10 Best Easy To Clean Humidifier Reviews – Top Picks

Humidifiers are a great appliance for maintaining a healthy environment in your home.

When the humidity levels in your room are in the right range, you can improve your family’s health and protect furnishings from the negative impact of dry air.

When searching for a humidifying unit, you may want to choose the best easy to clean humidifier.

This will help you maintain and keep it running efficiently. But not all humidifiers are easy to clean.

That is why we have reviewed some of the best easy-to-clean humidifiers to help you make an informed decision.

My Overall #1 Rated Pick

Honeywell HCM350B Cool Mist Humidifer
The humidifier uses evaporative technology that allows it blow moisture off a wicking filter. This allows the mist to evaporate into the air quickly. In addition, this unit is whisper quiet and child friendly. Making it the best option for a family with kids. Even better, this humidifier has the ability to kill 99.9% bacteria in the water.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Keep in mind that there are other factors that you need to consider to purchase the right unit for your home.

Don’t only focus on how easy it is to clean and ignore other important factors. Later on, we will discuss what these factors are.

Best Easy To Clean Humidifier

1. Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier HCM350WBest Overall Option
2. Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist HumidifierBest Large Space Option
3. TaoTronics Cool Mist Humidifier TT-AH002Best Small Space Option
4. Vicks Filter-Free Cool Mist HumidifierBest Built-inn Option
5. Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier HCM-710Best Medium Room Option
6. Pure Enrichment Ultrasonic Cool Mist HumidifierBest Budget Option
7. Boneco Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier U200Best Easy to Clean Option
8. InvisiPure Luna Cool Mist HumidifierBest Easy to Use Option
9. Miro Premium Cool Mist Humidifier NRO8MBest Quiet Option
10. Pure Guardian H1510 UltrasonicBest Stylish Option

Best Easy To Clean Humidifier Comparison Table

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Reviews of Humidifiers That are Easy to Clean  (Updated List)

1. Honeywell Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier HCM350W

Honeywell Cool Moisture Humidifier, Medium Room, 1...
  • CLEANER INVISIBLE MOISTURE – Honeywell Cool Moisture Humidifier effectively brings invisible moisture to your home. It utilizes UV technology and a wicking filter to help treat the water and capture minerals to keep them out of the air for a cleaner mist.
  • EVERYDAY COMFORT – This humidifier for home features evaporative technology that increases and holds the targeted humidity level to optimize moisture in the room. It’s ideal for everyday comfort and year-round relief from dry throat and dry, itchy skin.
  • EASY TO USE – Featuring a large 1.1 gallon, easy-fill, self-standing tank, this cool moisture humidifier provides up to 24 hours of run time. Plus, it’s easy to clean – all parts that touch water can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
  • HUMIDIFIER FOR BEDROOM – As the ideal humidifier for baby, this device has a soft, fan-like sound to add restful noise to any room. Great for an adult or child’s bedroom, the large tank can run overnight, providing consistent soothing moisture.
  • COMPATIBLE DOES NOT MEAN COMPARABLE – For best performance, use only a genuine Honeywell Replacement Wicking Filter A. Compatible humidifier filter replacements are not guaranteed to offer the same performance or efficiency.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Honeywell Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier HCM350W uses evaporative technology to blow moisture off a wicking filter. This allows the mist to evaporate into the air quickly.

One bonus with evaporative humidifiers is that you cannot humidify a room too much since you can’t add more moisture to the air than it can hold. Instead, this unit emits a cool mist and does so in a quiet manner.

And since all humidifiers will create a small amount of noise during operation, you want one that is as quiet as possible.

Humidifiers are often placed in bedrooms or living rooms, so you don’t want to be disturbed while you’re relaxing on the couch watching TV or trying to get a decent night’s sleep.

This unit has a one-gallon capacity tank and can run for up to 24 hours on the low setting, so you won’t constantly run to the faucet for refills.

A bonus feature of this product that will give you extra peace of mind is its bacteria-fighting capability.

This humidifier kills up to 99.9% of bacteria in the water, so the mist you release into your home environment will be clean and bacteria-free.

This will ensure you get a high-quality breathing environment conducive to good overall health.

