Top 11 Humidifiers Tailored for Every Need

Experience healthier air and optimal comfort with our carefully selected top-notch air humidifiers.

According to the Sleep Foundation, maintaining indoor humidity levels within the recommended range of 40-50% is vital to foster a healthy indoor environment. Outdoor humidity falls below 30% in dry weather and exceeds 60% in the rainy season. Both extremes harm health. The low humidity causes respiratory distress, dry skin and increased risk of respiratory diseases. Very high humidity, on the other hand, increases mould growth. How can you regulate the room humidity levels?

Humidifiers: The gadgets to regulate room humidity 

The humidifiers are the devices installed to achieve the desired humidity level in an indoor setting. They release water vapours and steam into the air to alleviate dryness associated with low humidity.

However, just installing a humidifier doesn't mean there is no risk of respiratory illnesses, as inappropriate settings result in very high humidity levels that favour the growth of dust mites, says Jays Partnoy, MD. The experts recommend regular monitoring to ensure the desired levels of 40-50%. A Dehumidifier, the opposite of a humidifier, is needed if the humidity level is too high and the purpose is to lower it.

Skin dryness is common in winter, mainly when the air humidifier is not installed. The Welzo information page about how to treat dry skin in winter is a must-read for someone experiencing dry skin.

How to select the best humidifier?  

While selecting a humidifier, the critical points to ensure the best match are; 

Noise levels: Noise levels are critical for a light sleeper. A light sleeper must select a product with the lowest possible ambient noise. A noise level of 30dB or less is enough.

Easy cleaning procedure: Depending upon the use, a humidifier needs cleaning every 3-7 days. Before selecting a product, check its cleaning process if it is easier for you and if you are comfortable with it. 

Hygrometer and automatic humidity controller: Most automatic humidifiers in our list have a pre-installed hygrometer to monitor the humidity level. It is available in the Market, but a decision with a pre-installed hygrometer is better. The top-notch products have an automatic humidity controller for better control of humidity.

Size of water tank: It is critical given that a small tank results in lower run-time and needs more regular refills.

Size of the room: The area of the room is a critical factor, as installing a small humidifier results in poor efficacy.

Additional features: Additional desirable features are cooling, heating oil diffusion, etc. Price tag is, of course, a critical factor.

The best humidifiers of 2024 

We reviewed the best gadgets in the market and selected the 11 Best out of them. Our top picks are;  

Our Top Picks Summarised

1. Best Overall: Levoit LV600HH Ultrasonic Humidifier: A prolonged run time, coverage of a large area and the presence of an aroma box, aroma pads, cleaning brushes, touch panel, remote control and low noise levels make it a top-rated choice.  It is excellent for all weather. 2. Best Dual Function Humidifier: Elechomes SH8830 Cool and Warm Mist: This versatile humidifier features a remarkable 3-day runtime, dual functions for year-round use, easy refill and cleaning, low noise levels, versatile nozzle rotation, and a sleek black or white design. 3. Best Budget Gadget: Levoit 200S Smart Humidifier: This jug-style humidifier offers a 25-hour run-time, easy refill, essential oil compatibility, built-in humidity sensor, Vesync app control, and noise defender option. It is ideal for small to medium rooms. 4. No. 1 Design: Smartmi Rainforest Evaporative Humidifier: This top-rated humidifier offers an elegant design with a transparent window, easy refill, 15-hour runtime, Smartmi app control, self-cleaning, and a replaceable filter. 5. The Simplest Humidifier: Lasko UH250 Ultrasonic Cool Mist: has night light control, three settings, and a top-filled tank with an 18-hour runtime. It includes an aromatherapy tray but no replaceable filters. 6. Superb Control: Levoit OasisMist 450S Smart Humidifier: Stylish gadget with cool/warm mist, 45-hour tank, VeSync app control, aroma pads, and quiet 26dB operation. 7. Best Cleaning: Homedics TotalComfort Deluxe Humidifier: Humidifier with cleaning reminder, 1.47-gallon tank for 70hr runtime, hygrometer, cool mist settings, demineralisation cartridge, essential oils tray, top-refilled tank, nightlight control, low noise. Mini version on Homedics website. 8. Best Steriliser: CarePod31S Stainless Steel Ultrasonic Humidifier: Humidifier with detachable stainless steel tank for thorough cleaning, LED controls for mist settings, and reusable filter for aromatherapy oils. 9. Best for manual control: Lasko UH200 Ultrasonic Humidifier: Small, user-friendly humidifier with simple manual controls, 360-degree rotatable nozzle, LED night light in 7 colours, smart aromatherapy tray, and empty tank alarm. Includes cleaning brush; no filter required. 10. Efficient Humidity indicator: Dreo 6L Smart Humidifier: Humidifier with numerical indicator, large colour-coded panel, 28dB sound level, 60-hour runtime, detachable mist pipe, carrier handle, dual-functionality, available in white and silver, smart WiFi control. 11. Longest Runtime: Levoit OasisMist 1000S Smart Humidifier: Tower-shaped humidifier ideal for small spaces, with generous easy-to-fill tank, adjustable mist levels, LED controls, remote control, and smartphone compatibility for remote operation

