As soon as the heating goes on in winter, many UK homes notice the same thing — dry air. Low indoor humidity can lead to sore throats, dry skin, sinus irritation, static shocks, and even unhappy houseplants.
That’s why humidifiers and air purifiers become winter essentials. But there’s one common mistake many households make:
Using tap water instead of distilled water in a humidifier.
At The Somerset Clear Water Company, we manufacture and supply premium UK distilled water — pure, reliable, and made right here in Somerset. With free next-day delivery, competitive pricing, and eco-friendly packaging, it’s an easy way to protect your appliances and improve indoor air quality this winter.
Popular sizes for humidifiers: 4 × 5L distilled water or 3 × 5L distilled water with free next-day UK delivery.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Tap Water in a Humidifier
Most UK tap water is classed as hard water, meaning it contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
When tap water is used in a humidifier:
- Water evaporates, but minerals do not
- Fine mineral particles are released into the air
- White dust can settle on furniture, electronics, and floors
- Limescale builds up inside the humidifier, reducing performance
Over time, this can clog filters, shorten the lifespan of your machine, and affect air quality — especially in enclosed winter homes.
Why Distilled Water Is the Best Water for Humidifiers
Distilled water has been purified through distillation, removing minerals, chemicals, bacteria, and impurities. This makes it the best water for humidifiers, particularly during winter when devices are used more frequently.
Benefits of using distilled water in a humidifier:
- No white dust or residue – prevents mineral deposits on surfaces and inside your machine
- Cleaner air quality – only pure moisture is released into your home
- Longer appliance lifespan – protects humidifiers, diffusers, and CPAP machines from limescale damage
- Better comfort & wellbeing – helps ease dry skin, irritated sinuses, and sore throats caused by dry indoor air
Quick tip: Most humidifier users choose multi-packs to avoid running out during winter.
Distilled vs Deionised Water for Humidifiers
Deionised water removes minerals but may still contain organic compounds. Distilled water is the purest option and is recommended by many humidifier manufacturers for home and medical use.
If you’re choosing between the two for a humidifier, distilled water is the safest and most reliable choice.
Ideal Uses for Distilled Water in Winter
Distilled water isn’t just for humidifiers. It’s also ideal for:
- CPAP machines and medical humidifiers
- Aroma diffusers and air purifiers
- Steam irons and cleaning appliances used more often in winter
Using pure water helps keep appliances efficient, hygienic, and longer-lasting.
Why Buy Distilled Water from The Somerset Clear Water Company?
- UK-made distilled water from our Somerset facility
- Free next-day delivery anywhere in the UK
- Popular multi-pack sizes ideal for humidifiers
- Eco-friendly, discreet packaging
Keep your appliances protected and your air clean all winter.
Buy 4 × 5L Distilled Water Buy 3 × 5L Distilled Water
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tap water in a humidifier?
Tap water contains minerals that can create white dust and limescale build-up. Using distilled water helps prevent these issues and keeps your humidifier running efficiently.
Is distilled water safe to use in a humidifier?
Yes. Distilled water contains no minerals, chemicals, or bacteria, making it safe and ideal for humidifiers, CPAP machines, and air purifiers.
Can I use deionised water instead of distilled water in a humidifier?
Deionised water removes minerals but may still contain organic compounds. Distilled water is generally recommended as the purest option for humidifier use.
How often should I change the water in my humidifier?
Even when using distilled water, it is best practice to empty and refill your humidifier daily to maintain hygiene.
Does distilled water improve humidifier performance?
Yes. Distilled water reduces limescale build-up, prevents clogged filters, and helps extend the lifespan of humidifiers.
Ready to order? 4 × 5L distilled water or 3 × 5L distilled water with free next-day delivery.
