HOLMES"B" Humidifier Filter, HWF64

Having used these Holmes filters for a couple of winters now, I marveled at the range of review reports. Why are some thinking that they are the worst filters ever and why some report they work well.One thing that is missing from both sides of the argument in both camps is the type of unit they are used in.Since these HWF-64 filters are not only used in Sunbeam models, but others as well, the light dawned on me that just maybe there is a connection here. I (myself) are using them in a Sunbeam SCM 1746/1747 humidifiers and found my results to be most disappointing as far as longevity goes.Then I read more and more comments until I came to the conclusion that a few steps were necessary that were not specifically called out in the Sunbeam docs.1. First and foremost, DON'T leave the filter in the unit when you are not running it. MOLD will build rapidly.2, Use a bionic agent to reduce the mold build up under normal operation.3. To insure total absorption as long as possible, flip the filters over on every tank fill. In some models the tops will dry out in quick order and is based mostly on the humidifier design, not the quality of the filter.4. Using water with lots of dissolved calcium deposits (as present in most well and tap water) will hasten the hardening of the filters and quickly reduce the life. Using water filters to remove such however has the negative effect of removing chlorine content, which actually works as an agent to keep mold and bacteria at bay.My conclusion here as most of the really bad results with these are not due to the quality of the filter, but the design of the unit they are place into and the quality of the water used.Just flipping the filters over on first refill of the tank has helped much in keeping the filters flowing all the way from bottom to top which increases air absorption rates tremendously in the long run.

Fits my humidifier, works well but costly????

This filter is used in both Holmes and Sunbeam humidifiers. These will last a full season 3-4 months, providing you use a anti-fungal in the water. It REALLY helps if you flip the filter every time you fill your tank. I have tried other filters and they quit wicking in a matter of a few weeks.My main concern is the major retailer who sells the Sunbeam SCM-1746 humidifier does not carry the genuine filter either in store or online. This chain store sells probably tens of thousands of these each year, and is currently selling them for under $30 during end of season clearance. I really don't understand this marketing philosophy. They are marketing a POS filter in their stores and never have the OEM one in stock.To be sure the filter you are using is a genuine Holmes/Sunbeam filter there will be a tag hanging on the filter itself. It is orange in color.I have used this model of humidifier for well over 10 years and if you understand how this unit works it does a good job of killing static around the unit and keeps your sinuses from drying out and cracking. Will also keep you drywall from popping nails.

I confess, I bought some cheap filters for my room humidifier. I thought they'd be just as good as the more expensive ones. Sadly, I was the fool. These Holmes filters last at least 400% longer than the cheaper ones, and if you want to do a little extra work, you can even reuse them a few times. When the filter starts to stiffen, soak in a diluted vinegar solution to dissolve the hard water scale, rinse out well, and the filter performs like new again. Definitely worth the higher price.

The humidifier works well for a small room. I found that since I have an open dining room/kitchen, it has to run all day long before we notice much difference in the moisture in the air. The problem I found with the humidifier and filter is that it is rather difficult to put the humidifier together--that is put the water tank part on--without bumping and damaging the filter. I have learned to be very cautious about putting the water tank on the humidifier. Otherwise, compared with other tabletop humidifiers I have owned, I found it reasonably easy to clean--a plus in my opinion. The price was reasonable for the humidifier and the filter--especially for someone like myself who doesn't have room for or want to clean a larger humidifier like a floor model.

I typically only use my humidifier in the winter so I haven't tried out the new filters yet. Since I haven't used them I cannot comment on how well they last. However, after reading previous reviews I tried the filter in my humidifier to make sure it fit. As others have said, the filters are taller than the manufacturer filter and won't let you put the top on as is. Visually, they look the same as previous filters I have purchased for much more money. Overall, considering the amount of money I saved buying them, it was worth it to me to take scissors and trim about 3/4" off the top of the filter. As long as the price stays the same I will most likely purchase my filters from this seller the next time I need them.

Good filter, last a couple of months as long as I use a bacterial system in the water. Some mineral deposits, but has nothing to do with the filter. I would buy again.

This filter is the perfect replacement for the Sunbeam SCM1746. It was exactly the same as the standard on that originally came with the humidifier and had no issues absorbing water. Sadly, however, the filter is not childproof as my 2 year old violently ripped it apart one evening after the humidifier's motor stopped functioning. But if you're looking for a replacement filter of the same size (Filter "B"), this is definitely the one to go with.