Xiaomiβs humidifiers have become an essential part of many homes, especially during the heating season or hot summers. Not only do they keep the humidity level optimal, they can also fill the room with pleasant flavors β if you use essential oils correctly. However, not everyone knows where to put aroma oil in Xiaomiβs humidifier to keep the device from damaging and getting the most effect.
In this article, we will look at which Xiaomi humidifiers support flavoring, where the special oil compartment is located, which formulations can be used and which are strictly prohibited, and how to avoid common errors that lead to breakdowns or reduced efficiency of the device.
If you just bought a Xiaomi Smartmi or Mi Air Humidifier humidifier and want to add a lavender or eucalyptus flavor but are afraid of breaking something, this guide is for you. We have gathered all the necessary information, including step-by-step photo instructions, care tips and answers to frequent questions.
Which Xiaomi humidifiers support aroma oil?
Not all Xiaomi humidifier models are designed to work with essential oils. Most low-end devices (e.g. Mi Air Humidifier CA1 or Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier 2) do not have a special compartment for flavoring.Attempting to add oils directly to the water tank in these models can lead to clogging of the ultrasonic membrane or damage to the plastic components.
However, some devices are equipped with a separate container for aromama oils, and here is a list of popular models with flavoring support:
- πΏ Xiaomi Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier 2 (with additional aromacapsule module)
- πΏ Xiaomi Mi Air Humidifier Pro H (has a separate compartment for aromatic capsules)
- πΏ Smartmi Air Humidifier ZA1 (Supports original Xiaomi aromacapsules)
- πΏ Xiaomi Mi Air Humidifier 2 (requires the purchase of a separate aromadifuser)
If your model is not listed, it is not recommended to pour oils directly into the water, instead you can use an external aromadiffuser or place a few drops of oil on the filter (if permitted by the instructions).
Where is the aroma oils compartment in Xiaomi's humidifier?
In models that support flavoring, the oil compartment is usually located in one of the following locations:
- To the side or back of the body is a small lid that says Aroma or a drop pictogram. For example, in Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier 2, the compartment is under the removable panel on the right.
- Inside the water tank β some devices (such as the Mi Air Humidifier Pro H) have a special capsule that fits into the top of the tank.
- On the back panel - in models with an external aromadiffuser (for example, ZA1) there is a connector for connecting an additional module.
To accurately determine the location of the compartment, follow the following steps:
Read the instructions for the device (section "Fragrance")
Check the case for a lid with a marking
Look inside the water tank (sometimes the capsule is hidden under the filter)
Watch your model's YouTube video review (search for "[model] + aroma")
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If you don't find the compartment, it could mean that your model isn't designed to work with oils, in which case pouring essential oils directly into the water will damage the membrane and lose warranty.
What aroma oils can be used in Xiaomi humidifier?
Not all essential oils are suitable for humidifiers, because some formulations can:
- β οΈ Eat plastic and rubber parts of the device (for example, citrus or coniferous oils).
- β οΈ Leave a sticky plaque on the ultrasonic membrane, reducing its effectiveness.
- β οΈ Cause allergic reactions when sprayed in the air (especially in children and pets).
It is recommended to use only special oils for humidifiers or water-soluble aromatic formulations. Here is a list of safe options:
| Type of oil | Examples | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Original Xiaomi capsules | Lavender, eucalyptus, jasmine | Fully compatible with the device, do not require mixing with water |
| Water-soluble aroma oils | Fragments from Aroma Zone, Now Foods | You need to add 2-3 drops per 1 liter of water |
| Natural essential oils (diluted) | Lavender, chamomile, tea tree | Only in models with separate compartments, no more than 1-2 drops. |
| Flavor pills | Air Wick moisturizer tablets | They are in water and are suitable for most models. |
β οΈ Warning: Never use pure essential oils (e.g. fir or orange) without dilution! they do not dissolve in water and form a film on the internal parts of the humidifier, which leads to breakage.
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If you want to experiment with fragrances, buy a separate small aromadiffuser (such as the Xiaomi Mi Home Diffuser) and use it with a humidifier. It's safer and more hygienic.
