When replacing a humidifier filter it is important that you use an exact match and the filter fits perfectly for optimal filtering effectiveness. Knowing the specifics of the humidifier unit, such as the hardness of the water that goes into it and the frequency of use will help determine how often the filter should be replaced.

The first step is to turn off and unplug the unit. When opening any electrical appliance it is common sense to unplug the unit to avoid any risk of problems like electrocution.

Once the unit is off and unplugged proceed to remove the water tank or reservoir and clean that part of the unit. Disinfect the water tank to keep it clear of mold and bacteria that could result from sitting water. Empty the tank if necessary and refill it with cool water and one tablespoon of bleach. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes then rinse and clean thoroughly.

With the water tank or reservoir out of the way, remove the motor housing that covers the top of the humidifier. Feel free to vacuum or wipe away any dust off the surfaces both inside and outside the housing. For a more detailed clean contact a professional or the manufacturers support, do not attempt to disassemble the unit any further or risk voiding the warranty.

Now that the housing is removed, the filter should lift right out. Depending on the model, some filters can be washed and reused. Refer to the manufacturer supplied owner’s manual for more details. If it is a reusable filter you might want to vacuum a majority of the dust first or it could get very messy. Clean the filter in water and do not squeeze or wring the filter because the force could cause a tear. It is usually more sanitary to replace with a new filter since they usually are not too expensive. It is the surest way of having a clean filter.

For further cleaning pour a cup of undiluted white vinegar into the base of the unit and let it sit for 20 minutes. Use the bleach-water mix from the water tank to disinfect and rinse and clean thoroughly before putting everything back together. Using bleach-water is often is good cheap solution for cleaning just about any household appliances. Check the user guide for instructions before proceeding.