When using any type of warm mist humidifier you have to make sure that it is properly cleaned. These use water in order to provide homes with the amount of moisture needed to make the inhabitants comfortable. When they are not cleaned at least twice or three times a week the water will begin to grow algae, bacteria, and possibly even fungus. Though this is not as easy to do in warm mist humidifiers than in the cool mist it can still happen.
Before you begin it is imperative that you unplug the unit from the wall. This will prevent you from being electrocuted and allow you to remove the water safely. After the water is removed use a clean, damp towel to wipe down the outside of the unit. Open it up and also wipe down the inside of it.
- Pour a small amount of white vinegar into the humidifier. There should be just enough to cover the bottom of it. Allow this to soak for an hour. Every ten minutes shake the vinegar around the entire base.
- After an hour has passed use a soft brush to scrub the inside of the humidifier. Pay attention and focus your effort on anything that seems to have become stuck to the inside of it. Remove all deposits that have built up in between cleanings.
- Use the soft brush and dip it in the white vinegar before wiping down other parts of the unit. Use a toothbrush to clean the tight spots in the machine. Once that is done you will be ready to remove the misting chamber and clean it out the same way.
- Get rid of the vinegar and rinse the base with cold water. Pour distilled water into the base of the machine and let it sit for another hour. When the time is up replace the misting chamber.
- Pour one teaspoon of chlorine bleach into the base to every gallon of water. Allow this combination to soak for an house. This will help to disinfect the machine.
- Pour the bleach out and replace it with water. Allow this to sit for another hour. When the time is up remove the water and rinse it out thoroughly three times with distilled water. Make sure there is no residue before drying it off. If you still smell bleach than the water needs to soak some more.