How to fill up the dispenser for Xiaomi soap: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi’s automatic liquid soap dispensers are not only a stylish bathroom or kitchen accessory, but also a practical hygiene solution that saves money, minimizes contact with surfaces, and often comes with motion sensors or touch buttons. However, many users have questions about how to properly refill a dispenser, what soap is right, and why the device might stop working after fluid replacement?

In this article, we will look at all the steps of refueling, from choosing the right detergent to the intricacies of disassembling and cleaning the tank. You will learn what errors lead to blockages or leaks, how to avoid breakages of the pump system, and what to do if the Xiaomi Mi Automatic Soap Dispenser (or its analogues, for example, Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser) stopped dispensing soap.

Before you start, check that your device must be powered off (if it is a network model) or that batteries must be removed from it, and this will prevent the sensor from accidentally triggering during refueling.

1.What Soap Is Right for Xiaomi Dispenser?

Not all detergents are compatible with automatic dispensers.The manufacturer recommends using a liquid soap or gel with a viscosity similar to water.Too thick or abrasive formulations (for example, scrubs) can:

  • πŸ”Ή Clog the pump – particles or crystals of salt in cheap soap settle on the mechanism, blocking the supply.
  • πŸ”Ή Damage seals – aggressive surfactants (surface-active substances) in some gels are corroded by rubber gaskets.
  • πŸ”Ή Disable the sensor – foam or bubbles in the liquid knock the infrared sensor.

The best options are:

  • 🧼 Ordinary liquid soap (e.g. Dove, Fa) without scrub or peel additives".
  • 🧴 Antibacterial gels marked "for dispensers" (e.g. Safeguard).
  • πŸ’§ Diluted shampoo (1:1 with water) – suitable for models with adjustable dosage.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use oil shower gels (such as Nivea or Garnier) – they leave a sticky film on the inside of the tank, which is difficult to wash. Also avoid triclosan products – it can react with the plastic of the housing.

If you prefer eco-friendly products, choose EcoCert-certified soap - it usually has a neutral pH and does not contain aggressive components.For Xiaomi models with flavoring feature (e.g. Mijia Aroma Diffuser). + Soap Dispenser) will be suitable for special liquids with essential oils, but they must be diluted with distilled water in a ratio of 1:3.

πŸ“Š What Soap Are You Using in Xiaomi Dispenser?
Ordinary liquid soap.
Antibacterial gel
Diluted shampoo
Certified eco-soap
Other

2. Step-by-step instruction: how to disassemble and fill the dispenser

The refueling process depends on the model, but the overall scheme is the same for most Xiaomi devices. Consider the popular model Mi Automatic Soap Dispenser (product code). DJT11LM).

Step 1. Unplug the top cover.

  • πŸ”§ Press the latch (usually located at the back) and pull the lid upwards. In some models, you need to turn it counterclockwise.
  • πŸ”‹ If the dispenser is powered by batteries, remove them before refueling – this will prevent accidental operation.

Step 2. Remove the soap tank.

  • πŸ’§ Carefully lift the tank by the handle or pull it out of the grooves!
  • 🧽 If the tank is empty, wash it with warm water (without detergents) and dry it.

Step 3. Filling the liquid

  • πŸ“¦ Pour the soap to the mark MAX (Do not overflow, it will lead to leaks.
  • πŸŒ€ If you use a thick remedy, dilute it with water (1 part soap to 1 part water) and shake it.

Step 4: Assembly and inspection

  • πŸ”„ Install the tank back, making sure the pump hose is tightly attached.
  • πŸ” Close the lid before you click. Turn on the power and test the dosage by holding your hand to the sensor.

Check the compatibility of the soap with the dispenser

Turn off the power or remove the batteries

Prepare the fabric in case of leakage

Make sure the sealing ring of the tank is clean.

Fill the liquid to the mark. MAX-->

For models with interchangeable cartridges (such as Xiaomi Youpin Fresh Soap Dispenser), the process is simplified: just insert a new cartridge with soap before the click, but such cartridges are often sold only in official Xiaomi stores, which can be inconvenient.

