Ever wonder why your skin and sinuses are so dry, and your lips are always cracked in the winter? Blame your furnace. Unfortunately, the cozy warm air we need in our homes this time of year dries everything out. Your skin, houseplants, and wood furniture are all affected — unless you have a humidifier. Humidifiers are a must to put humidity back into the air, but they require regular maintenance. Is it time to give yours a clean?
Manufacturers recommend cleaning your humidifier once a week, this will prevent mineral buildup and the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms.
- Turn your humidifier off and unplug it from the power source.
- Remove and empty the water tank.
- Replace or flip the filter*.
- Fill the water tank with pure white vinegar and let it soak for 1 hour.
- Empty the vinegar and scrub the tank with a soft brush (or old toothbrush).
- Rinse and repeat if needed.
*Flipping the filter is one way to extend the life of your humidifier. Simply flip it around every time you change the water. Generally, a filter will need to be replaced every 3 to 6 months, even with regular maintenance.
It’s always a good idea to consult your humidifier’s user manual for any additional steps in the cleaning process. If this all seems like too much bother, there are a few humidifier models that are dishwasher-safe, like the Honeywell HCM350 Humidifier or Crane Cool Humidifier.
