Regularly cleaning your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 every 2–4 weeks ensures peak performance and extends its lifespan. Follow a simple process: power off, wipe the exterior, vacuum the air intake, and rinse or replace the filter every 6 months to maintain optimal air quality in your home.

“`html

How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Turn off and unplug the purifier before cleaning for safety.
• Remove and vacuum the pre-filter to clear large debris weekly.
• Wash the pre-filter with mild soap and air-dry completely.
• Wipe the sensor gently with a dry cloth to maintain accuracy.
• Clean the interior with a soft, dry brush to remove dust buildup.
• Replace the HEPA filter every 6–12 months for optimal performance.
• Reset the filter timer after cleaning or replacing filters.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: you walk into your living room after a long day, expecting fresh, crisp air—but instead, you smell something stale. Or worse, your allergies are acting up again. You check your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4, and the filter light is blinking red. It’s not broken—it’s just dirty.

Like a car engine or a coffee machine, your air purifier needs regular maintenance to work well. The How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026 isn’t just about keeping it looking good—it’s about keeping your indoor air healthy. Over time, dust, pet hair, smoke, and even mold spores build up in the filters and internal parts. If left unchecked, the purifier becomes less efficient, works harder, and might even release trapped particles back into your home.

I learned this the hard way. After ignoring the filter warning for a month, my purifier started making a faint rattling noise. It wasn’t cleaning the air—it was just circulating stale air through clogged filters. Once I cleaned it, the difference was night and day. The air felt lighter, the unit ran quieter, and my sneezing dropped to zero.

Cleaning your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 isn’t complicated. In fact, with the right steps, it takes less than 30 minutes. And in 2026, with more of us working from home and air quality concerns rising, knowing how to clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026 is essential for long-term health and performance.

Let’s fix this—together.

What You Need

You don’t need fancy tools or a technician. Most of what you need is probably already in your home. Here’s a quick checklist to get started on your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 cleaning journey.

• Soft microfiber cloth – For wiping down the exterior and interior surfaces without scratching.
• Mild dish soap – A drop or two is all you need for the pre-filter and housing.
• Lukewarm water – Never use hot water, which can warp plastic parts.
• Vacuum with a brush attachment – For gently removing dust from the exterior and grills.
• Soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush) – Great for scrubbing the pre-filter and corners.
• Replacement HEPA filter (optional but recommended) – If your filter is overdue, consider a new one. We’ll talk timing later.
• Dry towel or paper towels – For drying parts thoroughly before reassembly.
• Small bowl – For mixing soapy water.

Pro Tip: Always unplug the purifier before cleaning. Even if it seems obvious, I’ve caught myself skipping this step—don’t be like me. Safety first!

You’ll also want a well-lit, clean workspace—like a kitchen table or counter. Avoid doing this on the floor where dust and pet hair can re-contaminate the unit.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026

Now that you’re prepped, let’s dive into the actual process. This guide walks you through every step, from unplugging to reassembling, with clear, real-world instructions. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cleaner, this method works.

Step 1: Power Off and Unplug the Device

Start by turning off your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 using the power button. Then, unplug it from the wall. This isn’t just a safety measure—it also resets the filter timer, which helps you track when the next clean is due.

I always do this first, even if the unit is already off. It’s a habit that’s saved me from accidental starts (and a few heart attacks).

Warning: Never clean or open the purifier while it’s plugged in. Water and electricity don’t mix—even in a small appliance like this.

Step 2: Remove the Back Cover and Filters

Locate the back panel of your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4. You’ll see a large, flat cover held in place by a simple latch or snap mechanism. Gently press the release tab (usually at the bottom) and pull the cover outward.

Inside, you’ll see the filter system. There are typically two parts:

• Pre-filter (outermost) – A mesh screen that catches large particles like hair and dust.
• HEPA filter (inside) – The main filter that traps fine particles like pollen, smoke, and mold.

Remove both filters by pulling them straight out. Don’t twist or force anything. If a filter is stuck, check for a small tab or handle—some models have a pull strap.

Insider Tip: Take a photo before removing the filters. This helps you remember the order and orientation when reassembling. I learned this after accidentally reversing my HEPA filter—yep, it matters!

