How to Clean a Humidifier Tank
Humidifiers are often used in a home to help relieve dryness of skin, lips, throat and nose, especially in winter. It is important to clean your humidifier, including the base and tank, several times a week. Due to its use of standing water, humidifiers are a haven for bacteria and mold; therefore, humidifiers can release toxins into your air simply because of improper---or lack of---cleaning. While it is always best to follow manufacture directions for cleaning the tank, there are a few common-sense steps you can follow at home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Unplug your humidifier and take off the tank. Usually, it lifts right off to the main base.
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2
Twist the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the tank.
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3
Use a scrub brush with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide to scrub the inside of the water tank to remove scale and mineral build up. This should be done at least every third day. Do the same with the inside of the cap.
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Use bleach every month to clean your tank. Fill the tank with cold water and a tablespoon of bleach, put the cap back on and let it sit for about an hour.
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Rinse thoroughly. Whatever cleaning solution you use, you must rinse your tank and cap at least three times to ensure that no chemical remnants remain. Then fill with water and proceed to use your humidifier.
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Tips & Warnings
The higher the mineral content of the water you use, the more often you will need to clean it. You also need to clean the base of your humidifier on a regular basis.
