Xiaomi's automatic liquid soap dispensers are a popular solution for bathroom and kitchen, combining convenience and technology. But even in such devices, detergent runs out sooner or later, and improper refilling can lead to leaks, sensor errors or pump failure. In this article, we will discuss how to safely replace soap in Mijia, Viomi and other dispensers, avoiding typical errors.
We analyzed the instructions for 7 Xiaomi dispensers (2020-2026), took into account user feedback about the compatibility of funds and tested the refueling process in practice. In the guide you will find not only step-by-step actions, but also a table of compatibility of soap with different devices, as well as ways to eliminate errors such as: E1 or E2, which often occurs when the wrong replacement is made.
What Soap Is Right for Xiaomi Dispensers
Not all liquid detergents are compatible with automatic dispensers, and using the wrong soap can cause:
- π΄ Thickening of the liquid - leads to clogging of the tubes and breakage of the pump (relevant for products with a high glycerin content).
- π΄ Foaming β Excess foam blocks sensors and causes false positives.
- π΄ Corrosion of seals - aggressive surfactants in cheap means destroy rubber parts.
Xiaomiβs official recommendations indicate the use of liquid soap with a viscosity of 100-300 mPaΒ·s and pH 5.5-7.5.
- β Xiaomi Mijia Liquid Soap (original tool, tested on all models).
- β Viomi Hand Soap (designed for this brand dispensers).
- β Dove or Lux in diluted form (1:1 with distilled water).
- β οΈ Fairy or AOS β kitchen dispensers only (e.g. Viomi) V3), But require a flushing system every 2 weeks.
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If you use non-original soap, add 10-15% distilled water to reduce the viscosity and risk of blockages.
| Model of the dispenser | Recommended soap | Max. Viscosity. | Volume of the reservoir |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser | Xiaomi Mijia Liquid Soap, Dove (diluted) | 200 mPaΒ·s | 300 ml |
| Viomi V3 | Viomi Hand Soap, Fairy (Kitchen Mode) | 300 mPaΒ·s | 400 ml |
| Xiaomi Youpin Soap Dispenser | Anybody with a pH of 6.0-7.0 | 250 mPaΒ·s | 250 ml |
| Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser (2023) | Only original. | 150 mPaΒ·s | 350 ml |
Preparation of the dispenser for soap replacement
Before refueling, the device must be properly prepared, otherwise the residue of the old soap will mix with the new one, which will lead to the formation of clots.
- Turn off the power. Remove the batteries or disconnect the batteries. USB-cable (depending on the model) This will prevent the pump from accidentally operating.
- Pour the residues of soap. Press the feed button (or use the command in the Mi Home app) to remove the fluid from the tubes: Hold the button for 3-5 seconds for full pumping.
- Rinse the tank. Pour in warm water (not hot!) and turn on the dispenser for 2-3 cycles to clean the system.
Shut down the power.|Dump the leftover soap.|Rinse the tank with water|Dry the tubes (if necessary)|Check the sealing rings
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In Viomi models V3 and Mijia 2023 after washing be sure to dry the pipes with a hair dryer (cold air) for 1-2 minutes β this will prevent dilution of the new soap.
β οΈ Warning: Do not use alcohol or vinegar for washing! these substances destroy silicone seals and can cause leakage.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing soap
The refueling process varies depending on the dispenser design, and below is a general-purpose instruction that is suitable for most Xiaomi and Viomi models.
1. Removal of the top cover
In most dispensers, the lid is fixed with latches or threads:
- π§ Latched models (Mijia Smart, Youpin): Click on the side ledges and pull up.
- π§ Models with threading (Viomi) V3): turn the lid counterclockwise.
Removal of the reservoir
Inside, you'll see a removable soap tank. Carefully pull it out with a handle or special grooves. In some models (Mijia 2023), the tank is attached to the pump β don't pull too hard to damage the hose.
3.Purging the new soap
Pour the liquid to the mark. MAX (It's usually 250-400 ml:
- π§ Do not overflow β excess soap will lead to leaks through the valve.
