Vicks Cool-Mist V3100-N Review

What reviewers like:
Reviewers generally agree that the Vicks V3100-N humidifier is effective in smaller spaces, that it runs quietly on the low setting and that it's relatively simple to maintain and refill.

What reviewers don't like:
The most common complaint about the Vicks V3100-N is that is very loud when set on high. Some users point out that it leaks easily if it's moved around or if the tank isn't positioned exactly right.

Vicks Cool-Mist V3100-N review highlights

According to one expert, the Vicks Cool-Mist V3100-N humidifier is well-suited to young children because it avoids the burn hazard associated with boiling water in warm-mist models. A compact and economically priced humidifier, it receives fairly positive comments from owners, who agree that it works well in small areas and is easy to clean and refill. These reviewers also say it's quiet when set on low, though the output is weaker. On the other hand, most users point out that it's quite loud on the high setting. Some also complain that it leaks when it's moved around or if the tank is not fitted exactly straight, and that its filters may need frequent replacement. For about the same price, the Crane Adorable Ultrasonic Humidifiers (*est. $35) are an option designed for children's bedrooms that earn somewhat better scores from owners.

An expert review written by About.com's Guide to Pediatrics includes the Vicks Cool-Mist V3100-N humidifier on a list of five top picks for children's rooms. With its brief write-up, this was the most detailed review we found, though it's not clear that the unit was actually tested. All other feedback is in the form of user reviews on retailer websites, with the 100 or so posted at Amazon.com being the most extensive. Target.com is also worth visiting for its 40-plus posts, while Epinions is less helpful with only a couple of comments for the Vicks humidifier.

Also see full report: Humidifiers

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. About.com
Humidifiers and Vaporizers
Vincent Iannelli, M.D.

An evaluation by About.com's Guide to Pediatrics includes the Vicks V3100-N among five "top picks," noting that its cool-mist design eliminates any risk to small children from boiling water. The reviewer also commends it for being very quiet when set on low and using filters to sanitize the mist, though there's no indication that any actual testing was performed. Note that About.com and ConsumerSearch are owned by the same parent company, but are not affiliated editorially.

2. Amazon.com
Vicks 1.0 Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier Reviews
Contributors to Amazon.com

The Vicks V3100-N humidifier receives a slightly above-average rating, with favorable remarks from about two-thirds of the 100 reviewers. These owners say it's effective, quiet when set on low and easy to maintain. Most of the negative reviews claim that its high speed is too noisy, and a smaller number experienced some leaking from the base.

3. Target.com
Vicks 1-gal. Cool Mist Humidifier – V-3100 Reviews
Contributors to Target.com

More than 40 user posts here give the Vicks V3100-N high marks for good performance and easy upkeep, though a number also say the humidifier's filters wear out too quickly and are hard to find. Some also report leaking, and the overall rating is only average.

4. Epinions
Vicks V3100 1.2 Gallon Humidifier Reviews
Contributors to Epinions

Just a couple of owners post reviews of the Vicks V3100-N, giving it credit for being effective and simple to refill while adding that it's noisy on the high setting.

Also see full report: Humidifiers

Vicks Cool-Mist V3100-N Review