Category: Humidifiers

Should You Use a Humidifier or Air Purifier for Baby?

 

Should You Use a Humidifier or Air Purifier for Your Baby? A Helpful Guide

Having a new baby brings so much joy, but also many concerns about keeping them healthy and comfortable. Two devices that parents often consider using are humidifiers and air purifiers. But should you use one, both, or neither for your little one? Here’s what you need to know about humidifiers and air purifiers to decide what’s best for your baby.

Why Use a Humidifier or Air Purifier?

There are a few key reasons parents may want to use a humidifier or air purifier in their baby’s nursery:

  • Relieve congestion and coughing – Dry air can irritate your baby’s nasal passages, making congestion and coughing worse. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air to soothe these symptoms.
  • Prevent dry skin – Babies’ skin is delicate and can become dry and irritated easily. A humidifier prevents excessively dry air that can worsen dry, itchy skin.
  • Filter allergens and irritants – Air purifiers remove allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen from the air so your baby breathes cleaner air.
  • Alleviate breathing issues – For babies with respiratory conditions like asthma, a humidifier or air purifier can make breathing easier.

Key Differences Between Humidifiers and Air Purifiers

While humidifiers and air purifiers both improve air quality, they work differently:

Humidifier Air Purifier
Adds moisture and humidity to dry air Removes allergens, pollutants, and irritants from the air
Helps relieve congestion, coughs, and dry skin Helps relieve allergies and asthma
Uses a wick filter, warm mist, or cool mist to humidify Uses a HEPA filter to trap particles and remove them from the air

Should You Use a Humidifier, Air Purifier, or Both?

Whether you need a humidifier, air purifier, or both depends on your baby’s needs and environment:

Humidifier Only

A humidifier alone may be sufficient if:

  • Your home’s air is very dry
  • Your baby has frequent congestion, coughs, or dry skin
  • Your home has minimal allergens or irritants

Air Purifier Only

An air purifier alone may work if:

  • Your baby has asthma, allergies, or respiratory issues
  • Your home has high levels of dust, pet dander, pollen, or other allergens
  • Your home’s humidity level is already adequate

Both Humidifier and Air Purifier

Using both may be ideal if:

  • Your air is very dry and contains many allergens or irritants
  • Your baby has frequent congestion, coughs, and allergies
  • You want comprehensive protection against dry air and indoor pollutants

Having both appliances allows you to reap the unique benefits of each one.

5 Key Tips for Using a Humidifier or Air Purifier

If you do choose to use a humidifier or air purifier for your baby, follow these tips:

  1. Pick the right size. Choose a model designed for your baby’s room size to ensure proper coverage.
  2. Use purified water. Fill humidifiers only with distilled or purified water to avoid mineral deposits.
  3. Clean regularly. Follow all cleaning instructions to prevent mold or bacteria buildup.
  4. Keep humidifiers separate. Don’t place humidifiers near air purifiers to allow both to work effectively.
  5. Monitor humidity levels. Use a hygrometer and aim for 30-50% humidity for babies.

Reviews of Top Humidifiers and Air Purifiers for Babies

Here are some top-rated humidifiers and air purifiers to consider for your little one:

Crane Drop Cool Mist Humidifier

This cute, animal-shaped cool mist humidifier is whisper-quiet and perfect for small nurseries. It humidifies spaces up to 500 square feet for up to 24 hours on one fill. Easy to fill, clean, and refill.

Everlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Humidifier

With its large 1.6 gallon tank, this humidifier can run for up to 50 hours straight – ideal for larger nurseries. The warm mist output helps alleviate congestion and coughs.

Levoit Air Purifier

Featuring a true HEPA filter, this air purifier removes 99.97% of allergens and pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. It’s ultra-quiet and energy efficient.

Coway Airmega Air Purifier

With its dual suction power, this air purifier cleans rooms up to 1,560 square feet twice an hour. The washable pre-filters and true HEPA filter capture 99.97% of particles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use a humidifier or air purifier in my baby’s room?

Yes, humidifiers and air purifiers are generally safe for babies when used properly by following all instructions. Avoid cool mist humidifiers which can promote bacteria growth.

At what age can I start using these devices for my baby?

Most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is 3-6 months old before using a humidifier or air purifier in their room when congestion or allergies become more common.

How long can I run a humidifier or air purifier each day?

It’s generally recommended to run a humidifier or air purifier for 8-12 hours per day, or overnight while your baby sleeps. Monitor humidity levels and adjust run times accordingly.

How often do I need to clean the humidifier or air purifier?

It’s important to clean a humidifier every 1-3 days and an air purifier’s filters every 2-6 months to prevent mold growth and maintain effectiveness. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.

What humidity level is ideal for my baby?

The optimal nursery humidity range for babies is 30-50%. Levels below 30% are too dry and above 50% promote mold growth. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity.

Can I use an air purifier if my baby has asthma?

Yes, air purifiers are highly recommended for babies with asthma since they remove asthma triggers like dust, pet dander, and smoke from the air your baby breathes.

Where should I place the humidifier or air purifier in my baby’s room?

Place the humidifier or air purifier near an outlet on the floor at least a few feet from your baby’s crib to allow proper air flow and prevent direct mist. Never place in or near the crib.

The Bottom Line

Using a humidifier or air purifier can benefit your baby by relieving congestion, allergies, coughs and more. Consider your baby’s health needs and environment to decide if one or both devices may be helpful. When used properly by following safety guidelines, they can make a real difference in your little one’s comfort and wellbeing. Also view this source.

Humidifier vs Diffuser: Which One Provides Better Sinus Relief for Your Little One?

As a mother, I understand how difficult it can be to watch your family suffer through sinus problems, colds, and allergies.

These health issues can make it hard for your family to breathe, sleep, and live comfortably.

That’s why I’m here to discuss the benefits of using humidifiers and diffusers, as well as the differences between them, to help you make an informed decision for your family’s health and wellness.

In my experience, humidifiers and diffusers are both effective in improving air quality, but they serve different purposes.

Humidifiers are machines that add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe, especially in dry environments.

 For example, during the winter months, the air can become very dry, which can lead to respiratory issues and dry skin. In this situation, using a humidifier can be very helpful.

