Forced to use Apple Home

I have some smart home devices that I do not want to put into Apple Home. They are Meross smart plugs.

Since the latest iOS update, it’s impossible to simply connect to the device Wi-Fi and let the Meross app control it. I am forced into the Home app.

I have tried

• ensuring Bring Devices Together is turned off
• Turning off Bluetooth
• Turning off iCloud Sync for Apple Home
• Deleting the Home App

So,

1. Add the device in the Meross App
2. Follow the instructions to connect to the plug’s wifi
3. When connecting, I am prompted to “Connect to WiFi and add to Home” No matter what I turn off, I’m forced to the Home App

How do I shut this off? I have several Meross devices and they have less functionality when used in the Home App.