How to Clean a Humidifier

It’s that time of year again to bring the humidifier out of storage, give it a good cleaning and start using it!  With the cold weather here, it is causing many to suffer with respiratory and skin conditions.  Our trusty humidifier helps relieve itchy eyes, sore throat, and cracked skin by adding moisture to the dried out air. As beneficial as it is to use a humidifier, you must remember to properly clean and maintain it regularly, or it could potentially be detrimental to your health. If not cleaned regularly, bacteria and mold can grow in the tank, which then goes into the air through the mist. Keeping the humidifier tank clean is so important!

Here are some general instructions on cleaning a humidifier to keep it in great working condition:

• After you have unplugged your unit, empty out the water from the tank.
• Remove the filter from the humidifier and rinse it with cold water under your faucet. Never use any cleaning solutions as it can cause damage to the filter. You can gently rub your fingers over the filter to help loosen any debris that may be on it.  After thoroughly rinsing the filter, place on a towel to let any excess water drain off.  Replace the filter in the unit when thoroughly dry.
• To clean the tank, pour in a good amount of undiluted white vinegar and swish it around, cleaning the entire tank area, and then let it sit for approximately 30 minutes. You can use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub any residue or buildup.  If you find that there are hard to clean areas, repeat this process again.  Make sure to move the solution all around the tank, coating the entire tank. After cleaning is complete, rinse the tank thoroughly.
• Next you want to disinfect the humidifier. Fill the tank with water and add one teaspoon of bleach to every gallon of water.  Or if you prefer not to use bleach, you can use 3% hydrogen peroxide. Move the solution of your choice all around the tank, making sure to coat the entire tank, and then let it sit for approximately 30 minutes. After disinfecting has been completed, rinse the tank thoroughly.
• The humidifier has now been cleaned and disinfected properly and is ready to add water into the tank.

When you are using your humidifier every day, you should be emptying and refilling it every day with clean distilled water.  Lastly, remember to clean and disinfect your humidifier at least once a week!

Please be sure to visit us at www.filtersfast.com and click on the Humidifiers category to find replacement filters for your humidifier.