Ultrasonic humidifiers differ from other humidifiers in that, instead of using a fan or heating element to create vapor or steam, they use a vibrating element to turn water into mist. This allows the humidifier to remain nearly silent while in use. One potential drawback of an ultrasonic humidifier is that it does not filter the water prior to sending it into the air; any contamination present in the device's reservoir may transfer over to other objects in the room. As such, it is important that you keep your ultrasonic humidifier clean and disinfected.
Step 1
Turn off the humidifier and disconnect the device's power cord from the electrical outlet. Remove the water tank from the humidifier's base. Carry the water tank to a nearby sink; if the tank comes equipped with a cap, remove the cap and set it aside. Pour the contents of the tank out into the sink.
Step 2
Carry the humidifier's base over to the sink. Fill the reservoir with undiluted white vinegar; allow the vinegar to sit undisturbed for approximately twenty minutes. Pour the contents of the reservoir into the sink. Repeat this process with the humidifier's water tank.
Step 3
Moisten a clean cloth or soft brush with undiluted white vinegar. Scrub away any scale deposits that may be present on the interior of the humidifier's base. Rinse out the humidifier's reservoir with warm tap water.
Step 4
Fill a bowl with equal parts water and white vinegar and mix the contents thoroughly. Pour the diluted vinegar solution over the humidifier's nebulizer. Allow the solution to sit for an hour, then empty the contents of the nebulizer into the sink. Moisten a soft brush or cotton swab with some of the solution, then use the brush or swab to clear away any mineral buildup still present on the nebulizer. Rinse and dry the nebulizer.
Step 5
Rinse the interior of the tank with warm tap water. Shake the tank to clear any sediment, then pour the water out into the sink. Fill the tank to the halfway point with tap water, then add a teaspoon of chlorine bleach. Cover the opening on the water tank, then shake the tank gently. Allow the cleaning solution to sit in the tank for approximately 20 minutes; shake the tank every two to three minutes.
Step 6
Rinse out the water tank with warm tap water, then empty the water into the sink. Repeat this process until you are no longer able to detect the smell of bleach in the tank. Refill the tank with cool tap water.
Step 7
Return the humidifier to its original location. Carry the tank to the humidifier, then install the tank into the humidifier's base. Reconnect the humidifier's power cord.
Things You'll Need
- Undiluted white vinegar
- Tap water
- Soft brush or cotton swab
- Chlorine bleach
