thoughts on vapouriors

[nox]

I bought one a few months ago when ds had his first cold. I thought it worked a treat.
I started putting it on a bit now it's winter because with the heater on his room seems dry which i've heard makes their noses stuffed.
My mchn then said that they cause germs themselves and I shouldn't use it.
Tonight I noticed a bit of a plastic smell when I turned it on.
I rinse it every day after use.
Is there a better way to clean?
Does anyone have thoughts about the health issue?
thanks

[Beach Mama]

I don't know that they cause germs - haven't heard that before. I just wash ours out with hot water but it is an older style one. I think they are great though, they definately helped Izzy when she was sick and the Dr and pharmacist both recommended it. We have ducted heating and the air is very dry so other than tipping water down the vents that can take it I use the vaporiser at the hint of a runny nose.
JMO hun, I think they are fine. Could you have just been more aware of the smell because of what the MCHN said?

[JordieC]

When DD was about a week old I thought she might need one to clear her up and I rang the Health nurse on call number. They said they were unneccasary and that the Royal Childrens Hospital don't recommend using them anymore - not because thye're dangerous but just because they don't do anything.

[Visitor7]

Mine has been fantastic at getting rid of Nina's colds/flus. My dr strongly recommends them. I have a newer style one.
That's just my opinon though.

[Janie]

I think they're wonderful, I always had one as a child when I had a cold, and I'm currently using one for DS. They really help clear blocked nasal passages while sleeping. JMO!

[PlonkeeMumma]

Have to admit i think they are great. My youngest always ends up with cold dragging on for ages and on his chest and when we have the vapouriser on with vicks in it he usually has a peaceful nights sleep and doesn't cough too much. Hadn't heard about the germ thing althogh i only use mine when he has a cold so only 10+ nights a year. When he was in our room before we moved and we had to have it on i quite liked it too - them smell was very relaxing (with the vicks - not any plastic smell!)

Julie x