A Humidifier or Vaporizer for colds, flu and sinusitis: the top 10

The use of a humidifier is often recommended to relieve congestion due to cold, flu and sinusitis. Whenever you have such congestion, a humidifier may be able to help you. Humidifiers add moisture to the air which, in turn, will moisten the skin (and nasal passages) and thin some of the mucus in the sinuses themselves. This makes it easier to breathe, and to drain the mucus. The key is to keep the humidifier clean and tidy, to create an environment that helps you feel better.

There are two main categories of humidifiers: hot mist and cold mist. They essentially do the same thing, but in different ways. There are pros and cons to each, so you’ll need to decide which model is right for you.

The use of cold mist humidifiers is recommended for everyone but especially in homes with children, due to the risk of burns when using hot mist humidifiers, or vaporizers.

Cold mist humidifiers

Cold mist humidifiers are an effective way to humidify your home and remedy congestion, throat and dry skin. There are three types of cold mist humidifiers:

– Swivels: use a high-speed rotating disc to release water droplets into the air.
– Evaporative: diffuse moisture into the air using a fan, which blows through an absorbent material.
– Ultrasonic: create a cool mist using ultrasonic vibrations.

Although cold mist humidifiers present no danger of burns or fires, problems exist with these devices as well. If not properly cared for, cold mist humidifiers can harbor bacteria, mold and mineral deposits which they then disperse into the air, like air conditioners. For this it is very important to properly clean the humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is also good:

– Change the water in the collection tank every day.
– Clean the entire humidifier thoroughly every three days.
– Use distilled water for the tank rather than tap water.
– Monitor the level of humidity in the house (with a common hygrometer). The ideal humidity level should be between 30% and 50%. Humidity above 60% encourages the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew.

Hot mist humidifiers / vaporizers

If you prefer to use a warm mist humidifier, and there are no small children or people at high risk of burns in the house, be sure to properly maintain the humidifier, and follow all safety precautions.

Hot mist vaporizers and humidifiers heat the water and release it into the air. Some medications can also be added to vaporizers for indirect inhalation.

Both are effective in helping relieve congestion, but should be used with caution. Since they both have heating elements, they can cause burns and can even pose a fire hazard. Be sure to follow these guidelines when using hot mist humidifiers:

– Keep them out of the reach of children and away from flammable objects.
– Never place a hot mist humidifier or vaporizer on carpets or other padded surfaces.

And finally here are the 10 best models of humidifiers and vaporizers selected on the basis of price and features: the choice is yours!