As winter brings dry air and the cold and flu season, a humidifier can be a valuable tool to improve skin health, sleep quality, and overall wellness. However, if not properly maintained, humidifiers can become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, potentially making you sick.
Consumer Reports has shared simple, effective maintenance tips to ensure your humidifier works efficiently and safely throughout the season.
In their testing, Consumer Reports monitored the performance of various humidifiers in a controlled environment, noting the number of gallons each emitted overnight. To maintain a healthy indoor atmosphere, the ideal relative humidity should be between 30% and 50%. For smaller rooms, the Levoit Dual 200S Smart Humidifier is recommended, thanks to its built-in humidistat, which automatically turns off the unit once the desired humidity level is reached.
Keeping your humidifier clean is crucial. Build-up inside the unit can spread microbes into the air, potentially affecting your health. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for regular cleaning and maintenance, which usually include daily and weekly steps.
For homes with children, Consumer Reports advises opting for a cool mist humidifier to ensure safety. Warm mist humidifiers, which heat water, can pose a scalding risk. The Honeywell HUL430B Humidifier is recommended for nurseries and children’s rooms due to its easy-to-clean design and the fact that it does not require a wick, cartridge, or filter replacement.
Positioning your humidifier correctly is also important. Place it on a flat surface, at least 2 feet above the floor, to ensure the moisture can effectively disperse throughout the room. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the health benefits of a humidifier without the risks.
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