Dispenser for liquid soap Xiaomi Mijia: how to properly refuel and maintain

Xiaomi’s Mijia series of automatic liquid soap dispensers have become a popular solution for bathrooms and kitchens thanks to a combination of stylish design, infrared sensor and integration into the Mi Home ecosystem. However, many users face difficulties in first refueling the device, from choosing the right soap to properly assembling the tank. This article will help you understand all the nuances of the process, avoid typical errors and extend the service life of the dispenser.

We will take a detailed look at not only the standard refueling procedure, but also alternative methods (for example, the use of thick gels or homemade solutions), as well as recommendations for the care of the device. Particular attention will be paid to the Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser 2023 and Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro models, which have some design differences from earlier versions. If you just purchased a dispenser or plan to do so, save this instruction bookmarked!

Preparation for gas station: what you need to know before starting

Before starting refueling, it is important to consider several key points that affect the operation of the device. First, not all liquid soaps are suitable for Xiaomi automatic dispensers. The manufacturer recommends using formulations with a viscosity similar to the original Mijia soap (about 1000-1500 mPaΒ·s). Too thick gels (for example, for showers) or liquid solutions (diluted soap) can lead to clogging of the pump or incorrect dosage.

Second, check the equipment of your dispenser.

  • πŸ“¦ Main body with infrared sensor
  • πŸ’§ Removable soap tank (usually 300 or 400 ml)
  • πŸ”Œ Power adapter (for models with wire) or battery compartment (for wireless versions)
  • πŸ“„ Instructions in Chinese (often without Russian translation)
  • πŸ”§ Fixing elements (for wall installation, if provided)

If you're using the dispenser for the first time, don't pour soap right after unpacking -- first plug the device in (or install batteries) and wait for the pump to initialize (it takes 10-15 seconds) to prevent air traffic jams in the system. Also make sure the tank is completely dry inside -- moisture can cause foaming when mixed with new soap.

πŸ“Š What model of Xiaomi Mijia dispenser do you use?
Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser (2023)
Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro
The 2020-2022 model.
Other (specify in the comments)
I haven't bought it yet.

Step-by-step: how to fill the dispenser with liquid soap

The refueling process takes no more than 5 minutes, but requires care. Follow this algorithm to avoid leaks or breakdowns:

  1. Turn off the power. Remove the batteries (if the model is wireless) or disconnect the adapter from the socket. This will prevent the pump from accidentally operating during refueling.
  2. Remove the top cover. Most models have a magnetic lock on it, pull it up with a little effort. Some versions (like the Mijia Pro) have a counterclockwise spin on the top.
  3. Remove the tank. Carefully raise the tank by the handle or special grooves. If the tank is boiling (occurs after long use), do not pull force, slightly spin it left and right.
  4. Rinse the tank (if this is not your first refill). Use warm water and a soft sponge. Don't use abrasive cleaning products, they can damage the interior.
  5. Fill the tank with no more than 80% of the volume to avoid overflows when the pump is running. Use the funnel or nose of the original Mijia bottle for convenience.
  6. Put the tank back in. Make sure it's firmly seated -- it's got to be a little click -- make sure the pump tube isn't twisted.
  7. Close the lid and turn on the power. Wait for the dispenser to emit a short beep (in models with a speaker) - this means that the system is ready to go.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before refueling

Done: 0 / 5

After filling, test the dispenser: hold your hand to the sensor at a distance of 5-10 cm. If the soap is not supplied or is jerking, then there is air in the system. To eliminate the plug, press the pump manually (through the hole at the bottom of the case) 2-3 times until a uniform stream goes.

What if the dispenser does not give out soap after refueling?
If the soap is not supplied after refueling, check: 1. The correct installation of the tank (possibly the pump tube is not immersed in the liquid). 2. Battery charge (at a discharge below 20%, the pump may not work). 3. Soap viscosity - too thick a gel can block the mechanism. 4. Air traffic jam (resolved by manually pressing the pump) If the problem persists, reset the dispenser settings via the Mi Home app (Devices section" β†’ select the dispenser β†’ "Reset").

