How to enable wet cleaning on the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners are no longer just dry cleaning devices. Wet cleaning has become a standard solution for most models, from the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite to flagships like the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra. However, many users face difficulties when first turning on this mode: where to find settings, how to install a napkin correctly, and why the robot sometimes refuses to wash the floors. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances from basic activation to fine-tuning the intensity of cleaning.

It is important to understand that the algorithm for enabling wet cleaning can vary depending on the model and version of the firmware. For example, in low-end devices like Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop Essential, the settings are minimalistic, while in premium versions with a self-cleaning base (for example, Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+), advanced options are available - from adjusting the moisture of the wipe to choosing a detergent. We will consider the universal steps, and also point out the features of specific lines.

If your vacuum cleaner doesn't respond to commands or recognizes the water tank, the problem may lie not only in settings but also in hardware constraints. Not all Xiaomi models support wet cleaning — some are exclusively for dry cleaning. To avoid confusion, we will give you a table of compatibility of popular devices at the end of this article.

1. Verification of model compatibility with wet cleaning function

Before you try to turn on the wash mode, make sure that your Xiaomi model supports this feature at all. The fact is that even visually similar vacuum cleaners can belong to different rulers. For example, the Mi Robot Vacuum 1S (2019) does not have a water tank, while the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P (2020) is equipped with a full wet cleaning system.

The main features of the function support:

• 🔹 The body has a separate water compartment (usually marked in blue).
• 🔹 In the configuration there is a special microfibre wipe with fastening.
• 🔹 In the mobile application Mi Home or Xiaomi Home there is a tab "Wet cleaning" or "Mop Mode".
• 🔹 The box or instructions are"2-in-1" (dry + wet-cleaning).

If your model doesn't match any of the items, it's likely only for dry cleaning, in which case, trying to activate the wash mode will lead to errors in the application or complete disregard of the command by the robot.

2. Preparing the robot for the first wet cleaning

All components must be installed correctly before the mode is turned on, and failure to do so is the main reason why the vacuum cleaner does not clean floors despite the activation of the function in the application.

1. Install a water tank. It's usually in the back or side of the dust collector. Make sure the tank is tightly latched -- many models won't start cleaning unless the sensor picks up the correct installation.
2. Fix the napkin. Most Xiaomi models use magnetic or adhesive mounts, and the napkin must lie flat, without folds, or the robot will "twist" in wet areas.
3. Pour water. Use only clean water at room temperature. Some models (such as the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro) have MIN and MAX marks — do not exceed the maximum level, otherwise water may leak.

Note that if you use detergent, it should not exceed 5%. Use of harsh chemicals (such as bleach or vinegar) can damage the internal tubes and sensors of the robot. The manufacturer recommends special fluids for robot vacuum cleaners, such as Xiaomi Mop Detergent.

3. Enabling wet cleaning through the mobile application

The most reliable way to activate the mode is to use the official Mi Home or Xiaomi Home app. The interface may vary slightly depending on the region and version of the software, but the overall algorithm is the same:

1. Open the app and select your robot vacuum cleaner from the list of devices.
2. Go to the Cleaning tab (or Clean in English).
3. Click on the icon with a drop of water or the inscription “Wet cleaning” (Mop Mode).
4. Choose the intensity: 🌊 Weak - for laminate and parquet. 🌊🌊 Medium - for tile and linoleum. 🌊🌊🌊 Strong - for persistent contamination (not available on all models).

Start

If your app doesn’t have a separate wet cleaning button, try updating the robot’s firmware. Go to Device Settings → Software Update. Also check that you’re using the latest version of Mi Home – sometimes new features only appear after an update.

4. Activation of wet cleaning from physical buttons

Some Xiaomi models (such as Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite) allow you to turn on the wash mode without a smartphone - directly from the control panel on the body.

1. Make sure the water tank is installed and filled.
2. Press and hold the Clean (or Clean) button for 3 seconds until the water drop lights up.
3. With a quick click on the same button, start the process.

5.Setting up cleaning and avoidance zones for wet cleaning

By default, the robot will wash all available surfaces, but it's not always convenient. For example, you might want to exclude carpets or wood-coated areas. For this, the Mi Home app has a Cleanup Zone feature:

1. Open the map of your home in the app (if it is not already created, run the robot for a full cleaning for scanning).
2. Click on the Zone icon (usually in the lower right corner).
3. Choose Add a Cleaning Zone or Add a Avoidance Zone.
4. Circle the desired area on the map and save.

For wet cleaning, it is especially important to adjust the avoidance zones on carpets – excess moisture can damage their structure. In premium models (for example, Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+) there is a feature for automatically lifting the wipe on carpets, but in budget versions this option will have to be adjusted manually.

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If the robot is constantly "lost" in difficult areas (for example, in doorways), before wet cleaning, run it in dry cleaning mode with map construction, which will help to more accurately determine the areas of avoidance.

6. Frequent errors and their solution

Even when properly configured, users face problems with wet cleaning, and here are the most common situations and ways to fix them:

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the robot to the factory settings. To do this, press the power button for 10 seconds (on some models, you need to press Reset on the bottom panel). After reset, reset the Wi-Fi connection and cleaning options.

7.Care for the wet cleaning system: extending the life of the robot

For the wash function to work long and efficiently, it is necessary to regularly maintain the key components:

• 🧼 Water tank, wash it after each cleaning with warm water to avoid plaque. Once a month disinfect with a weak solution of vinegar (1:10 with water).
• 🧽 Wash it by hand at 30.°C without aggressive powders. Don't use bleach - it destroys the microfiber. Replace the napkin every 3-6 months.
• 🔧 Pipes and pumps: purify the water supply system every 3 months (you can use a can of compressed air).
• 📱 Sensors. Wipe infrared sensors with a wet wipe, and dust on them can cause false positives.

Pay special attention to detergent. Using household chemicals that are not designed for robot vacuum cleaners causes the pump to break 80 percent of the time. If you want to save money, you can use diluted baby shampoo (1 cap per 1 liter of water), but you'd better buy specialized formulations.

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Regular cleaning of the tank and pipes prevents 90% of the malfunctions associated with wet cleaning. Neglect of care leads to clogging of the system and expensive repairs.

8.Comparison of Xiaomi models by wet cleaning features

Not all Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners are equally good for floor washing. Below is a table with key characteristics of popular models:

If you're just planning to buy, look for models with a vibrating napkin (e.g. Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro), which is better at dealing with persistent contamination by simulating manual cleaning. Large rooms will be suitable for robots with a tank of 300 ml, they do not have to be filled with water in the middle of the process.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions