Humidifiers can be very effective at increasing the humidity in your home.  In fact, keeping the humidity levels above 40% can help reduce or eliminate problems, such as dry nose, nose bleeds, dry throat, dry lips and dry skin, static electricity and infections from bacteria and viruses that thrive in the air.  It is important to know, however, that the humidity levels should stay below 60% so that mold and dust mites do not have a chance to grow.

While humidifiers are very helpful, they can pose as a health hazard, if not properly cleaned.  Cleaning humidifiers is extremely important. Bacteria and fungi can grow in the tanks of humidifiers and then get into the air through the mist.   

It is extremely important to properly maintain and clean humidifiers.  Clean a humidifier at least once a week.  Refer to the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer to be sure these cleaning instructions are compatible with your machine.  

Steps for cleaning humidifiers:

1. Unplug your humidifier.
2. Remove the filter for humidifier filter cleaning.
3. Remove the misting chamber.
4. Pour white vinegar into the base of the humidifier for humidifier tank cleaning.  Place the misting chamber into the base.
5. Vinegar should sit for at least half an hour.  
6. Remove unit.  Use a soft bristled brush or clean toothbrush to gently brush away any mineral deposits from the coils.  Do not ever use a metal brush and never pick at the deposits with a sharp tool.  
7. Pour cool, clean water in the base and place the misting chamber into it.  The misting chamber should sit for a few minutes to allow the residue to soak off.  
8. Wipe the chamber dry with a clean, soft cloth.
9. Pour remaining water in tank out.
10. Disinfect humidifiers by filling the tank with clean water and add one teaspoon of liquid chlorine bleach to every gallon of water.  For those of you who do not to use harsh chemicals, there are companies that have natural disinfectants you can use.
11. Allow disinfectant solution to sit for at least a half hour.  
12. Rinse the base several times until the smell of your disinfectant is gone.

Tips to prevent health issues caused by humidifiers:

• Use distilled water. The quality of water used in your humidifier is important to your health, as well.  90% of compounds dissolved in the water, including lead, asbestos and aluminum can be emitted into the air and can cause serious and long term respiratory effects.
• Use demineralization cartridges or filters and change them regularly.
• Drain, clean and completely dry your humidifier before you store it away.  Store in a dry location. 
• Buy a hygrometer to monitor the interior humidity levels.  If water condenses on the windows, walls or pictures, you should relocate the humidifier or reduce how much you use it.

Cleaning humidifiers is critical to your health.  While they may be helpful when you or your family is sick, if you do not take the time to clean your humidifier, there can be even more serious health issues. Be sure to check out our humidifier buying guide.

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