On the other hand, diffusers release essential oils into the air to create a pleasant aroma and a relaxing atmosphere.

This can be especially helpful during times of stress or anxiety when I want to create a calming environment for my family.

Humidifier vs Diffuser: What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the benefits of using humidifiers and diffusers, let’s first discuss the difference between the two.

 Humidifiers are machines that increase the moisture in the air, making it easier to breathe, especially in dry environments.

 On the other hand, diffusers are machines that release essential oils into the air to create a pleasant aroma and provide a relaxing atmosphere.

Humidifier vs Diffuser for Sinus

Sinus problems can be incredibly uncomfortable, but both humidifiers and diffusers can offer relief.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help to loosen congestion and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

Diffusers, on the other hand, can release essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint, which can help to open up the nasal passages and provide relief from sinus pressure.

Humidifier versus Diffuser for Colds

When it comes to colds, both humidifiers and diffusers can help to relieve symptoms.

Humidifiers can help to soothe dry and irritated throats, while diffusers can release essential oils like tea tree oil or lavender, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Using both a humidifier and diffuser can help to alleviate symptoms and provide a more comfortable environment for your family.

Humidifier or Diffuser for Allergies

Allergies can be a nightmare for those who suffer from them, but using a humidifier or diffuser can help to alleviate symptoms.

 Humidifiers can add moisture to the air, which can help to reduce irritation in the nasal passages and lungs.

 Diffusers can release essential oils like chamomile or lavender, which can help to calm the body’s immune response and reduce inflammation.

Humidifier vs Diffuser for Baby

When it comes to babies, both humidifiers and diffusers can be incredibly helpful.

Babies are more susceptible to respiratory issues, and using a humidifier can help to alleviate congestion and prevent dry skin.

Diffusers can also be helpful in creating a relaxing and calming environment for your baby.

However, it’s important to remember to use essential oils with caution and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Humidifier, Diffuser, or Purifier

While both humidifiers and diffusers can be helpful for respiratory issues, they have different functions than air purifiers.

Air purifiers work by removing pollutants and allergens from the air, making it cleaner and safer to breathe.

While humidifiers and diffusers can add moisture and essential oils to the air, they don’t remove pollutants or allergens.

Humidifier vs Diffuser Reference Table

Respiratory Issue Benefits of Humidifier Benefits of Diffuser Cost Square Footage Covered
Sinus Soothes dry throats
Loosens congestion		 Releases essential oils
Creates a relaxing atmosphere		 Typically cost between $20-$200 Can cover 300-1000 sq. ft.
Solds Soothes dry throats
Alleviates dry skin		 Boosts the immune system
Reduces inflammation		 Typically cost between $15-$100 Can cover 100-500 sq. ft.
Allergies Alleviates dry skin
Reduces irritation		 Calms the body’s immune response
Reduces inflammation		 Typically cost between $20-$200 Can cover 300-1000 sq. ft.
Baby Alleviates dry skin
Prevents dry sinuses		 Creates a relaxing atmosphere Typically cost between $20-$150 Can cover 200-800 sq. ft.

Humidifier and Diffuser: My Favorite Uses for both

Here are some scenarios where I have found one to be more effective than the other:

  1. Sinus Problems:
     When it comes to sinus problems, both humidifiers and diffusers can provide relief.

    In my experience, using a humidifier can be helpful in loosening congestion and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.

    However, diffusers can also be effective when using essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint, which can help to open up the nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure.

  2. Colds:
     When someone in my family has a cold, I find that using both a humidifier and a diffuser can be effective.

    The humidifier helps to soothe dry and irritated throats, while the diffuser releases essential oils such as tea tree oil or lavender, which can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

  3. Allergies:
    Allergies can be a nightmare for those who suffer from them, but using either a humidifier or a diffuser can provide relief.

    A humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can reduce irritation in the nasal passages and lungs.

    Alternatively, using a diffuser with essential oils like chamomile or lavender can calm the body’s immune response and reduce inflammation.

  4. Baby:
    When it comes to my baby, I have found that both humidifiers and diffusers can be helpful.

    Babies are more susceptible to respiratory issues, and using a humidifier can help alleviate congestion and prevent dry skin.

    Diffusers can also be effective in creating a relaxing and calming environment.

    But its important to be cautious when using essential oils around babies and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

    When Should You Not Use Either

Remember: It’s important to note that there are some situations where using a humidifier or diffuser may not be helpful.

 For example, if the air in your home is already very humid, using a humidifier could create an environment that is too moist and promote the growth of mold or mildew.

Additionally, diffusers can be harmful to pets, so it’s important to use them in a well-ventilated area away from animals.

 In conclusion,

Both humidifiers and diffusers can be incredibly helpful in relieving respiratory issues like sinus problems, colds, and allergies. 

However, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and which one is best suited for your family’s needs.

 Using both a humidifier and diffuser can provide a more comfortable and relaxing environment for your family. When it comes to air quality, air purifiers can be a helpful addition to your home as well.

 We all understand the importance of finding ways to help our families live comfortably and breathe easy, and I hope this article has provided you with some helpful information to make informed decisions for your family’s health and wellness.

FAQ.

15 frequently asked questions and answers about humidifiers and diffusers:

1. What’s the difference between a humidifier and a diffuser?

A humidifier adds moisture to the air, while a diffuser releases essential oils into the air to create a pleasant aroma and provide a relaxing atmosphere.

2. Can humidifiers help with sinus problems?

Yes, humidifiers can help to alleviate congestion and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

3. Can diffusers help with sinus problems?

Diffusers can release essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint, which can help to open up the nasal passages and provide relief from sinus pressure.

4. Can humidifiers help with colds?

Humidifiers can help to soothe dry and irritated throats, as well as alleviate dry skin.

5. Can diffusers help with colds?

Diffusers can release essential oils like tea tree oil or lavender, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

6. Can humidifiers help with allergies?

Yes, humidifiers can add moisture to the air, which can help to reduce irritation in the nasal passages and lungs.

7. Can diffusers help with allergies?

Diffusers can release essential oils like chamomile or lavender, which can help to calm the body’s immune response and reduce inflammation.

8. Are humidifiers safe for babies?

Yes, humidifiers can be helpful in preventing dry skin and alleviating congestion in babies. However, it’s important to choose a high-quality machine and follow the instructions carefully.