Step 3: Clean the Pre-Filter with Soap and Water

The pre-filter is washable, which is great news. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and add a drop of mild dish soap. Submerge the pre-filter and let it soak for 5–10 minutes.

After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly) to gently scrub the mesh. Focus on areas with visible buildup. Rinse thoroughly under running water until all soap is gone.

Shake off excess water, then lay the pre-filter flat on a dry towel. Let it air-dry completely—this usually takes 2–4 hours. Never put it back wet. Moisture can lead to mold growth inside the purifier.

While it dries, move on to the next step. This is one of the most important parts of how to clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026—don’t rush drying.

Step 4: Vacuum the Interior and Fan Housing

With the filters out, use your vacuum’s brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the interior cavity. Pay close attention to:

• The fan blades (visible behind the filter housing)
• The air intake vents
• The sensor area (usually near the top or side)

Don’t use the vacuum too close—keep the nozzle an inch away to avoid scratching the plastic. I once got overzealous and scratched the sensor cover. It wasn’t broken, but it looked terrible.

If you see stubborn dust, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe it away. Never use water or cleaning sprays inside the unit.

Pro Tip: If you have a can of compressed air, use it on the fan blades and sensor area. It’s great for hard-to-reach spots. Just hold the can upright and spray in short bursts.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior and Back Cover

While the pre-filter dries, clean the outside. Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with water and a tiny drop of soap. Wipe the front, sides, and back cover (which you removed earlier).

Avoid getting water into any vents, buttons, or the display screen. I keep a dry cloth handy to wipe off any excess moisture right away.

For the display, use a dry microfiber cloth only. No liquids—ever. The screen is sensitive and can fog up or short out if moisture gets in.

Once wiped, dry everything with a clean towel. This step keeps your purifier looking new and prevents dust from clinging to sticky residue.

Step 6: Check and Replace the HEPA Filter (If Needed)

Now, inspect the HEPA filter. This is a critical part of your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 maintenance. Look for:

• Visible tears or holes
• Dark, caked-on dust (not just surface dust)
• A musty or moldy smell

If any of these signs are present, it’s time to replace the HEPA filter. Most HEPA filters last 6–12 months, depending on usage and air quality.

How do you know when to replace it? Xiaomi’s Mi Home app tracks filter life based on runtime and air quality. If the app says “Filter expired” or the filter light is red, don’t ignore it.

If the filter looks okay (just dusty), you can gently vacuum the surface with the brush attachment. But remember: HEPA filters are not washable. Water ruins the fine fiber structure. So no rinsing, no wiping with wet cloths.

Common Mistake: I once tried to “clean” my HEPA filter with water. Big mistake. It lost 70% of its effectiveness, and my allergies came back within a week. Stick to vacuuming only.

Step 7: Reassemble the Purifier

Once the pre-filter is completely dry, it’s time to put everything back. Start by inserting the HEPA filter first. Make sure it’s seated properly—there’s usually a tab or alignment mark. Push it in until it clicks or sits flush.

Next, place the clean, dry pre-filter over the HEPA filter. Again, check the orientation. Most pre-filters have a handle or logo that should face outward.

Finally, reattach the back cover. Line up the tabs and press firmly until it snaps into place. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it’s secure.

Plug the purifier back in and turn it on. The filter light should reset. If it doesn’t, you may need to manually reset it in the Mi Home app (we’ll cover that in the FAQs).

Step 8: Run a Test Cycle and Monitor Performance

Let the purifier run on medium or auto mode for 30–60 minutes. Listen for any unusual noises—grinding, rattling, or whistling. These could mean something is loose or misaligned.

Also, check the air quality indicator (if your model has one). After cleaning, it should respond quickly to changes in air quality. If it’s slow or inaccurate, the sensor might need cleaning (see Pro Tips).

Open a window briefly to let in some fresh air, then close it. The purifier should detect the change and ramp up fan speed. That’s a good sign everything is working.

This final test is a small but important part of how to clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026—it confirms your work paid off.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cleaning your air purifier isn’t just about following steps. It’s about doing it right. Here are some real-world insights I’ve picked up over the years.

