How to Clean the Xiaomi Vacuum Cleaner Filter: A Complete Guide with Photos and Expert Tips

Why Cleaning Filters in Xiaomi Vacuum Cleaners and How Often

Xiaomi vacuum cleaners, from the compact Mi Handheld to the powerful Roborock robot vacuum cleaners, require regular filter maintenance. Clogged filters not only reduce suction capacity by 30 to 50 percent, but also become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold and allergens. According to Dyson research, dirty filters are not only reduced by the amount of water that is used in the air. HEPA-The filter can release up to 70 percent of the microbes it was supposed to trap, and in models with aquafilters (like Dreame). V12) Contaminated water becomes a source of unpleasant odor after 2-3 uses.

The manufacturer recommends cleaning filters after every 3-5 cleaning cycles (for hand vacuum cleaners) or every 1-2 months (for robots). But these figures are conditional: if you remove construction dust, pet hair or work in high humidity, the interval is reduced to 1-2 weeks. The main sign that the filter requires cleaning is that the vacuum cleaner begins to buzz louder, loses suction power and smells of dampness or burn.

In this article, we will examine:

  • πŸ” How different filters are in different Xiaomi models (from Mi Vacumm Cleaner to Roborock) S8 Pro Ultra)
  • πŸ’¦ Step-by-step instructions for dry and wet cleaning (including: HEPA and washable filters)
  • ⚠️ Typical errors that reduce the life of the vacuum cleaner by 2 times
  • πŸ› οΈ When the filter is no longer saved and it is time to replace it (spoiler: it is not always obvious)
πŸ“Š What kind of vacuum cleaner Xiaomi you have?
Manual (Mi Handheld, Dreame)
The Robot (Roborock, Mi Robot)
Vacuum with aquafilter (Dreame) V12 etc.)
Another brand
I haven't bought it yet.

Types of filters in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners: what do you have?

Xiaomi vacuum cleaners use up to 3-4 filter types at a time, and their design and materials depend on the model and generation of the device.

Type of filterWherever usedCan I wash?Term of service
HEPA-filter (H11–H13)All models from Mi Vacumm Cleaner to Roborock S8)❌ No (dry cleaning only)6–12 months
Washing filter (foamy, spongy)Hand vacuum cleaners (Dreame) V11, Mi Handheld), aqua filtersβœ… Yes (water) + soap)2–3 years
Cyclone filter (plastic container)Wireless vacuum cleaners (Dreame) T30, Xiaomi G10)βœ… Yes (washing under the tap)Unlimited (with proper care)
Coal filterModels with aromatization function (Roborock) S7 MaxV Ultra)❌ No (only replacement)3–6 months

How do you know which filter is in your model? Look at the manual or look at the labels:

  • πŸ”Ή HEPA β€” usually white or grey block with an inscription HEPA or high efficiency.
  • πŸ”Ή Washing – foam or rubber insert, often orange/blue.
  • πŸ”Ή Cyclone - a plastic container with a grid that is attached to the case on the latches.

If you are not sure, take a picture of the filter and compare it to the photo in the photo. FAQ end-of-article.

πŸ’‘

In Roborock vacuum cleaners with base self-cleaning function (for example, S8 Pro Ultra) HEPA-The filter changes less often – every 12-18 months, as the system automatically blows it with hot air.

Step-by-step instructions: how to clean HEPA-filter (for all models)

HEPA-The filter is the most capricious part of the vacuum cleaner, and you can't wash it with water because the wet fibers stick together and lose their filtering properties, but dry cleaning has nuances. Here's how to do it right:

  1. Removal: Turn off the vacuum cleaner. Press the lock (usually a Release button or a lever) and carefully pull out the filter. S7) It is under the lid next to the dumpster.
  2. Removing large debris: Shake the dust off the trash can or use a soft brush (e.g. to clean the camera lens). Do not use a vacuum cleaner - it will damage the fibers!
  3. Deep cleaning: β˜‘οΈ What you'll need to clean up HEPA-Filter Soft brush (not metal) Vacuum with power adjustment (at minimum speed)Fur (cold air)Mask (dust protection)Completed: 0 / 4 🧹 Use the vacuum cleaner at minimum power (keep it at a distance) 5–10 filter-inch). πŸ’¨ Blow the filter with a hair dryer in cold air mode (hot air deforms the material). 🚫 Never knock the filter on a hard surface – it rips microfibers.

