Cold, allergy, and flu can give you sleepless nights on most days, especially during winter, where the dry air can lead to congestion and clogged sinuses and even cause bloody noses if left unchecked. A humidifier helps increase moisture in the air, which can ease symptoms and reduce nasal congestion related to a cold or the flu. In addition, adding water vapor to the air seems to make breathing easier when you have a runny nose and a dry cough.
If you ever had a bout of cold or cough, chances are you have used a product from Vicks with a minty smell that embeds deep inside your nose. Whenever you fall sick with a cold, mothers would smear the Vaporub salve on the head, nose, and chest as a magical cure-all instead of actual medication. While they are well-known for their over-the-counter remedies, they also have an excellent lineup of affordable humidifiers. So instead of getting traumatized with the VapoRub smeared all over you, the company’s humidifiers deliver medicated steam. This will help prevent your nasal passages from clogging up, but it will also improve sleep quality.
See also – Can I Put Vicks in a Humidifier?
Vicks A Brand you can Trust
Lunsford Richardson founded Vicks VapoRub in 1890 out of love and concern for his sick son. Apart from their magical vapor rub that makes coughing fits melt away, they’ve produced a variety of goods from salve (VapoRub) to cough drops, Nyquil, and nasal spray, helping millions of people get relief from cold, cough, and sinus over the years. Owned by Procter & Gamble, Vicks produces more than just cold-and-flu medication. The company is also a purveyor of some of the most reliable humidifiers on the market today.
Pros and Cons of Vicks Humidifiers
Vicks humidifiers have two-fold benefits. First, Vicks itself has relieving effects, and the steam adds needed moisture for comfortable breathing. Besides humidifying the air, they also diffuse their medicated vapor products that help relieve coughs, colds, and sinus issues. Second, Vicks humidifiers do more than add some extra moisture to the dry air in your home.
Vicks humidifiers come with straightforward controls and are easy to operate and maintain without hassle. Their appliances have a generous tank capacity that provides constant mist products for an extended period and ensures fewer trips to the sink. In addition, Vicks humidifiers are affordable and help ensure that the home remains fresh without draining your pocket. Also, the brand offers a warranty of 3 years on its humidifiers, which is two years more than the industry standard, which makes them highly appealing.
On the downside, Vicks humidifiers aren’t necessarily known for having lots of bells & whistles that are available with competing humidifiers. In addition, their humidifiers are primarily meant for bedside usage, so the coverage reach is a bit less.
Things We Considered While Choosing the Best Vicks Humidifier
Vicks has a relatively large range of humidifiers covering all bases. Their catalog consists of vaporizers, evaporative humidifiers, cool mist humidifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers, and impeller-based systems alongside various ultrasonic machines.
Type of Mist: Vicks produces two types of humidifiers, cool mist, and warm mist. Both humidifiers deliver medicinal steam to treat allergies and colds but differently.
Cool Mist: Vicks cool mist humidifiers are equipped with a wick that soaks up the moisture, and then a fan blows over it to circulate the moist air in the room. They do not contain any heating element, hence are safer to use around kids, but they will not help diffuse essential oils or medicated vapor. On the other hand, a cool-mist one is ideal for warm weather, as the mists provide a cooling effect.
Warm Mist: Vicks warm mist humidifiers are designed explicitly for cooler temperatures for the steam to provide a source of warmth arm mist humidifiers boil the water inside the reservoir and release the steam into the air. You can add liquid inhalants to the warm mist humidifiers for added comfort and cough relief.
Coverage Area: The coverage area refers to the maximum room size that a humidifier can cover effectively. While many companies list the maximum square footage, Vicks models specify the room size. Vicks humidifiers are available in small, medium, and large coverage models that cater to the varied needs of users. Small room Vicks humidifiers are ideal for rooms up to 250 square feet, medium room models are for rooms between 300-450 square feet, and large room units are ideal for 500-999 square feet.
Water Tank capacity: The water tank capacity denotes the amount of water it can hold with one filling. For example, most Vicks humidifiers typically have a 0.5 to 3 gallons tank. Generally, a large tank capacity is preferable as it means fewer refills. However, it is essential to remember that the larger the tank capacity, the pricier the unit and the bulkier it will be. Hence, you need to balance the unit’s capacity, cost, and size.
