What Liquids Can You Put In A Humidifier? 7 Possible Ones

Humidifiers work by adding moisture to the air. But what liquids can you put in a humidifier? The most common liquid used in humidifiers is water.

It depends on the humidifier. Some humidifiers are designed for use with only water, while others can use a variety of liquids.

7 Types – What Liquids Can You Put In A Humidifier?

To ensure your humidifier runs smoothly and doesn’t damage your floors or furniture, it’s essential to use the correct type of liquid.

The most common liquid used in humidifiers is water. But what type of water should you use?

Here is the complete guide:

1. Distilled Water:

If you want to use water from your tap, distill it first. This will remove any impurities that could clog your humidifier or create bacteria.

Although distilled water is the safest option and cheap and easy to find, some people don’t like the taste.

And yet they continue to use it because it’s the best way to protect their humidifier.

Another way to get distilled water is by DIYing it. Here are the steps to follow:

Since distilled water is made by boiling and then condensing the steam, you can use this method to get it.

– First, fill a pot with water and place it on the stove.

– Next, place a bowl upside down on top of the pot.

– As the water boils, the steam will rise and condense in the bowl.

– The water will drip down into the bowl, leaving you with distilled water.

Distilled water has many characteristics that make it ideal for use in a humidifier.

1.1 Free Of Minerals:

One of the main reasons why distilled water is so suitable for humidifiers is that it’s free of minerals and chemicals.

When water evaporates, it leaves behind any minerals that were dissolved in it. These minerals can then build up in your humidifier and clog it.

Distilled water is free of these minerals. So you don’t have to worry about damaging your humidifier.

1.2 Free Of Bacteria:

Another reason to use distilled water in your humidifier is that it’s free of bacteria.

Bacteria can grow in humidifiers and cause respiratory infections. So it’s essential to use water that won’t contribute to this problem.

Distilled water is sterile. So you can be sure it won’t introduce bacteria into your humidifier.

1.3 Not Corrosive:

Another advantage of distilled water is that it’s not corrosive. This means it won’t damage your humidifier as some other liquids can.

The presence of minerals and chemicals causes corrosiveness. So distilled water is the least corrosive option you can use in your humidifier.

1.4 Neutral pH:

Distilled water is also neutral, meaning it has a pH of 7. This is important because some liquids can change the pH of your humidifier. They can make it more acidic or alkaline.

A change in pH can damage your humidifier, so it’s best to use a neutral liquid like distilled water.

2. Filtered Water:

If you don’t want to use distilled water, you can use filtered water instead. Filtered water passes through a filter to remove impurities. This makes it cleaner than tap water but not as clean as distilled water.

The benefit of using filtered water is more affordable than distilled water. And since it’s still relatively clean, it’s a good option for use in a humidifier.

However, regularly changing your filter is essential to ensure it works correctly. Filtered water comes from a variety of sources, including:

2.1 Municipal Water Systems:

One source of filtered water is municipal water systems. Municipal water systems filter and treat water before it’s sent to homes.

The type of filtration depends on the municipality. But it’s usually a combination of mechanical and chemical filtration.

Municipal water systems meet specific standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

2.2 Bottled Water:

Another source of filtered water is bottle water. Bottled water companies filter their water to remove impurities.

The type of filtration used depends on the company. But it’s usually a combination of mechanical and chemical filtration.

Bottled water companies must meet specific standards the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets.

2.3 Pitchers and Filters:

Using a pitcher or filter, you can also filter your own water at home. These devices use mechanical filtration to remove impurities from water.

Pitchers and filters are not as effective as other methods of filtration. But they’re a good option if you don’t have access to distilled or filtered water.

3. Tap Water:

Although we don’t recommend it, you can use tap water in your humidifier if there is no other option.

Tap water is the water that comes from your home’s plumbing system. It’s treated by your municipality but may still contain impurities.

The benefit of tap water is that it’s readily available and costs nothing.

The downside is that it may contain impurities that can damage your humidifier.

If you use tap water, we recommend cleaning your humidifier often.

4. Rose Water:

Rose water is a type of hydrosol made from roses. It’s commonly used in skin care products and has a pleasant, floral scent.

It’s an excellent option to add some fragrance to your space.

Be sure to use natural, unscented rose water to avoid allergic reactions.

Rose water has many benefits, including:

4.1 Antioxidant Properties:

Rose water is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your skin from damage. It not only helps to protect your skin but can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Also, the antioxidants in rose water can help to protect your humidifier from damage.