1. Clean every 4–6 weeks, not just when the light flashes. The filter indicator is helpful, but it only tracks runtime. In dusty homes, pet-friendly spaces, or during wildfire season, filters clog faster. I clean mine every 4 weeks in spring and summer when pollen is high.

2. Never use harsh cleaners or disinfectant sprays. Bleach, ammonia, or alcohol can damage the plastic housing and filter materials. Stick to mild soap and water—or just water for the exterior.

3. Label your replacement filters. I keep a small piece of tape on the edge of each new filter with the installation date. It’s a simple way to track lifespan without relying on memory or the app.

4. Clean the sensor if readings seem off. The air quality sensor (usually near the front or top) can get dusty. Use a cotton swab or soft brush to gently clean the tiny vents. Don’t insert anything deep—just surface dust.

5. Avoid over-drying the pre-filter. If you’re in a hurry, don’t use a hair dryer or heater. High heat can warp the mesh. Let it air-dry naturally. I’ve ruined one pre-filter this way—don’t repeat my mistake.

6. Store spare filters properly. Keep replacement filters in a cool, dry place, sealed in their original packaging. Humidity can damage the HEPA material before you even install it.

7. Use the Mi Home app for reminders. Set a recurring notification for cleaning. I have mine set for the first Saturday of every other month. It keeps me on track without thinking.

Real Talk: I once skipped cleaning for three months because “it was working fine.” Then I opened it and found a layer of dust so thick it looked like a fur coat. The purifier was working, but it was like running a marathon with a backpack full of bricks. Don’t wait.

FAQs About How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026

Let’s tackle the questions I get most often—from friends, family, and even strangers on Reddit.

Q: How often should I clean my Xiaomi Air Purifier 4?

For most homes, every 4–6 weeks is ideal. But if you have pets, smokers, or live in a dusty area, go every 3–4 weeks. The How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026 isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule—adjust based on your environment.

Q: Can I wash the HEPA filter?

No. Never. Washing destroys the ultra-fine fibers that trap tiny particles. If your HEPA filter is dirty, vacuum it gently or replace it. Water = ruined filter.

Q: Why is my filter light still red after cleaning?

The light tracks filter usage, not cleanliness. Even if you clean the pre-filter, the HEPA filter may still be near its end. To reset the light, open the Mi Home app, go to your purifier, and tap “Filter Reset.” This only works if the filter is still usable. If it’s expired, replace it first.

Q: Is it safe to clean the purifier with a damp cloth?

Yes—but only on the outside and back cover. Never let water drip into vents, buttons, or the display. Use a slightly damp cloth, not a soaking wet one. Wipe, then dry immediately.

Q: My purifier is noisy after cleaning. What’s wrong?

Most likely, something isn’t seated properly. Double-check that:

• The filters are fully inserted
• The back cover is snapped in tight
• The pre-filter isn’t blocking the fan

Also, make sure the unit is on a flat, stable surface. Vibrations can cause rattling.

Q: Can I use a vacuum to clean the HEPA filter?

Yes, but gently. Use the brush attachment and low suction. Vacuuming removes surface dust, which can extend the filter’s life by a few weeks. But it won’t restore a clogged or damaged filter.

Q: Where can I buy genuine replacement filters?

Stick to official Xiaomi stores, Amazon (sold by Xiaomi or authorized sellers), or the Mi Home app. Third-party filters may not fit or perform as well. I once bought a cheap knockoff—it didn’t seal properly and let unfiltered air through. Not worth the risk.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about breathing easier, saving energy, and getting the most out of your investment. The How to Clean Xiaomi Air Purifier 4 in 2026 process is simple, fast, and totally doable, even if you’re not a DIY pro.

Think of it like brushing your teeth: you don’t wait until your teeth hurt. You do it regularly to prevent problems. Same with your air purifier. A little care every few weeks keeps it running smoothly and your air clean.

Start small. Pick a day—maybe the first Saturday of the month—and make it your “air purifier day.” Unplug, clean, reset, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained device.

And if you’re ever unsure? Refer back to this guide. I wrote it because I’ve been where you are—curious, cautious, and wanting to do it right.

Your air purifier works hard for you. Now it’s your turn to return the favor. Breathe easy, my friend.

“`