How to Use a Humidifier in a Baby's Room

Keep your baby safe and healthy with a humidifier.

Almost all babies experience a stuffy nose or difficulty breathing at some point. A humidifier can help treat this problem by adding moisture to the air. When it comes to humidifying a baby's room, parents should consider not only the location of the humidifier, but also the type of water used. An improperly used humidifier may potentially worsen problems, or even worse, create a whole new set of problems such as mold growth.

Things You'll Need

• Filtered or distilled water

Instructions

1. Fill the humidifier with filtered or distilled water. Tap water may contain excessive minerals that can irritate a baby's lungs, so it's important to use purified water.

2. Place the humidifier between 3 and 4 feet away from the baby's crib. This distance is close enough that moisture will reach the baby, but not so close that she can reach it or cause it to tip over. If possible, put the humidifier in the middle of the room, away from a wall.

3. Run the humidifier at any time the baby is in her crib. Be sure to open the door to the room to ensure adequate air flow. If the room does not have air flow, moisture can build up on the walls and ceiling, which may potentially lead to harmful mold growth.

4. Clean the humidifier according to the manufacturer's directions to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use a cool-mist humidifier, be sure to wash it after each use. Since the water isn't boiled in these devices, they are more susceptible to mold and bacterial growth.

References

• The Baby Department: Humidifiers and Vaporizers
• Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service: Health Suggestions for Babies