HELP... I need humidifier?

buy a Vick's humidifier - they're about 10 bucks at Wal Mart and meant to be used with a menthol solution when your sick, but you don't need to use the solution to have the steam. Just follow the directions, but skip the menthol additive. You just need water and a pinch of salt to get things rolling. The steam will last all night long, but you won't want to keep it on when you are gone - however since it lasts so long you will be fine if you only use it when you are home. That's my experience with a humidifier, but I'm sure their are better ones that do shut off on their own - just not sure how much they cost.