If you’ve ever used a humidifier, you’ve probably wondered whether the type of water you use matters. After all, with so many options—distilled, purified, filtered, and tap water—it’s easy to feel confused about which one is best for your device. The truth is, that the water you choose can significantly affect your humidifier’s performance and longevity.
In this post, we’ll dive into the difference between distilled and purified water, explain how each type of water affects your humidifier, and provide helpful tips for getting the most out of your humidifier with the right water.
Distilled Water vs. Purified Water: What’s the Difference for Your Humidifier?
Both distilled and purified water are common choices for humidifiers, but they undergo different processes, which means they behave differently when used in your device.
Distilled Water: Pure and Best for Your Humidifier
Distilled water is purified through distillation, removing impurities and minerals. This makes it the best choice for humidifiers, preventing scale buildup, clogs, and white dust. Using distilled water ensures longer-lasting efficiency. However, it can be more expensive and requires frequent refills, especially for larger units.
Purified Water: A Good Option for Your Humidifier
Purified water is filtered through methods like reverse osmosis or deionization to remove contaminants but may still contain some minerals. It’s a more affordable choice for humidifiers, removing most impurities like chlorine and pesticides. However, minerals may cause scale buildup and white dust over time, requiring more regular cleaning. It’s a solid alternative if distilled water is too costly or hard to find, but with slightly more maintenance.
What If Distilled or Purified Water Isn’t Available?
If you don’t have access to distilled or purified water, there are still ways to keep your humidifier working efficiently:
Filtered Water: Using a water filter can help remove some minerals and impurities from tap water. While not as pure as distilled or purified water, filtered water can reduce mineral buildup and help keep your humidifier running smoothly. It's a practical and cost-effective choice, but regular maintenance may still be needed to avoid issues over time.
Humidifiers Designed for Tap Water: Some humidifiers, like the DREO HM735S, are built to handle tap water effectively. These units have self-cleaning features and scale-inhibitor cartridges that help prevent mineral buildup and keep your device running smoothly.
Cartridges for Mineral Control: Some humidifiers, like the DREO HM311, come equipped with demineralization and clean mist cartridges. These cartridges help reduce minerals in tap water, preventing scale buildup and ensuring a cleaner, fresher mist.
Easy-to-Clean Design: Humidifiers with a simple, easy-to-clean, top-fill design—like the DREO HM306—are especially convenient when using tap water. The top-fill feature makes refilling and cleaning quick, while reducing maintenance hassle. This means you can enjoy proper humidification without the extra effort.
Descaling Solutions: Some descaling solutions are specifically designed for humidifiers, helping to break down mineral deposits that can form inside the unit. Regular use of these solutions can keep your humidifier in top condition.
Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Humidifier’s Performance
No matter what type of water you use, regular maintenance is key to keeping your humidifier running at its best. Here’s how to keep your humidifier in top shape:
Empty After Each Use: Always empty the water tank after each use to prevent stagnant water, which can encourage bacteria growth.
Clean Regularly: Whether you’re using distilled, purified, or tap water, cleaning your humidifier once a week helps prevent mold, bacteria, and mineral buildup. Use a mixture of white vinegar and water to clean the tank and nozzle, and be sure to rinse thoroughly before refilling.
Replace Filters Regularly: If your humidifier has a filter, make sure to replace it as recommended to maintain performance and air quality.
Store Properly: If you’re not using your humidifier for an extended period, make sure it’s completely dry to prevent mold and bacteria growth during storage.
Final Takeaway
The water you use in your humidifier matters for its performance and longevity. Regular maintenance, no matter the water type, is key. Ready to upgrade your humidifying experience? Check out the DREO humidifier collection for easy-to-maintain options that keep your air fresh and your device running smoothly.