9. Are diffusers safe for babies?

Diffusers can be helpful in creating a relaxing atmosphere for babies, but it’s important to use essential oils with caution around babies and to always follow the instructions provided with your diffuser.

10. What’s the difference between a humidifier and a purifier?

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, while purifiers are designed to remove contaminants and pollutants from the air.

11. What’s the difference between a diffuser and a purifier?

Diffusers release essential oils into the air, while purifiers are designed to remove contaminants and pollutants from the air.

12. What are the pros and cons of humidifiers?

Pros of humidifiers include soothing dry throats, loosening congestion, and helping to alleviate dry skin. Cons include requiring regular cleaning and the potential for bacterial growth.

13. What are the pros and cons of diffusers?

Pros of diffusers include releasing essential oils, creating a relaxing atmosphere, and essential oils can help to open nasal passages. Cons include not adding moisture to the air, not reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, and essential oils can cause irritation in some people.

14. What’s the typical cost of a humidifier?

Humidifiers typically cost between $20-$200.

15. What’s the typical cost of a diffuser?

Diffusers typically cost between $15-$100.

How Do Humidifiers Reduce The Chances Of Airborne Diseases?

 

How Do Humidifiers Reduce The Chances Of Airborne Diseases_Diseases are caused by organisms too small for the naked eye to see. They live, multiply, and eventually pass on.

Some of these organisms are healthy and beneficial for our health, while others do the exact opposite, which isn’t always an issue because humans are built with an immune system to protect us.

However, our immune system is sometimes not strong enough to fight off the bacteria or viruses causing diseases.

This becomes more of a problem once we’ve reached our declining years of life, where our body becomes more susceptible to catching colds, infections, viruses, and falling Ill.

To prevent falling ill, it is essential to receive the proper health advice needed for your sick or elderly loved ones. Though if you feel like you can not guide your family on your own, then don’t worry.

Contacting a doctor or Home Care Lakewood co will provide you with the information you need to help properly care for your family. 

Airborne diseases are very common and can infect anyone at any time of day or place. To avoid getting infected and to protect ourselves, it is better to understand what airborne diseases are and some measures to prevent them.

What are Airborne Diseases?

Airborne diseases pass from one person to another by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These microorganisms travel through the air as aerosolized particles.

These diseases are transmitted when individuals are in contact with infected dust or liquid.

When someone who has been affected breathes, coughs, or sneezes, that person sends respiratory droplets continuing viral particles through the air.

Some common disease-spreading pathogens are influenza, COVID-19, rhinoviruses, and the varicella-zoster virus.

The significant effect that the viral particles may negatively pose on our health increases when we realize airborne diseases can be spread through the air about 6 feet away when we sneeze and produce about 20,000 droplets per sneeze.

In contrast, a cough may produce a few hundred droplets. Of all these droplets containing viral particles, most heavier and larger ones will fall to the ground, while smaller droplets will remain suspended in the air.

The less humidity there is in the air, the longer these droplets remain suspended, which in turn increases the risk of contracting an airborne disease.

What is a humidifier, and how does it work? 

 A humidifier is a device designed to increase the humidity (moisture) in a room. The three most common types are types are:

  1. Evaporative Humidifiers

These are a type of cool mist humidifier, which means that the mist they release is at a cool temperature. It works by speeding up the process of evaporation. 

Inside the device contains water and a fan. The fan blows air through a damp filter, which causes the water to evaporate into vapour.

 This water vapour is then blown into the room and increases the humidity levels. This humidifier ensures the water is clean and requires the occasional filter change.

  1. Warm mist humidifier

This device changes the water to vapour by boiling it. A warm mist humidifier permeates vapour throughout the room much more quickly. Additionally, the boiling water purifies the air before it’s emitted into the room.

However, there are safety concerns regarding this humidifier. If you have small children or pets with a tendency to grab and knock things over, then a boiling water humidifier is best kept out of their reach. 

  1. Ultrasonic Humidifiers

After adding water, this device produces a high-frequency vibration that breaks down water into tiny droplets, which the fan blows out into the air.
These humidifiers don’t need a filter and operate more quietly than an evaporative humidifier. 

Why do airborne diseases spread during the winter, and how does a humidifier help? 

Many different bacteria have a high tolerance to cold weather. Diseases like the cold and influenza survive and are transmitted more in dry winter conditions. Whereas in high humidity, they become more prone to die out.

This is because infected particles stay suspended in dry air longer. By using a humidifier, we reduce the chances of contracting several diseases that spread through the air.

Additionally, a humid environment clears the nasal and upper respiratory tract, which makes it less likely to contract airborne diseases. 

What are the conditions to be met to maximize the humidifiers effects in preventing diseases and illnesses from spreading 

According to an article on how humidity helps reduce virus transmission and a study conducted in 2013, humidity levels should remain around 40 percent to 60 percent relative humidity (RH). By doing so, the moisture will aid our respiratory system’s airways in its self-cleaning.

It will also lower the number of viruses and bacteria on surfaces and especially in the air, it will ensure the proper functioning of our tissue repair system, and it will protect the built-in barriers of our body.

In the 2013 study, when humidity levels of 23 percent were reached, the chance of getting infected from flu virus particles was 70 to 77 percent. It was still active even an hour after a coughing simulation was conducted.

In comparison, when humidity levels were raised to around 43 percent, the ability of the particles to cause infection dropped drastically to 14 percent. It takes 15 minutes for most flu particles to become inactive after being released into humid air.

The bottom line

How Do Humidifiers Reduce The Chances Of Airborne Diseases? The spread of airborne diseases has been a concern from the beginning. Throughout centuries, time and effort have resulted in small strides in eliminating most airborne diseases.

There are records that show that the flu has been around for more than 1500 years. Humidifiers are an added preventative measure against contracting many airborne diseases.

Viral particles containing infections and diseases easily spread through the air simply by breathing them in.

Droplets are released in the air with the infected viral particles when an infected individual sneezes, coughs, or, surprisingly, even breaths.

 Studies have shown that higher humidity reduces the chances of getting infected via airborne diseases.

https://www.dristeem.com/applications/covid-19-resources/humidification-for-virus-reduction

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0057485

Does a Humidifier Make a Room Warmer?