Runtime: The runtime refers to the maximum amount of time a humidifier can run before the tank runs dry. It is dependent on a couple of factors, tank size and the mist speed. A large tank will have more water and can run longer than the appliances with smaller tanks. Also, IF humidifies are run on a high mist setting, they will use water much faster than on the lowest. Most Vicks humidifiers provide at least 12 hours of continuous run time which means they will run the entire night without needing a refill.
Noise level: This refers to the amount of noise the humidifier generates while running. If it is high enough, it will disturb your sleep, especially for kids who are light sleepers. Humidifiers with a noise rating of under 50 dB should be quiet enough for most users.
Dimensions and weight: You should consider the size of the space you want to place the machine. Ensure that you have enough room to keep the machine a few inches from the wall. The weight of the humidifier denotes how heavy the model is when it is empty. This shouldn’t be an issue unless you’re carrying the entire unit around with you. The machine should not be easily moved by small children or pets, especially on a surface off the ground.
Portability: Vicks humidifiers are designed to be compact and easy to carry. Some models are equipped with a carry handle that provides a comfortable and safe place to hold the appliance.
Filters: Filters are used to remove any impurities present in the steam, whether dust or bacteria. Vicks humidifiers do not contain a filter but are designed to be easy to clean. You can easily wipe down the removable tank and disinfect the tank and the evaporator. Their vaporizer technology also fights off the majority of the bacteria present in water. The company also manufactures demineralization tablets that help break down white dust.
Extra features: Vicks humidifiers come with a few additional features, such as easy controls, auto-shutoff that turns the machine off if the tank is empty. Some Vicks models include nightlights, making them great for kids’ bedrooms. Many Vicks vaporizers are equipped with pad slots to place Vicks VapoPads for therapy.
Our Pick – Vicks Humidifier Collection
Vicks has several humidifiers in its arsenal. We have considered the Vicks humidifier on multiple parameters, including the mist output, coverage area, and run time. We have also checked how quiet the machines are to be used in babies’ rooms and whether they come with a night light option. We have included multiple mist-type options to give you a more comprehensive range of options.
1. Vicks Warm Steam Vaporizer –
The Vicks V150SG helps you experience the dual benefits of cough and congestion relief and the soothing scent of Vicks menthol. The warm mist vaporizer delivers up to a full day of comforting steam relief with its large 1.5-gallon tank capacity. Vicks Warm Steam Vaporizer and Humidifier help you get a good night’s sleep when family members are sick, during allergy season or when the air is dry.
The Vicks 150 SG features a filter-free design that means you won’t need to replace filters, and the wide tank opening allows for easy filling and cleaning. In addition, you can use the machine with Vicks VapoPads to create medicated steam that helps relieve coughs from colds (VapoSteam sold separately). Compatible with up to 2 Vicks VapoPads so that you can get the ultimate soothing vapor experience.
Vicks states that you may have soft water or low mineral content if the vaporizer does not produce steam after 10 minutes. In this situation, add one or two pinches of salt to water and wait for ten minutes for it to take effect. If it generates little or no steam at all, add a bit or two more as needed, up to ½ tsp.
The Vicks 150 SG comes with patented safety vents that regulate vapor flow to prevent over-boiling and spitting, even in hard water areas. The machine’s ample night light provides added safety and convenience, particularly in children’s rooms. The Vicks vapor is bacteria-free and leaves no white dust.
Pros
- Continuous Run Time
- Affordable
- High Steam Flow
Cons
- The inside of the steam rack is difficult to clean.
2. Vicks V4600 Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier –
The Vicks filter-free ultrasonic cool mist humidifier produces visible cool mist without the filter to help you create a relaxing, comforting environment to experience better breathing and more comfortable sleep. The humidifier is ideal for medium-sized rooms.
The Vicks 4600 is designed to be easy to use, this humidifier has no filters to replace, but you have to clean the machine more often than filtered ones. The ultrasonic humidifier comes with a 1.2-gallon tank that allows you to enjoy visible cool mist for up to 30 hours. You can also utilize the auto shut-off while sleeping, making it convenient. The Vicks humidifier comes with an adjustable nozzle that makes it easy to direct the mist. In addition, you can easily adjust output to create a personalized level of comfort.