Pros

  • Anti-bacterial humidifying
  • It runs for up to 24 hours

Cons

  • Large dimensions may make it difficult for placing on a surface

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2. Everlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for...
  • IMPROVED WELLNESS and COMFORT: Our ultrasonic humidifier works to add moisture into the air, turning any room into a comfortable, well humidified environment so you can begin to feel better
  • LARGE 6L CAPACITY: Equipped with a 6L (1.6 gal) water tank, the air humidifier can run up to 50 hrs (when used 8 hrs per night on the lowest mist setting); 2x longer than smaller home humidifiers
  • WHISPER QUIET: The large humidifier is nearly silent (less than 35 dB), making it ideal for use in the bedroom, baby nursery, office, or other spaces where noise levels need to be kept low
  • HIGH MIST OUTPUT: Adjust the cool mist humidifier's mist output to high or low, and point the 360 degree nozzle in any direction for efficient and comprehensive coverage for spaces up to 500 sq ft
  • HUMIDIFIER with ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER: The large room humidifier has a built in essential oils tray. PRO TIP: Use this vaporizer with the Everlasting Comfort Essential Oils Set for home aromatherapy

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Everlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier has many enticing features for a person looking to invest in a humidifier for their home.

It has a 1.6-gallon water capacity tank which can emit up to 270 ml of mist every hour. In addition, it has the power to humidify spaces up to 400 square feet.

So if your room dimensions are roughly 20 by 20 feet or less, you can rest assured that this unit will be powerful enough to humidify the entire room.

One of the great things about this humidifier is that it lasts for up to 50 hours between refills, so you don’t need to refill it daily.

Instead, you can enjoy it for two full days and then some before having to refill the water tank. 

This unit is perfectly suitable for placement in your bedroom, as the ultrasonic technology incorporated into the design creates an almost silent and very quiet frequency.

Therefore, you can breathe in the best air possible while sleeping without it interrupting your rest.

The body of this unit has 360-degree rotating nozzles and a steam output knob that is fully adjustable so that you can exert a degree of control over the humidity levels of the desired space.

The display on the body itself would benefit from a reading that shows the actual and desired humidity levels, but aside from this, the buttons are practical and easy to use. 

Pros

  • High mist output of up to 270 ml per hour
  • Includes an essential oil tray

Cons 

  • Display on the body itself could have more features for greater control over humidity levels.

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3. TaoTronics Cool Mist Humidifier TT-AH002

RV Camper 12 Volt Auto Heater Defroster with LED...
  • 360 degree swivel base for dash mounting
  • Swing-out handle for use as a defroster
  • Separate switches for heater, fan, and lamp (three position heat switch)
  • Built in LED flashlight
  • Rubberized outter housing

Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The TaoTronics Cool Mist Humidifier TT-AH002 boasts a whisper-quiet operation lower in volume than the noise in a library.

So it is perfect for placement in areas where quiet is required.

Its ultrasonic technology implements almost silent frequencies. So the quietness of the machine has been thoughtfully incorporated into the overall design. 

This unit features a 3.5-liter water tank, a nice size that isn’t too difficult to refill but also provides a relatively long burst of continuous mist emissions.

You can get up to ten hours of humidifying action before needing to refill.

That means you can top it up immediately before bedtime, and it will improve the environment all night long. This is the perfect size of humidifier for most rooms in a home or office and can humidify a space of up to 322 feet. 

The built-in ceramic filter improves the water quality in the tank and thus purifies the mist released during the humidification process.

It will reduce bad odors in the environment and provide a much cleaner living space as a result. In addition, tIn addition, tIn addition, the filter itself only needs to be changed every 4 to 6 months, so the running costs are highly reasonable. 

A very useful auto shut-off mechanism prevents the machine from running if there is not enough water. If the water level is too low, it will simply shut itself off, so this will give you extra peace of mind when using the machine.

It also comes with a non-slip handle that makes it safer and more convenient to use. This makes refilling easy and quick, so you can enjoy the benefits of healthy air without wasting too much time on complicated refill processes.

Pros

  • Whisper quiet operation
  • Built-in ceramic filter    

Cons

  • The nozzle at the top sticks out from the main unit

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4. Vicks Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier  

The Vicks Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier uses ultrasonic technology that results in a quiet operation. It returns essential moisture into the air using visible cool mist.

This unit is beneficial for anyone suffering from a cough or congestion. It also improves any conditions caused by an environment that is too dry, including dry skin and scalp. 

The water tank capacity of this unit is 1.2 gallons, so it can hold a lot of water and requires fewer refills. One fill of this tank can provide up to thirty hours of continuous mist emission.

