Disinfecting a humidifier with household ingredients
That build up inside a filter free humidifier might seem stubborn and hard to clean, but disinfecting it with simple household ingredients is all you will need to do. Harsh chemicals around little ones are big no in my house, for that reason I am sharing my go-to method on how to clean a humidifier with you. While you're at it, check out this recipe we enjoy when sick.
How to Clean a Humidifier
Having a sick child is stressful on many levels. I went through phases of taking the humidifier out and putting it back way too often in the early years of my children's life. The hardest part of it all was figuring out how to clean a Vicks filter free humidifier which was highly recommended by many friends.
I must say, I also recommend the Vicks Filter Free Humidifier after years of experience. Growing up, my parents had a Vicks humidifier, which a removable filter which was replaced every time we were sick. I remember my Mom cleaning the inside of it many times, and can't be thankful enough for filter free versions these days!
Favorite humidifier for children
I love the Vicks Cool Mist Humidifier. There are many cute variations of cool mist filter free humidifiers which would grab my attention, but I am so happy to have gone with one that actually stays on for hours at a time. It is one thing that every mom appreciates, one would like to think.
Before having kids, I bought a warm mist humidifier. It was the best thing, next to Nyquil, every time I felt the sniffles come along. The addition of Vicks menthol patches made it much more soothing. For that reason, I recommend it for adults. Either way, be sure to consult with your doctor to ensure you use the one that is right for you.
Filter or filter free humidifier?
For children a cool mist humidifier works well. A humidifier with a filter can reduce the amount of bacteria that is filtered through. With many air purifiers in our home, my husband and I went with a filter free version of a humidifier. It was easier to clean in our experience.
How to clean a humidifier?
Growing up my Mother would clean the water tank of the humidifier with antibacterial dish washing soap, such as Dawn. She would scrub it with a clean sponge and use a bottle brush whenever possible. I did the same for a while, but wanted to take it to another level.
Once it has been cleaned with dishwashing liquid, I set it aside. I then thank the tank of the water and spill all of the water out. Instead of drying it right away, I take about ¼ cup of vinegar and swivel it around the base of the humidifier and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, I rinse it well with clean water.
To get into the crevices of the humidifier and clean the pink growth, I use a bottle brush and Q-Tips. The end result is great. Take it a step further and rinse again with vinegar and water. Let it thoroughly air dry before storing it away so it is ready to be used for another sick event.
Replace a humidifier or clean it?
I can't say I cleaned the humidifier every single time it started to get any form of pink. Instead, I would replace it. Honestly, I just didn't have the time to clean it and found it better to replace it. Understood, not the most environmental friendly thing to do but I had to ration time well.
When I expressed my crazy humidifier funding issue to my friend, she was convinced I was losing my mind and taught me this vinegar trick. Thank goodness for her, because I officially am saving some money!!! Really... no joke at all.
Let me know how this trick works out for you! I love hearing from you!