Weindependently evaluateall of our good word . If you press links we provide , we may receive compensation .
Enjoy a breathing time of freshly humidify air with one of our top picks .
In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
Nobody wants to lot with stuffy noses , scratchy throats , or scaly peel while they lounge around at home . That ’s where a humidifier can come to the delivery . Whileultrasonic modelsare the most popular on the securities industry , there are perks to select an evaporative humidifier for your home .
“ Evaporative humidifiers dissent from other types of humidifiers ground on their operating chemical mechanism , ” explainsDr . John McKeon , CEO of Allergy Standards . “ In an evaporative humidifier , a reservoir holds cold pee and mete out it into a basin . A moistened filter absorbs the water supply from the drainage basin , and a devotee tout melody through the moistened filter . As the gentle wind passes through the filter , it causes some of the water to evaporate , and this evaporation increase the humidness in the elbow room . ”
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Because evaporative humidifiers include a filter , they ’re less likely to emit the ok white dust you may notice on surrounding surfaces after using an ultrasonic example .
Before buying a humidifier for your dwelling , keep in mind that they can worsen allergies . “ If you or your kinfolk has asthma attack or allergy , you should consult your doctor before the use of a humidifier due to the problems that high comparative humidity levels can cause for those with asthma attack and allergies , ” McKeon says .
What We Tested
When quiz our top picks , we considered factors likesetup , effectiveness , design , andcare . To learn more about how we test humidifiers , break outour examination processbelow .
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Honeywell Cool Moisture Humidifier
This budget - favorable humidifier is simple but effective at increasing way humidity without make the elbow room too humid .
This humidifier does n’t have an automated shut - off .
TheHoneywell Cool Moisture Humidifieris a authentic evaporative humidifier that can cover elbow room up to 400 square feet , making itideal for bedroomsand living rooms alike . We liked how loose it was to set up and operate , with three amphetamine configurations to prefer from . On the lowest setting , this humidifier provides up to 24 hours of runtime before using all the piddle .
Credit: Amazon
While it does n’t have an automate shut - off once the piss incline out , the water level is easy to supervise thanks to the clear tank car . When it ’s time to refill , the tank car can come off from the humidifier for refill . When the tank needs to be pick , users can either hand wash the container or put the water armoured combat vehicle in the dishwasher , so long as they follow the manual instructions — the armoured combat vehicle is only dishwasher safe at certain temperatures . The tricky part is drying the tank , and we found tune drying was the good method acting . When it ’s clock time to commute the filter , you could determine replacements for $ 27 , as of publishing , for a pack ofthree compatible filters .
We particularly make love how unruffled the humidifier was when running it . Overall , it ’s a pretty simple humidifier , but if you do n’t need all the bells and whistles , it effectively improves humidness .
How It Performed After Six Months
To try out the humidifier ’s long - terminus caliber , we ran the machine in our kid ’ room every dark during ironic wintertime months . The humidifier ’s randomness never disturb their sopor , and we plant it helped combat seasonal nosebleed . Upkeep continued to be a picnic thanks to its dishwasher - dependable parts .
Product detail : Room Size:215 to 400 sq . ft . |Capacity:1.1 gal . |Dimensions:18.58 x 13.03 x 10.39 in . |Run Time:24 hours
Key Terms to Know
Best Large
Levoit Superior 6000S Smart Evaporative Humidifier
It ’s a smart gimmick that can be controlled with your smartphone .
It ’s louder than other evaporative fashion model we ’ve test .
If you ’re await for a more powerful unit to add humidness to a bigger living infinite , we recommend the Levoit Superior 6000S. The gimmick holds up to 6 gallons of water , which can last up to 72 hr when running the whole on a gloomy speed .
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Filling the tank is elementary ; just off the top one-half , then fill the storage tank with water supply . It comes with a hose to assist fill straight off from your spigot . While it ’s heavy — over two feet improbable — there are built - in wheels to make ecstasy easy , a feature that ’s especially helpful when the water system tank is full .
The humidifier is compatible with the VeSync app , which allows you to supervise the humidity level , adjust the buff speed , countersink timekeeper , and more from your phone . Each of these preferences can also be adjusted directly on the building block itself . The machine has a built - in hygrometer and exhibit the way ’s humidity , but in our tests , it value 7 % higher than our external hygrometer .
A drying feature help prevent moisture buildup on the filters between uses , which can aid extend their life-time . The brand recommends commute the four wicking filter every 3 month , anda solidifying can be purchasedfor $ 40 at the clip of publishing .
While the humidifier is ideal for larger space , we do n’t commend it for bedchamber as the fan , especially on eminent speed , is gaudy than other humidifiers we ’ve test .
How It Performed After Three Months
We used the humidifier at habitation during the winter . At first , we ran the gimmick on the auto mode all daytime , which required us to occupy the water tank day by day to keep the humidness at 40 % in our home . At home , the meter reading on the machine matched our external hygrometer .
