Xiaomi’s New 12kg Washer Uses Electrolysis to Kill Stains—But Is It Actually Chemical-Free?
Xiaomi is pushing further into the premium appliance space with the upcoming launch of the Mijia Washing Machine Pro 12kg. Debuting in China on January 16 at a launch price of 3,528 yuan (roughly $505), this high-capacity combo unit attempts to bridge the gap between heavy-duty cleaning and eco-conscious fabric care. While the marketing leans heavily on "chemical-free" innovation, the reality is more of a high-tech hybrid approach to laundry.
The core of the machine is its "Super Electrolysis Technology." By using an onboard electrolysis system to generate active oxygen, the washer can break down organic stains—like blood, juice, or soy sauce—at a molecular level. While Xiaomi bills this as a pivot away from chemical reliance, it’s better understood as a performance booster. The electrolysis system works alongside traditional detergents to tackle 20+ types of stubborn stains while supposedly providing four times the color protection of a standard cycle.
The Reality of "Chemical-Free" Cleaning
Despite the headlines, the Mijia Pro isn't ditching the soap just yet. The machine features a dual smart dosing system with dedicated reservoirs for detergent and softener (or disinfectant). The tech here isn't just about convenience; it’s about precision. By measuring the load weight to the milliliter, the machine avoids the common "more is better" mistake that leads to soapy residue and fiber degradation.
So, while the electrolysis tech handles the heavy lifting on stains and sterilization, the smart dosing ensures you use the absolute minimum amount of chemicals necessary. For families with sensitive skin or those tired of detergent buildup, this reduction—rather than total elimination—is the more practical benefit.
Capacity, Drying, and the Combo Trade-off
The 12kg washing capacity is massive, especially for a brand like Xiaomi that usually caters to apartment living. However, users should keep their expectations in check regarding the 9kg drying limit. Like most washer-dryer combos, the Pro uses a heat-pump-free system (operating between 55°C and 65°C), which typically means longer cycle times to get a full load bone-dry compared to dedicated tumble dryers.
To manage this, Xiaomi includes 31 distinct modes, including a 12-minute quick wash for light loads. For heavier items like down jackets or wool, the machine uses high-airflow drying to prevent the "clumping" effect common in cheaper combo units.
Sterilization Claims and the HyperOS Hub
Xiaomi claims a 99.999% removal rate for bacteria and a bold "100% mite removal" via a combination of steam and cold-water electrolysis. While "100%" is a high bar for any real-world appliance to hit consistently, the dual-pronged sterilization makes it a strong contender for baby clothes and undergarments.
The "Pro" moniker also brings the unit into the HyperOS Connect ecosystem. In practical terms, this is more than just a remote start button. It allows the washer to trigger other smart home events—for instance, automatically lowering a Xiaomi smart drying rack when the cycle finishes or sending a notification to your TV. It also enables over-the-air (OTA) updates, which have become a staple for Xiaomi to tweak energy efficiency or add new wash algorithms post-purchase.
A Global Disruptor in Waiting?
At $505, the Mijia Pro 12kg significantly undercuts comparable high-capacity units from Western giants like Samsung or LG, which often retail for double that price. While the machine is currently localized for the Chinese market, its aggressive pricing and tech-heavy spec sheet signal Xiaomi’s intent to dominate the utility room. Whether the "Super Electrolysis" tech can truly replace the need for heavy chemical additives in everyday use remains to be seen, but as a hardware package, it offers a lot of machine for the money.