⚠️ Warning: If the dispenser doesn't give out soap or makes a buzz after refueling, it's likely that air has entered the pump. To eliminate the cork, press the dosage button 3-4 times in a row, this will pump the system.

3.How to clean the dispenser if it clogs

Over time, soap deposits accumulate on the internal parts, which leads to improper pump operation or complete stop of the device, and it is recommended to clean every 2-3 months (or more often if you use hard water).

Tools:

  • 🧹 Soft bristles toothbrush.
  • πŸ’¦ Vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) or citric acid (1 tsp per glass of water).
  • 🧻 Paper towels or microfibras.

Procedure:

  1. Turn off the dispenser and remove the tank.
  2. Wash the tank with warm water, removing visible deposits.
  3. Pour a vinegar solution into the tank and leave for 15-20 minutes (to dissolve the lime plaque).
  4. Clean the pump: remove the silicone tube and rinse it under a stream of water. Wipe the pump itself with a brush soaked in solution.
  5. Dry all parts before assembly (humidity inside can cause corrosion of contacts).

For deep cleaning, you can use an ultrasonic bath (if you have one on the farm), place a pumping mechanism in it for 5-10 minutes at a temperature of 40-50.Β°C. Never submerge an electronic sensor unit into water, this will short circuit!

What to do if the cleaning didn’t help?
If the dispenser still doesn't work after cleaning, check: 1. The condition of the sealing ring - it could be deformed or cracked. Replace it (you can cut it out of a silicone workpiece). 2. Battery contacts - oxidation leads to poor nutrition. Clean them with a lastic or alcohol. 3. The pump mechanism - if it makes a grinding, the gear probably broke. In this case, you will need a pump replacement (it can be ordered on AliExpress according to the part code specified in the instructions).

4 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when using Xiaomi dispensers, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

Mistake.Effects of consequencesDecision
Use of thick gelPump clog, uneven dosageDilute with water or buy special soap for dispensers
Soap transfusion above the MAX markLeakage, damage to electronic componentsFill strictly to the mark, check the tightness of the cover
Ignoring the cleansingPump breakage, bad smellWash the tank and pump every 2-3 months
Use of abrasives for cleaningScratches on plastic, damage to sealsClean only with soft brushes and neutral solutions

Another common problem is that the dispenser delivers too little or too much soap, and in adjustable-dose models (such as the Xiaomi Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser Pro), this is configured via the Mi Home app:

  1. Open the app and select your device.
  2. Go to Settings. β†’ Dosage.
  3. Select the portion size: 0.5 ml, 1 ml or 1.5 ml.

If adjustment is not available, check if the nozzle (the hole through which soap is given) is clogged, and clean it with a toothpick or needle, first turning off the device.

πŸ’‘

To keep the soap from thickening in the tank, add 1-2 drops of glycerol (sold in the pharmacy) to it, which will prolong the life of the pump and prevent the formation of lumps.

5 Features of refueling models with Wi-Fi and Mi Home application

Xiaomi’s smart dispensers (such as Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser 2) support connectivity to the Mi Home ecosystem and have additional features:

  • πŸ“² Notifications about low soap level – with a balance of less than 10% comes push on the smartphone.
  • πŸ”„ Automatic locking – you can turn off the dispenser during cleaning or if there are children in the house.
  • πŸ“Š Use statistics – the app shows how much soap is used per day/week.

To set up notifications:

  1. Connect the dispenser to the Mi Home via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (instructions in the box).
  2. In the device menu, activate the option Low Liquid Level.
  3. Set a trigger threshold (usually 5% or 10%).

If notifications do not arrive, check:

  • πŸ”Œ Connecting the dispenser to the network (for network models).
  • πŸ“΅ Mi Home App Permissions (Access to Notifications in Phone Settings).
  • πŸ”„ Update of the device firmware (Update tab in the application).