If you have a warm mist humidifier or vaporizer, then your device is creating steam by boiling water.

Though technically you may not see the number on the thermostat get any higher, steam can make the room feel warm.

I remember a few Christmases ago ( maybe more than a few, I’ve lost track)
Me and my wife were at a Christmas party where they were having a white elephant gift exchange. If you have never heard of a white elephant gift exchange, the idea is simple.

The participants all bring a gift that is supposed to be around the same value. Once the gifts are opened, you have the opportunity to steal someone else’s gift one time till all the gifts are taken.

This particular Christmas, I got what I thought was a humidifier as a gift.

I was pretty excited, a humidifier is a pretty decent gift and we did not have one in our bedroom.

That night, I put water in it, turned it on and went to bed.

I thought I was in for a refreshing cool air coming from the direction of the humidifier but that is not what I got at all.

We woke up to a swampy hot bedroom.

Turns out what I thought was a cool mist humidifier was actually in fact a vaporizer.

And I had been filling the room with hot steam.

Does a humidifier make the room warmer?

A humidifier can make the room feel warmer when the humidifier that you are using is a warm mist humidifier or a vaporizer.

Vicks is one of the most popular vaporizers. And they are sold primarily as a way of delivering their eucalyptus smelling medicine to help you breathe better.

For that, they work very well. 

And as a humidifier, they do raise the level of humidity in the air.

What type of humidifier do you have?

Do you have a warm mist humidifier or a cool mist humidifier?

If you are using a warm mist humidifier, then you can expect the room to feel warmer because the humidifier is basically providing you with a sauna type of atmosphere.

Warm mist humidifiers or vaporizers are excellent for helping open up your airways with the steam that comes from them and the fact that they lend themselves to being able to add a medicine like Vicks or eucalyptus that can also help clear your airways.

They also have the distinct characteristic of not growing mold or bacteria inside of the machine because boiling water kills those things.

On the other hand,

A cool mist humidifier emits moisture that is primarily room temperature.

The feeling you can get in front of a humidifier is similar to the feeling of a cool breeze.

Summary

Does a humidifier make the room warmer?

The type of a humidifier that can make a room feel warmer is a warm mist humidifier or by another name “vaporizer”.

Vaporizers bring water to a boiling point to create steam as a means of humidifying the air.

  And adding steam to your room can make it feels a little swampy or a bit like a sauna.

If you like the idea of using steam to humidify your room, then vaporizers do have some good features.

If not, a cool mist humidifier will not make your room feel swampy.

Can You Over Humidify a Baby’s Room?

A lot is said about the importance of keeping the humidity at the proper level in your baby’s room.

And it’s for good reason. The effects of dry air, especially for a baby, can make a person miserable.

Dry cough, sore throat, dry and stuffy nose, to name a few.

Overly dry air can also facilitate the transfer of viruses and allergies that only make matters worse.

So having a good humidifier for the baby’s room can be a godsend. They can help your baby breathe and sleep so much easier when the air is too dry.

But as much as a relief that humidifying your baby’s room can be when the relative humidity is too low,

High humidity also affects the way the babies breathe and sleep too.

Can you over humidify a baby’s room?

The answer is yes. You can over humidify a baby’s room.

Though a humidifier can be one of the best ways to clean the air when the relative humidity is low,

Adding humidity to a room that is already humid can have the opposite effect than what you intend.

High levels of humidity can make the air thicker and harder to breathe.

  High humidity also facilitates the growth of mold and becomes a source of nutrition for dust mites.

Which is also a cause of congestion which leads to problems sleeping and breathing.

So there are times of the year that instead of adding more humidity to the air with a humidifier,

You may actually need to take steps to reduce the humidity in your baby’s room.

Sometimes that means running the air conditioner on dry mode, and sometimes that can mean having a separate dehumidifier.

How do you know if you’re over humidifying the baby’s room?

Fortunately you do not have to rely on frizzy hair and static electricity to tell you that the humidity level in your home is out of balance.

A hygrometer is a humidity gauge to let you know exactly what the humidity is in your home and in the baby’s room.

According to most sources, keeping the relative humidity between 30 and 50% is the key to avoiding health problems that arise because of low relative humidity.

Hygrometers can be purchased fairly inexpensively and they also come packaged as a humidity gauge and thermometer combination.

  Also humidifiers and dehumidifiers can be purchased with a built-in hygrometer that displays the relative humidity in the room on the front of the machine at any time.

Modern humidifiers come with a hygrometer and a humidistat that you can set to a specific humidity level and will automatically control the humidifier and keep the room at the proper humidity level.

Summary

Can you over-humidify a baby’s room?

Using a humidifier when the relative humidity is already high enough can lead to over humidifying a baby’s room.

The easiest way to avoid over-humidifying is to use a hygrometer to measure your humidity.

A hygrometer is a humidity gauge that is similar to a thermometer but works for humidity rather than the temperature.

Modern humidifiers come with hygrometers built-in so that you can see the relative humidity in the room on the front of the humidifier.

So keeping the relative humidity between 30 and 50% is much easier when you know what your humidity is.

And if you want to spend more, there are humidifiers that use sensors to measure your humidity and control the humidifier to make sure that your room does not become over humidified.

Do Humidifiers Help With Congestion?

Nasal congestion is widespread, and can occur during sinus infections such as the flu and the common cold. Some symptoms include sinus pain, mucus buildup, a stuffy or runny nose, swollen nasal tissue or sinus pressure.

 While medicines are recommended for such infections, taking extra precautionary measures to tone down the discomfort from congestion is also recommended.

This is where the question occurs; do humidifiers help with congestion?

The short answer is yes, they do. 

Humidifiers turn water from its liquid form into vapor. This vapor is then released into the air to increase the humidity, which further helps in loosening dried-up mucus secretion  in your nasal passages.

 You can then easily blow your nose, getting rid of all the mucus and giving you maximum relief.

 Many people undergo home treatments to relieve congestion, and using humidifiers is one of these methods. All types of humidifiers can help with congestion, but first, let’s dive into the various types of humidifiers and how they can help.

humidifier for congestionWarm-mist Humidifier

Whether shopping for a car, a commercial hand dryer or a PC, you always look through the different models and their functions. The same is true for humidifiers.