What soap is suitable for Xiaomi Mijia dispenser: recommendations and prohibitions

The choice of liquid soap depends not only on the quality of the dispenser, but also its durability. Xiaomi manufacturer recommends using the original Mijia Antibacterial Soap, but it is not always available in Russia.

Type of soapIs it okay?Notes
Liquid soap with dispenser (e.g. Dove, Palmolive)βœ… Yes.Optimal viscosity, but avoid gels with large particles (scrabs).
Antibacterial soaps (e.g. Safeguard)βœ… Yes.It does not contain abrasives, but can clog the pump faster due to density.
Shower gel (Nivea, Garnier)⚠️ Conditionally.Only if diluted with water (1:1). The clean gel is too thick for the pump.
Homemade solutions (household soap) + water)❌ No.Causes corrosion of metal parts of the pump and foaming.
Disinfectant solutions (alcohol-containing)❌ No.Eats rubber seals and reduces the life of the device.

If you prefer green solutions, you can use liquid castor soap or coco-glucoside solutions (e.g. Ecover), which are safe for the dispenser mechanisms and do not leave a sticky coating. Avoid triclosan or triclosan products. SLES β€” These components have an aggressive effect on plastic.

⚠️ Warning: Never mix in the same tank residues of old soap with new soap if they are of different consistency or brand.This can lead to a chemical reaction (for example, the formation of flakes) that will clog the pump.

Frequent mistakes in refueling and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to dispenser malfunctions, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

  • 🚫 Soap overflow. If you pour the tank over, when you heat it up (like a hot bathtub), the liquid will expand and flow over the edges. Always leave 1-2 cm of free space.
  • 🚫 Use a particle soap. Scrubs or microbeaded gels (like L'Occitane) clog the pump filter. Check the composition for abrasives.
  • 🚫 If the tank is crooked, the pump will grab air instead of soap. Always check that the tube is submerged in liquid.
  • 🚫 Ignoring leaks. If drops appear under the dispenser after filling, immediately disassemble the device and check the sealing ring.

Another common problem is that the sensor fails, and if the dispenser doesn't respond to the arm, the reasons may be as follows:

  • πŸ”‹ Replace batteries with new ones, even if the indicator is still burning).
  • 🌑️ Direct sunlight on the sensor (move the device into the shadow).
  • 🧴 Soapy divorces on the sensor (wipe it with a dry napkin).
  • πŸ“± Firmware failure (reboot the dispenser through the Mi Home app).

1. Turn off the power.

2.Push and hold the reset button (usually located at the bottom of the case) for 5 seconds.

3. Reset the device.

This procedure resets the dosage settings to factory.-->

Dispenser maintenance: how to extend the service life

Regular care of the Xiaomi Mijia dispenser will avoid breakdowns and keep it working for years.

  1. Weekly cleaning. Rub the body and sensor with a wet wipe dipped in a weak soap solution. Avoid water entering the pump hole.
  2. Deep cleaning once a month. Wash the pump tank and tube under running water. Vinegar solution (1:10 with water) can be used for disinfection, but no more than 1 time every 3 months.
  3. Check seals. Check the rubber ring on the tank every six months. If it loses its elasticity, replace it (parts sold on AliExpress).
  4. Firmware update. Check for updates regularly through the Mi Home app, which improves the sensor and pump.

For models with UV-The lamp (for example, Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro) should be used in the:

  • πŸ’‘ Once every 2 weeks clean the lamp from soapy plaque with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
  • πŸ”„ Do not turn on the lamp for more than 3 minutes in a row - this reduces its life.

⚠️ Warning: If the dispenser is used in a public place (such as an office), increase the cleaning frequency to 2 times a week. the accumulation of bacteria on the sensor can lead to its false positives or even break the infrared sensor.

Alternative methods of refueling: thick gels and homemade solutions

If you need to use a thick gel or homemade soap, you'll have to modify the refueling process a little bit.