4.2 Anti-inflammatory Properties:

Rose water also has anti-inflammatory properties. This can help to reduce redness and swelling.

If you have an infection, anti-inflammatory properties can help to ease your symptoms.

4.3 Fragrance:

As we mentioned, rose water has a pleasant, floral scent. This can help to freshen up your space.

If you want to add a little fragrance to your humidifier, add a few drops of rose water to the water.

Or use rose water entirely with no other water added for a more intense fragrance.

Just be sure not to use too much, as this can cause your humidifier to malfunction.

5. Essential Oils:

Essential oils are natural oils that have a variety of benefits. They’re commonly used in aromatherapy and can have a calming effect.

Different essential oils have other benefits. But some of the most popular essential oils for humidifiers include:

5.1 Lavender Oil:

Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils. It has a fresh, floral scent and is important for its calming properties.

Lavender oil can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help you to sleep better. And, if you have a cold or sinus infection, Lavender oil can help to ease your symptoms.

5.2 Peppermint Oil:

Peppermint oil has a refreshing, minty scent. It’s known for its ability to improve mental focus and concentration.

Peppermint oil can also help to relieve headaches and migraines. And, if you have a cold or sinus infection, peppermint oil can be of much help.

5.3 Eucalyptus Oil:

Eucalyptus oil is another popular essential oil. It has a fresh, minty scent and is important for its ability to clear congestion.

Eucalyptus oil can also help to relieve pain and inflammation. And, if you have a cold or sinus infection, eucalyptus oil can help to ease your symptoms.

How To Use Essential Oils:

If you want to use essential oils in your humidifier, add a few drops to the water.

Or use an essential oil diffuser. It is specifically for use with essential oils.

Just be sure not to use too much, as this can cause your humidifier to malfunction.

6. Glycerin:

Glycerin is a clear, odorless liquid known to attract and retain moisture.

It’s commonly used in skin care products and can help in a humidifier. Glycerin can help to increase the humidity in your home. It can also help to protect your humidifier from damage.

How To Use Glycerin:

If you want to use glycerin in your humidifier, add a few drops to the water. Just be sure not to use too much, as this can cause your humidifier to damage.

7. Liquid Vick:

Liquid Vick is a popular over-the-counter medication to treat colds and sinus infections.

It contains ingredients that can help to relieve congestion, pain, and inflammation. And, if you have a cold or sinus infection, Vick can help to ease your symptoms.

How To Use Vick:

Adding a few drops help of Vick to your humidifier can help to ease your cold or sinus symptoms.

However, be sure to follow the instructions on the package. And, as always, be sure not to use too much, as this can cause your humidifier to malfunction.

So here are seven different liquids that you can use in your humidifier. By adding any of these liquids to your humidifier, you can increase the humidity in your home. And enjoy the benefits they offer.

How To Maintain Humidifier With All Types Of Water

No matter which type of water you use in your humidifier, it’s essential to maintain it properly. This will help extend your humidifier’s life and prevent any damage.

Here are a few tips on how to maintain your humidifier:

1. Change The Liquid Regularly:

It’s essential to change the liquid in your humidifier regularly. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Some experts recommend changing the liquid every day. But, if you’re using distilled water, you can change it every other day.

And if you’re using tap water, be sure to change it every 3-4 days.

2. Clean The Humidifier Regularly:

In addition to changing the liquid, cleaning your humidifier regularly is essential. The recommended frequency is once a week.

But, if you live in an area with hard water, you may need to clean it more often.

To clean your humidifier, remove the water tank and then clean it with mild soap and warm water.

Rinse it well, and then dry it thoroughly before adding new water.

3. Don’t Overuse The Humidifier:

It’s also important not to overuse your humidifier. This can cause it to wear out quickly.

So, be sure only to use it when necessary. And, if you’re using it for more than 12 hours a day, be sure to turn it off for at least 2 hours.

This will help to extend the life of your humidifier.

4. Follow The Instructions:

Finally, follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your humidifier. This will help to ensure that it works properly and also help to extend its life.

By following these tips, you can maintain your humidifier and enjoy its benefits.

Conclusion:

The type of liquids you put in your humidifier can impact its performance. So, be sure to choose the suitable liquids for your needs.

You can use distilled water or tap water or add glycerin, Vick, or essential oils to your humidifier. Just be sure not to use too much, as this can cause your humidifier to damage.

If you follow these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a humidifier without any problems.