How to Clean Humidifier Pads With Vinegar

Humidifiers help keep your family comfortable and healthy throughout the cold and flu season. It is essential that your humidifier be kept clean to maximize health benefits. The humidifier pad or filter is especially prone to accumulate debris, mineral deposits and mold. Many humidifier components can be cleaned with a simple solution of white vinegar and water.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Tub or basin
• White vinegar
• Soft cloth or sponge

Instructions

Cleaning Humidifier Filter Pads

1. Unplug the humidifier.

2. Drain the humidifier of water and remove the filter pad.

3. Immerse the filter in a container of warm water large enough to cover the filter completely. Add approximately one-half cup vinegar for each gallon of water.

4. Allow the pad to soak for at least an hour, turning and shaking the pad periodically.

5. Remove the pad and rinse thoroughly with clear water.

6. Allow the pad to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe down the inside and outside of the humidifier with a diluted vinegar solution and rinse thoroughly. Use a soft brush or nonscratch scrubbing pad to remove any deposits.

• Using distilled water to run the humidifier will minimize mineral deposits.

References

• Doityourself.com: How to Clean Your Humidifier
• MayoClinic.com: Humidifiers
• Thriftyfun.com: Using Vinegar in a Humidifier