| To: "VOCALIST" <vocalist> Subject: Re: humidifiers and a good vocal care program Date sent: Mon, 31 Jan 2000 22:53:33 -0500 Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>
Hi Jay: You'll find a TON in the archives discussing the relative merits of various humidifier types. But in general, although pediatricians warn against them because of a perceived danger in knocking them over and scalding a toddler, the hot ones are better. The cool ones have to be cleaned every day and even then are probably sending out stuff you'd really rather not breathe. Our resident doctors both had their say on humidifiers and it's all in the archives at www.vocalist.org. If you need help on negotiating the archives, just ask, you'll find lots of people willing to help! Here's just one of many great posts:
>From Dr. John Schweinfurth: (SNIP)"I do not recommend the ultrasound, or "cool mist" humidifiers, especially not for singers, because they aerosolize all the impurities, including lead, zinc, iron, chloride, dirt, dust, bacteria, viruses, etc into the air. Not all evaporative units have fans, and not all the ones with fans are noisy. Check out the Bionaire units. Other humidifier tid bits: Don't put them near walls or furniture because of condensation and mold, and don't over do it for the same reason. Don't put menthol containing compounds into them. Eucalyptus is OK as far as we know. You don't have to use pure water but it's not a bad idea. Clean them regularly to cut down on mildew and scaling. Hope this helps." John M. Schweinfurth, MD Laryngology and Professional Voice Care
My best suggestion for you? When you purchase your humidifier, buy several extra filters at the same time and pick up vinegar and bleach if you don't already have it for cleaning. Save the manufacturer's directions for cleaning and filter replacement schedule and follow them well. Also, unless you have croup, don't overdo it on the mist. You don't want scary stuff (like mildew) growing on your walls.
Good luck,
Laura Sharp
From: "Jameson Linville" (SNIP) After a mild bout with the flu recently, I went out pricing humidifiers around town. The price was not that bad (about $25 for a nice one), but there was a problem posed: which is better for long term use to keep the voice well and also to use when sick, to get the voice functioning as it should again, cool mist or warm mist?
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