For voice-controlled models (compatible with Alice or Google Assistant), you can set up commands like, "Alice, give me the soap in the kitchen."

  1. Connect the dispenser to the smart speaker via Mi Home.
  2. In the voice settings, add the device to the "Kitchen" or "Bathroom" group.
  3. Talk to the test team.

⚠️ Warning: If the dispenser stops showing in the Mi Home, reset it to factory settings. Hold the power button for 10 seconds until the indicator flashes.

6. Alternative ways of refueling: life hacks from users

Owners of Xiaomi dispensers have come up with several non-obvious ways to simplify refueling or save on soap:

1.Use of cartridges from other brands

Some users adapt cartridges from SimpleHuman dispensers or IKEA It's Xiaomi:

  • Cut the top of the cartridge with a knife.
  • Wash it and fill it with soap.
  • Install in the dispenser, having previously removed the native tank.

The disadvantage of the method: leaks are possible if the cartridge does not fit tightly to the pump.

2. Homemade flavorings

To dispenser not only washed hands, but also refreshed the air, add to the soap:

  • 🌿 2-3 drops of essential oil (lavender, tea tree).
  • πŸ‹ Cedar citrus (pre-dried and crushed).

Important: oils should be soluble in water (for example, jojoba oil will not work).

3. Savings on soap

To reduce the cost:

  • Set the minimum dosage in the settings.
  • Dilute the soap with water in a 1:1 ratio (if it is too concentrated).
  • Use the Eco mode (if available in the model).

πŸ’‘

Do not mix soap of different brands in one tank - this can cause a chemical reaction and the formation of sediment, which will clog the pump.

7.What to do if the dispenser breaks after refueling

If the device stopped working after replacing the soap, follow the algorithm:

1. Dispenser not switched on

  • Check the batteries (or network adapter).
  • Make sure the contacts are not oxidized.
  • If the power is fine, but the device does not respond - reset the settings (Reset button on the bottom).

2.Soap fails, but the pump hums

  • It's probably a tube jam, so press the dosage button 5-6 times in a row.
  • If it does not help - disassemble the pump and check the gears for wear.

3.Soap leaks.

  • Check the sealing ring - it may have moved during assembly.
  • Don’t tighten the lid too much – it will deform the plastic.

If the dispenser is warranty, do not disassemble it yourself - contact the Xiaomi service center.

  1. Take a photo of the serial number (located on the bottom or under the battery compartment).
  2. Make an application through the official website of Xiaomi or in the store where you bought the device.
  3. Pack the dispenser in the original box (if it is preserved).

The average warranty period for Xiaomi dispensers is 12 months. If the device is purchased on AliExpress, warranty service may differ (check with the seller).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi dispensers

Can I fill the dispenser with a dish gel (for example, Fairy)?
No, it's going to break the pump, and the dish gel contains aggressive surfactants and abrasive particles that break down plastic parts, and use only liquid soap or special dispensing gels.
How often should I clean the dispenser if 4 people use it?
When used actively (10-15 dosages per day), it is recommended to clean every 4-6 weeks. If the water in your area is hard, reduce the interval to 3 weeks - lime plaque forms faster.
Why does the dispenser give out soap on its own, without pressing?
This can be caused by: direct sunlight on the sensor (transfer the device to the shade); contamination of the infrared sensor (wipe it with a cotton swab); firmware failure (update the software via Mi Home).
Can I use a dispenser without connecting to Mi Home?
Yes, all models are autonomous, and you only need to connect to the app for additional functions (notifications, voice, statistics), and the basic dosage of soap is done without the Internet.
Where to buy original cartridges for Xiaomi Youpin Soap Dispenser?
Official cartridges are sold: on the site Xiaomi Youpin (delivery from China); in Xiaomi branded stores (for example, in M. Video or Svyaznoy); on AliExpress (search for the dispenser model code), the cost is from 300 to 600 rubles per package (2-4 cartridges).