
An air purifier often stands still for a long time. Although an air purifier cleans the air, it itself can also become a source of pollutant particles. For example, dust can accumulate on the air purifier and can be spread when the air purifier blows out clean air.
Each air purifier must be cleaned in its own way. Do you have a Xiaomi air purifier? Then you’ve come to the right place! I’ll help you step by step with cleaning the Mi air purifier.
Why do you need to clean the Xiaomi air purifier?
There are several reasons to clean the Xiaomi air purifier. As I just indicated, the air purifier itself can also become a disperser of polluted dust particles.
Not cleaning an air purifier – or not cleaning it enough – can result in the following problems:
- The Xiaomi air purifier can spread dust particles
- The air purifier may start to smell
- The life of the device (and components) is reduced
- The air quality analysis is no longer accurate
The latter mainly occurs when you do not keep the sensors clean properly.
How should you clean the air purifier?
Before you start cleaning the Xiaomi air purifier, it is important to switch off the device and remove the plug from the socket. In addition, you should never clean the air purifier with water or cleaning agents.
Follow the steps below:
- Switch off the air purifier and remove the plug from the socket
- Carefully vacuum the outside of the air purifier. Use a soft dusting brush
- Wipe the exterior with a soft, clean cloth
- Remove the filter from the air purifier and carefully clean the inside as well

Watch the video below to learn how to clean a Xiaomi air purifier.
Xiaomi air purifier sensor cleaning
A sensor can be found at the back of the air purifier. This sensor detects dust particles and you also need to clean it regularly. You can do this with the following steps:
- Use a flat object (not sharp) to open the sensor cover
- Use an air blower or hair dryer (with cold air) to blow the filter clean
- Also blow the filter cover thoroughly
When finished, replace the filter cover.

Xiaomi air purifier filter cleaning
I often get the question how to clean a Xiaomi air purifier filter. Unfortunately, the filter is not washable. You have to replace it regularly (view the best deals for new Xiaomi filters here). Fortunately, this is a very easy job:
- Switch off the air purifier and remove the plug from the socket
- Click the top part of the air purifier
- Remove the old filter from the air purifier
- Install the new filter in the air purifier (pay close attention to the top and bottom)
- Put the top part back on the air cleaner

Don’t forget to reset the filter afterwards: press and hold the Mode button for 15 seconds until you hear three beeps. Read more about replacing a Xiaomi air purifier.
How often should you clean the air purifier?
Now it is of course also important to know how often you have to clean the air purifier. This depends, among other things, on where you place the air purifier. Have you placed the Xiaomi air purifier in the kitchen? Then you will have to clean it more often than when it is in the hall, for example.
I recommend that you clean the air purifier at least once a month. In addition, it is advisable to clean the air purifier immediately when you change the filter for a new one.
Bram Tigchelaar
Bram is the co-founder of Purifiertester.com. Together with his brother, he gives advice for cleaner air quality in your home. He combines decades of experience in the world of air quality products with a passion for product testing. Questions about his approach? Feel free to send him a message!