FAQ & Trouble-shooting Tips
On this page you will find our most frequently asked questions, helpful answers and trouble-shooting tips.
Humidifiers
Please read the Instruction Manual carefully before using your Humidifier, particularly around placement of your Humidifier and full care instructions
Where should I place my humidifier?
Place the humidifier on an elevated, non-metallic, lint-free, waterproof, level surface at least 60cm above the floor. Do not place on the carpet or towel - The fan vent is located on the bottom of the humidifier base, The fan vent MUST NOT be obstructed. Do not place on wood surface or near furniture that can be damaged by too much moisture.
How do I start my Humidifier
First, make sure the tank is filled with water, and then turn the control dial all the way up to activate the mist. Then adjust the output down using the buttons or dial (depending on your model) to the preferred level of mist output.
What noise level can I expect from my Humidifier?
We take pride in making whisper quiet products - despite some of our loud, fun designs. The humidifier’s fan whirrs quietly as it disperses a soothing mist into your noticeably more comfortable living space.
Why is there condensation on the windows?
Your humidifier is working a little too hard. Select a lighter mist setting to lower the room’s humidity and, as always, keep the door open a crack. You still get the humidifier’s benefits, but with crystal clear windows.
What can I put in my humidifier?
Generally water only, or Crane's own humidifier aromatherapy blend unless your model of Crane humidifier is compatible with oils - it will state this on the packaging, in the description and in the manual. We find that essential oils can cause damage, and no one wants that.
Can I use Essential Oils with my Crane Vaporiser?
It is the cool mist produced by the Crane Vaporisers that is so effective at providing relief for dry coughs, nasal congestion, and croup. Paediatricians recommend cool mist to relieve cold and flu symptoms, soothe the throat and reduce swelling. Using oils is not required for the Crane humidifier to be effective in relieving these symptoms, and not recommended as over time oils will degrade the plastic and interfere with the operation of the ultrasonic membrane. Only the Personal and Aroma Diffuser + Humidifier are compatible with oils in their water tanks. You can also add oils to the vapour pad for those models with a vapour pad tray. Generally we recommend that oils NOT be used with ultrasonic humidifiers. A glass or ceramic diffuser is more suited for use with oils.
What’s the Best Way to Clean my Humidifier?
It’s simple. Regular cleaning will keep your humidifier running smoother for longer. We highly recommend emptying the water tank and basin after each use and disinfecting them at least once a week with water and a few capfuls of white vinegar. Please check the Manual for further instructions. Do I need a Filter to run my Humidifier? Nope. We’re all about simple, clean design, so our humidifiers work perfectly without a filter. In some cases, such as when using bore water, you could notice a fine white dust collecting near your humidifier. If so you can switch to distilled water to lower the dust-building mineral content or use Crane Demineralization Filters, which remove excess minerals, reducing the white dust so your air (and your home) stays clean.
How is an ultrasonic humidifier different to a “regular” humidifier?
An ultrasonic humidifier works similarly to a stereo speaker while staying whisper quiet. A nebulizer vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency to create mist that easily dissipates into the air rather than droplets that fall to the ground.
I think my humidifier is leaking
Because our humidifiers are built for all different environments, it’s possible that the setting is simply too high for your space. Try adjusting the setting so you can see the mist going up into the air, not down onto the surface. If that doesn’t work, be sure the rubber ring inside the water tank is secure. And if you move your humidifier often, always have a towel on hand and move the tank and basin separately.
There is something loose in the bottom of my humidifier
First thing first—empty some water from the water basin. Too much water may prevent the humidifier from misting properly. And while you’re checking the water basin, make sure there aren’t any foreign objects in it. If the humidifier is not on a flat, waterproof service, it’s possible that fibres from a carpet or towel have blocked the vent. If all else fails, check your Use & Care Manual or contact Customer Service.
Are your Humidifiers made from plastic that may contain BPA or Phthalate?
All of our humidifiers are made with the following plastics: ABS, SAN, and PP. The chemicals Bishenol A and Phthalate are not used in the manufacturing process.
How should I store my Humidifier when I am not using it?
Clean and dry the humidifier completely, then remove the water tank cap and your Demineralization Filter, if you use one. For detailed instructions, see the Use & Care Manual.
I am replacing my humidifier with a new one. How should I dispose of the old one?
The tank and the mist lid are 100% plastic and can be recycled in a regular plastic recycling stream. The humidifier base has electrical components and should be dropped off at an E-Waste recycling centre.
