This little invention works wonders for stuffy kids with wintery dry skin or a cough. Humidifiers disperse a cool mist of water into the room’s environment. This is in contrast to its hot cousin the vaporizer. (Vaporizers are generally not preferred because of the skin burn risk.) The humidifier’s cool mist helps relieve problems that result from dry skin, dry nasal passages, or a dry throat. This system is usually first choice of the pharmacist or doctor to add moisture into room air.
How should you take care of a humidifier? As you might know, the addition of water into the air can cause an increase in the growth of microorganisms. You may not be aware that humidifiers can disperse minerals, as well, into the room’s atmosphere. For these reasons it is important to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance and use directions. Do not use the unit close to furniture, and it is important for the indoor relative humidity range not to exceed 50%. If adjacent furniture or bedding becomes damp, the setting is too high. Lowering the setting should correct the problem.
The use of distilled water, and regular cleaning of the unit is generally recommended. Distilled water will greatly decrease the risk of mineral release into the air. While tap water may be used, there are concerns. Tap water will definitely result in more minerals being dispersed into the air. Tap water may also cause crusty deposits or scales, which are a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, to form in the humidifier. Remember, anything in the humidifier may be dispersed back into the air. This includes minerals, dirt, and microorganisms. Another maintenance issue is to consistently clean the wick along with the non-corded portion of the machine as directed by the manufacturer. Follow these tips to keep your humidifier safer.
1. Use distilled water.
2. Change your water daily.
3. Use the machine only when needed.
4. Clean it regularly.
5. Replace the wick as directed by the manufacturer.
6. Keep the relative humidity in your room between 30 and 50%.
7. Contact your doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms or worsening
respiratory problems that you feel are related to the use of your humidifier.
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/humidif.html
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5046.html
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1 comment:
Adding vicks vapor rub liquid (for humidifiers) really adds a nice "punch" to alleviate night time nasal congestion. However, always consult your physician to be sure that you or your child don't have underlying symptoms of a more serious chronic disorder.
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