While the gravid size made it inconvenient to fill , we did appreciate the wheel , which serve us roll the unit from our bedroom to the can .
Cartesian product Details : Room Size:3000 sq . ft . |Capacity:6 gal.|Dimensions:12.7 x 26.8 x 12.7 in.|Run Time : Up to 72 hours
Best for Bedrooms
Stadler Form Oskar Evaporative Humidifier
With a quiet noise storey , dimmable light-emitting diode firing , and an optional scent diffuser , this evaporative humidifier is designed to contribute to a skilful Nox ’s rest .
The buttons are difficult to find in the darkness .
Evaporative humidifiers have a reputation for being a little noisy compared to supersonic humidifiers , but racket is not much of an exit with theStadler Form Oskar Humidifier . We were impressed with how quiet this humidifier operated during our examination . The gadget run at about 26 to 39 decibels . By compare , 30 dbA could be compared to the strait of a whisper , and 40 dbA is similar to the HUA of a refrigerator , harmonize to theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
In addition to its placid operation , the humidifier features LED lighting that can be dimmed with its sleep mode . Just keep in judgement , we found the setting buttons intemperately to find in the dark , so you may necessitate to twist them off before your other bedroom lights . If you prefer to fall departed to the soothing scent of lavender or eucalyptus , this humidifier also double as ascent diffusor .
observe that this humidifier , while fashionable , is n’t as wanton to clean as some of the other skillful evaporative humidifiers that have dishwashing machine - safe parts . You ’ll need to hand moisten this machine about every two weeks . However , we find that the pieces come aside easily and the magnanimous , open design made the cleaning process simple as there were n’t any hidden spots for buildup to come .
Other maintenance for this humidifier include modify the filters , which descend in aset of twofor $ 16 at the sentence of publish . Additionally , the brand sells aWater Cube accessorythat is meant to keep the water tank fresh for longer . The cube is $ 18 at the time of publish and need replaced about once per twelvemonth .
We ran the humidifier constantly during the teetotal wintertime calendar month , which take us to fill the twist twice a day . We continued to be impressed with its ability to keep clean despite frequent use .
intersection detail : Room Size:540 sq . ft . |Capacity:0.9 gal.|Dimensions:9.7 x 11.4 x 9.7 in.|Run Time : Unspecified
The Bottom Line
Overall , we recommend theHoneywell Cool Moisture Humidifier . In addition to efficaciously increasing room humidity , this humidifier also ran quietly , which is n’t always common with this type of humidifier compared to supersonic models . We also liked that this was easy to clean in the dishwashing machine , even if it postulate plenty of time to air dry before replacing the water storage tank .
Our Testing Process
We ’ve tested 56 humidifiers , including 14 evaporative models , logging over 200 hours of science lab examination and even more hours using the humidifiers in our own home plate . We ranked the humidifiers on traits like effectivity , product value , ease of setup and purpose , comfort of cleaning , and impart characteristic .
When try out the humidifiers , we first assess its apparatus appendage , considering how easy it was to follow the included instruction . Then , we measured each humidifier ’s effectiveness by setting up two hygrometer in the room . We recorded theroom ’s humidness levelsbefore and after break away the humidifier for one , four , and eight hour . After testing its effectiveness , we timed ourselves make clean the gadget and noted how difficult the task was to complete .
After research laboratory testing , we accept our top picking home to prove for six month , mention any issues that rise with even use . Long - term testing was also used to good test each equipment ’s bright features .
We narrow our determination down to determine the top three evaporative humidifiers on this tilt . The stay mathematical product on this list were selected through all-encompassing ware enquiry .
What to Know About Evaporative Humidifiers Before Shopping
Operation
An evaporative humidifier relies on a fan that blows water from the equipment ’s pee tank through a wick or filter . liken to supersonic model , evaporative humidifiers tend to cost less up front , though that balances out with the long - condition maintenance cost of supervene upon filters .
Evaporative humidifiers have the perquisite of being self - determine , but supersonic humidifiers have the welfare of running more quietly .
fit in toDr . Lycia Thornburg , a board - certified dermatologist , evaporative humidifiers are beneficial because they typically ego - regulate , so they wo n’t cause humidness spirit level to get too high-pitched in the room . That does n’t mean they always have an automatize shut - off that turns the equipment off when it run out of water ; instead , a self - regulating humidifier is one that detect humidity levels in the air and adjust the amount of moisture it turn , release less over each seance it ’s running .
“ This feature film is in demarcation to cool mist ultrasonic humidifiers , which can provide too much humidness into the aviation , potentially leading to abridgement or even forged mold indoors , ” Thornburg explain .
Capacity and Room Size
“ Of course , sizing is an issue when deciding on where to identify in your home , ” Thornburg says . “ Aesthetic considerations away , it ’s important to choose a twist that has specification for the square footage of your home . ”
A humidifier ’s mental ability often pop off hand - in - manus with the room size . The evaporative humidifiers on this list span from 0.66 gallons , ideal for a room under 250 straight feet , to about 2 gallon , which covers a larger room up to 1,200 square metrical foot . For an average - sized elbow room of 250 to 400 square ft , anything near 1 gallon is typically a full convulsion .
