How to remove side brushes (“mustache”) from the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi's robot vacuum cleaner's side brushes are a key element in collecting debris along walls and corners. They wear out, get clogged with hair, or break down, and have to be cleaned or replaced. But how do you remove those brushes without damaging the mounts or the body of the device? In this article, we will analyze the dismantling process for different models - from the budget Mi Robot Vacuum to the premium Viomi. V3.

Many users face challenges: brushes don't get removed the first time, mounts break, or after installing new ones, we'll tell you how to avoid these errors, what tools you'll need, and what to do if the brush is stuck to the axle, and how to distinguish the original parts from fakes so that the life of the vacuum cleaner is not shortened.

If you've never disassembled a robot vacuum cleaner, don't worry: the procedure is easier than it looks, but the key is to not use excessive force and follow the instructions for your model. Let's start with preparation.

Preparation for dismantling: tools and security measures

Before removing the side brushes, make sure that the robot vacuum cleaner is turned off and disconnected from the charging station, this will prevent accidental switching on during work, and also prepare the workplace: it is best to use a table with a soft substrate (for example, a towel) so as not to scratch the case.

You'll need:

• ✅ Flat screwdriver (for models with latches)
• ✅ Tweezers (to extract small details)
• ✅ Alcohol wipes (for cleaning axles)
• ✅ Cross screwdriver (for some models, for example, Viomi) V2 Pro)
• ✅ Hair dryer (if the brush is "stiffened»)

Note: Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite and Viomi V3 If you're not sure about the model, check out the name on the sticker under the dust collector lid or on the Mi Home app.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal tools to tamper with plastic latches - this may leave scratches on the case.

If the brushes have not been removed for a long time, their axles can be covered with a layer of dust and grease, in which case, before dismantling, wipe the attachment site with a napkin dipped in alcohol, this will facilitate the process.

Types of mounting side brushes: how to determine your

Xiaomi's robot vacuum cleaners use three main types of side brush attachments, and it depends on how to remove them:

1. Latches are the most common option, and the brush is fixed with plastic ears that need to bend, and is used in most Mi Robot Vacuum and Viomi models. V2.
2. Screw fastener - the brush is screwed with a small screw (usually under a cross screwdriver). V3 and some modifications of the Dreame.
3. Bayonet lock: A brush is screwed into a carving with a lock, and it's used in newer models, like the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro.

To determine the type of fastening, examine the base of the brush:

• 🔍 If you see plastic protrusions on the sides, they're latches.
• 🔧 If there is a small hole in the center, it is a screw.
• 🌀 If there are notches on the axis and the brush turns counterclockwise, it's a bayonet.

Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S And the newer is often the combined mount: the latch + In this case, you've got to bend the clips first, and then turn the brush counterclockwise.

Viomi models V3 And Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, the brush attachment screws can be hidden under decorative plugs, and you need to carefully tuck them in with a screwdriver to avoid damaging them.

Step-by-step: how to remove brushes with latches

This method is suitable for most Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum models (including the one used by the company). 1S, 2S, 2 Lite) and Viomi V2. Follow the instructions:

1. Step 1: Turn over the robot vacuum cleaner and find the side brush. Notice the plastic ears on the sides of the base.
2. Step 2: Take a flat screwdriver or a plastic shoulder blade, gently tuck the first eye on either side, bending it upwards, and you'll hear a slight click.
3. Step 3. Repeat the action for the second ear. Now the brush should be removed freely from the groove.
4. Step 4: Pull the brush over yourself while holding the robot body with the other hand, and if it doesn't respond, sway it slightly from side to side.

If the brush is too tight, don't pull it with force, you can break the mount.

• 🔥 Heat the base of the brush with a hair dryer (temperature not higher than 50)°C) for 10-15 seconds, this will expand the plastic.
• 🧴 Apply a drop of silicone lubricant or WD-40 Wait 5 minutes and try again.

⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop) 2S) There might be a little spring under the brush. Don't lose it, because without the spring, the new brush will hang around!

After removing, inspect the axle for rust or contamination, and if it's coated with plaque, clean it with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, which will prolong the life of the new brush.

