If you own a Xiaomi washing machine or are just planning to buy one, you’ve probably heard of the mysterious “air drying mode,” a feature that often raises questions about how it works, how effective it is, and whether to overpay for models that support it. Unlike traditional laundry drying methods (centrifuges or heating elements), Xiaomi’s technology offers a unique approach that combines cost-effectiveness and care for fabrics.
In this article, we will understand what air drying in Xiaomi washing machines is, how it is implemented in various models (from budget MiJia to premium Viomi), and why the manufacturer relies on it. You will learn about the principles of the system, its advantages over classic dryers, and also about the nuances that are important to consider when operating.
What is an air drying regime and how does it work
Xiaomi’s air drying mode is an alternative way to remove moisture from underwear without using high temperatures or aggressive pressing. Unlike traditional dryers, where the underwear is heated by TENG or blown with hot air, cold or slightly warm air circulation is used, often in combination with a delicate rotation of the drum.
Technically, the process looks like this:
- 🌀 Air circulation: The built-in fan creates a stream of air that passes through the drum, taking moisture with it. V3 Pro) the system is used 3D Airflow, where air is supplied from several sides for uniform drying.
- 🌡️ Temperature control: Even in "warm" modes, the temperature does not exceed 40-50°C, which is safe for delicate fabrics (silk, synthetics, sportswear).
- 💧 Moisture condensation: Moisture evaporated from the linen is deposited on special surfaces inside the machine or is removed through the drainage system (in models with Heat Pump).
- ⚙️ Humidity sensors: Modern Xiaomi machines are equipped with sensors that automatically stop drying when a predetermined dryness level is reached (for example, “easy wet” or “completely dry»).
It's important to understand that air drying doesn't replace spinning, it complements it. Before starting the mode, the underwear still goes through a centrifugation stage (usually 800-1,200 rpm) and then is air-dried, which reduces energy consumption and reduces the risk of deformation of things.
Xiaomi models with air drying support: a comparative table
Not all Xiaomi washing machines are equipped with air drying mode, which is available mainly in mid-range and premium models, where the manufacturer focuses on “smart” technologies. Below is a comparison of the key characteristics of popular devices with support for this mode (relevant to 2026).
| Model | Type of drying | Max. loading (kg) | Energy consumption (kWh/cycle) | Additional functions | Approximate price (ruble) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viomi V3 Pro | Heat Pump (heat pump) + air pump | 10 | 0.9–1.2 | Autodosing of detergent, steam treatment, control through Mi Home | 45 000–50 000 |
| MiJia Washing Machine 10kg | Air (without Heat Pump) | 10 | 1.3–1.5 | 16 laundry programs, delayed start, child protection | 30 000–35 000 |
| Viomi Mini | Air (compact) | 6 | 0.8–1.0 | Ultrasonic washing, mode for children's things, quiet engine | 28 000–32 000 |
| Xiaomi Smart Washing Machine 12kg | Heat Pump + Air Pump | 12 | 1.0–1.4 | AI-optimization of programs, self-cleaning of the drum, voice control | 55 000–60 000 |
Note that Heat Pump models dry clothes more efficiently and economically, but they cost 20 to 30 percent more. If you want the most thrift (for wool or down jackets, for example), choose a combination system (air + steam). Budget options like the MiJia 10kg do worse drying, but they are enough for everyday use.
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If you are washing sportswear (such as thermal underwear), before drying, turn on Sport Wear mode in the settings - it uses a lower temperature and additional ventilation to maintain the elasticity of the fabric.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Xiaomi Air Drying
Like any technology, air drying has its pros and cons, and let's take a look at them in detail so you can make an informed decision.
Pros of the regime
- 🧺 Careful attitude to fabrics: No risk of shrinkage, fading or deformation of things (relevant for knitwear, jeans, delicate materials).
- 💰 Energy efficiency: Electricity consumption is 30-40% lower than that of traditional dryers with TEHN.
- 🌿 No hot air emissions into the room, which is important for allergic people and families with children.
- 🔇 Low noise: Works quieter than a centrifuge (about 45–50 dB vs. 60–70 dB at the spin).
- 📱 Mi Home integration: You can start drying remotely or get a notification of the completion of the process.
Cons and limitations
- ⏳ Long drying time: The average cycle takes 2-4 hours (vs. 1-1.5 hours in heated machines).
