A humidifier is a popular appliance in the modern household due to its convenience and ease of use. However, like any other household appliance, there are some aspects that homeowners neglect but should be aware of when using this product.
One such aspect is how to clean humidifier? Unfortunately, many people tend to ignore the importance of cleaning and maintaining their humidifiers. This can lead to health problems as the humidifier, which supposedly provides comfort and ease in breathing due to its moisture content, become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Read now: How to clean a flask?
1. Unplug the humidifier before cleaning it to prevent electric shock.
2. Use a brush with stiff bristles to clean out any dirt or debris on the surface of the appliance. Saturate a disinfectant wipe with cleaner and wipe down all surfaces of the humidifier including its tank, base, and electrical components.
3. To clean the humidifier’s tank, scrub it with a brush under running water until all impurities are removed. Do not use dishwashing soap or any product that contains bleach on the exterior of the tank as they may damage its finish. Instead, opt for cleaning products formulated specifically for humidifiers or you can simply use plain water.
4. To clean the humidifier’s base, unplug it first and dry it thoroughly before placing the tank back in place.
5. Always store your humidifier away from any moisture source or outside walls to prevent mold growth.
6. Clean the humidifier once every month to ensure that germs are kept at bay.
While bleach might be a great product to clean and disinfect, it is not suitable for humidifiers as it can cause damage.
To clean humidifier with bleach:
1. Mix one part bleach with three parts of water into a cleaning bucket.
2. Carefully scrub the solution onto all dirty surfaces of the humidifier using a soft brush.
3. Rinse the humidifier with running water before allowing it to completely dry out.
4. Wipe all exterior surfaces of the humidifier using a disinfectant wipe.
5. Do not use bleach on any other part of the humidifier except its tank as it may affect its exterior finish, especially if the unit is made of plastic.
To clean humidifier with vinegar:
1. Fill the tank and base of the humidifier with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Let it sit overnight to allow the solution to thoroughly dissolve any organic impurities stuck in its system.
2. Drain and refill the tank with freshwater to rinse out the vinegar.
3. Clean the humidifier as usual with a sponge or brush and disinfectant wipe.
4. Wipe down all exterior surfaces of the unit but do not use bleach on its tank as it may affect its exterior finish, especially if it is made of plastic.
Because humidifiers produce moisture, they can promote the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. It is recommended to clean it or wipe down its exterior surfaces once every two weeks to prevent such problems from occurring. However, some people suggest cleaning humidity makers at least once a week as some types of molds may develop on the moist walls within the machine.
In order to get rid of any harmful bacteria that have been growing on the humidifier, you will need to clean it thoroughly. Make sure that before you begin cleaning, your device is unplugged and all water has been drained from it. The container should also be empty so you can adequately scrub away the greasy residue inside of it.