Using a humidifier at home is a great way to add moisture to the air, however, it is important to use this appliance safely and properly to avoid potential health risks and also to achieve maximum benefits. Humidifiers reduce the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria and also relieve symptoms of dryness, like dry skin, chapped lips, and even sore throat. What to do and what not to do is mentioned in this article. Stay here. Don’t go anywhere.
Related: Best Air Humidifier in Dubai – Good for Dry Skin & Allergies [2023]
Tips to Safely Use Your Humidifier at Home
1. Use Distilled Water
Generally, distilled water contains fewer minerals than tap water. This helps to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria in your humidifier. However, if you don’t have access to distilled water or can’t make use of it for some reason, simply use tap water, provided it is boiled and cooled.
2. Choose the Right Humidifier to Suit Your Requirements
There are two main types of humidifiers i.e. cool mist and warm mist. Generally, cool mist humidifiers are considered to be safer, as they don’t produce any heat. On the contrary, warm mist humidifiers tend to be more effective at moisturizing the air. But, you should use these with caution since they can pose a risk of accidental burns.
3. Clean your Humidifier Regularly & Replace Filters When Necessary
Keeping your humidifier clean is more important than you think for several reasons. Whether it is for safety purposes or to increase the life span of the humidifier, regular maintenance and cleaning are of utmost importance. Generally, most humidifiers need cleaning at least once a week. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be on the safer side since each brand or model differs from the other. Ensure you empty the water tank totally and use a clean cloth to wipe it down. You may also need to descale your humidifier periodically to remove mineral buildup.
Also, you need to keep track of how often you need to clean and maintain the filters present in your humidifier. Consider checking the user manual for instructions.
4. Place Your Humidifier in the Right Spot
Ensure you don’t place your humidifier in your kid’s bedroom or next to any heat sources. Always put the humidifier on a flat surface away from walls and furniture. This will help to prevent the spread of mold and bacteria. Also, avoid keeping it in areas where you tend to move the most as you or any of your family members may trip over the humidifier. This can lead to spillage or accidents.
5. Monitor the Humidity Level in Your Home
Note that the ideal humidity level for your home is between 30 and 50%. You can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in your home. Too high levels of humidity promote the growth of mold and mildew. On the other hand, if the humidity level is too low, it can cause dryness and discomfort.
6. Never Over-humidify Your Home
As the saying goes, “Anything used in excess is bad”. The same thing applies to a humidifier. Always remember that over-humidifying your home is bad and invites trouble. Yes, high humidity levels over 55-60% encourage the growth of mold and mildew. This, in turn, tends to trigger asthma, allergies and other respiratory and skin conditions. In the long run, excess humidity can damage the walls, furniture, painting, artwork, floors, and even brickwork. Excess condensation can also increase dust mites. Therefore, you should never over-humidify your home. The best tip to avoid over-humidifying your home or room is to keep the interior doors as in the door of the room open. This enables the air to flow in and out of the space.
7. Never Add Essential Oils to Your Humidifier
Generally, humidifiers contain several parts made of plastic. These parts include certain machinery and the water tank too. Since essential oils are concentrated, adding them to these plastic parts can break down the plastic or even eat it away. Unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe to do so. Some essential oils can irritate the lungs. You won’t notice this overnight. But, with time, these concentrated essential oils can cause wear and tear and eventually ruin the parts of your humidifier.
Goodbye, Dry Air. Breathe Easier than Before!
Humidifiers can be a great way to improve the air quality in your home and relieve symptoms of dryness. However, it is important to use a humidifier safely and effectively at home to avoid potential health risks. By following the tips above, you can get the most out of your humidifier and enjoy the benefits of moist air.