Pulling out a humidifier isn't enough to cure the season of dry air and potential cold germs—you have to know how to clean a humidifier, too. Start here.

How to Clean Your (Likely Gross) Humidifier Thom Dunn Reporting for Wirecutter Michael Hession Apply a bit of white vinegar to a brush to dislodge the chalky white limescale buildup.

From cool-mist humidifiers to warm-mist humidifiers, these options will add moisture and comfort to your home.

To clean the humidifier, unplug it, empty the tank, wipe all surfaces dry, and refill before reconnecting it to power. For portable humidifiers, it’s important to clean these daily to reduce the ...