Cleaning the filter of the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: a complete guide with tips from experts

Xiaomi vacuum cleaners have gained popularity due to the combination of high power, convenience and affordable price. However, even the most advanced equipment requires regular maintenance - especially for filters that directly affect the quality of cleaning and the life of the device. A clogged filter not only reduces suction capacity, but can also lead to overheating of the engine or the appearance of an unpleasant smell.

In this article, we will learn how to properly clean the filters of Xiaomi vacuum cleaners of different models, from Mi Robot Vacuum to Dreame V12. You will learn what types of filters are used in the brand devices, how often they should be serviced, and what mistakes users often make, and we will give practical tips on how to extend the life of the filter and avoid breakdowns.

What filters are used in vacuum cleaners Xiaomi

Depending on the model of the vacuum cleaner, Xiaomi can use different types of filters, their design and material determine how to clean.

  • πŸ”Ή HEPA-Filters are the most common type in robot vacuum cleaners (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Dreame Bot) Z10 Pro) They trap up to 99.97% of fine particles, including pollen and allergens, usually made of fibrous material and require delicate cleaning.
  • πŸ”Ή Cyclone filters – used in vertical vacuum cleaners (Mi Handheld Wireless Vacuum Cleaner, Dreame) V12). They're a plastic container with a separator that separates the garbage from the air, and you can wash it underwater.
  • πŸ”Ή Pre-filters (spongy or mesh) – installed in front of the main filter for rough cleaning. Found in most models, including the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P. They can be washed or vacuumed.
  • πŸ”Ή Carbon filters – used to neutralize odors (for example, in Dreame Bot) W10). They are usually not cleaned and require replacement every 3-6 months.

It's important to understand that not all filters can be washed, HEPA-When you come into contact with water, paper filters become deformed and lose their properties, and cyclone filters, on the contrary, are designed for regular washing. Always check the instructions for your model - there is a valid method of care.

πŸ“Š What kind of vacuum cleaner Xiaomi you have?
Mi Robot Vacuum (Robot)
Dreame (vertical)
Deerma
Another brand
I haven't bought it yet.

When and how often you need to clean the filter

The frequency of cleaning depends on the intensity of the vacuum cleaner and the type of filter.

Type of filterRecommended frequency of cleaningSigns of a need for cleaning
HEPA-filter1 time in 1-2 monthsReduced suction power, the appearance of dust in the outgoing air
Cyclone filterAfter every cleaning.The visible dust layer on the walls, the difficult rotation of the turbine
Prefilter (sponge/net)1 time 2-4 weeksNoticeable pollution, slow filling of the dust collector
Coal filterNot cleaned, just a replacement.The appearance of a persistent smell at work

If you use a vacuum cleaner daily (e.g., Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite), you will need to clean the filters more often – about once every 3-4 weeks, and the frequency of cleaning is also affected by the type of cleaning: after wet cleaning or collecting animal hair, the filters become polluted faster.

⚠️ Warning: If the vacuum cleaner starts to make an unusual noise or automatically shuts down after a few minutes of operation, this may signal critical contamination of the filter.

Step-by-step: how to clean the filter of the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi

The cleaning process depends on the type of filter. Below we will give a universal instruction that is suitable for most Xiaomi and Dreame models.Be sure to disconnect the vacuum cleaner from the network before starting work (if it is a network model) or remove the battery (from robot vacuum cleaners).

Turn off the power vacuum cleaner

Prepare a soft brush or brush

Prepare warm water (if the filter is washed)

Wear gloves (optional, to protect against dust)-->

Cleaning. HEPA-filter (for robot vacuum cleaners)

HEPA-You can't wash filters with water, you can dry them:

  1. Remove the vacuum collector from the vacuum cleaner body (usually it is fixed with latches).
  2. Get it out carefully. HEPA-filter – it can be hidden under a pre-filter or cover.
  3. Remove large debris from the surface of the filter with your hands (wear gloves).
  4. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner at minimum power to remove dust from the fibers. Move from center to edge.
  5. If the filter is heavily polluted, you can slightly tap them on a hard surface (for example, on the edge of a garbage can).
  6. Check the integrity of the filter – if there are tears or deformities on it, it should be replaced.

After cleaning, allow the filter to ventilate for 10-15 minutes before installing it back. Do not use a hair dryer or other drying heaters!

Cleaning of cyclone filter (for vertical vacuum cleaners)

Cyclone filters in models like the Dreame V12 or Mi Handheld Vacuum can and should be washed.

  1. Disconnect the dust container from the main body.
  2. Remove the filter – it can be in the form of a cylinder or cone.
  3. Wash the filter under warm running water (not higher than 40Β°C). Use a mild detergent if the contamination is severe.
  4. A toothpick or cotton swab can be used to remove stuck particles.
  5. Rinse the filter thoroughly and leave to dry for 24 hours in a well-ventilated place.

⚠️ Warning: Never install a wet filter back into the vacuum! this may short circuit or cause mold to appear.Make sure the filter is completely dry before you assemble the device.

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If the filter has lost its shape after washing, place it for several hours in a bowl of rice - this will help absorb the residual moisture and restore the structure.

Cleaning the prefilter (sponges or nets)

The prefilters are usually located in front of the main filter and they trap large debris.

  1. Remove the prefilter from the body (it can be attached to Velcro or latches).
  2. Remove visible debris with your hands or vacuum cleaner.
  3. If the filter is spongy, rinse it underwater with soap, then squeeze it and dry it.
  4. Mesh prefilters can be cleaned with a brush or blown with compressed air (for example, a canister for cleaning equipment).

