Humidifier Uses

• A humidifier creates humidity by releasing water that is stored in a tank, some even cool the water before releasing it. This creates a cool humidity that can help fight against sky skin and other issues related to cold, dry winter air. They are also sometimes used to fight the damage that can be caused by in-home heaters, such as peeling wallpaper and cracked paint.
  
  

Vaporizer Uses

• A vaporizer doesn't release cold mist into the air. Instead it heats up the water in its tank until it boils, releasing a warm steam. Vaporizers are typically used to help treat colds and other causes of chest congestion in small children and infants.
  
  

Humidifier Dangers

• According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the tanks in humidifiers can become breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria and must be cleaned on a regular basis to avoid risk of serious illness. The EPA also suggests that distilled water be used to reduce the risk of mineral deposits forming within the humidifier.
  
  

Vaporizer Dangers

• Vaporizers boil the water before releasing it into the air, so the risk of bacteria and other dangerous organisms is greatly reduced. However, vaporizers can pose a serious health risk to small children because they run hot. Care must be used to make sure children do not bump into the humidifier or spill the water in the tank, as this can cause serious burns.