Safety of Vaporizers

Before using a plug-in household vaporizer to relieve sinus and nasal congestion, it's important to be aware of some important safety considerations.

General Safety Precautions

• All three types of vaporizers--cold mist, heated mist and waterless---operate on electricity. Follow general electrical safety precautions when using any vaporizer and read the safety warnings and instructions that come with the vaporizer. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission for recalls before purchasing a vaporizer, as there have been past recalls.

Heated & Cold Mist Vaporizer Safety

• Heated and cold mist vaporizers both use water stored in a tank, presenting potential spills. To prevent spills, look for a vaporizer with a locking twist-on cap and a night light to helps you locate the vaporizer in the dark. The water tank can also harbor mold, so clean and disinfect it as directed in the product instructions.

Special Safety Considerations for Heated Mist Vaporizers

• With a heated vaporizer, you can add mentholated liquid to the water to relieve coughs and sore throats as well as head congestion. However, these liquids contain flammable and hazardous ingredients like alcohol that should not be ingested. When using these liquids, read all the product information.

  Because these vaporizers heat water to temperatures that kill bacteria and vaporize water, steam burns and heating element malfunctions are potential safety hazards. Look for models that have a well-insulated tank, protective guards that lower steam temperatures and automatic shut-off devices that turn off the vaporizer if the water in the tank drops below a preset level. Keep hands and faces a safe distance away from the steam.