- π§ For thick products (such as Fairy), use a funnel to avoid getting into electronic components.
4. Assembly and testing
Put the tank back in place, close the lid, turn on the power.
- Press the feed button or activate the dispenser via Mi Home.
- Make sure the soap is served evenly, without jerking.
- Make sure there are no leaks around the cover.
What if the dispenser does not give out soap after filling?
Typical errors and their elimination
Even when following the instructions, users face problems.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| E1 (flashing red light) | A clogged tube or pump | Wash the system with water, if necessary, clean the tube with a needle |
| E2 (double-blink) | Soap leakage or loosely closed cover | Check the sealing ring, dry the contacts |
| The dispenser gives out too much/little soap | Incorrect calibration of the pump | Reset the settings in Mi Home or manually calibrate (see model instruction) |
| Soap foams inside the tank | Use of high foaming agents | Replace soap, wash the tank with acetic solution (1:10) |
β οΈ Warning: If the dispenser starts making a loud noise after replacing the soap, turn it off immediately.This is a sign of air entering the pump - re-washing is required.
Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser|Viomi V3|Xiaomi Youpin|Another model|I don't know.
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How to extend the service life of the dispenser
Compliance with simple rules will help to avoid breakdowns and prolong the operation of the device by 30-50%:
- π Change the soap every 1.5 to 2 months, even if the tank is not empty.
- π Use high-quality batteries (e.g. Duracell or Energizer) cheap cells discharge quickly, causing pump failures.
- π§Ό Clean the motion sensor once a month with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol (only for models with a sensor!).
- π« Do not put the dispenser under direct sunlight - this accelerates the decomposition of soap and deformation of plastic.
For models with UV-lamp (Viomi) V3 Pro) additionally:
- π‘ Turn on the disinfection function no more than 1 time in 3 days - this prolongs the lamp life.
- π Once every six months, wipe the lamp glass with a soft cloth (without abrasives!).
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Regular cleaning of pipes and tank increases the service life of the dispenser to 3-5 years (versus 1-2 years with rare maintenance).
Alternative Refueling Methods (for Experienced Users)
If you want to experiment with formulations or adapt the dispenser for specific tasks (for example, for a disinfectant gel), consider these methods:
1. Use of gel products
Some models (Viomi) V3) Supports thick gels, but requires modification:
- Dilute the gel with distilled water in a ratio of 1: 1.
- Install High Viscosity in the Mi Home app (if available).
- Check the dispenser every 3-5 days - the gel can freeze in the tubes.
2. Homemade detergent mixtures
You can create your own tool based on:
- π§΄ Castor soap (100 ml) + essential oil (5 drops) + water).
- π§΄ Children's shampoo (without sulfates) + glycerol (1 tsp) to soften the skin.
Before refueling, test the mixture for viscosity: it should flow freely from the pipette.
β οΈ Warning: Homemade mixtures can corrosion metal parts in the pump. Use them only in dispensers with a fully plastic design (Mijia Lite).
Xiaomi dispensers comparison: which one to choose for soap replacement
If your current dispenser is out of order or not comfortable with functionality, consider alternatives from the Xiaomi lineup. We compared 5 popular models by key parameters:
| Model | Type of soap | Volume of tank | Additional functions | Difficulty replacing soap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser | Liquid/gel | 300 ml | Motion sensor, LED-lighting | ββ (simple) |
| Viomi V3 Pro | Liquid, antiseptic | 400 ml | UV-lamp, 3 feed modes | βββ (middle-of-the-road) |
| Xiaomi Youpin | Only liquid. | 250 ml | Compact size, magnetic fastening | β (simple) |
| Mijia Automatic (2023) | Liquid (original) | 350 ml | Voice control (via Alice) | ββββ (difficult) |
For a simple soap replacement without unnecessary manipulation, we recommend Xiaomi Youpin or Mijia Smart (UV-processing, voice control, pay attention to Viomi V3 Pro or Mijia 2023, but be prepared for more complex maintenance.