Choosing the ideal humidifier or any other air treatment appliance depends a lot on personal preference. Warm mist humidifiers are often the preferred choice during winter time as the warmth produced by the humidifier can help raise the temperature of spaces within its coverage area, providing users with added comfort amidst the cold weather.
Despite this, some individuals prefer the cold mist variant during the wintertime because of individual preferences or environmental reasons.
LEARN THE DIFFERENCES: Warm vs Cool mist humidifiers
However, if used improperly, a humidifier could do more harm than good to the air in your living space. In this blog post, we’ll explain the benefits of humidifiers for winter, potential drawbacks and best practices to ensure that your warm mist humidifier functions optimally in your living space.
Benefits of humidifiers for winter
Warm mist humidifiers offer several benefits during the winter months. Apart from adding moisture to the ambient air and alleviating dry skin issues, a humidifier during winter time can provide the following benefits:
Added warmth
The main reason warm mist units are preferred is because they produce a warmth that may create a more comfortable environment within its coverage area. This warmth, however, may not be enough to raise ambient temperature.
Sinus relief
For some people, the dry winter air can cause mucous membrane irritation that can dehydrate sinuses. This leads to irritation, dryness, and discomfort. To combat this dryness, the body may produce excess mucus, which can lead to sinus infections. Sensitive individuals can also experience nose bleeds as a result of extremely dry air.
Skin moisturising
Air during winter is already usually dry but can be made worse by the use of traditional heaters in living spaces. Far-infrared (FIR) heaters do not have this drying effect and provide a more soothing warmth compared to traditional units.
READ MORE: Benefits of FIR heating
By adding warm moisture into the air, dry skin, chapped lips, and other irritations caused by dryness can be alleviated.
Overall improved comfort
The warm mist produced by warm mist humidifiers creates a cosy indoor atmosphere, especially during colder weather. When combined with its moisturising effects, and sinus relieving benefits, a more comfortable environment can be created.
How to use a warm mist humidifier properly?
To use a warm mist humidifier properly, regular maintenance is to be conducted to ensure clean moisture is released into the ambient air. Because of how warm mist humidifiers work (by heating up water within the tank to produce warm mist), it has the added benefit of preventing mould growth.
However, without regular maintenance, polluted or dirty moisture might be released into the air. This could increase one’s exposure to pollutants. The most crucial step to maintaining your humidifier is to ensure that the tank is clean to prevent water stagnation and eventual microbial growth.
Follow these tips to properly use your humidifier and get the most out of it.
Regular cleaning
Regularly cleaning the unit’s tank will prevent the buildup of bacteria, mould and other microorganisms. Usually, the tank is cleaned by rinsing it thoroughly with water. However, always refer to the guidelines highlighted in the manual for better cleaning.
Using distilled water
Using distilled or demineralised water instead of tap water can reduce mineral buildup and inhibit mould growth. The Ionmax ION90 humidifier comes with a nano silver antibacterial filter that prevents mineral buildup, prevents bacteria growth, and maintains the humidifier’s efficiency.
Frequent water refills
Preventing water stagnation and microbial growth can also be done through frequent emptying and refilling of the tank.
Cool and warm mist humidifiers
If you look to be using your humidifier beyond the winter season and would like to use a cool mist version during other months, opt for a unit like the Ionmax ION90 humidifier that offers both cool and warm mist options.
This helps provide you with warm mist during winter and cool mist during dry summers to help alleviate skin issues, relieve dry sinuses and provide your space with added comfort all year long.
Browse through Ionmax’s selection of humidifiers to find the ideal unit to suit your needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your needs.
Ionmax Australia
Founded in 2003, Ionmax Australia has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative products and commitment to customer satisfaction. Ionmax dehumidifiers and air purifiers have been recognised for their effectiveness in reducing indoor air pollutants and improving air quality. The company is committed to researching and developing new and improved products that meet the needs and expectations of its customers, making it a trusted name in households across Australia and beyond.
