Download Humidity in the Home - The Asthma Society of Canada

Humidity in the Home
Are humidifiers and vaporizers okay to use if you have asthma?
Humidifiers and vaporizers are not generally recommended because they increase the
humidity in the home and this encourages the growth of viruses, bacteria, dust mites and
mould. In addition, breathing in the mist from such units can lead to serious lung
infections
When are humidifiers okay to use?
Only use humidifiers when the air is too dry (e.g. less than 30% humidity). If you use a
portable humidifier or vaporizer, follow these simple instructions closely and you should
be able to minimize the number of micro-organisms that go into the air.
Tips:
• Use distilled water for filling your humidifier or vaporizer, not tap water.
• Use demineralization cartridges or filters, if the manufacturer recommends it for
your unit.
• Every day: empty out the water and refill with clean water.
• Every second day: Empty the water and scrub clean to remove any scale, deposits,
or film that has formed in the reservoir tank and wipe all surfaces dry. Refill with
clean water.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the type of cleaning products or
disinfectants to use.
• Do not humidify to levels more than 45%. High humidity levels encourage the
growth of dust mites and mould in the home. Hygrometers, available at local
hardware stores, may be used to measure humidity levels. Some humidifiers
contain a built-in sensor that will automatically shut the unit off when it reaches
the set moisture level.
• Shut the unit off if there is condensation on windows, walls, or pictures.
• Prior to storing the unit make sure all parts are clean and dry.
For More Information:
Contact the Asthma Society of Canada at 1-866-787-4050 or visit www.Asthma.ca.