Drying and installation

24 hours.

⚠️ Attention: If HEPA-The filter has dark spots or has begun to crumble, a sign of irreversible wear and tear. This filter can only be replaced (see the articles for popular models in the table below).

How dangerous is worn out HEPA-filter?
Not only do the broken fibers leak dust, they can also get into the engine of the vacuum cleaner, reducing its lifespan. HEPA-filters emit particles into the air PM2.5, which enter the lungs and cause allergies.

Cleaning of the washable filter and aquafilter (for Dreame, Xiaomi with water system)

Cleaning filters in vacuum cleaners Xiaomi Dreame V12, Mi Handheld or Roborock H7 You can and should be flushed, but there are rules:

  1. Preparation: 🚰 Use only cool water (hot deforms foam). 🧼 Add a neutral detergent (such as dishwashing fluid) – no more than 1 teaspoon per 1 liter of water.
  2. Washing: 🧽 Gently rub the filter with a soft sponge (not a hard brush!). 🚱 Don’t unscrew the filter, it will tear the material. πŸ”„ Rinse under running water until it is clear.
  3. Suit: β˜€οΈ Place the filter on the towel in a well-ventilated place (not under direct sunlight!). ⏳ Drying time: 12–24 hours (depending on the humidity in the room).

⚠️ Attention: If the filter starts to crumble or loses shape after washing, it means that its resource is exhausted. V11 washing-filter is designed for ~100 cycles of washing, after which it requires replacement.

For vacuum cleaners with aquafilter (for example, Dreame) V12):

  • πŸ’§ After each use, drain the water and wash the container.
  • 🧼 Wash a container of vinegar solution once a week (1:1 with water) – this kills bacteria.
  • 🚫 Don’t use bleach – it corrodes plastic.

πŸ’‘

In aquafilter vacuum cleaners, the main cause of bad smell is not the filter, but stagnant water in the hoses. After cleaning, pass clean water through the system for 30 seconds.

Cleaning of cyclone filter and garbage container

Cyclone filter (plastic container with mesh) is found in most wireless vacuum cleaners Xiaomi, such as Dreame T30, Mi Vacumm Cleaner G10 Roborock H7. It is cleaned after each use, otherwise the dust is tracked and clogged air channels.

Instructions:

  1. πŸ—‘οΈ Empty the container over the trash can. Don't knock on it, it'll blow the dust around the room.
  2. 🧹 Remove dust from the mesh with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner (at minimum power).
  3. πŸ’¦ Wash under water (temperature up to 40)Β°C) For stubborn dirt, use a toothpick to clean the holes.
  4. β˜€οΈ Dry in air (at least 2 hours) The moisture in the container leads to corrosion of metal parts.

⚠️ Note: In some models (e.g. Dreame) T20) The cyclone filter has a removable rubber pad, and it needs to be washed separately and lubricated with silicone lubrication every 3 months, otherwise it will crack.

For robot vacuum cleaners (Roborock) S7, Mi Robot):

  • πŸ€– The moor container is cleaned every 3-5 cleanings (or when the sensor shows fullness).
  • 🧲 Use a magnetic brush to clean the sensors inside the container (they are responsible for determining the level of garbage).

When the filter needs to be replaced, not cleaned

Even with perfect care, filters have a limited lifespan, and here are the signs that it’s time to buy a new one:

Type of filterSigns of wear and tearReplacement period (in intensive use)
HEPADarkening, holes, crumbling, smell of mold6-9 months
Washing (foamy)Loss of shape, decomposition, smell after washing1.5–2 years
CoalStop absorbing smells, there was a chemical smell3-4 months
Cyclone containerCracks, deformation, does not close tightly2–3 years

Where can I buy a replacement?