1.Dilluminate thick gel

For Dove or Nivea gels, the optimal ratio to water is 1:1. Mix the components in a separate container, then pour into the tank. To avoid stratification, add 1 tsp of glycerol per 100 ml of solution, which stabilizes the consistency.

2. Use of foaming agents

For foaming soaps (like Fa), you need to foam beforehand. Pour the soap into a separate bottle, add water (30% of the volume) and shake it until it foams. Only then pour it into the dispenser. Note that the foam dries faster in the pump tube, so you have to clean the device more often.

3. Homemade solutions based on household soap

If you prefer natural remedies, you can prepare a solution from household soap (72%):

  1. Grate 20g of soap on the gutter.
  2. Dissolve in 200 ml of hot water.
  3. Add 1 tbsp of glycerol and 5 drops of essential oil (such as lavender).
  4. Cool and strain through gauze to remove undissolved particles.

This solution is safe for the dispenser, but it should be used for 2 weeks - over time it can thicken.

πŸ’‘

For alternative solutions, always use a filter (you can cut from capron tights) when pouring into the tank, which will prevent even microscopic particles from entering the pump.

Comparison models: which dispenser Xiaomi Mijia better to refuel

The Xiaomi Mijia range features several dispenser models that differ not only in design but also in tank design, which affects the ease of refueling and maintenance:

ModelVolume of the reservoirType of foodFeatures of refuelingDifficulty of care
Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser (2023)300 ml4Γ—AA batteriesMagnetic cover, tank is removed in one motion⭐⭐ (clean)
Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro400 mlUSB-C (network adapter)The tank with threads, requires careful twisting⭐⭐⭐ (harder to flush UV-lamp)
Mijia Soap Dispenser (2020–2022)250 ml3Γ—AAA batteryThe lid on the latches, often sticks⭐⭐⭐⭐ (hard to understand)
Mijia Mini180 mlUSB (battery-in)A compact but small tank quickly runs out of steam.⭐ (easiest)

For home use, the Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser (2023) is the best choice, combining ease of refueling, large volume and reliability (UV-lamp, dosage adjustment, but requires more careful care: older versions (2020-2022) are best avoided due to problems with mounting the lid and small volume.

Can you use hand sanitizer liquid (for example, a sanitizer) in the Xiaomi Mijia dispenser?
No, it is strongly discouraged. Alcohol-containing solutions (ethanol concentration above 60%) corrode rubber seals and plastic parts of the pump. If you need a disinfectant, choose alcohol-free antiseptics based on chlorhexidine or benzalkonium chloride (for example, Cutasept).
How often should I change the soap in the dispenser if the whole family uses it?
When using (5-7 people), the tank for 300-400 ml lasts for 2-3 weeks. However, even if the soap is not out, it is recommended to update it every 4 weeks - over time, bacteria can multiply in the container, especially if the dispenser is in a warm room (for example, next to the shower cabin).
Dispenser started making a loud noise when he was working.
Noise is usually caused by one of the reasons: Pump clogs β€” disassemble the device and flush the tube. Motor bearing wear requires replacement (contact service). Low quality soap β€” try to change the brand to a more liquid. If the noise appeared after the dispenser fell, check the integrity of the housing β€” cracks can cause vibration.
Can I fill the dispenser with shampoo or hair conditioner?
Technically, but not recommended. Shampoos and air conditioners contain silicones and oils that settle on the walls of the tube and pump, eventually forming a sticky plaque. If you still need to use them, dilute them with water in a 1:2 ratio and clean the dispenser every week.
How to reset the Xiaomi Mijia dispenser settings to factory ones?
To reset, take the following steps: Turn off the power (take out the batteries or disconnect the adapter). Press and hold the button at the bottom of the case (usually hidden under the sticker) for 10 seconds. Connect the power back. Dispenser will emit a double beep, which means that the reset was successful. After the reset, you may need to reconnect to the Mi Home application.