The tank is translucent to monitor the water level easily, and it has a wide tank opening that allows for easy filling and cleaning. 

If the water level is too low, the machine will turn itself off thanks to the auto shut-off mechanism incorporated into the design. As a result, you can either monitor the water level or leave it to its own devices.

If you’re sitting within eye view of the machine, you can easily see when it’s too low; alternatively, if you’re using it in your bedroom and turn it on before sleeping.

You don’t have to worry that the motor will tire itself out because it won’t keep running if there’s no water. This unit is best used for medium-sized rooms of up to 400 square feet.

This is actually quite a large space, so there are lots of potentials regarding which room you decide to place it in.

Pros

  • Filter free
  • Wide tank opening for easy filling and cleaning

Cons  

  • The adjustable mist output could be more accurate if it had a digital display.

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5. Honeywell Easy to Care Cool Mist Humidifier HCM-710

Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier,...
  • VICKS FILTER-FREE COOL MIST HUMIDIFIER: This cool mist humidifier won't need replacement filters, and it's 1.2 gallon tank can give up to 30 hours of soothing mist. Vicks cool mist humidifier is quiet, making it great for your bedroom or baby's nursery
  • VICKS HUMIDIFIERS FOR BABIES, KIDS, ADULTS: Humidifiers diffuse moisture into the air, and many women and men find that a humidifier for the bedroom becomes an essential part of a good nights sleep when the air is dry, in allergy season, or when sick
  • COUGH AND CONGESTION RELIEF: When you or your kid has a cold, it can be difficult to sleep through the night. Humidifiers, vaporizers, and steam inhalers provide temporary relief from coughing and congestion, so your rest won't be as disturbed by coughing fits
  • VICKS VAPORIZERS, HUMIDIFIERS AND STEAM INHALERS: Moisture and humidity offer temporary relief from cough and congestion due to colds or allergies. Vicks line of humidifiers and steam inhalers, help you breathe easier wherever you are, from the bedroom to the office
  • HUMIDIFIERS FOR BEDROOMS, DESKS, TABLES: Our humidifiers and vaporizers help you breathe better wherever you are.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Honeywell Easy to Care Cool Mist Humidifier HCM-710 provides soothing invisible moisture to relieve any discomforts or ailments caused by an arid environment.

Other models emit visible mist, but this one emits invisible mist. This may be a preference for someone who doesn’t want to view a visible stream of mist, particularly if it is placed close to the television and interrupts viewing. 

There are three-speed settings on this device that allow you to adjust the moisture and mist levels, thereby creating an environment that adequately matches your desired humidity level.

The illuminated water window on the front of the body is useful for keeping an eye on the water level. It’s also an effective design similar to the window on a kettle.

Thus, you can monitor the water left in the tank and refill it when necessary. When you select the lowest mist setting, you can get up to 36 hours from the unit before you need to refill the water tank.

This is very useful if you simply want to inject a small amount of moisture into the air. However, if your needs require the highest setting, you will still get a lot of time out of the tank before having to refill.

In addition, the settings allow you to customize the mist emission according to how dry the surrounding environment is. Hence, you have a certain level of control over the humidity level in any given space.

Pros

  • Includes a wicking filter that captures minerals from the water
  • Illuminated water window that shows the water level

Cons 

  • No automatic shut-off mechanism

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6. Pure Enrichment Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier, Medium Room, 1...
  • INVISIBLE COOL MIST HUMIDIFIER – Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier helps to ensure proper humidity levels in your home. Indoor humidity levels between 40%-60% can help relieve cough and congestion, keep throat and nasal passages hydrated and more.
  • EASY TO USE – This humidifier with invisible cool mist includes two speed settings to adjust moisture output and sound level. The wicking filter captures minerals from the water, helping reduce white dirt. Features a top fill design for easy fill & clean.
  • COUGH AND CONGESTION RELIEF – Humidifiers for home can be helpful during cold and flu season, when it’s difficult to sleep with cough and congestion. A humidifier can provide temporary relief by adding necessary moisture to the air.
  • HUMIDIFIERS FOR BEDROOM AND MORE – A humidifier with invisible moisture is great for a baby, young children and adults, and fits perfectly into any room. Use them when the air is dry, when sick or even just to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels.
  • COMPATIBLE DOES NOT MEAN COMPARABLE – For best performance, use only a Genuine Honeywell humidifier filter. Compatible humidifier filter replacements are not certified to offer the same performance or efficiency.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Pure Enrichment Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier provides long-lasting relief from health issues associated with arid environments.