  • πŸ›’ Official stores: Mi Store, Dreame Shop, Roborock (guarantee of original quality).
  • 🌍 Marketplace: AliExpress, Amazon, Wildberries (look for sellers rated above 95%).
  • ⚠️ Avoid β€œuniversal” filters – they often don’t fit in size and let dust through.

Articles of popular filters:

  • Xiaomi Mi Handheld: ZNMSJ01FM (HEPA), ZNMSJ02FM (washable).
  • Dreame V11/V12: DM-V11-HEPA (HEPA), DM-V11-SPONGE (sponge).
  • Roborock S7/S8: RR-HEPA-S7 (HEPA), RR-FILTER-S7 (kit).

πŸ’‘

Before buying a filter, check its compatibility by the serial number of the vacuum cleaner (located on the bottom or in the instructions). V10 and V11 They look similar but have different mounts.

Top.-5 Filter cleaning errors (and how to avoid them)

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that shorten the life of a vacuum cleaner.

  1. Using hot water: ❌ What Happens: Fur filters are deformed, HEPA-filters lose their structure. βœ… How to do it: Water is not higher than 30-40Β°C.
  2. Drying on a battery or under the sun: ❌ What happens: Plastic cracks, rubber seals lose elasticity. βœ… How to Dry at room temperature in a ventilated place.
  3. Cleaning. HEPA-water-filter: ❌ What happens: The fibers stick together, the filter stops trapping dust. βœ… How to do it: Only dry cleaning with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
  4. Ignoring sealing rubbers: ❌ What happens: Dust seeps past the filter, hitting the engine. βœ… How to do it: After washing, lubricate the gums with silicone lubricant.
  5. Storage of the filter in a wet state: ❌ What happens: Mold appears, metal parts rust. βœ… How to do it: Make sure the filter is completely dry before assembly.

If you make one of these mistakes, don't panic. HEPA-filter wet, you can try to save it:

How to resuscitate wet HEPA-filter?
Spread it out on a flat surface and blow it with cold air for 10 to 15 minutes. Then leave it to dry for 48 hours. If the filter has remained in shape after that, it can be used further, but the lifespan will be reduced by 30 to 50 percent.

FAQ: Frequent questions about filters in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners

πŸ” How to know if the filter is clogged if the vacuum cleaner is working normally?
Even if the suction power has not fallen, pay attention to the: 🌑️ Overheating of the body (vacuum cleaner becomes hot after 5-10 minutes of operation). πŸ‘ƒ Extraneous odors (burnt plastic, dampness). πŸ”Š Changes in sound (whistling or buzzing at high speeds) In robot vacuum cleaners (Roborock) the sign of a clogged filter can be an increase in cleaning time by 20-30%.
πŸ’¦ Can I wash the filter in the washing machine?
❌ No, even in the "delicate wash" mode, the vibration and the centrifuge destroy the structure of the foam, the maximum is to soak in warm water and soap for 10-15 minutes, then wash by hand.
πŸ›’ Where to buy filters for Xiaomi: AliExpress or official store?
Price comparison (for 2026): Filter Official Store (β‚½) AliExpress (β‚½) Wildberries (β‚½) HEPA for Dreame V11 1,200–1,500 600–900 800–1 100 Mi Handheld wash 800–1000 300–500 400–600 ⚠️ AliExpress is at risk of getting a fake β€” check the reviews and rating of the seller. Official stores give a guarantee of 6-12 months.
🧼 What can be replaced with a special detergent for filters?
It'll do: 🧴 Fluid for washing dishes (without abrasives). πŸ‹ Citric acid solution (1 tbsp. spoon per 1 liter of water) - kills bacteria. πŸ§‚ Soda solution (1 hour spoonful of soda per 500 ml of water) - removes odors. ❌ Do not use: vinegar (corrodes rubber), bleach, chlorine products.
πŸ€– Should filters be cleaned in robot vacuum cleaners if they self-clean?
Yes, even in models with automatic base cleaning (Roborock) S8 Pro Ultra filters require maintenance: 🧹 HEPA-filter: clean every 3 months (self-cleaning removes only large debris). πŸ’§ Water filter (if any): wash once every 2 weeks. πŸ”„ Brushes and turbines: cleanse hair once a week.