Vicks steam vaporizer
If you use a Vicks vaporizer to manage chronic sinusitis, colds or chest congestion, be aware that germs, mold and stubborn minerals can buildup in the vaporizer tub and steam mechanism. In order to extend the life of your vaporizor, prevent the spread of bacteria and avoid clogging your unit, you must practice daily, weekly and seasonal maintenance.
Instructions
1. Empty leftover water after running your vaporizer for several hours. It's normal to see small, black particles in the water residue. These mineral particles are generated during the vaporization process, and do not affect the vaporizer's performance or steam purity.
2. Rinse the tub thoroughly and drain the water, drying the tub's interior and exterior with a clean, dry cloth.
3. Empty the medical inhalant cup if your vaporizer contains one. Use a cotton ball to wipe out medication excess.
Weekly Cleaning and End-of-Season Maintenance
4. Empty all unused water from the vaporizer tub, rinsing the tub thoroughly and drying with a clean cloth.
5. Unplug the vaporizer from the wall and set the steam mechanism in a bowl filled with several inches of pure, white vinegar. Allow the unit to remain in the vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes, or longer if the vaporizer has not been cleaned in several weeks.
6. Remove the steam unit from the vinegar and place your fingers over the water intake holes in the bottom. Run fresh water into the steam outlet on top of the unit, and cover the outlet holes with your other fingers. Shake the entire steam mechanism forcefully, and pour the water back out the steam outlet. Repeat the process until there is no more vinegar smell and you no longer see black mineral particles in the discarded water.
7. Use a toothpick to unclog the steam outlet and water intake holes if water won't flow freely after the soaking and rinsing process. Rinse the entire mechanism once more to remove mineral deposits loosened with the toothpick.
8. Wash out any leftover medication from the steam cup using a mild dish detergent. Be sure to rinse the cup thoroughly so soap doesn't buildup in the steam outlet or intake holes.
9. Disinfect the vaporizer once a week after cleaning the tub and steam mechanism. Fill the tub with hot water, adding a teaspoon of bleach for each gallon of water. Mix the water and bleach, swishing it to coat the tub's interior. Allow the bleach/water mixture to remain for 20 to 30 minutes, and then rinse the tub thoroughly until no bleach scent is left. Wipe out the vaporizer tub with a clean towel.
10. Use the weekly cleaning steps and thoroughly dry all vaporizer parts when you're ready to retire your unit for the season. Bag the vaporizer and store it in a cool, dry area. Remember, the vaporizer must be completely emptied of water before being stored.
Tips Warnings
If your vaporizer becomes extremely hot during use or begins to hiss, it may need to be cleaned more thoroughly. Excess heat or buzzing sounds may indicate excessive mineral buildup, which can keep the unit from functioning properly and could become a safety hazard.
Keep steam vaporizer units away from small children. The steam generated by your Vicks vaporizer could produce skin burns or irritation.
