stain in circular motions for 10-15 seconds. If the stain is not gone, use a napkin dipped in soap solution (5% baby soap). Wipe the screen with a dry microfiber. Don't use alcohol for OLED-screens (e.g. Xiaomi 13) – it can damage organic LEDs.
Can I wash the Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelet under water?
Depends on the model: Mi Band 7/8 And newer: have protection 5 ATM, You can wash under running water (no soap!), but not immerse in a bath or pool. 6 and older: only wipe with a wet wipe, without direct contact with water. In any case, avoid hot water and detergents - they can damage the strap and body.
How to clean Xiaomi’s smart speaker from dust inside?
To clean the internal components of a smart speaker (e.g. Xiaomi Smart Speaker): Disconnect the device from the power supply. Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle at minimum power to remove dust from the vents. Wipe the case with a wet microfiber. Use compressed air (short pulses) to clean the speakers. Don't disassemble the speaker yourself - this can lead to loss of warranty and damage to the acoustic system.