Xiaomi's automatic liquid soap dispensers are popular bathroom and kitchen gadgets that save money and add convenience to everyday life. But even these simple devices have questions: how to replace soap so you don't break the mechanism? What tool to choose for Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser or Viomi Smart Foam Dispenser? And why did the dispenser suddenly stop issuing foam?
In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of replacing soap in Xiaomi dispensers (including models with a sensor and a mechanical pump), talk about compatible products and typical errors that lead to breakdowns, and you will find a table of compatibility of detergents and instructions for cleaning the tank from the residues of old gel.
If your dispenser starts spitting with soap or produces too little foam, don't rush to bring it to the service. 90% of the time, the problem is solved by the correct replacement of the product and basic cleaning. And for owners of smart models with the Mi Home app, we have a bonus: how to reset the flow counter after refueling.
What Xiaomi dispensers support soap replacement
Not all Xiaomi devices allow you to refill the tank yourself, here is a list of models in which you can replace soap:
- 🔹 Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser (contactless, with an IR sensor) is the most common model with a capacity of 300 ml.
- 🔹 Viomi Smart Foam Dispenser (with foam generator) - produces foam, compatible with thick gels.
- 🔹 Xiaomi Youpin Smart Dispenser (mechanical pump) - budget option without electronics.
- 🔹 Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser Pro - premium version with dose adjustment and backlighting.
❌ Do not support replacement disposable dispensers of the Mijia Mini series (with cartridges) and some OEM-They have a tank sealed by a manufacturer.
If you are not sure about the model, check the markings on the bottom of the device or in the Mi Home app (Smart Home section» → select the dispenser → «On the device. "" Models with removable tanks usually have a latch or threaded cover on the body.
What soap can be poured into the dispenser Xiaomi
The manufacturer recommends using a liquid soap or gel with a pH of 5.5-7.0 and a viscosity of no more than 1500 mPa·s (approximately like shampoo), but other means are also suitable in practice - the main thing is to avoid aggressive components.
| Type of instrument | Examples of brands | Compatibility with dispenser | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid soap | Dove, Fa, Safeguard | ✅ Great. | The best option for all models. |
| Hand gel | Nivea, Cleanic, Ecolab | ✅ Good. | Drink the thick gels with water (1: 1). |
| Antibacterial soap | Palmolive Antibacterial, Lifebuoy | ⚠️ Conditionally. | It can damage seals with long use. |
| shaving foam | Gillette, Nivea Men | ❌ Not recommended | It clogs the foam generator in Viomi models. |
| Homemade mixtures (soap) + water + essential oils) | — | ⚠️ Careful. | Oils can oxidize plastic. Max. 2-3 drops per 100 ml. |
Critical: Never use products with abrasive particles (scrabs), bleach or solvents (acetone, alcohol) >They break the pads and lead to leaks.
⚠️ Warning: If after replacing the soap, the dispenser starts to sneeze or give the product in jerks, most likely, you filled it with too thick a gel. Dilute it with warm water (1 part water to 2 parts gel) and mix it.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing soap
The refueling process varies depending on the type of dispenser, and below is the universal instruction for most Xiaomi models.
Turn off the dispenser from power (if it is an electrical model)
Prepare a new soap (check the viscosity)
Take cotton swabs and wipes for cleaning
Put a container for draining residues (if necessary)
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1. Removable tank (models Mijia, Viomi)
These dispensers have a soap compartment that is attached to latches or threads:
- Turn over the dispenser and find a button or lever to open the tank (usually indicated by an arrow).
- Press the button and pull the tank upwards. In some models, you need to turn the lid counterclockwise.
- Pour out the residues of the old soap. If it thickens, wash the tank with warm water (do not use hot!).
- Pour the new remedy to the mark MAX (It's usually 250-300 ml!
- Set the tank back up until you hear a click.
2. Mechanical dispensers (Youpin)
In these models, the pump is located on top and the reservoir is often non-removable:
- Remove the top cover by turning it counterclockwise.
- Remove the pump (it just comes out).
- Pour the soap through the neck of the tank with a funnel.
- Install the pump back and twist the lid.
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If the soap leaks after filling, check the rubber gasket at the bottom of the tank. Over time, it deforms - replace it (you can cut from the silicone workpiece).
3.Smart dispensers with the Mi Home app
For models with Mi Home connectivity (e.g. Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro):
- Replace the soap according to the instructions above.
- Open the Mi Home app → select the dispenser → «Settings» → «Resetting the meter».
- Click "Confirm" to reset the flow data.
If after replacement the dispenser does not respond to the sensor, reset: press the power button for 5 seconds until the indicator flashes.
Cleaning the dispenser before replacing the soap
Residues of old soap can mix with new soap to form lumps or reduce the quality of foam.
- 🧼 Soap plaque: wash the tank with warm water with the addition of vinegar (1 tbsp. spoon per 200 ml).
- 🦠 Bacteria: Use a solution of chlorhexidine (0.05%) or hydrogen peroxide (3%).
- 🔧 Clogged pump: Clean the sprayer hole with a needle or toothpick.
For deep cleaning of the foam generator (in Viomi models):
- Remove the foam generator grid (it is attached to the latches).
- Soak it in a solution of citric acid (1 hour spoon per glass of water) for 15 minutes.
- Wash it under running water and dry it.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal objects to clean the pump - they scratch the plastic and lead to leaks. For hard-to-reach places, take cotton swabs or a soft toothpick.
What if the dispenser stopped dispensing soap after cleaning?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when replacing soaps.
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| Soap transfusion above MAX tag | Leaks, pump jamming | Pump off the surplus with a syringe |
| Using a thick gel without dilution | The pump works in jerks or does not give out the means | Dilute with water (1:1) and stir |
| Cold soap filling (below) +15°C) | Deterioration of foaming | Heat the bottle in warm water before refueling |
| Mixing different types of products (for example, soap) + antiseptic) | Precipitation, pipe clogging | Wash the tank and fill only one remedy |
If the dispenser started making strange sounds (squeaking, crackling) after the soap was replaced, it probably got air into the pump.
- Remove the tank.
- Press the pump 5-6 times to squeeze out the air.
- Set the tank back up and check the work.
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If the dispenser stopped working after the soap was replaced, 95% of the time the problem is solved by flushing the tank and pumping the pump; only 5% of the breakdowns require repair (usually a failure of the motor or sensor).
How to prolong the life of a Xiaomi dispenser
The average lifespan of Xiaomi dispensers is 2-3 years, but with proper care, they last longer. Here are 5 rules for durability:
- 🔋 Power: Use only original power supplies (5V/1A). Cheap charging causes motor overheating.
- 💧 Humidity: Do not install the dispenser under direct water jets (for example, near a shower watering pot).
- ☀️ Temperature: Avoid places with heat above +40°C (e.g., near the stove).
- 🔄 Regularity: Change soap at least 1 time every 2 months, even if it is not out of order.
- 🛠 Service: once every six months disassemble the pump and lubricate silicone gaskets with glycerin.
For smart models with a connection to Mi Home, set up notifications about low soap levels. This will help avoid the dry work, which is harmful to the pump.
If you use a dispenser in the kitchen (for example, for detergent), flush the tank after each refill cycle. Fats and food residue quickly spoil the plastic.