Remember our humidifiers are built to last and often a good clean will remedy a humidifier so that it produces good levels of mist again.
I broke my tank what can I do?
We carry a range of spare parts for those times when accidents happen or parts need replacing. Please contact us for details and include the model number of your humidifier as well as a description of the part you need to replace.
How does the Drop differ from the Droplet?
The Drop is bigger and has a large tank capacity. The Drop capacity is 3.75L and the Droplet is 1.9L. The larger the tank, the longer your Humidifier will run for before needing to be filled. Both Drop and Droplet will run continuously through the night.
The Droplet v2 and the Drop 4in1 include other features such as a vapour pad tray. Contact your nearest stockist or see the catalogue on our product page for full details.
Does This Crane Humidifier Have a Light?
Yes some models do. Drop and Adorable humidifiers have 2 tiny lights showing whether there is water in the humidifier. The tiny green light glows if there is sufficient water and the tiny red light glows if the water tank is empty. You can see the little lights above the dial.
The Droplet has a light to indicate which output level it has been set to, this light goes out after 30 seconds. Great if you want a humidifier for a darkened room.
The 4in1, Personal and Aroma Diffuser+Humidifier have a colour chaging nightlight option. The latter also have a mist output indicator light which remains on while the machine is working.
Why Should I Use a Humidifier?
The real question is why shouldn't you? Humidifiers add essential moisture to indoor air that air conditioners and heaters can remove. Having the right balance of moisture in the air can relieve congestion from the common cold and soothe dry and persistent cough, croup, dry skin and eyes, and irritated sinuses. Perfect for babies, adults, and everyone in between, a humidifier's additional moisture thins the mucus in the sinuses, which may make it easier to breathe. And we know that when it comes down to your family's health, you're all about breathing easy! Even if you're feeling great, our Crane Humidifiers are must-haves.
Is This Suitable for Babies and Toddlers?
Yes, this unit is designed for use with your baby or toddler and the range of fun designs makes it easy to find something your little one will love. The cool mist technology makes it safe to have in the home, unlike hot steam vaporisers which can be a burns hazard.
Humidifier or Vaporiser?
Humidifier is the name in the US for what is usually called a Vaporiser (sometimes spelled as vapouriser or vapourizer) in NZ and Australia. It is important to note that Crane Adorable, Drop and Travel Humidifer/Vaporisers are Cool Mist Ultrasonic Vaporisers, not to be confused with warm mist or steam vaporisers. We use the terms Humidifier and Vaporiser interchangeably when referring to Crane products.
Which is Better: Warm Mist or Cool Mist?
The major difference is that a Warm Mist Humidifier is heating the water to produce steam vapour. Cool Mist Humidifiers use an Ultrasonic Nebulizer that vibrates at a very high frequency to produce an extra fine water mist. When it comes to humidifying a room, there is not much of a difference between the two types - both are equally effective. However, paediatricians and parents alike recommend Cool Mist Humidifiers for babies and children because there is no heating element, which could be a safety risk for a child. Cool Mist Humidifiers can also save money on energy costs.
How is Humidifier Liquid Different From Essential Oil?
Crane has specially developed a water-soluble Humidifier Liquid made from essential oil in an alcohol base. This unique formula is water soluble and will not damage your Crane Ultrasonic Humidifier or Vaporiser.
A Humidifier Is a Common Baby Registry Item. Why Does My Baby Need One?
Is too much humidity a thing?
Yes. To reduce excessive humidity (especially in a smaller room) we always suggest to leave the door slightly ajar to increase air circulation in the room. You can also easily adjust the mist intensity to a lower output setting. If you see the mist going up and straight down, this is a key indicator that the mist setting is too high for the humidity level in the room.
Does my Crane Humidifier need a filter?
Nope. We're all about simple, clean design, so our humidifiers work perfectly without a filter. In some cases, such as when using bore water, you could notice fine white mineral dust collecting near your humidifier. If so you can switch to distilled water to lower the dust-building mineral content.
Breast Pumps
Please read the Instruction Manual carefully before using your Crane Breast Pump.
Why would I need a breast pump?
If you know that you need to go back to work or be away from your baby for extended periods while they are still young, you may choose to purchase a breast pump before your baby arrives.
Commonly, women decide to purchase a breast pump after their baby is born because they need to increase their supply, they would like to express so someone else can feed the baby while they rest, or sometimes for medical reasons such as prematurity, trouble with feeding due to tongue ties, or if your baby appears to not be putting on weight it may be suggested you use a pump for a couple of weeks to help increase your supply, using this milk to top up your baby.