Dismantling of brushes with screw fastening (Viomi, Dreame)

Viomi models V3, Viomi V2 Pro and some Dreame (for example, D10 Plus, they use screws to fix the side brushes, so it's important not to override the mount when you reassemble.

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Find the screw in the center of the base of the brush, which can be hidden under a decorative cover (carefully tuck it in with a screwdriver).
2. Step 2. Turn the screw counterclockwise. Don't use too much force, because the plastic threads break easily.
3. Step 3. After removing the screw, pull the brush over you. If it's not removed, check if there are any additional latches on the sides.
4. Step 4: Clean the threaded hole from dust (you can use compressed air or vacuum cleaner in blowout mode).

When installing a new brush:

• 🔩 Twisting the screw without effort - enough that he held the brush tightly, but did not press it into the body.
• 🔄 If the screw is scrolling, it means that the thread is ripped off, in which case use a larger screw or contact the service.

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Before twisting the screw, apply a drop of a threaded fixator (for example, Loctite 222) to the thread. This will prevent spontaneous unwinding during the vacuum cleaner operation.

Viomi models V3 There might be a rubber pad under the brush, and make sure it's flat, or the new brush will cling to the body as it rotates.

Bayonet mounting: how to unscrew the "stiff" brush

Bayonet lock brushes (such as those in the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro) should theoretically be turned counterclockwise, but in practice they often get stuck with dust and moisture, and here's how to deal with this problem:

Method 1: Heating and lubrication

1. Heat the base of the brush with a hair dryer (temperature 40–50)°C) for 20-30 seconds.
2. Apply a drop on the joint of the brush and body WD-40 silicone-grease.
3. Wait 5-10 minutes, then try to turn the brush.

Method 2: Using a lever

• Take pliers with soft sponges (or wrap them with tape).
• Carefully press the base of the brush and turn counterclockwise.
• Do not apply force - if the brush does not respond, repeat the heating.

If the brush is still not removed:

• 🔧 Try tapping the base lightly with a wooden stick (like a screwdriver handle) and the vibration will help move the soured mechanism.
• 🛠️ In extreme cases, you can drill the brush with a drill (2-3 mm), but this will damage the axis - after that, you will need to replace the entire module.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal tools for the lever without protection - they will scratch the body. WD-40 electronic components (e.g., sensors near the brush).

How to Clean and Replace Side Brushes: Service Tips

Remove the brush is half the battle, and in order for the robot vacuum cleaner to work efficiently, it has to be cleaned or replaced properly.

Cleaning the old brush:

• 🧼 Rinse the brush with warm water and soap, removing wound hair and dust.
• 🧷 For hard-to-reach places, use a toothpick or tweezers.
• 🔥 Dry the brush with a hair dryer or leave it for 24 hours at room temperature.

Installation of a new brush:

1. Compare the new brush with the old one – they should be completely the same in shape and size.
2. Make sure there is no glue or rust residue on the axis.
3. For models with latches: insert the brush before clicking, without exerting effort.
4. For models with a screw: twist it to the point, but do not drag it.

After installation, check the operation of the brush:

1. Turn on the vacuum cleaner and start the test cleaning.
2. See if there are any other sounds (squeaking, knocking).
3. Make sure the brush rotates freely and does not catch the body.

If the brush is rotating in jerks or late, it means it's not installed correctly or the axis is contaminated. Repeat the cleaning and installation procedure.

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The original Xiaomi brushes last 2-3 times longer than fakes, and can be distinguished by the labeling on the inside of the base and the uniform stiffness of the villi.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when removing side brushes, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

Another common problem is to put a brush upside down, which means it doesn't pick up garbage or scratch the floor.

• 🔄 Direction of villi - they should be tilted forward during the movement of the vacuum cleaner.
• 📏 Marking – the original Xiaomi brushes have an arrow indicating the correct position.

If after replacing the brush, the robot vacuum cleaner began to clean up along the walls worse, check:

• 🔍 The height of the brush – it should touch the floor, but not rise too high.
• 🌀 Rotation speed – if the brush spins slowly, clean the axis of dirt.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions