Humidifiers are invaluable tools that can help boost your indoor comfort, soothe your baby’s delicate respiratory system, and even reduce heating costs during the cold winter months. But did you know that humidifiers also have another important purpose? They can help you—and your little ones—stay healthy during flu season. With flu season on the horizon, read on to learn 4 reasons you should be using a humidifier right now.
1.) Humidifiers may stop the spread of flu germs.
A 2009 study conducted by the National Academy of Sciences found that flu germs survive and spread more easily in dry air conditions. These results suggest that boosting your indoor humidity level makes it less likely for flu germs to survive and transmit to those around you. Aim to maintain a humidity level of between 45 and 50% to curb the spread of germs. An inexpensive hygrometer can help you stay on top of humidity measurement.
2.) Humidifiers help you breathe easier.
Common flu symptoms such as a runny nose, sinus congestion, coughing, and a sore throat often make breathing feel like work. Humidifiers help moisturize your nasal, throat, and lung passages, making it easier for air to pass through. When you’re sick, try using a warm mist humidifier, which disperses a soothing heated mist for extra comfort.
3.) Humidifiers help you feel better faster.
Along with providing soothing moisture that eases your airways, humidifiers make you feel more comfortable in your indoor environment. This can help you to get the rest you need to fight off the flu faster and get back to your normal routine.
4.) Humidifiers help ward off future illnesses.
Ever heard of cilia? Your cilia are the tiny hairs inside your nose that protect your nasal and respiratory passages. As you breathe, your cilia move back and forth to prevent bacteria, germs, dust, and other foreign particles from entering your nasal passages and possibly triggering an illness. When your nasal passages are dry, cilia can’t do their job effectively. Using a humidifier ensures that your nasal airways remain moist and helps these tiny hairs continue to ward off bacteria and germs.
For more information on how humidifiers can help you stay healthy, read our article Humidifiers Keep You Healthy Year-Round.
Whether you’re in the market for a humidifier to help fight the flu or boost your indoor comfort, be sure to check out our winter humidifier options now. If you have any questions regarding your home’s humidity level or our humidifier options, feel free to call us at 1-800-934-9194.