How to Disinfect Your Humidifier

Clean and disinfect your humidifier weekly to prohibit the growth of bacteria, mold and viruses and avoid spraying them into the air. Start by unplugging and emptying all water.

Drake suggests soaking smaller components, like the tank cap and basin, in a container of white vinegar. Next, scrub everything with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with water.

1. Vinegar

The wet environment inside a humidifier is an ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can then be dispersed into the air you breathe. disinfection humidifier Simple cleaning is not enough to keep a humidifier germ-free; disinfection is also necessary. Vinegar works well as an effective germicidal agent, and it is safe for use in most humidifiers.

Unplug the humidifier, then pour a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water into the tank and let it soak for 30 minutes or so. While the solution is soaking, take a clean brush and scrub all surfaces of the tank and base, paying special attention to any nooks and crannies where scale or other grime may be hiding.

Pour out the solution and rinse the tank, the base, and any other removable components of the humidifier. If you are unsure how to disassemble your humidifier, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for more information.

You should disinfect your humidifier at least once a week or as often as needed to prevent the formation of grime and mineral deposits, which can turn into white dust that can irritate lungs. If you’re adamant about not using bleach, a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide can be used in place of vinegar to disinfect a humidifier. Just remember that hydrogen peroxide isn’t as strong of a cleaner as vinegar, so you will need to use it more frequently than if you were using vinegar.

2. Bleach

Bleach is an effective disinfectant, releasing oxygen molecules into a surface to break up chemical bonds that make it look colorless. It’s commonly used to clean clothes and other household items, but it can also be effective for cleaning a humidifier. When using a chemical such as bleach, it’s best to take precautions, as inhaling the fumes can be harmful to the lungs. Use gloves and a mask, especially in an open area, and be sure to wear eye protection.

A small brush can help with getting into hard-to-reach spots, such as around the nozzle, but be careful not to leave any bleach solution on surfaces that can’t be rinsed off, as this could cause mold and other unwanted microbes to grow. After rinsing the tank and base, wait until they are no longer smelling of vinegar or bleach before filling them up again.

It’s also a good idea to empty the reservoir and base every morning after using, and refill with fresh water. If you have a humidifier with a built-in sanitizing function, use this feature before refilling to help keep the mist free of bacteria and germs. In addition, a vaporizer that uses ultraviolet light or other technology to sanitize the water can be an effective alternative to using vinegar or bleach. Always read the owner’s manual for your specific model to determine which methods are safe and effective for your device.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural chemical compound that consists of oxygen and water. It is a common ingredient in many disinfectants and cleaning products. It is a pale blue liquid that dissolves in water to form an oxidizer and bleaching agent. Hydrogen peroxide is available in different concentrations for commercial and household use.

The most commonly used concentration of hydrogen peroxide is 3%. This is considered safe for most people to use around the home. It can be found in most pharmacies and grocery stores. It is also a common ingredient in over-the-counter first aid antiseptics for cleaning wounds. It is FDA-approved as a food additive and is categorized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).

Unlike vinegar, which has strong acidic properties, hydrogen peroxide does not change the color or taste of items it comes in contact with. This makes it a great option for cleaning and disinfecting humidifiers. It can be used to clean all surfaces of your humidifier, including the tank and base. However, it should not be used to disinfect a warm-mist humidifier because the oxidation process can cause damage to your machine. Before using, make sure to unplug the humidifier and remove the filter. This will help prevent chemicals from leaking into your room. Also, it is recommended to avoid inhaling hydrogen peroxide vapors because they may cause respiratory distress.

4. Water

Humidifiers keep the air in your home hydrated, but they also pump out vapor that can carry bacteria and mold. If you don’t clean your humidifier regularly, these germs can be spewed into the air and circulate disinfection humidifier around your house. This isn’t good for anyone, especially people with allergies or respiratory problems.

Humidifier owners should follow the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning the appliance, explains Dr. McKeon. But, for the most part, it’s a simple process that takes just a few steps. You’ll need a pair of gloves, some disinfectant (bleach, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide), and a small brush or toothbrush to reach crevices and corners.

The first step is to empty the water tank and rinse out the basin. Experts recommend using distilled water rather than tap, since the minerals found in regular tap water can gum up the machine, promote bacteria growth, and create a white dust that can be dispersed into the air along with the humidifier’s water vapor.

Once you’ve removed the debris, you can prepare a cleaning solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, says Donovan. Pour the mixture into the water tank and let it soak for a half-hour, before rinsing everything down and putting your humidifier back together. Wipe down the humidifier and surrounding areas daily to prevent any germs from building up.