Common reasons woman choose to purchase a breast pump:
To increase milk supply
For various reasons if your baby is in NICU, or has been in hospital and you need to pump for your little one when there or when you return home (pumps are available for use at hospitals, but commonly you’ll need one when you leave).
If you’re planning on continuing to breastfeed when you return to work
So your partner can give a bottle overnight so you can get some rest
So you can leave your baby with family during feed times
If you choose not to breastfeed for any reason, but still want your baby to receive the benefits of breast milk.
You experience latching issues, and baby won’t latch well in the beginning
It is important to note that having a breast pump isn't a necessary purchase to have before your baby arrives - so if you aren't sure if you'll be pumping or you are feeling overwhelmed, it is something you can purchase once your baby arrives.
If you’re finding your breasts engorged, and you’re pumping for comfort, it is suggested that you really try to get baby to take the milk of naturally, and avoid using a pump unless you’re very careful, as it can cause an oversupply which brings with it more problems. If you do need to use the pump to express for comfort, only take off the amount needed so you feel relief and more comfortable, rather than emptying the breast completely. Emptying the breast completely will feed that supply and demand mechanism and cause you to produce even more milk!
For further tips and advice on breastpumps please see the videos below from Lactation Consultant Libby Cain.
Storing & Using Breastmilk
Please check the latest advice on storing and using thawed breast milk with your local health provider or child health organization. The following are general guidelines based on information from the NZ Ministry of Health.
Always keep your stored breast milk in a sterilized bottle or sterile milk storage bag, adding the date if you are planning to freeze it. Breast milk can be kept at room temperature for 4 hours. You can store your breast milk in the fridge for up to 48 hours at 2 - 4°C. Choose the coldest part of the fridge, such as above the vegetable drawer, not in the door. Your breast milk can be stored for up to 3 to 6 months in a Freezer. Fill your storage bag or bottle no more than ¾ full, as the frozen milk will expand.
Allow your frozen breast milk to defrost itself in the fridge. When it is thawed, use it straight away. Your baby might like warm milk. Stand the bottle in a container of hot water and let it heat to body temperature before feeding. microwaving bottles is not recommended because the uneven heating can burn your baby’s mouth, and the heat can damage the food value and health-protecting qualities of breast milk. Once warmed, and before feeding always swirl the container of milk to mix well and test the temperature by shaking a few drops of milk on the inside of your wrist. The milk should feel just warm on your skin.
Please check the latest advice on storing and using thawed breast milk with your local health provider or child health organisation.
Guidelines from the NZ Ministry of Health can be found here
What is the difference between a single and double pump?
A single pump has only one breast shield and container so you can only pump from one side at a time. A double pump has two breast shields and containers and simultaneously draws milk from both breasts at the same time. A double pump can also be used as a single pump if you prefer to only express from one side.
What does ‘hospital grade mean’?
Hospital grade pumps have super strong motors and a closed circuit.
Breast pumps used in hospitals are often used by women who have small or premature babies who are not feeding at all, so they need to be very effective at removing milk from the breast.
If you are purchasing a breast pump that is ‘hospital grade’ or has 'hospital level performance' you can be confident that you are purchasing an excellent quality pump.
Can I use my Crane Rechargable Breast Pump plugged in?
Your Crane Double Electric Breast Pump can operate on the built-in battery or mains power. The built-in rechargeable battery charges fully
after about four and a half hours. From a full charge your pump can work continuously for about a couple of hours.
The pump motor can also be mains powered when it is connected to a power outlet through the AC power adapter. When disconnected, the
pump unit automatically uses the built-in battery to supply power.
When battery power is low, the pump unit automatically stops working and will beep to notify you to connect the motor unit to the mains adapter. Doing this before the battery is fully drained will protect the li-ion polymer battery. When the battery is full, it will stop charging automatically to avoid damage to the battery.
My pump has weak or low suction, why?
Please check through the following.
• All parts must be totally dry and not damp for effective suction.
• Parts that are damaged or worn out can cause low or no suction. In particular check all the silicone parts for damage – 3D Cushion including the attached valve, diaphragm and tubing.
• Replace any damaged or worn out parts.
• Worn out tubing with holes will cause a reduction in suction. Replace immediately when worn out.
• Tubing must always be dry and checked prior to each use. Wet or damp tubing will cause poor suction.
