Cleaning of Portable Humidifiers and Vaporizers at Home

CAUTION: Use of a humidifier or vaporizer can increase dust mite and mold growth. Frequent use of a humidifier or vaporizer is not recommended for people who are allergic to these antigens. Routine cleaning of the humidifier or vaporizer is very important, as anyone can develop a lung condition known as humidifier lung (hypersensitivity pneumonitis).

Daily

1. Empty reservoir.
2. Wash reservoir completely with hot soapy water.
3. Rinse well under running tap water. Be careful that no water gets into the motor.
4. Fill reservoir to appropriate level. Distilled water is preferable, but tap water may be used.

Weekly

1. Please clean the equipment in an area away from the person with a lung problem.
2. Empty the reservoir.
3. Clean the reservoir with hot soapy water. Rinse well.
4. Add 2 cups white vinegar and enough water to enable the humidifier or vaporizer to create a mist. Allow the machine to run thirty minutes in a well-ventilated area.
5. Rinse the equipment well.
6. Operate the humidifier or vaporizer for 3 minutes with clean tap water.
7. Pour out the tap water and fill to the appropriate level. Distilled water is preferable, but tap water may be used.

When the reservoir water level is low, always discard water remaining in the humidifier before refilling with distilled water!

Learn more ideas about healthy lifestyles.

Learn more ideas about reducing or eliminating allergens from your environment.

This information has been approved by Hal Nelson, MD (June 2006).