Xiaomi's automatic soap dispensers are a popular solution for bathroom or kitchen, combining convenience and hygiene. But original liquid soap cartridges are expensive, and often end up in volume faster than you'd like. Many users prefer to refill the devices themselves by diluting concentrated soap or shower product. However, the wrong proportions can lead to clogs, weak foam, or even breakdown of the mechanism.
In this article, we'll explore how to properly dilute soap for Xiaomi Viomi, Mijia and other dispensers to save money without compromising quality. We tested different ratios of water to detergent, looked at user reviews, and identified key mistakes that beginners make, and we'll also share secrets to extend the life of the device and avoid typical problems.
If you use a touch dispenser (e.g. Xiaomi Viomi Automatic Soap Dispenser), it is important to consider the viscosity of the liquid. Too thick soap can clog the pump, too liquid can foam poorly. The optimal balance depends on the type of detergent and the hardness of the water in your area.
There are some tips online to dilute soap by eye, but this approach often leads to breakdowns or inefficiencies, and we've collected validated data and put together a table of proportions for different types of products, from shower gel to antibacterial soap.
What Soap Is Right for Xiaomi Dispenser
Not all detergents work equally well in automatic dispensers.
- π§Ό Consistency: liquid or gel-like (thick cream soap will not work).
- π§ Composition: free of abrasive particles and large granules (they clog the mechanism).
- π§ͺ PH neutrality: Aggressive alkaline agents can damage plastic parts.
- πΏ Environmental friendliness: for families with children it is better to choose hypoallergenic options.
Best-recognized:
- π§΄ Liquid soap brands Dove, Fa, Sanex (without fragrances).
- πΏ Shower gels marked "for sensitive skin".
- π§Ό Antibacterial agents (for example, Safeguard), but not more than 1 time in 2 refueling.
- π§½ Hand concentrates (e.g. Ecover) that initially require dilution.
What can't be poured:
- π« Soap with solid particles (scrabs, peels).
- π« Products with a high alcohol content (dry the skin and spoil seals).
- π« Thick creams or balms (clog the tubes).
β οΈ Warning: If you use Xiaomi Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser with UV lamp, avoid optical bleach products β they can respond to UV light and leave stains on the case.
Optimal proportions for diluting soap
The ratio of water to soap depends on the original consistency of the product and the dispenser model. For most Xiaomi devices, the following proportions are suitable:
| Type of soap | Proportion (soap:water) | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid soap (standard) | 1:1 or 1:1.5 | Perfect for Viomi and Mijia, it's a good foam. |
| shower gel | 1:2 | Dilute with warm water for better mixing. |
| Concentrate (e.g. Ecover) | 1:3 | You can increase to 1:4 if the foam is too aggressive. |
| Antibacterial soap | 1:1 | Donβt dilute too much β efficiency decreases. |
| Baby soap. | 1:0.5 (add water to minimum) | Avoid dilution if the skin is prone to dryness. |
Critical nuance: for pump dispensers (for example, Xiaomi Viomi) V-SD01) you can not use a ratio of less than 1: 2 - the liquid will become too fluid, and the dispenser will "spit" instead of uniform spraying.
How to mix correctly:
- Pour warm water into a clean container (30β40)Β°C).
- Add the soap with a thin trickle, stirring constantly.
- Let the mixture stand for 10-15 minutes - this will remove the bubbles.
- Strain through the gauze if there are lumps.
Check the cleanliness of the container|Use distilled or boiled water|Mix the soap in advance (not in the dispenser itself)|Wash the nose of the dispenser before filling-->
Step-by-step instructions for filling the dispenser
To avoid leaks and clogging of the mechanism, follow the algorithm:
- Preparation: Turn the dispenser out of the socket (if it's powered) Remove the top cover, get the soap container.
- Clean: Wash the tank with warm water with vinegar (1:10) if you have previously used another remedy, which will remove the residue and prevent a chemical reaction.
- Gas station: πΉ Pour the diluted soap to the mark MAX (higher!). πΉ Make sure there are no bubbles in the liquid β they can cause false sensor alerts.
Verification
For models with a UV lamp (for example, Xiaomi Viomi) V-SD02):
- π‘ After refueling, let the lamp work for 3-5 minutes - this disinfects the new soap.
- π‘ Do not use dyes β they can settle on the lamp.