The warm-mist humidifier comes with a heating system used to boil water internally. Once heated, the nozzle releases water in the form of steam.

Using warm-mist humidifiers should be avoided in the presence of children or particularly energetic pets. If the humidifier is knocked over, it can cause severe burns, so it must be handled carefully, even if by yourself.

 Regardless, they are still highly effective against congestion and fully serve their purpose. Additionally, they can come with compartments to add calming essential oil or vapor rub to be released into the air. This will aid more soothing relief. 

 Since warm-mist humidifiers keep the water at a boiling temperature for as long as they function, they also use a lot of energy. 

Vaporizer Humidifier 

For smaller bedrooms, using a vapor humidifier is recommended. These are very similar in function and effectiveness to warm-mist humidifiers, minus the ability to remove the tank. Despite this, they are just as good as other humidifiers in regards to providing relief.

The process is the same as a warm-mist humidifier. Water is boiled to create and release vapor into the air to be inhaled, helping to clear congestion. 

Similarly, these also must be carefully handled and kept away from pets and children for safety. The boiling process that vaporizers use helps get rid of all the pollutants that may be present in the water. This way, when vapor occurs, it is of good, clean quality that is safe for you to inhale. 

Using only vaporizer humidifiers will not be as effective in larger rooms due to bigger spaces needing more ventilation. The vapor needs to circulate in the room so you can inhale them to clear congestion.

Cool-mist Humidifier 

A cool-mist humidifier is an ideal option, since it offers the same relief as other humidifiers whilst being safe to use around children or pets. You can even find models that are explicitly designed for infants and children. 

As the name suggests, the cool-mist humidifier can turn room temperature or cool water into a mist, providing relaxing, therapeutic relief.
The distinguishing difference between warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers, despite the temperature, is that no fan is present in warm-mist models, as the boiling effect releases energy, forcing the vapor out of the machine.

Naturally, the cool-mist model does require a fan, which may result in a loud noise when it is on. However, this is a small price to pay regarding the effectiveness, low energy use and safety it offers. 

The cool mist humidifier further comes in two forms. Namely, evaporative humidifiers and impeller humidifiers. These vary in the ways they release mist into the air. 

Evaporative humidifiers can release the relative humidity inside your home with a fan. The water is pushed into the air passing through an absorbent material, creating vapor.

Impeller humidifiers use rotating disks that move at a high speed. The disk is responsible for rotating the water around, turning them into droplets that are released into the air. They are comparatively safer than evaporative humidifiers since they do not use fans.  

Ultrasonic Humidifier 

Ultrasonic humidifiers work by creating small waves using ultrasonic. These waves break down the water, creating small vapor that are released into the air as a cool soothing mist. This model of humidifier is both very quiet and low maintenance.

 Since the sound of a fan from a cool-mist humidifier may be irritating, especially when already congested, an ultrasonic humidifier can provide more quiet relief. It is one of the best and most recommended options due to this reason.

Since ultrasonic humidifiers have the same function as cool-mist and warm-mist humidifiers whilst being quiet and safe, people tend to prefer this option. You can sleep peacefully at night while enjoying the luxury of having a safe vapor released into the air, without the worry of children or pets getting burnt. 

The bottom line

Ultrasonic humidifiers take the prize as being the safest, fully efficient and quietest option on the market. Humidifiers that produce sound may not seem like such an inconvenience in the daytime, but quiet noises often sound louder at night.

 There is also the concern of using vaporizers and warm-mist humidifiers around children or pets. In contrast, ultrasonic humidifiers have all the benefits of the other options, whilst still being safe to use around your family and pets.

Ultrasonic humidifiers also have a far lower noise level than other options. There are other aspects to consider, like having an automatic humidifier so that it can turn off when not in use to save electricity and prevent mold. 

We hope this article helped enlighten you about how humidifiers help relieve congestion and about the different types that will be best suited for you. Thank you for reading!

How Can Humidifiers Help With Respiratory Problems?

We all know that when we get a respiratory infection, it gets difficult to breathe through the nose and mouth, and it even gets worse at night when we are trying hard to get to sleep,

 but the cough and difficulty in breathing don’t let us get sleep peacefully. If any seniors have such a disease, Respite Care in Seal Beach is ready to help all seniors of Seal Beach

These are mostly caused due to dry air, so moisture in the air is a must. Humidifiers may be very beneficial because they provide complete moisture at your home and shield you from many clinical conditions like dry skin, angry eyes, dryness within the throat or airways, allergic reactions, common coughs, bloody noses, sinus complications and cracked lips.

Some people revel in respiratory signs and symptoms in the summer months, whilst the climate is hot, and the air consists of extra allergens.

Air conditioners lovers can circulate dry air via the room. But these air conditioners eliminate the humidity from the room completely. A humidifier can be beneficial all through this season.

What are Humidifiers?

Humidifiers are gadgets that release water vapor or steam to increase moisture degrees in the air (humidity). 

Benefits of a humidifier:

It keeps your skin and hair moist

Few people know that their skin, lips, and hair become dry and fragile in wintry weather.

Many heating gadgets pump hot, dry air thru the residence or workplace, making the pores and skin dry, itchy, or flaky.  Outside air can also dry out the pores and skin.

The use of a humidifier to feature moisture to the indoor air may also assist in lessening the prevalence of dry, cracked pores and pores and skin.

Helpful around the home

Moisture provided by the humidifiers are beneficial for you homes. Plants, your furniture and many other things in the house remains good and last longer. Humidity in the house can save your home wallpapers or the paint from cracking and damaging.
Humidifiers can be helpful for winter seasons as the humid air feels more warmer the the dry air, so you can save your money from utility bills.

Creating a cough greater productive

Dry air can motivate a person to have a dry, unproductive cough. Including humidity in the air can get more moisture into the airways, making coughing more efficient. An efficient cough releases trapped or sticky phlegm.

Lowering loud night breathing

growing the quantity of moisture within the air also can lessen snoring. If the air is dry, a person’s airlines are much less likely to be sufficiently lubricated, making snoring worse.
Adding humidity to the air by going for walks and a humidifier at night may also help alleviate some symptoms.