It uses ultrasonic technology, so it is very quiet, emitting less than 35 decibels of noise. In addition, its 3.5-liter tank capacity falls just under the one-gallon mark, so it is spacious and can hold a lot of water.

This means fewer trips to the faucet for refills. With its variable mist control knob, you can select how much mist you want to be released into the air.

If you’ve just sat down and want to delay a refill, you can put it to the lowest setting to get more use out of it.

Alternatively, if you’ve just come down with cold or flu symptoms, the high setting will improve the quality of the air you breathe more quickly and effectively. 

Its water tank is easy to clean since the large opening means you can easily fit your hand into the body to reach every corner and crevice.

The design is quite sleek and modern, and the dial knob is a contemporary brushed silver, so this device will not look out of place in a well-designed home.

Pros

  • Less than 35 decibels noise level
  • 3.5-liter tank capacity

Cons 

  • Ultrasonic humidifiers without filters sometimes release white dust in areas with hard water.

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7. Boneco Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier U200

Pure Enrichment HUME Ultrasonic Cool Mist...
  • LONG-LASTING RELIEF: Ultrasonic technology provides up to 50 hours of continuous operation (depending on mist setting) without the need to refill the water tank–allowing for convenient overnight use
  • VARIABLE MIST SETTINGS: Rotating mist control knob gives you the flexibility to adjust moisture output incrementally to meet your comfort level
  • EASY-CLEAN WATER TANK: Large water tank opening makes it easy to hand wash the inside of the tank to remove buildup and keep the humidifier operating at maximum efficiency–no special brushes or tools needed | Automatic safety feature turns humidifier off when water level is low or the water tank is removed
  • WHISPER-QUIET OPERATION: Integrated body design suppresses noise for silent operation that’s ideal for a nursery or office setting
  • WHAT YOU GET: Humidifier, user manual, industry-leading 5 Year Warranty, caring customer support 7 days a week, and the peace of mind that comes from a trusted brand with millions of customers worldwide

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Boneco Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier U200 can emit up to 1.8 gallons of mist over a 24 hour period so that it will make a tangible difference to the humidity level in your home. 

It is extremely easy to operate due to the legible and simple design, including a dial control that operates simultaneously as a power button and adjustable mist control. 

There is an LED night light that provides a relaxing ambiance and a fragrance tray for the use of essential oils.

Using essential oils will boost the humidifying benefits by introducing the unique health benefits of anything from lavender to carrot seed oil. 

Essential oils have properties ranging from anti-aging to disinfecting. So once you choose the one that’s suitable for your needs, you’ll see a difference in your overall health. 

Pros

  • A high output of up to 1.8 gallons for every 24 hours
  • Easy to operate and maintain   

Cons 

  • The design looks a bit dated

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8. InvisiPure Luna Cool Mist Humidifier 

BONECO - Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier U200...
  • EASY TO USE: This cool mist humidifier easily operates using a control knob. The compact size is perfect for the bedroom, living room, or anywhere throughout your whole home. Relaxing ambiance is provided by the LED night light.
  • HOME HUMIDIFIER: This humidifier is intended for rooms up to 430 sq. ft. and has a high humidification output of up to 1.8 gallons/day. The variable mist output controls the amount of humidity distributed to your room.
  • VERY QUIET OPERATION: Thanks to effective high-frequency technology, water is converted into a micro-fine mist and sent into the indoor air by a fan. It has a silent steam operation for a peaceful night's sleep (operation noise level: <30 dB(A)).
  • TOP-RATED WATER TREATMENT ACCESSORIES: The U200 is suitable for the use of fragrances and essential oils to create a self-personalized atmosphere. It also includes the 2-in-1 water filter A250 AQUA PRO for pure humidification without residue & EZCal.
  • EASY CLEANING: This mist machine has elegant handling and design, it's easy to clean, has low power consumption, and a removable water tank for easy refills. There is even an automatic, practical reminder indicator for refilling water.

Last update on 2023-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The InvisiPure Luna Cool Mist Humidifier is shaped like a modern lamp and can be used for decorative purposes in a room due to its fun feature: an LED adjustable light.

This light changes to seven different colors, so this unit will certainly add a relaxing vibe to any room. This humidifier not only injects moisture into the air. It can also be used as an aromatherapy diffuser.

