Introduction: Why a robot vacuum cleaner needs water and how it works
Xiaomiβs wet cleaning robots are not just dust collectors, they are full floor care assistants, they combine dry cleaning (vacuum cleaner) and wet cleaning (washwash), which allows you to keep clean without daily manual labor, but for the equipment to work efficiently, you need to pour water into the tank correctly, which affects the quality of cleaning, the life of the device and even safety.
In this article, we will understand how to pour water into the Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner of different models (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, S10, S12, X10+ And others, which fluids are allowed to be used and which are strictly forbidden, and you'll also learn how to avoid common mistakes that lead to breakdowns or poor cleaning.
If you've just bought a robot vacuum cleaner or have been using it for a while but aren't sure you're doing it right, this is the guide for you. We've gathered up-to-date information for 2026, taking into account the latest firmware updates and new models.
What Xiaomi models support the function of wet cleaning
Not all Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners can wash floors, and the wet cleaning feature is available in the following series:
- πΉ Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop (including 2 Lite, 2 Pro, P)
- πΉ Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10/S12 (mop-up)
- πΉ Xiaomi Mijia 1T/1C (Budget options with a basic water tank)
- πΉ Xiaomi X10+ (flagship with automatic water change and drying)
- πΉ DreameBot (a line from the Xiaomi sub-brand, for example, D9, D10s Pro)
If your model is not on this list, it is likely intended only for dry cleaning. You can specify the possibility of wet cleaning in the specifications of the device or in the Mi application. Home/Xiaomi Home.
Important: Even if your robot supports washing, not all surfaces can be treated wet, such as flooring, low-moisture laminate or long-pile carpets can be affected by water. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for your type of coating.
What can and cannot be put in a water tank
It would seem that it could be easier to pour water and that's it, but in practice, the wrong choice of liquid leads to clogs in the water supply system, plaque formation on parts, or even a breakdown in the pump.
| Type of liquid | Can I use it? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Normal tap water | β Yes. | Suitable for most models, but can leave a lime plaque in regions with hard water. |
| Distilled water | β Yes (recommended) | The ideal option is not to leave a raid and not to clog the system. |
| Boiled water | β Yes. | Less rigid than tap water, but not as effective as distilled. |
| Special detergents for robot vacuum cleaners | β Yes (only permitted) | Use only certified products (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Robot Detergent). |
| Home Cleaning (Fairy, Mr. Proper) | β No. | They cause abundant foaming, clog filters and can damage the pump. |
| Vinegar, citric acid | β No. | Eating rubber seals and plastic parts. |
| Alcohol, bleach. | β No. | They can deform materials and cause corrosion. |
Critically, if you use detergent, dilute it strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions, and if you exceed concentration, it creates foam that can leak out of the robot and damage the floor.
β οΈ Warning: If your area is hard water, rinse the tank and pipes with clean water after each cleaning to avoid lime plaque buildup.
Step-by-step: how to pour water into the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi
The water refill process may vary slightly depending on the model, but the overall scheme is the same. Consider the universal algorithm in the popular Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro:
- Turn off the robot vacuum cleaner and take it out of the docking station (if any) and make sure the device is not in cleaning mode.
- Remove the water tank. It's usually located on the back of the body (on the side opposite the sensors), press a button or pull a special ledge.
- Open the tank cover. On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) S10) The lid is turned, on others - removed completely.
- Pour water to the mark MAX (It's usually 200 to 300 ml, depending on the model. Use the funnel if it comes with the kit to avoid the straits.
- Close the lid and make sure it's tightly fixed, see if there's any leaks.
- Place the tank back into the robot before you click. Make sure it's up straight, without skewing.
- Attach a washing napkin (if it is removable) on models with a mop lifting system (for example, on models with a mop lifting system, S10) The napkin should be well fixed.
After refilling the water, you can start cleaning through an app or button on the case. If the robot supports mode selection, select Wet Cleaning or Mop.
Make sure the water tank is installed correctly|
Check the water level (not above the mark) MAX)|
And then, put the sleeve on the back of the sleeve)|
Remove small objects and wires from the floor|
Select the appropriate mode in the application-->
On models with automatic water change (for example, Xiaomi) X10+) The process is simplified: the robot takes the water from the dock and drains the dirty water after cleaning, in which case you need to pour the water into the tank station, not the robot itself.
