Adding humidity to your home’s air can help with asthma and other respiratory problems. It can also reduce static electricity and prevent moisture from fogging windows or causing musty odors. However, you should first measure your home’s humidity levels with a hygrometer to determine whether or not you need a humidifier. Humidifiers are available in three different sizes: portable (also known as “tabletop”), for bedrooms and small rooms; console, for larger spaces; and whole-house humidifiers, which connect to your plumbing system for added water power.
A portable humidifier can be easily moved from room to room and is typically less expensive than a console model. You’ll want to check the size of a portable humidifier’s water tank and estimated run time to ensure that it will be able to work all night and for a full day in your space.
Another thing to consider is a humidifier’s noise level and design. Humidifiers come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, so it’s important to choose one that matches your home’s decor. Look for a silent option with a sleek, modern design and easy-to-use controls.
The most popular type of humidifier is the cool mist model, which provides clean, healthy air for your family. This type of humidifier uses ultrasonic technology to generate mist that is cooled by internal fans before being released into the air. The cool mist model is considered safe to use and has a low energy consumption, so it’s great for those on a tight budget.
Some models of humidifiers come with a filter that must be replaced, while others require no filters at all. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of changing a filter or cleaning a reservoir, you should look for a filter-free model.
A key feature to look for in a humidifier is a built-in humidistat, which monitors the air’s moisture level and shuts off the appliance when the temperature and humidity reach a preset target. This isn’t a necessary feature, but it can save you the trouble of having to monitor the moisture level manually.
This two-in-one humidifier and diffuser from Levoit is a subtle, sleek choice that’s quiet enough to sleep with at night and looks good on a desktop or bedside table. Its half-gallon tank can run all night and all day on the lowest setting, and its display dims when it’s in auto mode so that it won’t disturb your sleep.
This humidifier is a top pick among Digital Trends editors and is suitable for medium-sized rooms. It has a large water tank and an easy-to-use display, plus it offers the option to add essential oils into the base. It’s also compact and narrow, so it can fit on most nightstands.