Thus, you can simultaneously improve the humidity levels in a room and benefit from the unique properties of essential oils.

The top-fill design of this unit allows you to fill and clean it easily. In addition, it is nice and wide, so you can fit your hand in comfortably when trying to reach the areas at the bottom. 

The magnetic suspension technology incorporated into the design of this machine ensures that it is virtually silent. So, you don’t have to worry about annoying noises when you’re carrying out your daily routine.

Pros

  • Seven-color LED adjustable light
  • It can also be used as an aromatherapy diffuser

Cons  

  • The water tank capacity is smaller than some other models

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9. Miro Premium Cool Mist Humidifier NRO8M

InvisiPure [Newly Updated] Luna Cool Mist...
  • Newly redesigned 2020 model. Easier to Fill & Clean: With its patented top-fill design & hidden water-level sensor, this ultrasonic humidifier gives you easy, total access to the entire tank, so you can fill & clean it in no time. Designed in California. Lab tested and certified BPA Free.
  • Doubles as Aromatherapy Diffuser: Go ahead. Add your favorite essential oils to this versatile fine-mist humidifier. Thanks to its premium, oil-safe construction, it won't crack, leak, or corrode.
  • Safer to Operate: Designed & tested for safety, your Luna portable humidifier features patented technology which only lets in water when needed, preventing leaks and other problems associated with traditional humidifiers. Light & compact... just 2.3 lbs.
  • Longer Run Time, Greater Comfort: Your 3-level mist humidifier runs up to 24 hours at Low, 17 at Medium & 10 at High. Promotes easier breathing & more comfortable sleep. Helps prevent static shock.
  • Virtually Silent: Some humidifiers make annoying gurgling noises as they fill with water. But, thanks to its magnetic suspension technology, your Luna humidifier diffuser is always amazingly quiet.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The bowl of the unit is the water tank, which has a capacity of one gallon. Interestingly, you can refill the water without having to switch off the machine.

This is great because you don’t have to interrupt the humidifying process while refilling. In addition, different power settings allow you to customize the humidity level.

The highest setting will run for 8 hours before a refill is needed, and the lowest setting can run for up to 24 hours. 

The touch panel controls are contemporary and easy to use, and the body has a color-changing capability.

You can choose for a color cycle or one continuous color, allowing you to set the room’s ambiance where you place this humidifier.

Like the InvisiPure unit, this unit has a really decorative feel compared to some other models, so you may want to consider this before deciding which humidifier to purchase.

Pros

  • It can be dismantled easily for convenient cleaning
  • Touch panel controls 

Cons 

  • The Miro Premium Cool Mist Humidifier NRO8M is designed to be sanitary and easily washable. So you can take it apart easily and wash every surface without too much difficulty. 

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10. Pure Guardian H1510 Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier

Sale
MIRO-NR08M Completely Washable Modular Sanitary...
  • Sanitary washable design. Take apart easily, wash every surface. Refill the 1 gal. bowl without stopping operation. Easy top fill.
  • Miro's most powerful, and most DURABLE ultrasonic mist-maker yet. Capacity: 8hr. continuous operation at max-power. 24hr at min power. 600 sq. ft. max coverage.
  • Touch-panel controls. Colorful softly glowing LEDs. Cycle through the rainbow, choose a favorite color, or turn lights off.
  • Opens in one motion, Easy assmbling after washing with built in magnets
  • Universal (220v-110v) to 26v DC Electrical Adapter. USA 2-prong plug, UL Certified.

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The PureGuardian Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier H1510 might not look as snazzy as some more decorative models. However, it is also one of the most energy-efficient humidifiers in the market. 

Still, if you’re looking for a humidifier that will powerfully improve your atmosphere, this may be the product for you.

It includes a large water tank that can hold up to 1.5 gallons of water, and you will get an exceptionally long run of mist for this size. 

This warm and cool mist humidifier has the longest running time of any of the models reviewed here.

For a 1.5 gallon tank, it can run for up to 100 hours before needing a refill at the lowest power setting. This is four full days before you need to remember to refill it. 

This is certainly the most convenient option in running time, so if you don’t like devices that require constant attention, this will most likely be an enticing aspect of this device.

It is designed using ultrasonic technology, which results in a unit that runs more quietly than some evaporative mist humidifiers.

Its silver clean protection design resists mold growth and mildew on the inside casing of the unit, making cleaning and maintenance easier.

