A Guide To Adding Aroma Oils To Your Humidifier

Adding aroma oil to a humidifier is a great way to enhance your indoor air quality and create a soothing atmosphere. However, it's important to understand the different types of humidifiers and their compatibility with aroma oils before you begin. The type of humidifier you have will determine how you add the aroma oil and whether it's safe to do so. While some humidifiers have specific compartments or trays for aroma oils, others require direct addition to the water tank, and certain types of humidifiers should not be used with aroma oils at all.

Ultrasonic humidifiers can be used with essential oils

To use essential oils with an ultrasonic humidifier, simply add a few drops of your chosen oil to the water tank or the designated essential oil tray. For a 100ml tank, it is recommended to use between 5 and 8 drops of essential oil. Once the oil has been added, turn on the humidifier as normal and enjoy the scent as it vaporises around the room.

It is important to note that essential oils should not be used with traditional humidifiers as they can damage the internal components of the machine. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can clog the filter and erode the plastic components of a traditional humidifier. Therefore, it is recommended to use an ultrasonic humidifier or a diffuser if you want to enjoy the benefits of essential oils.

There are many essential oils that can be used with ultrasonic humidifiers, each offering different benefits. For example, lavender essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties, while eucalyptus oil can help with congestion and breathing issues. Other popular choices include lemon, peppermint, and orange essential oils, each offering their own unique fragrance and potential health benefits.

Evaporative humidifiers should not be used with essential oils

While essential oils can be used with some types of humidifiers, evaporative humidifiers should never be used with essential oils. Evaporative humidifiers use a wicking filter to absorb water, and as the water evaporates, the humidifier's fan blows the evaporated moisture into the air. If essential oils are added to the water, they will be trapped by the wicking filter, causing it to break down and possibly fail.

Evaporative humidifiers are designed to increase the humidity in your home by converting water into moisture and dispersing it into the air. They are not designed to disperse fragrance, and adding essential oils to the water tank can damage the internal components of the machine. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can clog the filter and slowly erode the plastic components of the humidifier.

If you want to add fragrance to your home, it is best to use an appliance specifically designed for this purpose, such as a diffuser or an ultrasonic humidifier. Ultrasonic humidifiers use a vibrating mechanism at the base of the tank to create water particles and gently lift them into the air. Some ultrasonic humidifiers are compatible with essential oils and may come with a special essential oil diffuser tray or a tank that is designed for this purpose.

Before adding essential oils to any appliance, always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that it is safe to do so.

Steam humidifiers are best for treating respiratory illnesses

Adding aroma oil to a humidifier is not recommended as it can damage the internal components of the machine. However, some newer models of humidifiers come equipped with essential oil trays. It is always best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions before adding essential oils to your humidifier. If you want to add fragrance to the air, it is better to use a diffuser or a DIY air freshener.

Steam Humidifiers for Respiratory Illnesses

Steam humidifiers are a great way to add moisture to the air, especially during the dry winter months. They are particularly beneficial for treating respiratory illnesses. Steam humidifiers heat water to produce steam, which is then released into the air, increasing the humidity levels. This moist air can help to loosen mucus and make breathing easier for people with respiratory issues such as congestion, coughs, and colds.

Steam vaporizers or warm-mist humidifiers are electrically powered. They heat water and then cool it before releasing it into the air. These are the most inexpensive and portable types of humidifiers, and they can be easily purchased at drugstores.

However, it is important to note that steam vaporizers can cause burns, so they may not be the best option for households with young children. Additionally, steam vaporizers require regular cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and bacterial growth. It is recommended to rinse out the used water between uses and follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth.

Overall, steam humidifiers are a great option for treating respiratory illnesses and increasing humidity levels in your home. By using steam to moisten the air, these devices can help alleviate congestion and make breathing easier for those suffering from respiratory issues.

How to add essential oils to water in a humidifier

Adding essential oils to your humidifier can be a great way to enhance indoor air quality, lift your mood, and provide health benefits. However, it is important to do so correctly to avoid damaging your device.

Understanding Humidifiers

Before adding essential oils, it is important to understand how a humidifier works. A humidifier emits water vapour to increase humidity levels, combating dry air that can occur during certain seasons or in specific climates. There are several types of humidifiers, including central humidifiers, evaporative humidifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers, and impeller humidifiers, and each type interacts with essential oils differently.

Understanding Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts obtained through distillation or mechanical methods such as cold pressing. They carry the plant's essence, including its scent and therapeutic properties, and are often used in aromatherapy to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Compatibility Matters

Not all humidifiers are designed to be used with essential oils. Adding oils to a non-compatible humidifier can damage the machine and potentially release harmful particles into the air. Therefore, it is important to use a humidifier that is specifically designed to be used with essential oils or labelled as "aroma" humidifiers. These usually have special compartments or pads for essential oils.

Steps for Adding Essential Oils

If your humidifier is compatible with essential oils, follow these steps:

• Read the manual: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions to determine if your device is suitable for use with essential oils and to obtain specific guidance on how to use them.
• Choose high-quality essential oils: Opt for pure, high-quality essential oils. Low-quality oils may contain impurities that can harm the humidifier or affect air quality.
• Add oils to water: Place a few drops of essential oil into the water tank. The recommended amount is typically 3-5 drops per 100ml of water, but this may vary depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
• Clean regularly: Essential oils can leave residues that build up over time. Regular cleaning of the humidifier is crucial to maintain its performance and hygiene.

Cautions and Considerations

When using essential oils with your humidifier, keep the following in mind:

• Risk of overuse: Using too much oil can clog the humidifier and create an overpowering fragrance. Always use the recommended amount.
• Potential health concerns: Individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues should exercise caution as essential oils can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or respiratory distress.
• Pets and children: Some essential oils may be harmful to pets or children. Research the safety of specific oils if you have pets or young children in your home.
• Avoiding damage: Using oils with a non-compatible humidifier can void warranties and cause irreparable damage to the device.
• Daily maintenance: Empty and dry the humidifier when not in use to prevent mould growth.
• Weekly cleaning: Thoroughly clean the humidifier once a week to remove oil residues and any mineral buildup from the water.

Alternative Methods: Using Oil Pads and Trays

Some humidifiers come with a separate compartment or tray designed for essential oils. This prevents the oils from contacting the water and protects the device from potential damage.

How to clean a humidifier that uses essential oils

It is important to regularly clean your humidifier to prevent scent confusion and mould from developing. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your humidifier:

Routine Cleaning of Your Humidifier

• After each use, make it a habit to empty any remaining water from the reservoir. Stagnant water can create a build-up within the machine, and residual oil can affect the scent output the next time you use it.
• Use a 1:1 water and white vinegar solution to clean the empty reservoir and the mist vent.
• Wipe it down with a dry cloth or cotton ball.
• Allow it to air-dry between uses, rather than reassembling it while harbouring moisture.

Deep Cleaning Your Humidifier

• Start by unplugging your diffuser and emptying any remaining water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Fill the diffuser halfway with plain water and a teaspoon of white vinegar.
• Run it for 5-10 minutes so the vinegar has a chance to disperse through all components of the system, then empty the reservoir again.
• Clean any loose components like the mist vent separately with warm water and dish soap, and dry them completely.
• To clean the reservoir that holds the water, start by wiping down the surfaces with a cloth dampened with a 1:1 solution of water and white vinegar.
• Use a cotton swab dampened with white vinegar to clean the delicate misting chips and to tackle any build-up along the walls of the reservoir.
• Allow the entire system to air-dry before use, which will help any lingering vinegar scent to dissipate.

Frequently asked questions