Care
The best evaporative humidifiers for your home plate are the ones that feel well-off and commodious to care for . No matter the humidifier , it ’s effective to use distilled water to minimize danger of bacterial ontogenesis in the water tank .
Next , debate the filters or wicks the evaporative humidifier the States . Do they demand a specific brand name of filters ? Are the filter hard to buy in - store or online ? Make certain you select a ware that wo n’t make restocking on filter a hassle .
From there , you ’ll want to consider how well-heeled it will be to refill andclean the water storage tank , as this is a chore that needs done regularly .
“ Usingfiltered waterand changing the water daily will also avail preventmold or bacteriafrom grow in your humidifier , ” advisesKenneth Mendez , CEO and president of the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America ( AAFA ) . “ Empty and rinse the ingathering pail and change the filters as often as directed by the manufacturer . ”
Typically , you should have a bun in the oven to cleanse the urine tank about once per workweek . Some models offer dishwashing machine - safe tank , while others are bridge player wash - only .
Features
Whether its LED light , eternal rest modality , oressential fossil oil diffusor , humidifiers may include any issue of extra feature of speech to boost their functionality . But you may or may not benefit from a humidifier that has all the bells and whistles . Sometimes , the comfortably evaporative humidifier is one with a simple port that just get the occupation done .
One feature that can be beneficial is a establish - in hygrometer , which will gauge a elbow room ’s humidness point and make certain it does n’t get too high . “ If your home becomes too humid ( above 50 % ) , it will raise clay sculpture and dust jot , ” says Mendez .
If you find an evaporative humidifier you care but it does n’t have a hygrometer , we recommendbuying one separatelyto monitor the elbow room ’s humidity . “ It is potential for air to become too humid if you leave the humidifier running continually without monitoring humidness , and this can encourage the growth of stamp and bacterium in the way , as well as shorten the liveliness of your humidifier , ” McKeon says .
Your Questions, Answered
Do evaporative humidifiers purify the air?
No , evaporative humidifiers do n’t distill the gentle wind unless they have additional features add together to provide tune purification .
“ In fact , it is important to regularly clean your humidifier and change its filters , ” Mendez says . “ A unsporting humidifier can create an environment that promotes mold growth , and molding spore can be issue into the atmosphere . ”
If you desire to purify the air , Mendez recommendsusing an line purifierwith a HEPA filter .
Are evaporative humidifiers healthier than ultrasonic?
Any humidifier can have confirming health wallop if they are used as direct . “ A humidifier can benefit people with wry peel , respiratory issues , colds , inveterate bronchitis or sinusitis or those living in dry climates with humiliated humidity , ” McKeon says .
Evaporative humidifiers have the reward of using filter , which help quash the white-hot particle that can nail down when using an ultrasonic humidifier . “ The biggest difference is that evaporative humidifiers are a mist - free humidification , ” Thornburg explains . “ The white-hot dust from supersonic humidifiers is avoided , fix it more hygienic . ”
But theU.S. Environmental Protection Agencywarns that any humidifier can let go biological contaminant if they are n’t cleaned often and properly , so be certain to follow the cleanup teaching for the product you choose .
Credit: Levoit
Can you use essential oils in evaporative humidifiers?
While many ultrasonic humidifiers can be pair with essential oils , this is n’t the case for evaporative humidifiers . Oils will get trapped in the wicking filter , which can cause them to break down easier and even forbid leaks .
Who We Are
Paige Bennettis a writer and editor program with over five years of experience researching and reviewing home , food , and beauty products for a variety of brands and publications . She ’s coveredhumidifiersand other small home gadget forBetter Homes & Gardens . To compose this clause , Paige studied the consequence of our tests of 56 humidifiers logged over 200 hour in our examination lab and even more hours at our home . Our test ranked the humidifiers on trait like effectiveness , production economic value , simplicity of apparatus and use , ease of cleaning , and added features .
She also interview expert in both tune quality and dermatology to facilitate shoppers retrieve the estimable evaporative humidifiers by knowing what features to look for . Those sources includeDr . John McKeon , chief executive officer of Allergy Standards;Kenneth Mendez , chief executive officer and president of the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America ( AAFA ) ; andDr . Lycia Thornburg , fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology .
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the product on this list , you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval of approval . Products that bring in the seal have been put through rigorous testing to ensure they ’re deserving a berth in your family . We buy most of the products we test ourselves , but occasionally we are provided samples by ship’s company if buying is n’t an selection . In these cases , we use the same examination criteria we utilize to test the buy products .
The large Levoit Superior 6000S has two main pieces: the top is a fan, and the bottom is the water tank.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
The Stadler Form Oskar Humidifier is small enough to fit alone on a bedside table.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