• If you notice any water condensation, milk or milk residue inside the tubing. Clean and air dry before use. Replace if it is cannot be completely clean and dry.
• Tubing must be straightened and uncoiled to ensure proper airflow.
• Frequent use or improper sterilization method can cause aging on Silicone 3D Cushions. If the Silicone 3D Cushions have aged and are worn out, replace them immediately.
• Make sure that the Silicone 3D Cushions on each Milk Collection Kit fits tightly onto the Breast Shield Body attached above the valve. The Silicone 3D Cushions have edges that should fit perfectly across the cushion edges.
• If the Silicone 3D cushion is not snugly attached to the Breast Shield Body this will result in poor suction.
• Make sure that the silicone diaphragm is properly attached to the Breast Shield Body.
• Check that all connections are tight so as not to cause any air to leak.
• Check to make sure that the Milk Collection Kit is well secured and tightly fastened to the tubing connector.
• Check that tubing connector ends are tight and well connected to the tubing, the Pump Motor Unit and the Milk Collection Kit.
All the above instructions must be followed. Failure to follow any of these instructions will lead to weak suction or no suction vacuum at all.
Breast pump motor unit not powering on
• Check your mains power outlet by plugging in another electrical device.
• Make sure the power outlet source is switched on and working.
• Make sure that your power adaptor is connected properly to the breast pump unit.
• If you are using a power adaptor and your breast pump is not turning on, try using the battery power and not the AC Adaptor.
• Make sure battery is fully charged. If the pump works on the battery power, you might have a defective AC adaptor.
Further Details
Read on for videos on how to clean and sterilise your Breast Pump, as well as guides on operating the pump and tips from Lactation Consutant, Libby Cain.
How to Clean & Sterilize your Crane Breast Pump
Cleaning and caring for your pump is simple and hygienic with backflow protection and the simple to reassemble milk collection kits. Please note this is for the Crane New Zealand model.
How to Assemble the Milk Collection Kit
The Crane Double Electric Breast Pump is designed to mimic a baby's natural sucking. The soft silicone breast cushion is so much more comfortable than the usual hard plastic against your breast. The milk collection kit is simple to assemble and doesn't have complicated and tricky to fit parts.
How to Connect the Unit to the Milk Collection Kit
Your Crane pump as efficient hospital level performance, with two independent motors. This means you can pump one breast or both, with independent controls and suction level for each breast. Double pumping is both efficient for time and can also help to increase your milk supply. Cleaning and caring for your pump is simple and hygienic with backflow protection and the simple to reassemble milk collection kits. Please note this is for the Crane New Zealand model.
How to use the ON and OFF buttons
The Rechargeable Double Electric Pump is made for Crane by one of the world's leading breast pump manufacturers, who developed this incredible 3D pumping technology loved by expressing mums around the world.
How to Clean the Single Breast Pump Unit
Find out how to clean & sterilise your Crane New Zealand Single Electric Breast Pump, so you can pump safely for baby. Please note this is for the Crane New Zealand model.
How to Operate the Crane Single Breast Pump
Crane's Rechargeable Single Electric Breast Pump gives you everything you need in an electric pump - comfort, efficiency and ease of cleaning along with amazing convenience
Lactation Consultant Review
Libby got the opportunity to check out the new Breast Pump from Crane before it hit the virtual shelves. Find out what she thinks about it after using it with some of her women and showing it to her fellow lactation consultants. Libby Cain is a lactation consultant and a registered midwife from Libby & Co.
Why do I need a breast pump?
Tips by Midwife and Lactation Consultant Libby Cain
To pump or not to pump. Is a breast pump necessary if a mum is currently breastfeeding? Well, there are some instances when it could make life with a newborn baby a lot easier. For example, if Mum wants to continue breastfeeding her baby and go back to work or maybe she wants her partner or other whanau to be able to feed breast milk to her little one then pumping is definitely the way to go. Libby talks about these reasons and more in this video. Libby Cain is a lactation consultant and a registered midwife.
Why do I need a breast pump?
Libby Cain is a lactation consultant and a registered midwife. In this video, she answers a customer question - "When should I use a breast pump?"
Will pumping increase my supply?
Libby talks about pumping and milk supply and has a top tip on how to express more milk for breastfeeding mothers. Libby Cain is a lactation consultant and a registered midwife.
How often should I pump?
In this video, Libby answers a customer question - "How often should I pump or express breast milk?" Libby Cain is a lactation consultant and a registered midwife.