Helps loosen congestion

Humidifiers also can loosen congestion via moistening the nasal passage. Whilst you get ill, the cells lining your respiration tract generate extra mucus, Stiehm says. Whilst the mucus dries, it can become “sticky, ” making it tough to blow or cough.

Growing air moisture could simplify, allowing you to expel the mucus whilst coughing or blowing your nostril, stopping it from drying, Stiehm says.

Humidifiers are often delivered to non-stop positive airway pressure remedy (CPAP) machines used on sleep apnea sufferers. That’s because CPAP blows dry air up your nose, which could boom congestion.

How to measure humidity

A hygrometer is an excellent way to check humidity stages integrated into your home. This device seems like a thermometer. It measures the quantity of moisture built-in-built integrated air. Hygrometers can be bought at hardware shops and department stores. 

Types of humidifiers

Steam vaporizers use power to create steam, which cools earlier than it leaves the unit. But, there’s a chance of burning the pores and skin, and people should avoid using steam vaporizers around kids.

Ultrasonic humidifiers: Those devices use vibrations to vaporize water instead of energy.

Evaporators: these produce humidity by using blowing air beyond evaporating water.

Impeller humidifiers are generally infant-pleasant and use rotating disks instead of warmth to vaporize water.

Imperative humidifiers: someone connects this kind of gadget to the central air conditioning within the domestic or workplace to feature moisture to the entire area.

To benefit those humidifier blessings, it’s critical to ease your device every three days and keep tune of humidity degrees, so they stay between 30% and 50%.

Suppose you want humidifiers to help you with respiratory problems. In that case, it is also important To keep humidifiers free of harmful mold and bacteria and follow the guidelines recommended by the manufacturer.

 These tips for portable humidifiers also can help:

Change humidifier water often. 

Don’t allow film or deposits to develop inside your humidifiers. Empty the tanks, dry the inside surfaces and refill with clean water every day if possible, especially if using cool-mist or ultrasonic humidifiers. Unplug the unit first.

Clean humidifiers every 3 days. 

Unplug the humidifier before you clean it. Remove any mineral deposits or film from the tank or other parts of the humidifier with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, which is available at pharmacies. Some manufacturers recommend using chlorine bleach or other disinfectants.

Always rinse the tank after cleaning. This can keep harmful chemicals from becoming airborne — and then inhaled.

Change humidifier filters regularly. 

If the humidifier has a filter, change it at least as often as the manufacturer recommends — and more often if it’s dirty. Also, regularly change the filter in your central air conditioning and heating system.

Keep the area around humidifiers dry. 

If the area around a humidifier becomes damp — including windows, carpeting, drapes or tablecloths — turn the humidifier down or reduce how often you use it.

Prepare humidifiers for storage. Drain and clean humidifiers before storing them. And then clean them again when you take them out of storage for use. Throw away all used cartridges, cassettes or filters.

Wrapping Up!

Moisture is a must in your atmosphere, as it provides many health benefits and keeps your respiratory system good going. So a humidifier is a useful gadget in your home to keep yourself away from many problems.

Protect Your Health and Sleep Better with a Humidifier

Humidifiers can do wonders for your fitness by keeping the air in your house moist and at ease.

It’s instrumental in winter when dry air can cause breathing issues, skin irritations, and static strength. A humidifier can also assist you to sleep higher by reducing loud night breathing and congestion.

There are a few matters to maintain in mind when choosing a humidifier. The best way to know everything is to take guidance, or you can also find a counselor UK. First, decide what sort of humidifier you need.

 There are both heat mist and cool mist options to be had. Heat mist humidifiers use boiling water to create steam, that’s then released into the air. Cool mist humidifiers use ultrasonic era to generate a pleasant mist dispersed into the air.

Next, consider the size of the unit. If you have a large home, you will need a larger humidifier. Conversely, a small unit will be sufficient for a smaller space.

Finally, consider any special features you may want in a humidifier. Some units come with filters to remove impurities from the water, while others have built-in humidistats to help maintain the ideal humidity level in your home.

Humidifiers are an important part of keeping your home healthy and comfortable. Adding moisture to the air can help relieve various ailments, including dry skin, sinus problems, and respiratory issues.

And humidifiers also greatly benefit your sleep beyond just making you feel better. Here are ways a humidifier can improve your sleep quality and overall health:

Relieve Dry Skin:

A humidifier can be a lifesaver if you be afflicted by dry skin. The more moisture inside the air will assist in hydrating your skin and prevent it from becoming angry or cracked. It’s particularly beneficial in wintry weather when the air is dry.

Prevent Nosebleeds:

Nosebleeds are often caused by dryness in the nasal passages. A humidifier can help to prevent this by keeping the air moist and reducing the risk of nosebleeds. Dry air can cause your nasal passages to become irritated and lead to nosebleeds. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can help prevent these nosebleeds from occurring.

Reduce Snoring:

If you or your partner snores, a humidifier can help. The air’s moisture will help keep the throat lubricated and reduce irritation. It can lead to quieter nights for everyone involved!

Soothe Sinuses:

Dry air can cause sinus problems like congestion, headaches, and even nosebleeds. Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help to soothe these symptoms and provide relief.

Prevent Colds and Flu:

Humidifiers can also help to prevent colds and flu by keeping the air moist. It can reduce the risk of viruses spreading through the air and causing illness.

Relieve Asthma Symptoms:

People living with Asthma often find relief with a humidifier. The air’s moisture can help open up the airways and make breathing easier

Reduce Allergy Symptoms:

Like Asthma, allergies can also be improved with a humidifier. The air’s moisture will help reduce irritation and inflammation caused by dryness.

Boost Immune System:

Humidifiers can also help to boost your immune system by keeping the air moist. It can reduce the risk of illnesses like colds and flu.

Detoxify the Air:

Some humidifiers also come with features that help to detoxify the air. It can remove harmful toxins and chemicals, making the air healthier for you to breathe.

humidifierReduce Stress Levels:

The extra moisture in the air can also help to reduce stress levels. It can lead to calm and relaxation, which can benefit your overall health.

Alleviate respiratory problems: 

Humidifiers can help alleviate congestion, sinus infections, and nosebleeds by adding moisture to the air. If you have Asthma, a humidifier can help alleviate your symptoms by adding moisture to the air. The extra moisture will help thin mucus secretions, making them easier to expel.