- 🌬️ Dependence on indoor humidity: In a bathroom with poor ventilation, drying efficiency falls.
- 🧦 Not suitable for bulky things: down jackets, blankets or carpets are better to dry in traditional ways.
- 🔌 Requires regular care: You need to clean filters and drainage holes (otherwise you will smell dampness).
⚠️ Note: If you live in a high-humidity region (such as St. Petersburg or Sochi), air drying may be less efficient, and in such cases it is recommended to use a heated mode (if your model has one) or additionally ventilate the room.
How to use the air drying mode correctly: step-by-step instructions
To make the regimen work as efficiently as possible, it's important not only to choose the right program, but also to prepare the laundry.
- Step 1. Push before drying Make sure the linen has passed the 800-1,200 rpm spin stage. The less residual moisture, the faster the drying will go. In Viomi models, you can set up automatic transition from washing to drying (Auto Dry option).
- Step 2. Select the program In the machine menu, find the Drying (or Air Dry) section and select the appropriate mode: 👕 Cotton - for cotton and flax (temperature up to 50)°C). 🧦 Synthetic - for synthetics (temperature up to 40)°C). 👶 Baby Care – delicate drying with antibacterial treatment. 🏃 Sport – for sportswear (reinforced ventilation).
- Step 3: Drum loading: Don't overload the machine! The optimal volume is 2/3 of the maximum load. For example, in the Viomi V3 Pro (10 kg) it is better to place no more than 6-7 kg of laundry in one drying cycle.
- Step 4: Additional settings can be customized in some models: 🕒 Drying time (30 minutes to 4 hours). 💧 Dryness level ("easily wet", "semi-dry", "fully dry»). 🌀 Ventilation intensity (low/medium/high).
Step 5: Launch and control
After starting, follow the process through the Mi Home app (if the car is smart). If you have an E4 (drainage problem) or E5 (overheating) error, stop drying and check the filters.
Spread the laundry evenly over the drum | Remove small things (socks, handkerchiefs) from your pockets |Check the filter for debris | Close the door tightly (until clicked) |Select the program depending on the type of fabric-->
⚠️ Warning: Never dry metal items (lightning, buttons, jewelry) in a Xiaomi car that can damage the drum or cause sparking.
Hidden settings and life hacks for effective drying
The manufacturer doesn't always disclose all the features of their devices, but here are some undocumented features and tips to help improve the result:
- 🔄 Extra Air mode: In some models (e.g. Viomi) V3 Pro) you can activate the reinforced ventilation by holding the dry button for 3 seconds, which reduces the cycle time by 20-30%.
- 🌬️ Manual Temperature Adjustment: In the Service Menu (Access via Settings) → Test mode → Temp Control: Maximum temperature can be reduced to 30°C for particularly delicate items.
- 🕒 Delayed drying: If the electricity rate at night is cheaper, program drying at 23:00 via the Timer option.
- 🧼 Use of balls for drying: Add 2-3 silicone balls (sold in hardware stores) to the drum - they will improve air circulation and reduce static electricity.
Another useful trick: if your machine supports steam processing (for example, Xiaomi Smart Washing Machine 12kg), turn it on after drying for 10 minutes, which will eliminate the smell of dampness and smooth out small folds.
How to Reset E4 Error (Drainage Problem)
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even the most reliable Xiaomi washing machines can fail, and consider the typical air drying malfunctions and how to fix them.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Drying lasts too long. | Drum overload, filter clog, low room temperature | Reduce the load, clean the filter, turn on the heater in the bathroom |
| The linen stays wet. | Failed humidity sensor, weak ventilation | Start drying for another 30 minutes or check the sensor (disassembly required) |
| There's a bad smell. | Mold accumulation in a drainage system or filter | Rinse the filter and hose with vinegar solution (1:1 with water), start Self-Clean mode |
| The car vibrates strongly. | Uneven distribution of laundry or unadjusted legs | Reload the laundry, level the car. |
| E5 error (overheating) | Clogged ventilation ducts or malfunction of the thermostat | Clean the rear grille of the car, if it does not help - replace the thermostat |
If none of these methods worked, check the firmware of the machine. Outdated software can cause sensor malfunctions. Update it through the Mi Home app (Device → Software Update).
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Regular cleaning of the filter and drainage hose (every 1-2 months) prevents 80% of air drying problems. Use special pills to clean washing machines (for example, Topperr or Sano).