Step-by-step: how to pour aroma oil into the Xiaomi humidifier
If your model supports flavoring, follow this instruction to avoid errors:
- Disconnect the device from the network. This is a must, as some models can automatically turn on when the lid is opened.
- Remove the water tank and check if there is a special capsule or oil compartment inside. In Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier 2 models, it is under the removable panel.
- Add oil to the compartment: For capsule systems (e.g. Mi Air Humidifier Pro H): insert the original Xiaomi capsule into the socket. For a separate container: add 1-2 drops of oil to the soaking sponge or ceramic element. For water-soluble oils: mix 2-3 drops with water in the tank (only if instructed!).
Close the compartment.
Turn on the humidifier.
If you are using Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier 2, the process will look like this:
1. Press the on button to turn off the device.
2. Remove the top cover of the tank by pulling it up.
3. Find a small circular compartment with the inscription "Aroma" on the right.
4. Open the compartment lid and add 1 drop of oil to the sponge.
5. Close the lid and set the tank back.β οΈ Warning: If after adding oil, the humidifier starts to make unusual sounds (cracking, gurgling) or stops spraying water, turn it off immediately and rinse the tank.
What happens if you put oil in the wrong compartment?
Many users mistakenly think that you can just add essential oil directly into the water, saying, "and it will work." In practice, this leads to serious problems:
- π§ The ultrasonic membrane breaks down, the oil settles on the vibrating plate, blocking its operation. 60-80% cost of new moisturizer.
- π§Ή Sticky plaque on the inner walls, and over time, the oil mixes with the dust and forms a film that is hard to remove, which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
- π« Refusal of warranty service, the manufacturer considers it a violation of operating rules.
- π€§ Airway irritation: Some oils (such as mint or camphor) in high concentrations can cause coughing or headache.
If you have already poured oil into the water, immediately:
- Turn off the device and drain the water.
- Wash the tank with warm water and soap (no abrasives!).
- Wipe the inner surfaces with a cotton disc soaked in alcohol (to remove the greasy film).
- Pour clean water and turn on the humidifier for 10 minutes to flush the system.
What to do if the humidifier stops working after the oil?
Tips for caring for a moisturiser with aromamaslas
To make the device last longer and not become a source of unpleasant odor, follow these recommendations:
- π§ Change the water daily. Even if you don't add oil, stagnant water is the perfect environment for bacteria.
- π§Ό Clean the tank once every 3 days. Use a soft sponge and liquid soap. Avoid hard brushes!
- π‘οΈ Do not use hot water.
- π Let the device rest. Once a week, leave the humidifier off for 12 hours to dry.
For deep cleaning can be used:
- Citric acid (1 tbsp. spoon per 1 liter of water) - removes scale.
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%) disinfects the tank (pour for 30 minutes, then rinse).
- Special humidifier tablets (e.g. Philips HC100)
If you use aroma oil regularly, wash the oil compartment with alcohol once a month (such as medical or isopropyl) to prevent the accumulation of sticky residues.
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Never mix different oils in the same compartment, which can cause a chemical reaction and damage to the device. If you want to change the flavor, first rinse the container with clean water and dry.
Alternative ways to flavor the air with Xiaomi moisturizer
If your humidifier model doesnβt support aroma oil, but you still want to fill the room with a pleasant smell, there are a few safe ways to do this:
- πΈ External aromadiffuser, like the Xiaomi Mi Home Diffuser or the Muji Aroma Diffuser, can be placed next to a humidifier.
- π§» Scented sachets. Put a bag of dry herbs (lavender, mint) next to the device.
- π―οΈ Essential oils on the filter. In some models (for example, Smartmi Evaporative Humidifier), you can apply 1 drop of oil to a replacement filter!
- π§ Flavored water. Add in. 1-2 Put oil drops in a glass of water and put it next to the humidifier, and it's slow but safe to evaporate.
If you choose an external aromadiffuser, look for models with timer and intensity adjustment. For example, the Xiaomi Mi Home Diffuser can be synchronized with the humidifier via the Mi Home app so that both devices work in the same mode.
Another interesting option is fragrance sticks, which can be placed in a pallet under a moisturiser (if any), as long as the sticks don't touch the water.