How to Clean Your HumidifierRemoving Mineral Build Up
Both the cool mist and warm mist humidifiers require removing the mineral buildup. To remove the mineral buildup, pour approximately one cup or 8 ounces of undiluted white vinegar into the base of water holding receptacle. Allow the vinegar to sit and soak in the humidifier for at least one half hour. Redistribute the vinegar occasionally by gently shaking the holding receptacle. Swish the solution around the container making sure that it coats the entire base. Additionally, use a soft bristled brush to gently scrub the interior of the container. Repeat the scrubbing process a second time on areas that appear to be encrusted with a mineral build up. Once the half hour has passed, slowly pour the vinegar from the holding receptacle. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove the mineral and vinegar residue. Rinse the container a second time to ensure that you have removed all of the residue.
CPSC ISSUES ALERT ABOUT CARE OF ROOM HUMIDIFIERS: Safety Alert Dirty Humidifiers May Cause Health Problems
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is alerting consumers to possible health hazards resulting from dirty room humidifiers. The CPSC has found that bacteria and fungi often grow in the tanks of portable and console room humidifiers and can be released in the mist. Breathing dirty mist may cause lung problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to serious infection. This information is of special concern to allergy or asthma sufferers whose symptoms may be increased. Film or scum appearing on the water surface, on the sides or bottom of the tank, or on exposed motor parts may indicate that the humidifier tank contains bacteria or fungi. A crusty deposit or scale may also form within the tank or on parts in the water. This scale is composed of minerals that have settled out of the water creating a surface on which bacteria or fungi may grow. Minerals can also be released in the mist and settle as fine white dust. This white dust may contain particles that are small enough to enter the lungs. The health effects from inhaling this humidifier dust are not clear, any impact on human health will depend upon the types and amounts of minerals found in the water used. To reduce the possibility of health hazards from dirty room humidifiers, the staff of the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that you take the following precautions: - Do not allow film and scale to develop in your humidifier. If possible, change the water in your room humidifier daily. Empty the tank before you fill it. If the tank is not removable, clean it often according to manufacturer's instructions.
- Use distilled or demineralized water in your room humidifier to reduce the buildup of scale and the release of dust. Do not use tap water because it contains more minerals. Use demineralization cartridges or filters if supplied or recommended for use with your humidifier.
- Drain and clean the tank of your room humidifier before you store it. Clean it after summer storage. Remove dust on the outside of your unit.
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