How often should you clean humidifiers and dehumidifiers?

Why it matters

Both machines hold standing water, and standing water grows mold and bacteria that the machine then distributes through the house.

How to do it

Empty and scrub the tank, replace evaporator pads or clean coils per the manual, and let parts dry fully before reassembly.

Signs you've waited too long

A damp or musty smell when the machine runs — that smell is biology, not dust.

Same part of the house