How to put a brush in a robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Why proper brush installation is critical for robot vacuum cleaner operation

Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners are smart assistants that save you time cleaning. But even the most advanced Mi Robot Vacuum or Dreame Bot model won’t do it if its main working tool, the side or center brush, is installed incorrectly. A loosely attached part leads to debris skipping, increased engine wear and even breakdowns. And in some cases (for example, when you put an up-foot brush), the robot may refuse to turn on altogether, giving a Brush Error error.

In this article, we will discuss how to replace or install a brush on all popular models of Xiaomi robot vacuums, including Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Viomi V3 and Dreame Bot Z10 Pro. You will learn what tools you need, how to avoid typical errors and what to do if the brush is not fixed. And also a unique life hack for cleaning the axis of the brush from wound hair without disassembling the body.

What brushes are in the robot vacuum cleaners Xiaomi

Before you start installing, it’s important to understand which brush you’re dealing with. Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners use three main types:

• 🌀 The central brush is a rotating roller with bristles and rubber blades, responsible for collecting large debris (crumbs, wool, dust). In Mi Robot models, it is usually removable, in Dreame - often integrated into the module.
• 🔄 The sidebrush is a small circular brush on a movable bracket, sweeps the trash to the center brush, and there are one or three petals.
• 🧹 Turbobrush (for carpets) – optional accessory for models with deep cleaning function (for example, Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P.

Each brush has its own resource: Central serves ~ 6-12 months (depending on the intensity of cleaning), side - 3-6 months.

If the robot has started to pick up garbage worse or makes extraneous sounds, it is most likely time to replace the brush.

Preparation for installation: what will be needed

To put a brush in a Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner, you don't need special tools - it's enough of what you have on hand.

New brush (compatible with your model)

Soft fabric or wipe for cleaning

Flat screwdriver (for some Dreame models)

Scissors (if you need to cut your hair)

Alcohol or wet wipes for disinfection-->

Warning: Do not use metal objects to clean the axis of the brush - they can scratch the plastic and damage the bearings. If the hair or thread is badly wound, it is better to gently trim them with scissors and remove the remains with tweezers.

⚠️ Before starting work, disconnect the robot from the charging station and remove the battery (if possible without disassembling the body). In some Dreame models, when replacing the brush, the lid opening sensor is triggered, and the robot can automatically turn on the engine for calibration - this is normal, but it is better to avoid accidental starts.

Step-by-step: how to install a central brush

The central brush is the most important element, and if it's not installed correctly, it can cause a Brush Jam error.

1. Take off the old brush. Turn the robot over and find the latches on the sides of the central module. On Mi Robot Vacuum models, you press two clips at once and pull the brush on yourself. Dreame Bot often uses a rotary mechanism — turn the brush counterclockwise to the click.
2. Clean the axis and grooves. Remove the accumulated dirt, hair and dust from the axle and fasteners. Rub it with alcohol, and it will prolong the life of the new brush.
3. Install a new brush. Match the grooves on the brush with the guides on the robot. For Mi Robot, insert before the click; for Dreame, turn clockwise. Make sure the brush rotates freely (scroll it with your hand).

If the brush is not fixed:

- Check if it's skewed.

Make sure you don’t confuse top and bottom (some brushes have a TOP tag on them).

In Viomi V3 models, you may need to easily press the lock from the side.

Installation of a side brush: nuances and tricks

The sidebrush seems simple, but the wrong installation is one of the main reasons why the robot doesn't make it to corners or leaves debris along the walls.

1. Take off the old brush. Most models have it mounted on a single screw or latch. In the Mi Robot, you just pull the brush down, you might need a screwdriver in the Dreame.
2. Check the condition of the bracket. If it's bent or cracked, the brush will cling to the body, and then you need to replace the entire module.
3. Install a new brush. Notice the direction of rotation (usually indicated by the arrow on the brush); for the left brush, counterclockwise; for the right, clockwise.

Tip: If the side brush wears out quickly, try to reduce the rotation speed in the Mi Home app settings (if you have one), which will extend its life by 20-30%.

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If the side brush starts to bounce during cleaning, lubricate its axis with silicone lubrication (don't use WD-40!).

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when replacing brushes.

• 🔧 We've got the top and bottom of the brush mixed up, and some Viomi models only have the brush in one position, so if you put it upside down, the robot will make a mistake, or the brush will quickly wear off.
• 🔄 If the brush is not inserted to the end, it will dangle and may damage the engine. Always check the fixation by slightly pulling the brush over yourself.
• 🧲 The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro has a magnetic sensor that detects the presence of a brush. If it's contaminated, the robot won't start cleaning.

⚠️ Attention, if the robot makes a grinding or vibration after replacing the brush, turn it off immediately, which is a sign that the brush is touching the body or skewed.

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After replacing the brush, always run the test cleaning at minimum power, which will help identify installation problems before you start working fully.

How to prolong the life of brushes: tips for care

Brushes are consumables, but if you care for them properly, you can change them less often.

• 🧼 Clean your brushes after each cleaning, remove the hair and threads from the axle, and it is convenient to use a special cleaner (companying with some models) or an old toothbrush.
• 💧 Rinse the bristles. Once a month, remove the brush and rinse it under warm water with soap. Dry for at least 24 hours before installation!
• ⚡ Watch the charge. If the robot sits down during cleaning, it can brush the garbage on the last charge, which speeds up their wear and tear.

For models with rubber blades (such as Dreame Bot D9), use silicone lubrication once every 3 months to prevent rubber from cracking.

FAQ: Frequent questions about brushes in Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners