Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier Review

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The Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is a big name for a compact cool mist humidifier that packs a punch. Stylish, efficient, easy to use – what’s not to love about this little machine? That cleaning process might be one thing we could do without.

In the Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier review, we’ll go over the literal ins and outs of this humidifier, I’ll walk through how to set it up, how to care for it, and what things to think about before clicking that “Add To Cart” button online.

Ready to figure out if it’s a good match? Check out my in-depth (seriously, in-depth) video review and keep scrolling for more details and photos of my experience reviewing this humidifier!

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

The Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is a big name for a compact cool mist humidifier that packs a punch. Stylish, efficient, easy to use – what’s not to love about this little machine? That cleaning process might be one thing we could do without.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.50 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Polyproplene

Warranty
Warranty

1-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

 

Key Features

  • This humidifier uses ultrasonic cool mist increases moisture in the air for easier breathing and a good night’s sleep
  • The nebulizer vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency to create a mist that easily dissipates into the air
  • 8.6″ x 13.4″ x 8.6″, 4.5 lbs
  • Removable 1 gallon tank
  • Runs up to 24 hours
  • Clean control antimicrobial material in the base is proven to help reduce mold and bacteria growth up to 99.96%*
  • Effectively humidifies small and medium rooms up to 500 square feet
  • Has an auto-off function activates when water tank is empty
  • Does not require a filter
  • 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • Available in a huge range of colors (11) and at a variety of retailers
  • Priced around $60 (depending on retailer)

Key features of the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

How to Use the Humidifier

Here are the instructions on how to use the humidifier, straight from Crane:

Make sure it is placed on a flat, water-safe surface at least three feet off the ground. Those who have wood or water-sensitive surfaces, use a placemat under the humidifier to protect from condensation. Never use a towel or place the humidifier on carpet as this will block the fan vent & may cause damage to the humidifier.

Always use fresh cool water when operating the humidifier.

  1. Turn Water Tank upside down, unscrew Water Tank Cap, and fill with cool water only.
  2. Screw Water Tank Cap back onto Water Tank and turn the tank over to place on Humidifier Base, making sure it fits together securely. Note: Do not attempt to move the humidifier while full Water Tank is placed on the Humidifier Base. Doing so may cause leakage of water and/or Humidifier Base to overfill.
  3. Plug the power cord into a wall socket and turn on the unit by using the Control Dial.
  4. The Power Indicator Light will illuminate in green indicating that there is enough water in the Humidifier Base and mist will begin emitting through the Mist Lid.
  5. Use the Control Dial to adjust the intensity of the mist output.
  6. When the humidifier runs out of the water, the Power Indicator Light will turn red and the mist output will stop. This is a safety feature to prevent the humidifier from possibly overheating and damaging the Nebulizer.

Turn the humidifier off and unplug the unit before removing and refilling the water tank. When emptying the base, be sure to pour away from the fan outlet.

How to determine correct humidity output:

Adjust the Control Dial so the mist rises up to be absorbed by the room air. If mist drops quickly, turn down the control knob until the mist is rising up.

Pros

directional nozzle on the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

  • Very simple to use
  • Air nozzle is simple to direct
  • Good for children or adults
  • The germ-fighting base adds another line of defense
  • Affordable
  • A wide range of colors to fit into anyone’s room

Cons

Output dial on the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

  • The intensive weekly cleaning process
  • The green light may be disruptive at night
  • Larger rooms may need different/larger size humidifier

My Experience

Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier - 1 gallon tank

The Crane Drop humidifier is one of the easiest yet most efficient cool must humidifiers that’s available today – and that would explain its popularity and high marks at both in-store and online retailers. I tested this humidifier in both my master bedroom (around 400 sq feet) and my oldest son’s smaller bedroom – it added moisture and worked well in each room.

The filter-free machine is really a piece of cake to operate. Fill the tank with close to 1 gallon of distilled water (or cool water from the tap if it’s not hard water). Place the tank on the base, plug the humidifier in and watch the cool mist come out the nozzle at the top. I loved having control of both the directional nozzle and the output dial. I was able to decide how much air was emitted and what direction the general flow would move in.