Pros

  • Large water tank
  • Silver Clean Protection

Cons  

  • Not aesthetically pleasing

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Easiest To Clean Humidifiers Buying Guide

So, you’ve decided to purchase a humidifier. And you’ve also decided that you want one that’s high-performing and easy to clean.

This guide looks at several considerations to keep in mind when shopping for this type of humidifier. 

Benefits of a Humidifier for your Home

Up to 50% of the skin is water. Therefore, when the air around the house lacks humidity (water), the skin becomes dry, causing a range of health problems. 

This is especially true in the cold weather when humidity levels drop naturally. In an ideal scenario, indoor humidity should be around 45%. But, cold air has a feeble capacity to hold moisture.

So, when the cold season sets in, humidity levels drop to as low as 15% or even less. Such low humidity can affect your health, home, and comfort in several ways

That’s where a humidifier comes in. The best humidifiers are designed in such a way that they add just enough moisture into the indoor air to raise indoor humidity to the required 45% to 50%.

The following are some ways this boost in humidity can benefit you, your family, and your home;

  • Disease Prevention 

The upper part of the human respiratory system, including the throat and nose, is lined with moist membranes.

You may not know that the primary role of these membranes is to capture dust, dirt, viruses, and bacteria so that these harmful elements don’t reach your lungs.

When the membranes lose too much water owing to a dry environment, they lose their ability to capture small particles.

For this reason, you must maintain the right indoor humidity. Otherwise, your respiratory system membranes won’t function optimally, which can be preventable viral and bacterial infections, among other health issues.

  • Prevent Nasal Problems

Dry air can also cause another uncomfortable and unpleasant symptom – itchy nasal passages.

The nasal passage is also made of a moist lining. Under normal humidity, breathing is easy and effortless because this moist lining is working optimally. Under low humidity, however, the nasal lining becomes dry.

This won’t make it difficult to pull air in through the nose, but you’ll begin to feel a little discomfort while doing so. In some instances, you might even feel some pain within the nose.

Indoor humidification doesn’t just solve this problem but also prevents other nasal issues associated with low humidity, such as nose bleeds, headaches, and sinus pressure.

Also, humidification can relieve stuffed noses. Moist air helps keep the mucus flowing, thus reducing the chances of a stuffed nose. 

  • Stop Spread of Flu Germs

A recent study by the National Academy of Sciences shows a strong correlation between dry conditions and survival and transmission of influenza (flu) virus.

According to the survey, when the air’s amount dirty, the flu virus can survive for a longer time and even spreads faster. 

The report concludes that, aside from healthy habits such as washing your hands as often as you can and disinfecting areas in your home often touched by others, another step you can take to stop these germs is humidifying your rooms.

A sufficiently humid space creates a less favorable environment for the survival and spreading of the virus.

  • Benefits to the Skin

Home humidification also comes with a plethora of benefits to the skin. We’ve already mentioned that up to 50% of the skin is water.

To maintain healthy, soft skin, you need sufficient moisture in the air to balance the moisture in the skin. In the absence of this balance, the skin begins to lose its moisture to the surrounding.

This can quickly result in tight, dry, itchy, and flaky skin. The skin on the hands is particularly vulnerable because it has the least amount of oil glands.

Lips, owing to the delicate nature of the skin found there, are also easily affected. That’s why, under dry conditions, the lips are usually the first to show signs of dehydration.

Lotions and chapstick can be used as a short-term solution in these situations. But, if you want to avoid dry, itchy skin, humidification is vital.

  • Prevent Damage to your Home and Furniture

 When the air is dry, it will dry to absorb moisture from wherever it can find it. You might not believe it, but this often means that, during the winter months, the air in your home can try to suck the moisture in the building itself.

As the air from the structure is sucked out, you’ll notice the floors, especially hardwood floors, cracking more. 

The same applies to wood finishing and wooden items in the home, such as furniture.

Dry air in the home can suck some moisture in these parts, leaving your door frames to shift and furniture to bend and crack.

Musical instruments can also close shape and paper items such as books that could be left brittle, warped, and wrinkled. Again, natural humidification during the dry months can help alleviate this problem. 

Other benefits 

Finally, humidifiers can also help you fight static electricity, illness symptoms, and snoring, boost indoor warmth and aid indoor plant growth.  

Why is it Important to Keep your Humidifier Clean?

