Empty and rinse the water tank first

Start by unplugging the humidifier from the wall outlet. Remove the water tank by twisting it counterclockwise or pulling it straight out, depending on your Dyson model. Empty any remaining water into a sink.

Rinse the tank under running tap water. Use your hand or a soft cloth to wipe the inside surfaces. Do not use abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals on the tank itself—plain water is enough for routine cleaning. If you see mineral buildup (white or chalky deposits), soak the tank in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly.

Key Takeaways

  • Always unplug the humidifier before cleaning any part of it, and never submerge the main unit or motor housing.
  • The water tank should be rinsed after every use and deep-cleaned with vinegar solution weekly if you have hard water.
  • The filter cartridge needs replacement every 30 days of use or sooner if it looks discolored or clogged.
  • Mineral deposits inside the tank or on the mist outlet can be removed with white vinegar, but avoid letting vinegar sit on plastic seals for more than 20 minutes.

Clean the mist outlet and nozzle

The mist outlet is where water vapor leaves the machine. Mineral deposits often build up here and can block the mist or cause sputtering. Locate the nozzle at the top or front of your Dyson humidifier (check your model's manual if you are unsure).

Dampen a soft cloth with white vinegar and wipe the nozzle opening and the surrounding area. If deposits are stubborn, soak a cloth in vinegar and hold it against the nozzle for a few minutes, then wipe again. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub around the opening if needed. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry with a clean towel. Do not poke anything into the nozzle opening—you can damage the internal spray mechanism.

Replace or rinse the filter cartridge

Dyson humidifiers use a filter cartridge that traps minerals and impurities from the water before it is released as mist. This cartridge should be replaced every 30 days of continuous use, or sooner if it looks brown, yellow, or clogged.

To access the cartridge, locate the filter compartment on your model (usually on the side or back of the unit). Remove the old cartridge by twisting or pulling, depending on your model. Before installing a new one, you can rinse the compartment itself under running water to remove any dust or debris. Insert the new cartridge and twist or push it into place until it clicks or seats firmly. If you are between replacements and want to extend the cartridge life, you can rinse it under cool running water—hold it upright and let water flow through it, but do not squeeze or wring it.

Wipe down the exterior and base

Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe the outside of the humidifier body. This removes dust and any mineral spray that may have settled on the surface. Pay attention to any vents or air intake areas, as dust buildup can reduce performance.

For the base or stand, wipe with a damp cloth and dry when ready to prevent water spots. If you see mineral deposits on the exterior plastic, dampen the cloth with a 50/50 vinegar-and-water solution, wipe the affected area, and then go over it again with a cloth dampened in plain water to rinse away the vinegar. Do not let vinegar sit on plastic seals or rubber gaskets for extended periods—it can degrade them over time.

Clean the water inlet and internal passages

The water inlet is where you pour water into the tank. Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate here and restrict water flow. With the humidifier unplugged and the tank removed, look inside the inlet opening at the top of the unit.

Use a soft cloth or a small soft-bristled brush to gently clean around the inlet opening. If mineral buildup is heavy, dampen the cloth with white vinegar and wipe the inlet area. For internal passages you cannot reach by hand, you can pour a vinegar-and-water solution (equal parts) into the inlet and let it sit for 15 minutes, then pour it out and rinse by running clean water through the inlet several times. Never use metal tools or force anything into the inlet—you can crack the plastic or damage the valve mechanism.

Dry all parts completely before reassembling

After cleaning, allow the water tank, filter cartridge, and any removable parts to air-dry completely on a clean towel. This usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Wipe the interior of the main unit with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.

Once everything is dry, reassemble the humidifier in reverse order: insert the filter cartridge, reattach the water tank, and plug the unit back in. Do not run the humidifier with a wet tank or damp filter, as this can cause mold growth or electrical issues. If you cleaned with vinegar, run the humidifier for a few minutes over a sink or bathtub to flush out any remaining vinegar smell before using it in a room.

How often to clean based on water hardness

The frequency of cleaning depends on your water quality. If you have soft water (low mineral content), a weekly rinse of the tank and monthly filter replacement is usually enough. If you have hard water (visible white deposits or buildup), clean the tank and nozzle twice a week and replace the filter every 2 to 3 weeks instead of 4 weeks.

You can test your water hardness with an inexpensive test strip from a hardware store, or straightforward observe your humidifier—if you see white or tan buildup forming quickly, you have hard water and should clean more often. Using distilled water instead of tap water will dramatically reduce mineral buildup and extend the time between deep cleanings, though it costs more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar to clean the inside of the humidifier tank?

Yes. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, pour the solution into the tank, and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and allow to air-dry completely. Do not use vinegar on rubber seals or gaskets for longer than 20 minutes, as it can degrade them.

What happens if I don't replace the filter cartridge?

A clogged or saturated filter will reduce mist output, cause the humidifier to work harder, and allow mineral deposits to pass through into the mist. This can damage internal components and reduce the humidifier's lifespan. Replace the cartridge every 30 days of use or sooner if it looks discolored.

Is it safe to submerge the main unit in water?

No. Never submerge the motor housing, electrical components, or the main body of the humidifier. Only the water tank and removable filter cartridge should be rinsed under running water. Wipe the exterior and internal passages with a damp cloth only.

Why is my humidifier making a sputtering sound after cleaning?

Sputtering usually means water or vinegar solution is trapped in the mist outlet or internal passages. Run the humidifier over a sink for 2 to 3 minutes to flush out any remaining liquid. If the sound continues, the nozzle may be partially blocked—clean it again with a vinegar-dampened cloth and a soft brush.

Can I use tap water or should I use distilled water?

Tap water works, but distilled water reduces mineral buildup significantly and means less frequent cleaning. If you use tap water, expect to clean the tank and nozzle more often, especially if your water is hard. Distilled water costs more but extends the time between deep cleanings and filter replacements.