With temperatures dropping by the minute so is the humidity level. If you're hunting for the best home humidifiers to combat the dryness, we can help. Humidifiers are a great way to keep your home fresh and comfortable all season long. But what exactly does a humidifier do and why should you get one this winter? Let's break it down.
What is a humidifier and what does it do?
Humidifiers are devices that emit water vapor to increase the moisture levels of the air inside your home. So why do we use humidifiers? Primarily they're used because the moisture in the air we breathe is tied to our health. According the Mayo Clinic, a healthy home humidity level is somewhere between 30 to 50 percent, adjusted for preference. When humidity levels are too low (as in the dead of winter), this can lead to things like sinus issues, dry skin, bloody noses, extended colds, and poor sleep. When the humidity levels are too high (as in the dog days of summer), this can lead to a breeding ground for bacteria, dust mites, and mold, which in turn can aggrevate health issues like allergies and asthma.
Humidifier vs Air Purifier — What's the difference?
We all want our homes to have the best air quality possible, which is why many of us invest in quality humidifiers and air purifiers. But do you actually need one if you already have the other? The answer is a resounding yes. Here's why: while both machines work to improve air quality, they serve completely different functions. As we established above, humidifiers are used to maintain adequate moisture levels in the air inside our home. Air purifiers on the other hand, clean the air inside your home, trapping and removing harmful particles from the air like mold spores, dust, dust mites, pet dander, and other irritating allergens. While you may not need to use both simultaneously, having both on hand ensures that you breathe the healthiest air possible all year long.
Best Humidifiers for Your Home
Whether you're looking for a small, quiet one to keep your child's bloody noses at bay or a large one to help big open spaces remain fresh all season long, we've rounded up 12 options perfect for places big and small. Keep scrolling for our picks for the best home humidifiers that'll have you breathing better this winter.