Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Home Maintenance

How to clean a humidifier the right way

By

If you live in a hot and arid climate, or if your winters tend to strip the air of its moisture, you probably get a lot of use out of your humidifier. While the relief of that moistened air can help cure your dry throat and even keep seasonal allergy symptoms in check, the added humidity in the air isn’t always free of toxins and allergens. Dirty humidifiers make for dirty air, so we’re going to review when and how you should clean your humidifier so that you can breathe cleanly with confidence.

humidifier on accent table in bright living room
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Why clean your humidifier?

Water is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, so a machine full of standing water can circulate these growths into the air. Cleaning your humidifier properly and regularly can reduce the risk of bacteria and mold growth to keep you and your family breathing safely. Proper cleaning also rids your humidifier’s components of mineral build-ups, keeping your machine running smoothly for longer.

Recommended Videos

How to clean a humidifier: Daily upkeep

While it’s not necessary to give your humidifier a deep clean or disinfect every day, there are some steps you should take on a daily basis that will keep your machine in good working order and help to fight off harmful bacteria.

Related

What you’ll need:

  • A clean, dry microfiber cloth

Instructions:

  1. Shut off and unplug your humidifier.
  2. Empty basin and tank of water.
  3. Using the dry microfiber cloth, wipe down all areas and components, including the basin, the tank, and even the air vents, to soak up all water droplets.
  4. Reassemble the unit, plug it back in, and turn it back on.

How to clean a humidifier: Weekly maintenance

Experts recommend that you disinfect your humidifier at least once per week (if you’re using the machine regularly) to eradicate any bacteria, mold, or mildew growth before it disperses into the air.

What you’ll need:

  • 4 tbsp white vinegar or 1 tbsp chlorine bleach
  • 1 gallon distilled water, warmed
  • A small toothbrush or nylon brush
  • A clean, dry microfiber cloth

Instructions:

  1. Shut off and unplug your humidifier.
  2. Empty the tank and reservoir.
  3. Check your humidifier’s manual to determine if you can use bleach to clean the machine’s components.
  4. If so, mix 1 tbsp of chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of warm water. If the manufacturer advises against using bleach, mix 4 tbsp of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water.
  5. Pour your solution into the humidifier’s water tank.
  6. Shake the tank around to ensure the solution reaches all the internal components.
  7. Replace the tank and allow it to drain into the reservoir.
  8. Let the solution sit in your humidifier for 15-30 minutes.
  9. Pour out the solution.
  10. Use a small brush to clean the crevices and components to rid your humidifier of mineral buildups and deposits.
  11. Rinse both the tank and the reservoir with clean water until the smell of bleach or vinegar is no longer lingering.
  12. Use your microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the tank, reservoir, and any other wet components.
  13. Reassemble the unit, plug it in, and turn it on.
closeup of humidifier steam with house plants in the background
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tips for using and cleaning humidifiers

In order to prolong your machine’s life and keep your air clean, review these tips for using and cleaning your machine.

Check the manufacturing manual

Before using harsh chemicals like bleach, be sure to check the manufacturing manual. Depending on the model you have, the manufacturer may advise against using certain cleaning agents and, instead, have specific cleaning instructions for your machine.

Never leave water sitting

If you’re not using your humidifier, empty the tank and reservoir. Standing water promotes bacteria growth, which will make its way into the air when you use the machine next.

Use distilled water

Tap water contains added minerals that are good for your body but problematic for your humidifier. As the water evaporates, the minerals remain, creating a film on the machine’s components. This film can build up into hard deposits that could eventually block water flow or damage the humidifier. Using distilled water reduces the presence of these minerals, keeping your humidifier in good working order.

Be sure all pieces are dry before storing them away

When the dry season comes to an end, you’ll likely store your humidifier away until it’s time to use it again next year. Before you pack it up, however, be sure to empty the water and use a dry, microfiber cloth to remove any lingering droplets.

Humidifiers are easy and convenient ways to add some moisture back into the air during dry seasons. Humid air won’t do you much good if it’s filled with irritating allergens and bacteria, so make sure your machine is clean and disinfected at all times. With daily upkeep and weekly maintenance, you can rest assured knowing your humidified air is clean and safe for the whole family.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Veronica Sparks
Veronica Sparks
Contributor
Veronica Sparks is a writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who loves writing about gardening, home décor, and DIY life. She’s…
25 stellar staircase ideas to freshen up the look of your home
Not ready for an entire remodel? Update your staircase with one of these ideas
Young woman on stairs in a loft caring for potted plants.

If you want to change the interior of your house, you can change out throw pillows and invest in new furniture, but your stairs are a set thing, right? Not quite. You may not be able to move stairs or rip them out entirely, but you can get creative about your stair design.

Changing up your staircase can be one way to upgrade the look of your home and it isn't as difficult as you may think. If you aren’t sure how to accomplish this, we’ve got 25 ideas ranging from subtle to dramatic to help you figure it out. Keep reading for inspiration on how to update your staircase.

Read more
What colors go with purple? 9 captivating shades for your home
Here's how to decorate with purple and find colors that complement it
Living room with purple couch and walls

Purple represents royalty, mystery, peace, and much more, depending on who you ask. So, why can’t you decorate with purple? There are many ways to work it in if purple is your thing, from purple color combinations to purple accents.

Research shows that people who decorate with purple are most likely to say their home makes them happy, and Pantone's color of the year in 2022 certainly celebrated the shade. If you already love purple, this is definitely the read for you, but if you need some convincing, this just may be the thing that convinces you that purple is the right choice for remodeling your space.

Read more
Satin vs. eggshell paint: How to choose the right finish for every room
Read an expert's thoughts on these two finishes
Pink and blue color blocking wall paint design

Repainting your home is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to transform your home. However, before you start poring over paint swatches and heading to your local hardware or paint store to buy your house paint primer and paint, there is one major decision you need to make: finish. Let's talk about what paint finish is, how it will impact your painting project, and which you should choose when it comes to satin vs. eggshell paint.

What is paint finish?
When we talk about paint finish, we're referring to the texture and appearance of a painted surface after the paint has dried. Basically, it's the final touch that determines the overall aesthetic and feel of the painted area. Paint finishes can vary in terms of sheen (glossiness), smoothness, and durability, and each type of finish has its own unique characteristics. Paint finish isn't a one-size-fits-all situation, and the finish of the paint can make a big difference in how it looks.

Read more