Keeping your Xiaomi air purifier filter clean ensures optimal performance and longer lifespan—follow these simple steps to maintain it effectively in 2026. Start by turning off and unplugging the device, then carefully remove the filter and gently vacuum or rinse it (if washable) to eliminate dust and debris. Allow it to dry completely before reinserting to prevent mold and maintain air quality.

How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier Filter in 2026 Easy Steps

Key Takeaways

• Turn off and unplug the purifier before cleaning for safety.
• Remove the filter carefully to avoid damaging internal components.
• Vacuum loose debris first to extend filter lifespan effectively.
• Wash with mild soap and lukewarm water, never submerge fully.
• Dry completely before reinstalling to prevent mold and odors.
• Replace every 6–12 months depending on usage and air quality.
• Reset filter timer after cleaning to maintain accurate tracking.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You’re sitting in your living room, enjoying a quiet evening, when you notice something’s off. The air feels heavier, your allergies are acting up, and your Xiaomi air purifier isn’t humming like it used to. You check the app, and—oh no—it’s showing a filter replacement alert. But here’s the thing: You don’t need to rush out and buy a new filter just yet. With the right approach, you can extend the life of your filter and keep your purifier running smoothly. That’s where knowing how to clean Xiaomi air purifier filter in 2026 easy steps comes in handy.

Over time, dust, pet dander, and even cooking smoke clog the filters, reducing efficiency and straining the motor. A clean filter not only improves air quality but also saves you money and reduces waste. But cleaning it wrong? That’s a recipe for disaster. I’ve been there—overzealous vacuuming, accidental water damage, and even a melted pre-filter (yes, really). So, let’s walk through this together, step by step, to avoid those pitfalls and keep your purifier in top shape.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather everything you’ll need. The good news? Most of these are probably already in your home:

• A soft brush or microfiber cloth (to gently remove dust)
• A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment (for deeper cleaning)
• Mild dish soap (for stubborn grime)
• Warm water (not hot—we’re not cooking the filter!)
• A clean, dry towel (for drying)
• A well-ventilated area (for drying—no damp filters allowed!)
• Optional: Compressed air (for hard-to-reach spots)

Pro tip: Check your Xiaomi air purifier model (like the Mi Air Purifier 3H or Pro H) in the app or manual. Some have washable pre-filters, while others use a combination of HEPA and activated carbon filters that require different care. Knowing your model ensures you’re cleaning the right way—no guesswork!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier Filter in 2026 Easy Steps

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Whether you have a basic model or the latest 2026 Xiaomi air purifier, these steps will keep your filter in peak condition.

Step 1: Power Off and Unplug

First things first—safety! Turn off your air purifier and unplug it from the wall. This isn’t just about avoiding electric shocks; it also prevents the motor from running while you’re handling the filter, which could cause damage. I learned this the hard way when I accidentally turned mine on mid-cleaning. Not fun.

Always unplug before cleaning. It’s a small step, but it’s the golden rule for a reason.

Step 2: Remove the Filter

Now, open the purifier’s front cover or side panel (check your model’s manual if you’re unsure). Most Xiaomi purifiers use a simple latch or magnetic cover, so it should pop open easily. Gently pull out the filter cartridge—it’s usually labeled with arrows showing airflow direction. Pro tip: Note the orientation (which side faces inward) so you don’t reinstall it backward. I once did this and wondered why my purifier was louder than usual. Oops.

Inside, you’ll likely see two or three layers:

• Pre-filter (outer layer, catches large particles)
• HEPA filter (middle, traps fine dust and allergens)
• Activated carbon filter (inner, absorbs odors and gases)

For how to clean Xiaomi air purifier filter in 2026 easy steps, we’ll focus on the pre-filter (which you can clean) and the HEPA/carbon (which need careful maintenance).

Step 3: Clean the Pre-Filter

The pre-filter is your first line of defense—and the only part you can safely wash. Here’s how:

1. Shake it gently outside to remove loose dust. Don’t beat it; you’ll just spread the mess.
2. Rinse under lukewarm water (never hot—it can warp the mesh). If there’s sticky grime (like cooking oil), add a drop of mild dish soap and scrub with a soft brush.
3. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Leftover soap can attract more dust later.
4. Pat dry with a towel, then let it air-dry completely for at least 24 hours. No shortcuts here—a damp filter can mold or damage your purifier.

Never use bleach or harsh cleaners. They’ll degrade the mesh and leave toxic residues.

Step 4: Vacuum the HEPA and Carbon Filters

HEPA and carbon filters are not meant to be washed. Water will destroy the delicate fibers and carbon granules. Instead, use your vacuum’s brush attachment to gently remove surface dust. Hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle and move slowly—think of it like dusting a fragile painting. For stubborn spots, use a soft brush (like a paintbrush or makeup brush) to loosen debris before vacuuming.

If you have compressed air, blow it away from the filter (never into it) to dislodge trapped particles. I keep a can handy for my pet hair-covered purifier—it’s a game-changer!

Important: If the HEPA filter looks torn, gray, or smells musty, it’s time to replace it. Cleaning won’t fix a degraded filter. Same goes for the carbon layer—if odors linger after cleaning, it’s lost its absorption power.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Purifier’s Interior

While the filters dry, don’t neglect the inside of your purifier. Dust and pet hair love to cling to the fan and sensors. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the interior surfaces—avoid spraying water or cleaners directly. For sticky spots, lightly dampen the cloth (not the purifier) and wipe. This step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for maintaining airflow and sensor accuracy.