Pre-filters dry faster than the main ones - usually 2-3 hours is enough. However, take your time to collect the vacuum cleaner: it is better to wait for full drying.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Xiaomi Filters

Many users make the same mistakes that can shorten the life of the filter or even make the vacuum cleaner inoperable.

  • 🚫 Use aggressive detergents (such as bleach or acetone) that destroy the filter material and can leave toxic residues.
  • 🚫 Dry the filter with a hair dryer or on a battery. High temperature deforms. HEPA-filters and can melt plastic elements.
  • 🚫 Put the filter back wet, and that leads to corrosion of the internal parts of the vacuum cleaner and mold.
  • 🚫 Clean the filter with a hard brush or metal objects, which damages the fibers. HEPA-filter and reduce its effectiveness.
  • 🚫 Ignore the replacement of the carbon filter, and over time, it loses its adsorbing properties, and the vacuum cleaner begins to spread unpleasant odors.

HEPA-Xiaomi vacuum cleaners can't be washed in the washing machine or soaked in water, which destroys their microstructure and renders them useless. If the filter is highly contaminated and can't be cleaned dry, it needs to be replaced.

What happens if you don’t clean the filter at all?
If you neglect to care for the filter, the vacuum cleaner will lose suction power and the engine will run at its limits, which will lead to overheating, in the worst case, it can cause a turbine failure or even fire (if the dust ignites from a spark), and the polluted filter becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which is dangerous for allergic and asthmatics.

How to extend the life of the filter

To make the filter last longer, follow these tips:

  • 🌿 Empty the dust collector regularly. A full container makes the vacuum cleaner work harder, which speeds up filter contamination.
  • 🌿 Use the vacuum cleaner as intended. Do not collect construction debris, sand or liquids (unless the model is designed for wet cleaning).
  • 🌿 Keep the vacuum cleaner dry, and humidity promotes the development of mold on the filter.
  • 🌿 Buy original parts. Non-original filters may not fit in size or material, which will reduce the efficiency of cleaning.
  • 🌿 Do a preventive cleaning even if the vacuum cleaner is working normally, which will prevent the accumulation of fine dust that can not be seen with the naked eye.

If you are using a Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner, set up a filter cleaning reminder in the Mi Home app. To do this, go to Device β†’ Settings β†’ Maintenance Reminders.

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Timely replacement or cleaning of the filter not only improves the quality of cleaning, but also saves electricity - a vacuum cleaner with a clean filter spends 20-30% less battery power.

Where to buy a replacement: original filters for Xiaomi

Even with careful care, filters wear out over time. HEPA-It is recommended to change filters every 6-12 months, coal filters every 3-6 months. It is better to buy spare parts from official dealers or in trusted stores:

  • πŸ›’ Xiaomi official store (mi.com) – a guarantee of original parts, but prices are above average.
  • πŸ›’ AliExpress is a big choice, but it's a risk of getting faked.
  • πŸ›’ Yandex Market / Ozon – it is convenient to compare prices and choose the option with fast delivery.
  • πŸ›’ Xiaomi Service Centers – Sometimes sell parts at a discount on replacement.

When buying, pay attention to the filter article – it should match your model of vacuum cleaner. For example, for Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, a filter with the ZNMS15WM article is suitable, and for Dreame V12 – DM-V12-FILTER.

⚠️ Attention: Cheap filters can not only purify the air worse, but also damage the vacuum cleaner. HEPA-The filter can break up inside the device and block the motor.

FAQ: Frequent questions about cleaning Xiaomi filters

Can we wash? HEPA-filter?
No, it's strictly forbidden. HEPA-filters are made of a special fibrous material that breaks down when it comes into contact with water and detergents, and once washed, the filter will lose its properties and become useless, only dry cleaning with a brush or vacuum cleaner is allowed.
How do you know if it’s time to replace the filter instead of cleaning it?
The filter needs to be replaced if: After cleaning, the vacuum cleaner still does not suck well; the filter has holes, tears or has lost shape; when the vacuum cleaner works, it smells of burning or dust; the filter is used longer than the recommended period (for example, the filter is used for a long time, HEPA-Also replace the filter if it has persistent mold or fat stains after cleaning.
What can you replace the original filter if it is not available?
If the original filter is temporarily unavailable, you can use compatible analogues from proven brands such as Hobot, Ecovacs or iLife. The main thing is that the filter is suitable in size and type (HEPA, coal, etc.). Before buying, check the reviews and make sure that the filter is certified for use in vacuum cleaners. In extreme cases, you can cut the filter out of improvised materials (for example, from dense fabric or nonwoven fabric), but this is a temporary solution – such a filter will not provide proper air purification.
Why did the filter clean up the vacuum cleaner?
This can happen for several reasons: the filter is installed incorrectly (check the density of the fittings); when cleaning, the sealing gums are damaged, and now the air passes by the filter; the vacuum cleaner has got moisture (if the filter is not completely dry); other elements (for example, the turbine or ducts); Take apart the vacuum cleaner and check all the details. If the noise does not disappear, contact the service center.
Can I use a vacuum cleaner without a filter?
Not only does the filter clean the air, but it also protects the internal mechanisms of the vacuum cleaner from dust, without it, the engine will quickly clog, which will lead to overheating and breakage, and the vacuum cleaner will start blowing all the collected dust back into the room, negating the effect of cleaning.