Deep Cleaning Your Humidifier

It's that time of year when we start closing the windows and cranking up the heat - and suffering the side effects that come along with dry air, leading to breaking out the humidifiers to help our sinuses and dry skin. But did you know...

Without regular cleaning, humidifiers will become prime breeding grounds for growing mold and other microbes, which will then stream into the air along with the water vapors. These air pollutants can be especially troublesome for people with asthma, allergies, or other breathing and lung issues. As always, it's important to refer to your manufacturer's instructions for specifics regarding your particular humidifier model. However, these deep cleaning steps will work for most machines, including both cool and warm mist humidifiers.

You will need: white distilled vinegar; a soft bristled brush or toothbrush; liquid chlorine bleach; and water.

STEP ONE: DISASSEMBLE THE HUMIDIFIER

You'll need to take apart the humidifier to make sure each piece gets cleaned thoroughly. Unplug the machine, empty the water tank, and detach any removable parts.

If your humidifier has an air filter, remove that as well. If the filter has developed a crust or gives off an odor, it's time for it to be replaced.

STEP TWO: CLEAN HUMIDIFIER WITH VINEGAR

Pour enough white vinegar in the tank to cover all the areas that most often come into contact with water. Place the smaller pieces, like the tank cap, in a large container filled with vinegar to soak. 

Wait at least 20 minutes to allow the vinegar to break down any limescale buildup. 

Empty the tank and use a soft-bristled brush to clean up any residue. For hard to reach corners and crevices, a toothbrush or a brush with a flexible head works well.

STEP THREE: DISINFECT HUMIDIFIER

Mix one tsp. of liquid chlorine bleach (this is really all you need, a little bleach goes a very long way) with one gallon of cold water and fill the humidifier tank halfway. Swish the solution around to coat the inside and let stand for 20 minutes.

STEP FOUR: RINSE WITH WATER AND LET DRY

Rinse each piece until the smell of bleach is gone. Air dry before reassembling.

Repeat this entire cleaning process once a week, and again before storing your humidifier at the end of the dry season.

DAILY CLEANING

To keep your humidifier from gathering limescale buildup between cleanings, empty and rinse the humidifier tank each day and refill it with fresh water before turning it on. If you have hard water, add a demineralization cartridge designed for your machine, or use only distilled water.

And there you have it - four easy steps for keeping your humidifier and your air clean. If you have any other recommendations, share them in the comments for everyone! 

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