This Vicks humidifier is quick and easy to use and clean. The broad tank opening offers easy filling and cleaning. It’s quiet, too, making it an excellent choice for your bedroom or as a baby humidifier for nursery or kid’s rooms. The Vicks 4600 comes with slots for 2 Vicks VapoPads for additional soothing comfort. Vicks VapoPads is the best way to get soothing, aromatic vapors with your humidifier. Each pad provides up to 8 hours of soothing mists. The machine includes one sample pad.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quiet Operation
- Easy to fill
- Directional mist outlet
- Option to add a VapoPads to the humidifier
Cons
- The intensive weekly cleaning process
3. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier
Small to Medium Rooms, 1 Gallon Tank –
Vicks pure warm mist humidifier provides soothing, warm moisture and a calming environment. The humidifier boils water to generate pure steam vapor up to 96% bacteria-free. The humidifier is ideal for medium to large rooms.
Fill the Water Tank with clean, cool tap water and replace the Tank Cap by firmly turning clockwise. Next, turn the tank upright and check the Tank Cap for leaks. If any water drips from Tank Cap, remove it and re-tighten. It is essential to clean it regularly, or lead to calcium buildup. The machine does not need a filter, but if you begin to see an orange buildup in the heating chamber that is an indication that it is time to clean it thoroughly.
The Vicks warm mist humidifier can also be used with Vicks VapoSteam for medicated vapors. This Vicks humidifier is quick and easy to use and clean. The machine features a 1-gallon tank that allows a run time of 24 hours of warm mist on the lowest setting. It’s quiet, and the large night light makes it an excellent choice for your bedroom or as a baby humidifier for nursery or kid’s rooms.
The Vicks warm mist humidifier comes with an auto-off feature so you can leave it running through the night, and it also has high and low settings to meet your needs. Additionally, this model has a three-year warranty attached.
Pros
- Large removable tank
- Can be combined with Vicks Vapor Pads making it ideal to use during the winter and when sick
- Easy to use with just a single dial to turn it on and off
Cons
- Calcium builds up easily on the heating element and requires cleaning after a full tank’s use
4. Vicks 3-in-1 SleepyTime Humidifier
Diffuser and Night-Light, Visible Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier with Essential Oil Diffuser –
Drift off to sleep with the Vicks 3-in-1 SleepyTime Humidifier. A cool-mist humidifier, essential oil diffuser, and color-changing nightlight in one, the SleepyTime helps create a personalized, calming environment. The humidifier enables you to soothe a cough or stuffy nose, provide a calming scent with VapoPads or essential oils and illuminate the room with the night light.
The Vicks SleepyTime is ideal for small-sized rooms and is quick and easy to use and clean. It also works with Vicks VapoPads for extra soothing comfort. The humidifier comes with a wide tank opening that enables easy filling and cleaning. The machine comes integrated with a nightlight with seven color options. However, you cannot turn off the LED on the control knob while the unit is running. The humidifier is equipped with an essential oil diffuser; add your favorite essential oils to the tank for added aroma and comfort. It’s filter-free, so no replacement filters are required.
With a 0.6 gallon tank, you can enjoy visible cool mist for up to 24 hours and automatically shut off when the tank is empty. The compact size humidifier utilizes Ultrasonic Technology for a whisper-quiet operation that won’t disturb sleep, making it an excellent choice for your bedroom or as a baby humidifier for nursery or kids rooms. The machine also holds up to 1 Vicks VapoPads for additional soothing comfort (sample pad included).
Pros
- Aromatherapy option
- Night lights
- Easy to operate and clean
- Filter free operation
Cons
- Small Tank
5. Vicks Mini Filter Free Cool Mist Humidifier
Small Humidifier for Bedrooms –
The Vicks Mini Filter Free Cool Mist Humidifier provides a soothing, visible mist to relieve cough and congestion temporarily and enables better breathing and comfortable sleep. Designed for a low maintenance operation, this unit requires no filters and is ultra-quiet. This mist humidifier has a quiet operation and a large tank opening for easy access when you need to clean it and requires no filters to operate for added convenience. The tank is also translucent and allows for quick and easy monitoring of the water level.
The Vicks Mini provides a run time of 20 hours on the lowest setting. In addition, the machine features an automatic waterless shut-off when the tank gets empty, preventing overheating and causing damage to the unit.