Protect your hair: 

Just like your skin, your hair can also benefit from the extra moisture in the air. Indoor heating can cause your hair to become brittle and dry, but a humidifier can help reverse these effects.

Ease congestion: 

A humidifier can help ease congestion by thinning mucus secretions if you’re struggling with a cold or allergies. The extra moisture will also make it easier to breathe through your nose.

Soothe a sore throat: 

Humidifiers can also help soothe a sore throat by keeping your throat moist. It is especially important if you suffer from a cold or the flu.

Improve sleep quality: 

More moisture within the air can also improve your sleep by making breathing easier and stopping your skin from becoming too dry. When you have a problem sleeping, a humidifier can help. The extra moisture inside the air will assist you to breathe extra easily and make you feel greater at ease. It could cause a better nighttime sleep.

Prevent Static Electricity: 

The extra moisture in the air can also help prevent static electricity from building up. It is especially important in the winter when indoor heating can make static electricity more pronounced.

 Reduce dust mite allergies: 

Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in dry environments. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can help reduce dust mite allergies by making their environment less hospitable.

Purify the air:

A few humidifiers come with filters that could assist purify the air by eliminating allergens and other contaminants. It may help improve your common fitness and sleep great.

Wrapping Up!

If you’re looking for ways to improve your health and sleep quality, consider using a humidifier. It can make a big difference in your respiratory health, skin health, and overall comfort level.

Humidifiers may be useful to your home, particularly all through winter. Keeping the air in your house wet and comfortable can lessen respiration problems, skin irritations, and static strength.

A humidifier can also assist you sleep better by decreasing snoring and congestion. While selecting a humidifier, consider the type, length, and special capabilities you could need. By doing so, you could locate the precise humidifier in your wishes.

Pink Mold in Your Humidifier: Why It’s Dangerous and How to Stop It

Is pink mold in a humidifier dangerous?

Yes — it can be, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. The microbes behind the pink film (often Serratia marcescens bacteria or the yeast‑like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans) can irritate the lungs, skin, and eyes, and may contribute to infections with repeated exposure. The good news is it’s common, very fixable with a thorough clean, and preventable once you dial in your humidity and maintenance routine.

What Pink Mold in a Humidifier Looks Like (and What It Really Is)

Open the tank to top off water and you see it: a salmon‑pink film, maybe a slick ring near the waterline, or a faint stain around the mist outlet. It’s not your humidifier “going bad,” and you don’t need to throw it out. That color usually points to microbes that love damp, mineral‑rich places — exactly what a warm water tank provides. A quick reset (clean, dry, refill) clears it, and a couple of smart habits keep it from returning.

Educational diagram showing how pink mold forms in a humidifier, with labeled causes and prevention tips.Why you’re seeing pink mold now

Pink growth is more likely when indoor air stays moist for long stretches and water sits in the tank between refills. Minerals in tap water leave a light scale that microbes can cling to. If your unit has been running a lot, or the room feels a little “clammy,” your home might simply be running too humid — and the humidifier tank is where that shows up first.

Think of pink mold as a friendly warning flag. It’s your cue to check the broader humidity picture in the room and adjust before the problem spreads beyond the tank.

Do a quick humidity check (takes 30 seconds)

If you have a hygrometer, glance at it. The healthy target is 30–50% relative humidity. When readings sit above 55–60% for hours at a time, you’ve created great conditions for mold and bacteria — in the tank and around the house.

No meter handy? Look for simple clues: persistent condensation on windows, a faint musty smell, towels that don’t quite dry, or allergies that seem worse when the humidifier runs. Any of those point to “a little too damp.”

Easy ways to nudge humidity back into the sweet spot

You don’t need a renovation — just a few friendly habits:

Let fresh air help. On mild days, crack a window for 10–15 minutes; moving air pulls excess moisture out. Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during showers and cooking.
Give the humidifier breaks. If you’re over 45–50% RH, pause the unit or lower its setting. Many models don’t need to run 24/7.
Consider a dehumidifier. Basements and tightly sealed rooms benefit from occasional drying cycles, especially after storms or laundry days.
Use distilled water. Fewer minerals mean less residue on tank walls — and fewer places for pink film to get started.

Right size matters (so you don’t over-humidify)

A humidifier that’s too large for the room can overshoot your target quickly and keep the air damp — exactly what pink mold prefers. Matching output to room size prevents “tropical” conditions and makes maintenance easier. If you’re not sure your unit is a fit, here’s a simple guide:
How to choose the right size humidifier for your room.

Step-by-step infographic showing how to clean and prevent pink mold in a humidifier.Okay — how do I get the pink out right now?

Here’s a gentle, effective clean that most manufacturers are happy with:

1) Power down and empty. Unplug, remove the tank, and pour out any water.
2) Soak to loosen. Fill the tank with white vinegar or 3% hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This softens residue and disrupts the biofilm.
3) Light scrub. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to reach seams and corners. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the plastic (scratches give microbes hiding spots).
4) Rinse thoroughly. Warm water rinse until you no longer smell vinegar or peroxide.
5) Dry completely. Air‑dry parts on a clean towel before reassembly so you’re not trapping moisture in crevices.

Tip: Skip bleach unless your manufacturer specifically recommends it — it can pit plastics and leave fumes you don’t want to inhale.

Simple habits that keep pink mold from coming back

Refresh daily. Don’t let water sit in the tank more than 24 hours. A quick dump and refill knocks down growth dramatically.
Weekly reset. Do the soak‑and‑rinse routine once a week during heavy use. It takes about the length of a TV episode and pays back all season.
Mind the minerals. Distilled water reduces scale (less “grip” for microbes). If you stick with tap, clean a touch more often.
Optional helpers. Some people like a drop or two of tea tree oil or a labeled “humidifier treatment” tablet; use sparingly and only if your manual allows additives.

When to consider replacing the unit

If pink film returns immediately after a proper clean, or the tank has deep scratches and permanent staining, replacement may be cheaper (and safer) than battling hidden biofilm. Motors and misters last longer — and run quieter — when the water path is clean.

The bigger picture: a healthy home humidity rhythm

Humidifiers shine when they take the edge off dry winter air — preventing nosebleeds, easing coughs, and protecting wood furniture — without pushing your home into the soggy zone. Keep an eye on that 30–50% range, size the unit to the room, and give the tank a weekly reset. Do that, and pink mold tends to become a non‑issue.

