What is a cool mist humidifier?

Portable cool mist humidifiers are used to increase the humidity levels of the air inside the house. Cold mist humidifiers work by using a motor that pushes the water droplets into a mist that is then dispersed in the air.

Fresh mist humidifiers are the safest choice for those with children at home. Since the machine's vapors are not heated, there is no risk of accidental burning of the child in case of water leakage; or if the child places his face close to where the steam escapes.

When used in accordance with the instructions, cold steam humidifiers are a safe product. However, if they are not properly cleaned and sanitized regularly, they could contribute to additional respiratory problems for people with asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions.

The major disadvantage of chilled mist humidifiers is that fresh water can be an excellent breeding ground for mold and bacteria. When using cold mist humidifiers, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.

As a general rule, daily cleaning of the water tank is required for all cold fog humidifiers. This involves washing the tank with soap and rinsing well with water. On average, this task takes between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the size of the tank.

Cold mist humidifiers tend to disperse minerals in tap water into the environment. In the United States, the majority of tap water is treated with chlorine; necessary to eliminate bacteria and parasites. However, the chlorine vapors can be emitted by the fog of the humidifier. Minerals and chlorine vapors can lead to health problems. Therefore, it is recommended to use only distilled water in cold mist humidifiers.

When using a cold mist humidifier, certain precautions must be observed. They include:

v Clean and disinfect the water tank daily. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. The instructions may vary depending on the type of humidifier and the frequency of use.

v Always empty the water tank when not in use.