Viomi Automatic Soap Dispenser|Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser|Another Xiaomi model|Not Xiaomi.|I haven't bought it yet.-->
β οΈ Attention: If after filling the dispenser starts to sneeze, it means that the tube has formed an air plug. Solution: remove the container, shake it and install it back by pressing the dispenser 2-3 times to pump.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that shorten the life of the dispenser.
- π° Tap water use: chlorine and hardness salts settle on the machine. Solution: take distilled or boiled water.
- π§΄ Mixing different means: for example, a shower gel + It can cause a chemical reaction, solution: use one remedy or thoroughly flush the container between gas stations.
- π₯ Hot soap filling: heat warps plastic Solution: cool the mixture to room temperature.
- π Ignoring cleaning: residues of soap dry up and block the pump.Solution: flush the dispenser every 2-3 refills (see section below).
Another common problem is that the dispenser stopped dispensing soap, even though the container is full.
- π Your nose is clogged (clean with a toothpick).
- π Setting battery (replace the batteries).
- π§ Too thick soap (dilute with water 1:1).
What if the dispenser gives out soap unevenly?
How to clean the Xiaomi dispenser from plaque and blockages
Regular cleaning prolongs the life of the device and prevents the reproduction of bacteria.
- π§Ό Weekly: wipe the body and nose with a wet wipe.
- π§ Every 2-3 refills: deep cleaning of the tank.
- π¦ Once a month: disinfection (for models with a UV lamp, it is enough to turn it on for 10 minutes).
Step-by-step cleaning:
- Remove the soap container, pour out the leftovers.
- Wash the tank with a warm solution of vinegar (1:10) or citric acid (1 tsp. per glass of water).
- Clean the nose of the dispenser with a toothpick or a soft brush.
- Rinse all the parts with clean water and dry.
- Use chlorhexidine 0.05% (do not dilute!) for disinfection.
For Viomi models with removable pump:
- π§ Disconnect the pump according to the instructions.
- π§ Wash it under running water (do not use aggressive detergents!).
- π§ Lubricate the O-ring with silicone lubricant (sold in plumbing stores).
π‘
If the dispenser smells of vinegar after cleaning, fill it with diluted soap with a few drops of essential oil (lavender or tea tree) to neutralize the smell and add antibacterial effect.
Saving soap: life hacks for Xiaomi dispenser
The average soap consumption in automatic dispensers is 0.5-1 ml per press, but there are ways to reduce costs without sacrificing hygiene.
- π° Reduce the dosage: in the settings of some models (for example, Viomi) V-SD01) You can select the portion size. You can set the minimum value.
- π§ Use a two-phase system: first squeeze the water, then soap - so it foams better.
- π§΄ Add glycerin (1 tsp per 100 ml of mixture) β this will make the soap more βslipperyβ and reduce consumption.
- π Switch modes: If the dispenser supports eco mode, turn it on for everyday use.
Another way to save money is to make your own soap, like baby bar soap.
- Grate 100g of soap on the grate.
- Dissolve in 300 ml of hot water, stirring constantly.
- Add 1 tbsp glycerol and 5 drops of essential oil.
- Cool and dilute with 1:1 water before refueling.
Important: homemade soap can give less foam, but it is hypoallergenic and costs 5-10 times cheaper than a store soap.
Xiaomi Dispensers Comparison: Which Is Best for Self-Refueling
Not all models are equally convenient to use with diluted soap, and we analyzed popular devices:
| Model | Volume, ml | Type of dispenser | Is it good for diluted soap? | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Viomi V-SD01 | 300 | Sensory | Yes (1:1-1:2) | UV lamp, dosage adjustment |
| Xiaomi Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser | 250 | Mechanical | Yes (1:1) | Simple construction, easy cleaning |
| Viomi V-SD02 | 400 | Sensory + UF | Yes (1:1.5β1:2) | Large volume, but sensitive to soap density |
| Xiaomi Youpin Soap Dispenser | 200 | Mechanical | No (original cartridges only) | Not designed for self-fueling. |
For homemade mixtures, it is better to choose models with a removable tank and the ability to adjust the dosage. V-SD01 β Best option: it is compatible with diluted soap and easy to clean.
π‘
If you often dilute soap, avoid dispensers with a non-removable pump (for example, Youpin) - they are difficult to wash from plaque.