Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

I got a cool mist humidifier for DS's room, but haven't run it yet to clean it. He's a bit stuffy, so is it okay to run a warm mist humidifier? It's not like it'll be blowing on his crib.

Is this a stupid question?

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

It's not a stupid question but I dont know the answer. I've only used cool mist to reduce the inflammation for lung infections.

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

No, it's not a stupid question at all. I actually have a warm-mist humidifier in DS's room. I think I read it was best to get a warm-mist humidifier as opposed to a cold or hot one (I'm pretty sure I read it in the "What to Expect...The First Year" book). I can't remember the reasons why though. I have the Slant/Fin antibacterial one. I believe they sell it at BBB.

I still keep it away from DS's crib though and only keep it on at night.

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

i wonder about infestation of germs in warm moist environments... but i am a nurse and we are germaphobes!!!

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

Not a stupid question, I have no idea.

Here's what I found online

When should I use a cool-mist humidifier vs. a warm-mist humidifier for a child with a cold?

Mayo Clinic pediatrician Jay Hoecker, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.


Answer
For safety, always use cool-mist humidifiers with children. Hot water or steam from a warm-mist humidifier or steam vaporizer can burn a child if he or she gets too close.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which helps ease coughing and congestion due to a cold. Warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers are equally effective in humidifying the air. Also, by the time the water vapor reaches your child's lower airways, it's the same temperature regardless of whether it started out warm or cool.

Another benefit of cool-mist humidifiers is cost. Cool-mist humidifiers are less expensive than warm-mist humidifiers because you're not paying for the heating element. If you use a humidifier, be sure to keep it clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and molds.

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

Thank you all!!! Well, I don't think I have to worry about an 11 week old getting out of his crib, walking over the the humidifier and burning himself on it.

I gotta get my butt in gear to clean my new humidifier for him.

Re: Is a warm steam himidifier okay for an infant?

I had the same question when DS got his first cold. I had registered for and received the warm mist humidifier not even thinking about which one was better. I called ped and she said to use cool mist humidifier only and never to use warm mist for anything... I'd call your ped and see what he/she says.

Good luck!