The Vicks Mini is compact and lightweight and easily placed on a dresser or shelf. However, be careful when picking the machine from the top as the water tank is detachable. The control panel is straightforward, it turns the unit on or off and adjusts the misting level from minimum to maximum.
The Vicks Mini comes with a scent pad heater for added comfort that can last up to eight hours. However, you can only use it with Vicks VapoPads.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Detachable tank for easy cleaning
- Whisper quiet operation
- Optional scent pad heater
Cons
- Does not include a timer
Setting up Your Vicks Humidifier
Vicks humidifiers are easy to set up. You can easily install and operate them without needing a specialist. If you have recently purchased a new device, please follow the below instructions when you plan to use the machine for the first time:
- Carefully place your Vicks humidifier on a flat waterproof surface that is far from the reach of small kids and pets at home.
- Remove the unit’s water tank, open the tank cap, and fill it with water. It is recommended to use bottled or purified tap water, as plain tap water can leave mineral residues promoting bacterial growth and leaving white dust in the house.
- Plug the humidifier and adjust the humidity settings as per your requirement.
- Cleaning Your Vicks Humidifier
- It would be best if you cleaned your Vicks humidifier at least once a week to enjoy the maximum benefits without any risk.
- Ensure that you do not leave the water in the machine for a long time, as it can promote bacteria and fungus growth.
- After every use, drain the leftover water and refill the unit with clean cold water.
How to clean your Vicks humidifier
- Unplug the humidifier and remove the water tank.
- Add around 2 cups of undiluted distilled white vinegar into the tank. Make sure that the vinegar covers all areas of the tank.
- Leave the solution in the tank for approximately 3-4 hours to help loosen the mineral build-up in the tank.
- Remove the vinegar solution from the tank and base. Rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water
- Wipe the tank and bottom with a soft dry cloth. Air-dry the tank, and your unit is ready for subsequent use or storage.
- You can also consider disinfecting your Vicks humidifier unit with a household bleach solution 2-3 times a month, especially if you use the device daily. Please remember not to mix the vinegar and bleaching solutions as they can be hazardous.
Tips for maintaining your humidifier
If you want your Vicks humidifier to perform well for several years, there are a few things you need to do to maintain it, including:
- Change the water daily to reduce the growth of mold and bacteria.
- Use distilled, or demineralized water in the tank for less white dust expelled into the air.
- Clean it thoroughly every day.
- Only use natural cleaning solutions or recommended cleaning products.
- Only run the unit when needed.
- If it includes filters or cartridges, clean or change them regularly.
Vicks Humidifier FAQ
Q. Can I use the medication in Vicks humidifiers?
This is only possible in some models. Some Vicks humidifiers feature a slot for Vicks VapoPads, while others have built-in medicine cups. Ensure that you read the user manual carefully before adding medicated solutions to the humidifier.
Q. Will I need to buy a humidifier cleaner or use special chemicals to clean my system?
You can use distilled white vinegar to clean the Vicks humidifier. However, ensure that you read the user manual carefully before adding any cleaning chemicals to the machine
Q. Is it possible to order replacement parts for a Vicks humidifier?
You can directly contact Vicks customer service to order replacement parts.
Q. How often should I clean my Vicks Humidifier?
Vicks recommends thoroughly cleaning the humidifier once a week when in use.
Q. Can I Use My Vicks Humidifier Without Filter?
While using a filter for your Vicks humidifier is recommended, most of the Company’s models do not require any filters.
Q. Can I Use Vicks Humidifiers While Pregnant?
Unhealthy indoor humidity can make things difficult for pregnant mothers, especially during winters. Vicks humidifiers can help maintain optimum humidity levels to make you feel comfortable. However, before buying a humidifier, consult a doctor and consider your health and overall condition. You can select a cool mist or a warm mist humidifier based on the assessment.
Q. Can I Put Essential Oils in My Vicks Humidifying Machine?
Vicks do not recommend putting essential oils or other medicated chemicals in your Vicks humidifier device. It can damage the unit, leaving it non-functional and voiding the warranty. However, you can use Vicks VapoPads or Drops in a few models that come with built-in functionality.
Q. Are Vaporizers and Humidifiers Different from Each Other?
The term can be used interchangeably at times. Technically, humidifiers produce mist from cold water, while vaporizers employ some form of heating to generate steam.