Vocalist.org archive


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?