I’d recommend this to adults and parents in a heartbeat – my only two words of caution center around the small green “on” light inside the base that can be seen through the tank. I found the green light in my pitch black (dark) room to be distracting and there was no way to cover it or block it out. The other consideration is the level of care required to keep the humidifier dry and clean. It must be rinsed out and left to dry when it’s not in use (daily) and then fully disinfected using white vinegar weekly. Those willing to keep up this cleaning schedule will find this humidifier to be a breeze to use and keep up with.

Keeping the Humidifier Clean

It’s very important to keep the humidifier clean on both a daily and weekly basis. Here’s how Crane suggests one cleans their humidifier:

disinfect the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier weekly

Water left in the tank or base when not in use may result in a buildup of mineral deposits and bacteria which may inhibit the output efficiency as well as void the warranty. If water remains in the Water Tank for more than a day or two, bacterial growth is possible.

Daily Maintenance

  1. Turn off, unplug from the outlet and empty water from tank & base daily.
  2. Allow tank & base to air dry.
  3. Leave cap off the tank until ready for next use.

Weekly Maintenance

  1. Turn off, unplug from the outlet and empty water from tank and base.
  2. Fill the water tank halfway warm water and add 2 Tablespoons of white vinegar. Shake vigorously and let sit for 30 minutes. Empty tank and rinse with plain water.
  3. Fill the base with warm water, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar and let sit for 30 min. Empty base & rinse with plain water. Make sure to pour the water away from the fan outlet when emptying. TIP: Clean the nebulizer with a damp cloth or cotton swab after soaking.
  4. Allow tank & base to air dry and leave the cap off the tank until the next use. Never immerse the humidifier base in water.

Sleep Benefits of Humidifiers

When it comes to sleep, the main job of a humidifier is to add moisture to the air, which prevents irritation and congestion that results from increased dryness. Dry air can be a natural part of a home thanks to the region of the country it’s in or it may come from turning the heat on in the house for the first time. People, especially young children, may benefit from moisture in the air to help combat allergies or sensitivities.

health benefits of using a humidifier

For adults and kids, this can lead to better sleep simply because they’re not waking up with a dry or scratchy throat, and their nasal passages will stay moist and help filter out bacteria and allergens. Plus it’ll help prevent nosebleeds. which can be a huge sleep disruptor at night.

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

The Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is a big name for a compact cool mist humidifier that packs a punch. Stylish, efficient, easy to use – what’s not to love about this little machine? That cleaning process might be one thing we could do without.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.50 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
Read Full Review
Check Price

Accessories Details

Material
Material

Polyproplene

Warranty
Warranty

1-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

 

Final Thoughts

I’m happy to report my Crane Drop Ultrasonic Humidifier is working in my room as I write this review. I’ve set reminders on my phone to disinfect it weekly and try my best to keep it empty and dry during the day when I’m not using it. When it is time to use the humidifier it’s a simple addition of some distilled water and it’s ready to go – really in a matter of minutes.

I’ve seen a noticeable difference in my sleep quality. It’s winter now and the heat is on, the air is dryer but I’m not waking up with nasal congestion or a dry throat like usual; even my skin and nails appear less dry and brittle. The humidifier is affordable, easy to use and will function well in adult and kids rooms. Grab one of the many color options and get ready to enjoy the health (and sleep) benefits of this Crane humidifier.

FAQs

What is an ultrasonic cool mist humidifier?

An ultrasonic humidifier uses a nebulizer that works at ultrasonic speed to turn water into a cool mist - no filter required!

How do you fill a Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier?

Simply remove the tank from the base, flip it over and fill with distilled water or cool tap water. Then, place the tank cap back on and with two hands place the whole tank back on the base and plug in the machine - it's as straightforward as that.

Can you put Vicks in the Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier?

No, please do not add anything to the water tank of the Crane humidifier - Vicks or otherwise. Vicks humidifiers have their own scent slots or scent stations - depending on the machine - which customers can use to add Vicks VapoPads if they needed a burst of mentholated air.

Are Crane humidifiers any good?

Yes, Crane has a great reputation for producing high-quality humidifiers. Make a quick search of their offerings and one will see a big range, from cute animal-shaped ones to travel humidifiers. The Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist humidifiers are one of their most popular options.

Katie Golde

Katie previously managed the day to day operations of the Mattress Clarity news site and reviews sleep products in addition to writing and editing sleep news. She hails from Austin, where she lives with her growing family. She is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and has a master’s degree in Journalism from Northwestern University and has a background in health and science content. Her work can be found in print and online publications like Discover Magazine, USA Today and The Huffington Post.