Unfortunately, the benefits listed above can only be achieved with a clean, properly functioning humidifier.

If you want the humidifier to help you fight indoor germs and diseases, the appliance must be clean and optimally functioning.

A dirty, ill-maintained humidifier will not only be unable to inject sufficient moisture into your indoor air.

Still, it will also likely introduce dirt and dust into your interiors, putting you and your family at an increased risk of infections. And, if you thought you’re on the safe side, think twice.

Three years ago, Good Morning America collected ten humidifiers from Philadelphia-area families for checking at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia.

The test was for mold and bacteria in the water tank and the moisture emitted by the humidifier.

Guess what – all the ten humidifiers contained some level of bacteria in the water tank, with two containing high amounts of bacteria growing inside the tank. Three of the humidifier also had mold!

Let’s break down the health risks associated with different types of humidifiers if you don’t clean the appliance as recommended;

  • Ultrasonic humidifiers 

Ultrasonic humidifiers produce moisture through ultrasonic vibration.

When these humidifiers aren’t cleaned, the main concern is that the minerals in the water, especially tap water, can get dissolved and released into your home in the form of white dust.

The sad truth is that pretty much all ultrasonic humidifiers produce this white dust. However, some produce a lot of it, and you’re likely to see even more dust from a humidifier that hasn’t been cleaned for an extended period. 

This dust, which most people are quick to dismiss as harmless, isn’t safe for you, especially young children.

For example, in one study conducted at the University of Utah, an infant was found to have contracted severe lung injury because of this white dust.

Some of the medical conditions discovered in infants and directly related to the white ash included; tachypnea, prolonged hypoxemia, pneumonitis, and mild nonreversible obstructive ventilator effect.

Aside from the white dust, bacteria and mold can also accumulate inside an ultrasonic humidifier if the unit is properly maintained.

This mold and bacteria could then be pumped out of the humidifier and into your indoor air together with moisture, exposing anyone who breathes such air to allergies, flu, and many other health problems.

  • Vaporizer humidifiers 

While the risk of breathing mold and bacteria decreases when using a vaporizer humidifier, the potential danger comes from the fact that warm moisture creates an excellent breeding condition for microorganisms. 

Mold and bacteria need warmth and moisture to grow, and a vaporizer humidifier produces both in just the right quantities.

The problem worsens if the unit remains unmaintained for an extended period. Humidifiers contain water in a tank, with some of the water in a tray inside the unit.

If this water isn’t drained and replaced regularly with fresh water, mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms can begin growing inside the humidifier.

These microorganisms can then be blown into your rooms together with warm moisture. 

To prevent the risk of mold growth inside the house and microorganism growth inside the tank, the humidifier should be emptied every day and thoroughly cleaned at least once every two weeks.

  • Evaporative humidifiers 

Finally, evaporative humidifiers aren’t safe either. Though they use a wick filter to sieve minerals and other particles from the water, a few risks persist when the appliances aren’t properly maintained.

As with other humidifiers, the water tank and water tray are the first two culprits. These two vessels need to be emptied regularly and refilled with fresh, clean water.

Otherwise, mold and bacteria can begin growing inside your humidifier. Another even more pressing issue is the wick filter. The wick filter lies at the heart of the vaporizer humidifier.

It performs two of the most critical tasks in the humidifier; drawing water up so the water can be put under pressure by air to release moisture and filter out unwanted elements such as minerals.

If the wick isn’t appropriately maintained, therefore, both these functions are compromised. A dirty filter, for instance, can harbor bacteria and mold.

It might also not work well to prevent harmful minerals from entering the indoor air. 

How to Clean your Humidifier; a Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the importance of keeping your unit clean and in top shape, let’s learn how to clean and maintain a humidifier.

woman cleaning a humidifier with a soft clothing

What you need

Each type of humidifier is constructed differently, but the cleaning tools and supplies are the same. They are;

  • White vinegar
  • Bleach or hydrogen peroxide
  • A soft-bristled brush
  • Clean towels
  • Gloves and goggles
  • Plenty of water

The step-by-step cleaning process 

1.Take apart the humidifier.

The first step is to switch off the humidifier and unplug it from the electric socket. Never clean the appliance while it’s plugged. Once you’ve unplugged it, disassemble it.

You’ll need to refer to your user manual for this step.

We recommend removing and emptying the water tank first, depending on the model, unlatching, or unlocking other removable parts from the base. Set all the parts on a solid working surface for ease of recognition.

