How to Use a Humidifier

Many people use a humidifier to relieve their dry skin, lips, nose and throat. If you suffer from any of these conditions, a humidifier will help alleviate the dryness by adding moisture into the air. Humidifiers add moisture as either a cool mist or steam, depending on the type you have. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Setting up the Humidifier

1. Read the directions and warnings that came with your humidifier and then fill the tank with the specified amount of distilled water.

2. Place the humidifier on a solid surface in the room. The night stand or a low dresser work well if you use the humidifier in the bedroom.

3. Check to make sure the humidifier is level.

4. Plug the humidifier in a nearby electrical outlet. Secure the cord so it is out of the way.

Replace the Water in Your Humidifier

5. Unplug the humidifier.

6. Empty the water out of the tank.

7. Refill the tank with distilled water.

8. Dry all the surfaces that have accumulated moisture.

9. Insert the plug back into the wall outlet.

Cleaning the Tank

10. Remove the electrical plug and drain the water out of the tank to thoroughly clean the tank every 3 days.

11. Scrub the tank with a brush or sponge to remove any build up of any scale, film or mineral deposits, and clean the sides of the tank.

12. Mix a solution of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water, unless you have special manufacturers cleaning directions and clean the inside of the tank.

13. Rinse your humidifier thoroughly with water to remove all traces of the cleaning agent.

14. Wipe all the surfaces dry with a clean towel.

15. Replug the electrical wire back into the outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• Distilled water works best in a humidifier, although filtered water or tap water will work.
• Only use a humidifier when it is needed and use the correct moisture setting for your condition.
• Never use a humidifier if the relative humidity inside the house is more than 50 percent.
• Follow all instructions in the booklet for your particular humidifier. If you don't have the instruction booklet, you might find one online if you have the correct model and manufacturer information.

Resources

• Go here for more information on humidifiers