How to Clean a Humidifier

A humidifier on an end table next to a bed.

Difficulty

Beginner

Duration

Under 2 hours

When the temperature drops, it's time to pull out the heaters and crank up the furnace. But all that extra warmth can make the air inside your home dry. Using a humidifier can help maintain moisture levels in the home to a healthy level of relative humidity. Proper humidity limits static electricity, improves conditions for people with breathing problems or those fighting off colds and provides relief from dry skin. As an added bonus, using a humidifier may help you reduce heating costs as it can help indoor air can feel several degrees warmer.

Regularly cleaning your humidifier will ensure that it operates well over the long term and prevents the device from spreading mold or bacteria around the house.

Disassemble the Humidifier

A humidifier broken down into its component parts.

The first step to cleaning your humidifier is to unplug the device from the outlet. Begin by taking your humidifier apart:

Remove and empty the humidifier water tank.
Empty any water that has collected in the base.
Unlock any removable parts and set them aside.
Remove the air filter, if applicable.

Tip: Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully when you empty the base to prevent water from getting into the motor or electrical components.

Clean the Humidifier Parts

A person cleaning the inside of a humidifier.

Reach for white vinegar to clean your humidifier. White vinegar is non-toxic and has disinfecting and cleaning qualities. It’ll break down any hard water minerals, mold or mildew that build up on its individual parts. Here’s how to clean your humidifier parts with white vinegar:

Pour undiluted white vinegar into the reservoir of the base and let it sit.
Submerge the small parts in a bowl of white vinegar. Let soak for 30 minutes.
Scrub any residue that clings to the surface with a small soft brush dipped in vinegar.
Carefully empty the base and remove the small parts from the bowl, then discard the vinegar.

Disinfect the Water Tank

A person filling the water tank of a humidifier.

The moist conditions in your humidifier tank are perfect for bacteria growth. Disinfect the water tank to prevent bacteria and other pollutants from spreading.

Fill the tank with fresh water.
Add 1 teaspoon of bleach. Mix thoroughly.
Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes then empty the tank.

Rinse and Dry the Humidifier

A person drying the top of a humidifier.

It’s important to rinse the parts of your humidifier after cleaning to remove any lingering mold or bacteria.

Thoroughly rinse all the small parts of the humidifier under running water.
Fill the base about halfway with water and agitate then empty the base, being careful not to get water in the motor housing. Repeat as needed until rinsed clean.
Refill the water tank. Depress the valve at the bottom to allow about half the fresh water to drain through. With the remaining water, agitate the water tank to rinse then pour out the water. Repeat the process several times until rinsed clean.
Lay the part outs to air dry or thoroughly dry all parts with a clean microfiber cloth.

Replace the Air Filter

A person lifting the top off a humidifier to reveal the air filter.

Clean or change the filter every one to three months, depending on the indoor environment in your home. There are several factors that determine the lifespan of a filter.

Consult the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the humidifier filter on your particular model.
Do not squeeze or wring out the filter after cleaning.
In some models, it is advisable to simply replace the filter rather than cleaning it.
Clean or change the filter every one to three months depending on indoor environment. (Smoke, excessive dust and pet dander in an indoor environment will require the humidifier filter to be serviced more often.)

Maintenance Tips

Deep clean your humidifier on a weekly basis.
Rinse the water tank before every use. Each time you remove the tank to refill it, rinse it out thoroughly with hot water before you fill it.
During heavy use periods, use fresh water daily.
Try using distilled water in the humidifier to prevent buildup.
Drain and thoroughly clean and dry the humidifier before storing it away.

Cleaning your portable humidifier regularly will help prevent the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria to keep the water vapor free of these and other allergens and contaminants. A clean humidifier works more safely and efficiently to prevent the damage dry air can do to your home—and your health. To find the right cleaning supplies and filter for your humidifier—or to find a new humidifier—use The Home Depot Mobile App to locate products and check inventory. We’ll take you to the exact aisle and bay.