β οΈ If after refueling the water, the robot gives an error such as Water tank error or Mop system failure, check the water tank: πΉ Is the tank properly installed (it may not have clicked). πΉ No leaks or condensation on the contacts. πΉ If you have a recurring error, turn off the robot, dry all the parts, and repeat the process.
Frequent mistakes in water refilling and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that degrade cleaning or shorten the life of a robot, and the most common ones are:
- π§ Water overflow β if you pour more mark MAX, The fluid can leak into the body and damage the electronics, and some models have protection that goes off and the robot refuses to work.
- π§Ό Using inappropriate detergents -- household chemicals cause foaming that clogs the tubes and filters, and the pump stops pumping water.
- π Refilling water with the robot on - this can lead to a short circuit if the liquid gets to the contacts.
- π§½ Ignoring cleaning the tank β if you do not wash the tank after each cleaning, bacteria multiply in it, and the water begins to smell unpleasant.
- π Mixing old and new water β if the tank is left with dirty water from the previous cleaning, adding new water worsens the quality of the wash.
To avoid these problems, follow simple rules:
- πΉ Always turn off the robot before refilling the water.
- πΉ Use only distilled or boiled water if your area has hard water.
- πΉ After cleaning, drain the remaining water and dry the tank.
- πΉ Once a month, wash the water supply system with clean water (pour the water, turn on the washing mode for 1-2 minutes, then drain).
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If the robot is getting worse at washing floors, check the health of the wipe β it needs to be washed after each cleaning or replaced with a new one every 2-3 months β the contaminated fabric does not absorb water or clean the surface.
Features of water refilling in different models Xiaomi
While the way Xiaomiβs robot vacuum cleaners work is similar, some models have unique nuances.
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro and similar models
These robots have a removable water tank with a lid on the latches.
- πΉ Water is poured only in the compartment with a mark. WATER (dust-block).
- πΉ The napkin is attached to the Velcro - make sure that it is flat to the base.
- πΉ In intensive washing, water is consumed faster, so refueling for larger rooms may be required.
Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10/S12 (mop-up)
These models are equipped with a system of automatic lifting of the napkin, which allows you to avoid carpets.
- πΉ The tank is divided into two compartments: for clean and dirty water (on models with automatic change).
- πΉ Water can only be poured into a compartment with a blue mark (CLEAN WATER).
- πΉ After cleaning, the robot will drain the dirty water into the docking station (if it supports this function).
Xiaomi X10+ (water-dock)
The flagship model with automatic refueling and drying, where water is poured not into the robot, but into the docking station tank:
- πΉ The volume of the tank is up to 4 liters (enough for several cleanings).
- πΉ The station itself pours water into the robot before cleaning and drains the dirty after.
- πΉ Once a week, you need to clean the filter station from the raid.
If your model is not listed, check the instructions in the Mi Home app or on the official Xiaomi website. 3D-A robot model showing how to properly fill water.
What if the robot does not wash the floor after refilling the water?
How to care for a wet cleaning system: tips for extending the service life
For Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner to last long and efficiently wash the floors, it is not enough just to pour the water correctly.
- πΉ Water tank β wash after each cleaning with warm water, once a month disinfect with a weak solution of vinegar (1:10 with water), then rinse thoroughly.
- πΉ Pipes and pump β if water is not getting well on a napkin, clean the water supply holes with a toothpick or compressed air.
- πΉ Wash wipes β wash after each use (by hand or in a car at 30)Β°C), replace every 2-3 months.
- πΉ Docking station (if any) β drain dirty water after cleaning, clean the filter and wipe the contacts.
- πΉ Humidity sensors β wipe with a dry cloth to avoid corrosion.
Also, look at the cleaning modes in the app, like in the models. S10/S12 You can adjust the intensity of the water supply:
- πΉ Light - for delicate coatings (laminate, parquet).
- πΉ Standard - for tiles, linoleum.
- πΉ Deep - for severe pollution (but increases water consumption).
If the robot is getting worse at washing floors, try calibrating the water supply system.
- Go to Settings. β Cleaning β Calibration of the wash (the path may differ depending on the model).
- Follow the instructions on the screen (usually put the robot on a flat surface and wait for the process to be completed).
β οΈ Warning: If you havenβt used the wet cleaning function for a long time (for example, in winter), before the first start, rinse the system with clean water 2-3 times to remove possible deposits.
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Regular maintenance of a wet cleaning system not only prolongs the life of the robot, but also improves the quality of the wash. Dirty water and clogged pipes reduce efficiency by 30-50%!