Hey everyone! We have a cool mist humidifier and the filter was laying in water that had pooled at the bottom of the humidifier and is now discolored. I would say it is not molding but it is teal in color in a spot and kindof dingy all over. Does anyone know how to clean this filter or do I have to get a new humidifier? If I can clean it, how to prevent it in the future or if I have to buy a new one - what is a good one to get that won't discolor so severely.
thanks for all the advice ladies! i ended up just buying a new filter - it was only 5 bucks and i didn't have vinegar which would've cost at least 1 buck so i thought - what the heck - no wondering if all the mold was out and best of all - no having to clean it! i did wipe it all out with a clorox sheet and it was so great having my sweet baby wake up this morning and not still be all congested and snotty. yea!
You can use a water and vinegar solution in the humidifier first and if that doesn't work bleach and water. Depending on the type of filter you might be able to wash in the washing machine with detergent and bleach. If that doesn't work you will need to replace the filter.
G.
Try cleaning it in a solution of vinegar and water. It might work. You may even be able to buy a new filter at WalMart or Target. Good luck!
vinegar is the bomb for mold. ytou can also do 10 drops tea tree oil or 10 drops grapefruit seed extract in a cup of water. or both :)
Vinegar is the best - and safest - cleanser. Just soak the filter and a mild solution, and also use it to clean your unit, inside and out. There is also a bacteriostat solution avialable for prevention of future problems. You should be able to find it the same place you got your unit. If not, places like Walmart or Lowes should have it.
This could also be a warning sign of an inuculation problem in your home, and a liberal spraying of Lysol on all surfaces while noone's home should be able to help knock it down. (This should probly be done around the same time as a professional hvac unit & duct cleanout if one hasnt been performed in awhile. They can also spray these areas for mold and fungus.) :]
They sell extra filters for those. Look for the model number on yours and then head to walmart. I did throw my old humidifier away and bought a filterless one.
Hi J.,
Most humidifiers have replaceable filters. I would go back to the store you got it at and see if they have replacement filters. Once the mold gets in there you'll want to dispose of it or you'll be putting the spores in the air when you use it. There is a additive that you can use with your humidifier to prevent future outbreaks. Sorry...I don't remember the name of it.
Good luck.
Hugs,
W.
You can buy new filters at walmart. :-)
you can buy humidifier cleaner, as well as an additive. be careful with anything not explicitly approved for humidifier use
If you even suspect mold throw it away and get a replacement filter. Mold causes very serious illness and possibly death. Using the water treatment drops will help prevent it in the future.
