An air humidifier (humidifier) is useful for increasing the humidity of the air in the room as well as anticipating cold and flu symptoms, curing dry skin and helping babies sleep better. A humidifier that is not cleaned properly has the potential to spread bacteria into the air. So, it is important to use the correct technique when cleaning the humidifier. Learn the basics to consider when cleaning a humidifier, disinfecting germs, and preventing the growth of bacteria on the humidifier.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Performing Basic Cleaning
Step 1. Rinse the filter/filter
First turn off the humidifier, then remove the filter. Wash the filter in cold water under a running tap to remove dirt. Drain by placing it on a dry towel, while you clean the rest of the area.
- Do not use a cleaning solution to wash the filter. Chemicals can cause permanent damage to the filter until it can no longer work properly.
- You may have a humidifier model that requires you to change the filter every time. If so, check the manufacturer's instructions and replace the filter according to the instructions.
Step 2. Wash the water collection tube
Remove the canister from the humidifier body and discard any remaining water in it. Fill the jar with 3 cups of vinegar, sprinkle all over the inside of the jar and let it sit for about an hour. Vinegar as a natural cleanser will react to release dirt that has accumulated at the bottom of the tube. Next, rinse the tube thoroughly.
- If necessary, use a brush to scrub away any dirt stuck to the bottom of the tube.
- Using other cleaners may have a negative impact, as the liquid from the tube will be pumped out. Stick to vinegar to ensure you're creating a safe environment for your family.
- If the water tube doesn't have access to a brush, take a few tablespoons of rice with vinegar and cold water to remove any water deposits. Cover the jar and shake vigorously for a minute or so, then let it sit for a few moments. Repeat this step until the dirt is removed. Rinse thoroughly to make sure all rice grains and dirt are clean.
Step 3. Clean the humidifier housing. Use a sponge moistened with vinegar and water to clean the rest of the humidifier. This method aims to prevent dust and other impurities from entering the water tube, and also to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria.
Method 2 of 3: Getting Rid of Germs in the Humidifier
Step 1. Use a solution of bleach and water as a disinfectant (disinfectant)
Pour a gallon of water and a teaspoon of bleach into the water jug. Leave the disinfectant solution in the tube for an hour to thoroughly clean the inside of the tube. Next, throw out the solution and rinse with clean cold water.
- Make sure the tub is thoroughly rinsed before you put it back on the humidifier housing.
- Do not leave bleach in the humidifier for more than an hour, as it can cause damage.
Step 2. Use hydrogen peroxide
Pour a few cups of hydrogen peroxide into the water tube. Shake the solution to the bottom and the entire inside of the tube. Leave the peroxide solution in the tube for about an hour, then discard and rinse with cold water.
Step 3. Perform a deep cleaning with vinegar
Fill a water jug with a cup of vinegar and a gallon of water. Operate the humidifier outdoors for an hour. After an hour, remove the solution from the tube and rinse with clean water. Then, fill the canister with clean water and operate the humidifier for an hour. Rinse the humidifier again before you use it.
- Do not operate the humidifier indoors while you are still using vinegar in the water tube. Doing so will make your room smell like vinegar.
- Do not use bleach or other chemicals for deep cleaning of the humidifier's parts. Activating the humidifier while the chemicals are still in it will cause permanent damage.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Bacterial Growth
Step 1. Change the water regularly
Leaving water in the tube for too long causes the deposition of water minerals on the bottom and sides of the tube. The longer the water is left in the tube, the more mineral deposits will accumulate and the more difficult it will be to clean.
Step 2. Clean the humidifier every three days
When the humidifier is used relatively frequently, for example in winter or if a family member requires it, clean the humidifier every three days with a light rinse with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Do a deeper cleanse every two weeks or so.
Step 3. Replace your humidifier, if necessary
An old humidifier that has been in operation for a long time may start to fail. Worn parts are more susceptible to bacterial growth.
- If your humidifier is more than five years old or more, you may want to consider replacing it.
- If you're not ready to replace your old humidifier, be sure to clean it with bleach or hydrogen peroxide every few weeks.
Step 4. Keep the area where the humidifier is placed dry
If the humidifier causes the area to become wet, replace it. The humidity that surrounds the humidifier can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Step 5. Store your humidifier properly
When it's time to stop using the humidifier, which is after winter, clean it thoroughly and make sure it's completely dry before storing it. If you want to reuse it later, clean it again before operating it.
Tips
- If you're trying to avoid using a harsh chemical cleaner, use vinegar to break up mineral deposits in the water.
- Other cleaning solutions may be used, depending on the moisture content.
