How to run a robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi on wet cleaning

The inclusion of the floor washing function on Xiaomi devices often raises questions among new owners, since the process is not always obvious without prior preparation. Many users mistakenly believe that it is enough to just press a button on the case, but for the correct operation of the wet cleaning system, a number of actions are required to install consumables.

Unlike dry vacuuming, it uses an electronic water control system that requires the tank to be positioned correctly, so if you just put a wet cloth on the floor, the robot will smear the dirt, not clean the surface, so it's important to follow the sequence described in the official manual and proven operational practices.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the mechanical installation of the module, the settings in the Mi Home application and the nuances of the various models. You will learn how to adjust the intensity of the water supply and why some modes may not be available without special accessories.

Preparation and installation of a washing platform

The first step is to physically prepare the device for liquids, and you need to remove the main dust container, if it is installed, and replace it with a combined tank or a special platform with a water tank. Depending on the Xiaomi Vacuum model, the design may differ: some versions use a single unit, others use a removable platform attached to the bottom.

It is important to make sure that the tank is filled with water up to the MAX mark.The use of hot water or aggressive detergents is strictly prohibited, as this can damage plastic seals and pumps.Put only cold tap or filtered water to avoid scaling on the internal elements of the system.

Once the tank is installed, you need to attach a microfiber wipe platform to the bottom, and it's the contact of the wipe with the floor surface that activates the sensors that tell the processor to go into wash mode, and without this mechanical contact, it may be impossible or inefficient to run the function through the application.

⚠️ Warning: Before installing the platform, make sure that the carpet roller brush is removed or raised (if the model allows), otherwise it will get wet and become unusable.

β˜‘οΈ Pre-launch checks

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Setting up parameters in the Mi Home app

After the mechanical assembly, you need to go to the software part. Open the Mi Home app on your smartphone and select your robot vacuum cleaner from the list of devices. The interface may vary slightly depending on the regional version of the firmware, but the management logic remains the same for the smart home ecosystem.

In the main control menu, find a button or icon that controls the cleaning options, often marked with a water droplet or a Mode, where you'll have to choose the fluid intensity, and there's usually three levels available: low, medium, and high, and smart distribution mode.

To maintain cleanliness on hard surfaces (laminate floor, tile), it is recommended to use medium settings. If the floor has severe contamination, you can increase the water supply, but remember that this will increase the drying time of the surface.

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Use the β€œSilent Cleaning” mode at night – it not only reduces engine noise, but also reduces the intensity of the water supply so as not to splash liquid around the room.

Starting cleaning and choosing operating modes

You can start the process in a number of ways, from the device body, through the app, or through voice assistants. When you press a button on the body, the robot usually starts working in the last mode used. It is more convenient to use the smartphone interface to select specific scenarios.

In the mode menu, you can choose "Wet Cleaning Only" or "Combined." In the first case, the robot will ignore the carpets (if recognition is enabled) and focus on washing. In the second, it will first collect large debris and then start cleaning the floor.

Some advanced models, such as the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ or the Dreame series, support carpet avoidance. When activated, the robot will go around textile coatings or lift the platform if the design presupposes!

Regime.DescriptionWater consumption
Low (Low)Light moisturizing to support cleanlinessMinimum
Medium (Medium)Standard cleaning for laminate and tileModerate.
High (High)For severe pollution and persistent stainsMaximum
Smart (Smart)Automatic adjustment by type of coatingVariable
πŸ“Š How often do you use a wet cleaning?
Every day.
2-3 times a week
Once a week.
Only if necessary.

Adjustment of water supply and intensity

The quality of cleaning depends on the right amount of hydration, and if you notice that there are puddles on the floor after the robot passes, you need to lower the feed level in the application settings, and vice versa, if the napkin remains almost dry and the divorces are not removed, you should increase the parameter.

Modern models are equipped with an electronic pump that dispenses water with high precision. Unlike the gravity systems of the old models, here you can be sure that water does not flow out of its own accord when the robot is on the base, which allows you to leave the device on even in your absence.

Pay attention to the microfiber, if the fabric is worn out or too contaminated, it will absorb less water and will wash the floor worse, regardless of the pump settings, regular washing or changing a wipe is a prerequisite for the quality of the system.

⚠️ Note: Do not use high water on parquet boards without lacquer coating, as excess moisture can lead to swelling of the wood.

Features of working with carpets and mats

Interaction with textile coatings is the most delicate aspect of operation. Xiaomi’s standard robot vacuum cleaner models, when they detect a carpet (wheel resistance or map data), either pass it or stop in front of it.

If your robot can't lift the washing module, you'll either have to put up with a wet carpet or use virtual walls. In the Mi Home app, you can draw forbidden areas over carpet products so that the robot never comes in with the platform installed.

There is a life hack for models without automatic lifting: you can use magnetic tapes (if supported) or just remove the platform before launching in rooms with a lot of carpets. This will take time, but will keep the textile dry.

Can I wash the floor with chemistry?
You can't use conventional household chemicals -- they foam and clog the pump. You can add low-foaming products, but the manufacturer often recommends that you use only water.

System care and tank maintenance

After the cleaning cycle is complete, don't leave the water in the tank for long. Stagnation causes an unpleasant odor and bacteria to multiply inside the tank and the hoses. Pour the remaining fluid and let the system dry.

Microfiber wipes must be washed after each use, or at least thoroughly rinsed, leaving microparticles of dust and fatty contamination on the fabric, which, when reused, will simply be smeared on the floor, creating the effect of dirty divorces.

Once a month, it is recommended to carry out preventive cleaning of the tank itself. Wash it with warm water without using brushes with hard bristles, so as not to scratch the inner walls where plaque can accumulate. Pay special attention to the filter element at the exit of the tank.

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Regular drying of the tank and washing of napkins are the main conditions for the absence of the smell of dampness and high-quality floor washing.

Frequent problems and ways to solve them

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the robot is buzzing, but the water is not supplied, most often the reason lies in the air traffic jam inside the feed system, try several times to press the water supply button (if there is such a feature in the service menu), or just wait a few minutes.

Another common problem is sensor error: If the robot reports a tank installation error, check if it's firmly in place. Contacts may have oxidized or become contaminated. Wipe them with dry soft cloth and try to install the module again.

If the water is supplied unevenly or drips in one place, check the integrity of the hoses and the absence of blockages in the exit holes of the platform. Sometimes pile or small debris is clogged into the holes, preventing normal fluid flow.

Why can't the robot see the water tank installed?
This can be due to contamination of the contacts on the robot body and on the tank itself. Also check if the module is fully latched. In rare cases, you need to reboot the device by holding the switch for a long time.
How often should I change a microfiber wipe?
When actively used (wet cleaning 3-4 times a week), it is recommended to change the napkin every 3-4 months. If the fabric has become thinner, holes have appeared or it has ceased to effectively wipe off dirt, the replacement should be done earlier.
Can I start a wet cleaning if there are large items on the floor?
Large debris (toys, socks, wires) should be removed before launch. The robot can get entangled in wires or smear large dirt if it comes across it with a wet cloth.
What to do if there are still strips after cleaning?
The strips may be left behind because of too much water pressure, a dirty napkin, or a slow robot speed, try to reduce the water supply, replace the fabric with clean, or increase the speed of movement in the settings.
Is it safe to leave the robot on with water overnight?
Modern Xiaomi models are leakproof and can remain on standby, however, if you are away for a few days, it is better to drain the water from the tank to avoid stagnation and potential risks.