How to Clean a Humidifier

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Humidifiers need regular cleaning. Of course, always check your manufacturer's instructions and use your judgment when cleaning a humidifier to make sure this method works for your machine. Although cleaning them can be a bit of a chore, try this simple method.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Water
White vinegar
Bleach
Soft bristle brush

Cleaning Process

Step1

Mix a cup of vinegar with water in a spray bottle for spot cleaning.

Step2

Take the humidifier apart so that the water tank is separate from the filter and base. Remove the motor housing carefully to set the base apart.

Step3

Fill the tank with cool water, add a tablespoon of household bleach to the tank, replace the cap and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Step4

Steep the filter in water in a large saucepan. Put two cups of vinegar in the saucepan and let the filter sit for at least 30 minutes.

Step5

Pour undiluted white vinegar into the base of your humidifier and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Thoroughly remove any residue or build-up by using a soft cloth or brush and rinse the base thoroughly.

Step6

Disinfect the base of the humidifier by pouring water and a teaspoon of chlorine bleach for every gallon of water into the base of the humidifier. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes.

Step7

Make sure to completely clean any vinegar or bleach residue from the parts of the humidifier before using it again.

Step8

Put the humidifier back together after filling the tank with cool water.

Tips & Warnings

You can use a soft-bristled brush on the water tank to clean off any residue.
Clean and disinfect your humidifier once a week.
Always unplug the humidifier before attempting any cleaning.
Read the manual that accompanies the humidifier to make sure any cleaning tips suggested here are compatible with manufacturer recommendations.