If your humidifier uses a filter, remove it as well. Then, the filter can be cleaned separately using fresh running water.

2. Clean the base

Pour some of the white vinegar into the base, making sure to fill all the areas that usually contact water.

Meanwhile, you also want to place the smaller but washable parts of the humidifier into a separate container and add vinegar until all these parts are covered.

Then, wait for 30 minutes as the vinegar works its magic. After 30 minutes, much of the dirt and grime will have soaked up and become soft. 

Use the soft brush to scrub away any stuck-on residue. You may need smaller brushes to reach corners and other hard-to-reach areas.

3. Disinfect the tank

Disinfecting the water tank is a little more demanding. Mix one gallon of water with one teaspoonful of liquid chlorine bleach.

Then, pour ½ to ¾ of the resulting mixture into the water tank and swish so the liquid can reach every corner of the tank.

If the humidifier has more than one tank, do the same for each tank. Some brands recommend using 3% hydrogen peroxide instead of bleach.

When you’re done, place the tank in the humidifier base and allow 15 to 20 minutes for the bleach solution to drain into the reservoir. Then, rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water until the smell of vinegar is no more.

4. Clean the base

After step three above, you’ll find significant amounts of the bleach solution in the reservoir inside the base. Once the tank has drained completely, it’s time to clean the base.

Don’t use bleach or vinegar here. Instead, use only clean water. Fill the base with the water and shake vigorously to dislodge any trapped elements. 

Remember that it might take a few rounds of rinsing for the smell of vinegar to come out. So that should be the target.

5. Dry the parts and reassemble the humidifier 

Once you’re done with step four, set all the parts out to dry atop your fresh towels. To completely get rid of any lingering smells, ensure to give them enough time to dry fully. This might take up to 20 minutes.

Then, you can now put the parts back together. If the unit uses a filter, don’t forget to replace the filter as necessary.

When you’re done, refill the unit with clean mineral-free water, and, with that, you’re ready to enjoy uninterrupted humidification once again!

Regular Maintenance and Usage Tips

Besides learning how to clean your humidifier, it’s also essential that you learn how to properly use the appliance to avoid frequent breakdowns and prolong the unit’s life.

The following maintenance tips and best practices are recommended;

  • Rinse the water tray before the next use

Before you switch ON the humidifier for the day, take a moment to empty the water in the tank and water tray and rinse the tray.

This is the first step to cleaning out any lingering mold or bacteria in the tank/tray. It also cleans out any minerals to prevent build-up. After rinsing, refill the tank with clean water. 

  • Deep clean once a week

We’ve discussed how to deep-clean your humidifier. Make sure to perform a deep clean once every week during seasons where you use the appliance daily.

You can clean it once every two weeks for seasons where you only use the machine twice or thrice a week. 

  • Always refill with distilled water.

A good number of people refill their humidifiers with tap water.

This isn’t ideal as tap water contains minerals. If using a humidifier with a filter, these minerals can block the filter, causing performance issues.

Minerals in the humidifier can also be dispersed into the indoor air together with moisture, putting people who inhale the air at risk of health problems. Soft water is also not recommended as it contains chemicals.

  • Change filters as appropriate.

If your humidifier users a wick filter, that filer needs to be replaced per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Ideally, you want to clean the filter after a couple of uses for the first few weeks, but all filers must be discarded after three months.

  • Clean and drain before storage.

At the end of the heating season, when you’re storing the humidifier until the next season, drain, then deep-clean it and allow all the parts to dry before storing it.

Also, if using a humidifier with a wick filter, remove the filter and toss it away. It’s safer for you to start the next heating season with a brand new wick filter.

You may also enjoy reading the best top-fill humidifier. 

Wrap Up

The best easy to clean humidifier makes your life a lot easier, so it’s understandable why the cleaning process is one of the various factors determining your humidifier purchase.

Now that you’ve considered the reviewed products above, you’ll be better equipped to make the final decision regarding which humidifier will be the best choice for both you and your family.

Also related: 

Best humidifier with UV light review 

Safest humidifier review

Best humidifier for hard water guide

Best humidifiers without filters review

Best humidifier with humidistat guide

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AUTHOR
Melanie Mavery is an aspiring HVAC technician who is fascinated by the trends and opportunities in the HVAC industry. She spends most of her day writing content on home improvement topics and outreaching to prospects.  She's always looking for ways to support HVACs!