What should I be looking for in a humidifier/vaporizer?

And is there a difference between a humidifier and a vaporizer?

Basically, I’m doing my baby registry and trying to figure out which one to put on it. I need something that will put out lots o’ humidity, is slightly more elegant than the boiling pot of water on the stove I currently use, and doesn’t get my hardwood floors all wet like the cheap Vicks humidifier I have now. Quiet is a plus, but not absolutely required.

Tips? Can anyone name names? (ie, if you love yours, what make and model is it?)

What you are looking for is a evaporative unit. Stay away from the ultrasonic (the white dust special) and the warm mist units. Replace the wicks after the heating season. We have forced air, and our 3 units chew through over 3 gallons a day.