How to Clean a Humidifier
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.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Cleaning Process
-
1
Mix a cup of vinegar with water in a spray bottle for spot cleaning.
-
2
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.
-
3
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.
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4
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.
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5
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.
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6
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.
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7
Make sure to completely clean any vinegar or bleach residue from the parts of the humidifier before using it again.
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8
Put the humidifier back together after filling the tank with cool water.
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1
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.