Never spray water inside the unit. Moisture can damage electronics and void your warranty.

Step 6: Reassemble and Reset

Once everything is dry, reinsert the filters in their correct order. Double-check the airflow arrows! Close the cover securely—you should hear a click or feel a magnetic seal. Now, plug the purifier back in and power it on. If your model has a filter reset function (like the Mi Home app), use it to clear the replacement alert. This resets the usage timer, so your purifier tracks the new filter life accurately.

Pro tip: Mark your calendar for the next cleaning. Most Xiaomi purifiers recommend cleaning the pre-filter every 2–4 weeks and the HEPA filter every 6–12 months (depending on usage).

Step 7: Monitor Performance

After reassembling, run the purifier for a few hours. Check the app for any error messages or unusual noise. If the air quality indicator improves and the fan runs smoothly, you’ve nailed it! If not, revisit Step 4—you might have missed some debris.

For how to clean Xiaomi air purifier filter in 2026 easy steps, consistency is key. Set a reminder to check your filters monthly, even if they don’t need cleaning. A quick visual inspection can catch issues early.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve made (and learned from) every mistake in the book. Here’s what I wish I knew earlier:

• Don’t skip the pre-filter. It’s easy to focus on the HEPA filter, but a clogged pre-filter forces the HEPA to work harder, shortening its life.
• Never use a hairdryer to speed up drying. The heat can warp the mesh or melt adhesives in the filter layers.
• Label your filters with the date. I use a permanent marker to note when I last cleaned or replaced each one. No more guesswork!
• Check for firmware updates. Xiaomi occasionally releases updates that improve filter monitoring. Keep your app updated for the best accuracy.
• Don’t “deep clean” the carbon filter. Unlike the pre-filter, the carbon layer can’t be restored. If it’s saturated with odors, replacement is the only fix.

The biggest mistake? Rushing the drying step. A damp filter is a breeding ground for mold—and it’s a nightmare to fix.

Bonus tip: If you have pets or live in a dusty area, clean the pre-filter weekly. For light use, every 2 weeks is fine. Adjust based on your environment—there’s no one-size-fits-all rule.

FAQs About How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier Filter in 2026 Easy Steps

Let’s tackle the questions I hear most often from friends and fellow Xiaomi users:

Q: Can I wash the HEPA filter?
A: Nope, and don’t even think about it! HEPA filters are made of ultra-fine fibers that water will destroy. Stick to vacuuming or gentle brushing. If it’s beyond cleaning, replace it. I’ve seen people try “rinse and dry” methods—trust me, it’s not worth the risk.

Q: How often should I clean the filters?
A: It depends on usage. For the pre-filter, every 2–4 weeks is ideal (more often if you have pets or smokers). The HEPA filter needs cleaning every 6–12 months, but replace it if it’s discolored or damaged. The Xiaomi app’s filter life indicator is a great guide, but don’t rely on it 100%—check visually too.

Q: My purifier is still noisy after cleaning. What’s wrong?
A: Noise often means a clogged pre-filter or misaligned fan. Double-check that the pre-filter is clean and properly seated. Also, ensure the purifier is on a flat, stable surface. If the noise persists, the fan motor might need servicing—contact Xiaomi support.

Q: Can I use vinegar to clean the pre-filter?
A: Vinegar can work for stubborn odors, but dilute it heavily (1 part vinegar to 10 parts water) and rinse thoroughly. Undiluted vinegar can corrode the mesh. I’ve used it once for a smoky apartment—just make sure to dry the filter completely afterward.

Q: What if my filter is damaged?
A: If the mesh is torn, the HEPA is gray, or the carbon layer is crumbling, it’s time to replace it. Don’t try to patch it up—a damaged filter won’t trap pollutants effectively. Check Xiaomi’s official store for genuine replacements (they’re worth the investment).

Q: Does cleaning the filter reset the app’s replacement alert?
A: Only if you use the app’s reset function. Simply cleaning the filter won’t clear the alert. In the Mi Home app, go to your purifier’s settings and tap “Reset Filter.” This resets the usage timer, so the alert won’t pop up again until the next cycle.

Q: Are third-party filters safe?
A: I’ve tried them, and honestly, the results are mixed. Some work fine, but others don’t fit properly or lack the filtration power of genuine filters. For how to clean Xiaomi air purifier filter in 2026 easy steps, I recommend sticking with Xiaomi-branded filters for the best performance and warranty compliance.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Xiaomi air purifier filter isn’t just about saving money—it’s about keeping your home’s air fresh and your purifier running efficiently. With these how to clean Xiaomi air purifier filter in 2026 easy steps, you’ve got a simple, no-fuss method that works for every model. Remember: Gentle cleaning, thorough drying, and regular checks are the keys to success.

Start small—maybe set a monthly reminder on your phone. Before you know it, this will be as routine as changing a lightbulb. And if you ever run into trouble, don’t hesitate to reach out to Xiaomi’s support team or consult your manual. Your purifier (and your lungs) will thank you!

Now, go enjoy that crisp, clean air—you’ve earned it. 🌿