Want a broader, step‑by‑step overview that covers types, setup, safety, and maintenance? Dive into our
Complete Humidifier Guide
for clear tips you can use today.

Quick answers to common questions

Is pink mold the same as black mold?

No. Pink growth is most often Serratia marcescens (a bacteria) or Aureobasidium species (yeast‑like fungus). It’s generally less hazardous than black mold but still irritating — especially with repeated exposure. Treat it seriously, clean it fully.

Can I keep using the humidifier while there’s pink film?

Pause it, clean it, then resume. Running through the film can aerosolize contaminants and worsen irritation or allergies.

What humidity should I aim for?

30–50% RH is the comfort and health sweet spot for most homes. If you’re consistently above 55–60%, reduce runtime, ventilate, or use a dehumidifier until the reading drops.

Will a bigger humidifier fix dry air faster?

It will — but it’s easier to overshoot and end up damp. For steady comfort without pink mold, match capacity to your room:
humidfier sizing guide.

Bottom line

Pink mold in a humidifier is a nudge, not a nightmare. Clean the tank thoroughly, keep your indoor humidity in the 30–50% range, and make sure your unit is sized for the space. With those pieces in place — and a quick weekly reset — you’ll keep the pink film away and your air comfortably healthy. For deeper how‑tos and setup tips, explore the
Humidifier Guide.

Is “White Noise” a Reason to Buy a Humidifier?

There is something about the noise that a humidifier makes while it’s misting the air that has an almost instantaneous sleep effect to it.

  It’s very calming and hypnotizing at the same time. Combined with the relief of being able to breathe because of the moisture it emits into the air, humidifiers are kind of an elixir for helping you rest.

Interesting enough, you can browse YouTube and find a number of videos that provide the sounds of a humidifier that you can play while you are sleeping.

But not all humidifiers produce that white noise effect. And even though there are many people who enjoy the calming sound of a humidifier, there are just as many people who do not want to be able to hear their humidifier working at all.

And I can’t blame you, whatever side of the fence you’re on, because I can see the point of both.

Types of Humidifiers that produce White Noise

1.Evaporative cool mist humidifiers create a white noise effect that can be comforting to sleep with.

2.Impeller humidifiers have a spinning disc that makes a humming noise that can be

But if you’re looking for a quiet humidifier, ultrasonic humidifiers do not have a fan or a disc which makes them the quietest type of humidifier. relaxing too.

Should you buy a humidifier based on the White noise it makes?

Probably not.

Humidifiers can be pretty sophisticated devices these days. And come with all kinds of bells and whistles.

But one of the benefits to these humidifiers is that they are quiet.

And quiet seems to be a feature that most people are looking for when they are looking to purchase a humidifier.

Take the Levoit lv600s

This humidifier fully hooks up to your Wi-Fi and can be controlled by your phone or an Alexa or Google Assistant.

You can simply tell your humidifier what percentage of humidity you want, and it does the rest.

It is easily filled from the top, which is a huge improvement over other kinds of humidifiers that require you to take the tank off and turn it upside down to fill it.

It runs up to 50 hours without having to be refilled and can humidify a 500 square foot room up to four times faster than any other humidifier.

It features a built-in hygrometer and hydrostat so that you can set the humidity level to what you want and then leave the humidifier to reach and maintain that level.

And it can be used as either a cool mist humidifier or a warm mist humidifier.

And don’t forget, it is a fully functioning essential oil diffuser at the same time.

But if you’re looking for a white noise humidifier. This one is not it. This one is very quiet as a benefit.

Noisy humidifiers tend to be less sophisticated and rely on technologies that aren’t as good at humidifying the air.

Which is the primary point of having a humidifier.

But if the humidifier noise is something that you are very much interested in,

Air Care in a Whole House humidifier

This is a large humidifier that doesn’t have most of the bells and whistles that say the Levoit does but it does come with a hygrometer / humidistat automatic shut off to maintain the correct humidity.

You can also cover up to 2600 square feet which is pretty amazing.

It also comes with casters, which can give you an ideal of how heavy this thing can be with water in it.

And being a larger unit, it definitely has the humidifier sound that people either find relaxing or despise

Other White Noise options.

And like I mentioned before, there are plenty of videos that play the sounds of a noisy humidifier to sleep by.

And if you don’t want to use your phone or tablet to play a video while you’re sleeping,

  you can always take another route and purchase a white noise machine dedicated to giving you a dozen or so soothing White noise sounds and a night light to boot.

White noise machines come in an array of different styles. Some are made to look like an office device that blends in with the other office supplies, while other white noise machines are cute and come in shapes that look like anything from turtles to owls for the baby’s room and bed.

Rose White Noise machine

This is a nice noise maker that would look good in the kids room, for the living room.

It illuminates in seven seven different colors and it has 16 soothing sounds that range from ocean waves, the chirping of insects and birds, water flowing in the valley, and rain.

It also has four lullabies for the young ones.

In addition it features an automatic shut off timer. See Here

Another noise machine that has some interesting sounds including the usual rain and thunderstorm, campfire and ocean sounds.
But also has some very unique sounds including vacuum cleaner, fetal tone, gentle surf and shushing.

This white noise machine is called the “Dream Egg“.

recap

The white noise that you can get from a humidifier is one of the most relaxing sounds especially when you factor in the relief that you are getting from the additional moisture that is providing.

If you were specifically looking for a humidifier to get you that “white noise”, then you should look more at evaporative humidifiers and impeller humidifiers.

Both of these types of humidifiers use fans and discs that create that humidifier hum and gurgling sound.

But even though the noise from a humidifier may be something that many people enjoy, it is also something that many people do not enjoy in the least.

Most of the humidifiers you find these days are exceptionally quiet. Because quiet is what sells.

But the features that you can get in a humidifier these days are amazing. And make the drug store humidifiers of the past seem like pretty small potatoes.

And the truth is if you’re searching for the white noise that you are used to hearing from running a humidifier,

You can find videos of humidifiers running on YouTube.

And if that’s not an option for you, White noise machines are inexpensive and can give you a couple of dozen different options right at the push of a button.