Why do Xiaomi mop owners have to rent a water tank?
Xiaomiβs mop robots (including the Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro, DreameBot W10/L10, Viomi V3, and others) are equipped with removable water tanks that require regular maintenance. Over time, lime plaque, mold, or detergent residue accumulate inside the tank, leading to nozzles clogging, unpleasant smells, or even pump breakdowns. In addition, the tank may crack when falling or require replacement after its service life (usually 2-3 years with intensive use).
In this article, you'll find step-by-step instructions for disassembling a water tank, tailored to different models, and tips for cleaning and storage, and we'll look at the common mistakes that cause latches or gaskets to break, and we'll give you a guide to choosing a replacement, and if your mop stops evenly distributing water or makes strange noises when it's working, it's likely that the problem lies in the tank.
Preparation for dismantling: what to do before removing the tank
Before starting disassembly, make sure the robot is completely switched off and disconnected from the charging station, which will prevent the pump from accidentally turning on or damaging the electronic components, and prepare the following tools and materials:
- π§΄ Warm water and soft cloth for cleaning the body.
- π§ Plastic blade or mediator (for models with tight latches).
- π§Ό Scaling removal agent (e.g. Cillit Bang or acetic solution).
- πΈ Smartphone for photographing the process (useful when reassembling).
If the tank has not been cleaned for a long time, we recommend soaking it in warm water with added vinegar (a ratio of 1: 1) for 15-20 minutes before dismantling. This will soften the sediments and facilitate further cleaning. Never use abrasive sponges or metal objects - they will damage the plastic and sealing gums.
β οΈ Attention: On DreameBot models L10 Pro and Mi Robot Mop 2 Ultra tank connected to the pump via silicone tube. Sharp removal of the tank can cause it to rupture.
Step-by-step: how to remove the tank from the mop Xiaomi
The dismantling process may vary slightly depending on the model, but the overall pattern is the same for most robots.
- Step 1: Remove the mop from the docking station and turn it upside down. Make sure there's no water in the tank, and if you tilt it can get onto the electronic components.
- Step 2. Find the locks. Usually the tank is attached with two plastic latches on the sides (pictured below with red arrows) and DreameBot models may have an additional lock on the front.
- Step 3: Carefully press the latches with your thumbs or plastic shoulder blade while pulling the tank over yourself. Don't put too much effort -- if the tank doesn't lend itself, check if it's blocked by an additional mount.
- Step 4: Disconnect the water supply tube (if any) and some models have it fixed with a plastic clamping, which you have to move aside.
The illustration shows the key mounting points for popular models:
| Model | Type of attachment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro | 2 side latches | The water supply tube is attached to the pump with a magnet. |
| DreameBot W10 | 2 latches + front lock | The tank is integrated with the filter - remove carefully |
| Viomi V3 | 1 central latch | The tank is fixed by a rotary mechanism (you need to turn counterclockwise) |
| DreameBot L10 Pro | Magnetic fixers | You need to disconnect the tube before removing it. |
βοΈ Check before removing the tank
Typical mistakes when removing the tank and how to avoid them
Many users experience problems when they first dismantle the tank, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:
- π¨ Broken latches, caused by excessive effort or use of metal tools, solution: heat the plastic with a hair dryer (temperature 40-50)Β°C) for softening.
- π§ Water hits the board, occurs when the mop is tilted with the tank full. Solution: always drain the water before dismantling.
- π Water pipe damage, often on DreameBot models, when taken abruptly. Solution: unplug the tube with a smooth rotational motion.
- π If the mop does not distribute water after installing the tank, check the position of the sealing gum (it should lie flat, without torsion).
Pay special attention to the Viomi V3, which has a rotating mechanism that locks its tank, and if you turn the tank in the wrong direction, you can break the mount, and the correct direction is usually indicated by the arrow on the body (counterclockwise for removal).
β οΈ Note: On models with automatic washing function (for example, DreameBot) L10 Pro) the tank is connected to the water circulation system. When dismantling, don't pull the tubes - first disconnect the pump connector (it is under the lid at the back of the tank).
What to do if the latch breaks?
Cleaning and maintenance of the tank: a step-by-step guide
Once the tank is removed, it must be thoroughly cleaned of scale, mold and residues of detergents.
- Wash the tank with warm water (temperatures no higher than 40Β°C to avoid deforming the plastic). Use a soft sponge and dishwashing agent.
- Remove the scale. Pour vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) into the tank and leave it for 30 to 60 minutes. For strong deposits, you can use specialized products, such as Antikalk.
- Clean the nozzles. They often clog with lime deposits. Clean them with a toothpick or compressed air (a canister for cleaning equipment).
- Check the sealing gum. If it's lost elasticity or cracked, replace it. The rubber bands are sold in mop robot kits.
- Dry the tank. Leave it in a ventilated area for 12 to 24 hours. Using a hair dryer will speed up the process, but keep the device at a distance of 20-30 cm so that the plastic does not deform.
For dual-tank models (clean/dirty water, like the DreameBot L10 Pro), the cleaning procedure should be performed on both compartments. Pay special attention to the filter - it can only be washed under running water without detergents.
π‘
If you have an unpleasant odor after cleaning, pour a solution of baking soda (2 tbsp. spoons per 1 liter of water) into the tank and leave it overnight. Soda neutralizes bacteria and eliminates the smell without aggressively affecting the plastic.
When Replacement of the Reservoir is Required: Signs and Recommendations
Even with regular cleaning, the water tank has a limited lifespan, and the following signs indicate the need for replacement:
- π Cracks or chips on the tank body (especially in the places where the latches are fastened).
- π Water bleeds during mop operation, even if the tank is installed correctly.
- π Extraneous sounds when the pump is working (screaking, humming) - this may indicate damage to the internal partitions of the reservoir.
- π§Ό An unpleasant smell that does not disappear after cleaning (indicates a deep penetration of mold into the pores of plastic).
- π Reducing water pressure when sprayed - even after cleaning the nozzles.
When buying a new tank, pay attention to the article and compatibility with your model. For example, for Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro, a tank with the number DMY.CWJ01ZM is suitable, and for DreameBot W10 - DR10.WTR01. Buy parts only from official dealers or trusted sellers (for example, on AliExpress in stores with a rating above 98%).
The cost of the original tank varies from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles depending on the model. Be careful with cheap analogues - they are often made of poor-quality plastic, which cracks after 2-3 months.
π‘
If your Xiaomi mop is under warranty, do not try to replace the tank yourself - this may cancel the warranty obligations.
Models with non-standard fastening: features of dismantling
Some Xiaomi mop robots have unique tank designs that require a special approach.
DreameBot L10 Pro / L10s Ultra
In these models, the tank is integrated with the automatic washing system of the rag, so that it can be removed:
- Open the top cover of the docking station.
- Disconnect the water supply hose from the pump (it is fixed with a plastic clip).
- Press the two latches on the sides of the tank and pull it up.
Note: In L10s Ultra, the tank is divided into two compartments (clean and dirty water) that are removed separately.
Viomi V3 / SE
Here, the tank is attached by a rotary mechanism.
- Find the arrow on the bottom of the tank (usually next to the logo).
- Turn the tank counterclockwise before the click.
- Carefully lift it up, holding it by the handle.
It is important not to twist the tank - this can damage the O-ring.
Mi Robot Mop 2 Ultra
In this model, the tank is connected to the pump via a magnetic connector.
- Disconnect the water supply tube from the pump (it is attached to the clamping).
- Click on the latches on the sides and pull the tank on yourself.
- Disconnect the magnetic connector by holding it by the plastic case (donβt pull the wires!).