Humidifiers are used to help ease congestion due to the common cold and allergies, according to MayoClinic.com. Humidifiers are used to increase the humidity level in a room or home to prevent dry air from irritating the nasal passages. Humidifiers come in different forms, such as warm, cool and ultrasonic. Talk with a doctor before using a humidifier in the home to treat a specific illness. Humidifiers should be used and operated per the manufacturer's instructions.
Warm Humidifiers
A warm steam humidifier is the most traditional type of humidifier. These units operate by heating water to a boiling point to produce steam. The steam is released into the air, adding moisture and warmth. AskDrSears.com states a warm humidifier is the best option to treat sinus congestion in newborns and young infants. Warm humidifiers cost more to operate because of the heating element, but are virtually silent during operation.
Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Ultrasonic humidifiers are classified as cool mist humidifiers that use sound waves to split water into airborne particles, according to MayoClinic.com. Ultrasonic humidifiers make a gentle hum as they operate, due to the spinning fan that propels the moisture into the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers create a visible mist that is cool to touch and considered safe for use around children and pets.
Safety
Use caution when using a regular warm humidifier, as it can cause burns. The hot steam and hot unit can burn when touched and is not considered safe around children and pets. Warm humidifiers create an increased risk of developing mold and mildew because of the warm humid temperature in the room. Cool mist humidifiers are considered safer for children and general operation. Cool mist humidifiers can also grow harmful bacteria that can make someone sick if not cleaned properly.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to keeping the humidifier unit running effectively. The EPA recommends emptying the tank of the humidifier on a daily basis and washing it with hot soap and water. Use only distilled or purified water in the unit to prevent mineral build-up. Warm humidifiers require daily cleaning of the heating element. The heating element can corrode if not kept properly.
Consideration
When using a humidifier, keep the humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent, according to MayoClinic.com. If humidity gets too high, the sinuses will become swollen, increasing congestion. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels.