Best Overall: Levoit LV600HH Ultrasonic Humidifier

Run time: 50 hours

Room capacity: 753 ft2

Price: £79.99 (buy Levoit LV600HH Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier at VeSync.com)

Why do we choose it? Levoit manufactures some of the best humidifiers, but this one deserves the top position. It has a large water tank of 1.5 gallons that offers 50 hours of runtime before requiring a refill. It is free from filters and saves the money spent on changing the filters. The coverage area is large. Its dual-function maturity means it can produce both cool and warm mist, making it an all-weather choice.

An efficient Humidity sensor and automatic humidity control are other feathers in the cap. There is an aroma box to add essential oils, and it has cleaning brushes and aroma pads. The touch panel, remote control and attractive user interface make it the top-rated choice. It is available in black and white colour. The Levoit doesn't mention the noise levels, but we noted that it is just like a mild whisper, which is barely audible.

Best Dual Function Humidifier: Elechomes SH8830 Cool and Warm Mist

Run time: 72 hours

Room capacity: 861 ft2

Price: (Check the price and availability of Elechomes SH8830 Cool and Warm Mist at Ubuy UK)

Why do we choose it?:It has a whopping 3-day runtime, which makes refiling a non-issue. Additionally, the dual functions make it an all-weather choice during summer, winter and spring. The refill tank is at the top, which makes the refill and cleaning easy. The noise levels are considerably lower at just 20dB, which is barely laudable.

The nozzle is rotatable to 360 and allows targeting each corner of the room. Like the Levoit LV600HH Ultrasonic Humidifier, it is equipped with touch control, a humidity sensor and an automatic humidity adjuster. The availability in black and white allows adjustments according to the nature of the site.

Best Budget Gadget: Levoit 200S Smart Humidifier  

Run time: 25 hours

Room capacity: 290 ft2

Price: £55.99 (buy Levoit 200S Smart Humidifier at VeSync.UK)

Why do we choose it? It is very handy and looks like a smart jug. However, it is a low-price yet very effective humidifier with a 25-hour run-time with a tank size of 0.79 gallons. With a coverage area of 290 ft2, it is suitable for a small to medium-sized room. It has a top-mounted tank, which is easy to refill and clean, and it is compatible with different essential oils. The built-in humidity sensor and automatic humidity control are surprising additions to this price range. Additionally, it allows control through the Vesync app and allows scheduling. The noise defender option enables noise-free operation.

No. 1 Design: Smartmi Rainforest Evaporative Humidifier

Run time: 15 hours

Room capacity: 215ft2

Price: (Check the price and availability of Smartmi Rainforest Evaporative Humidifier at Amazon UK).

Why do we choose it? It is top-rated by users due to its excellent design. A superb mixture of white and gold colour is not the only feature; it has a transparent glass window that allows the view of the rainwater effect. It is hypnotic to watch and peaceful, and it is loved by people who love the gentle sound of rain. The water refill process is straightforward and doesn't require removing or adding anything, and the ring bell sounds as the water is filled.

It is equipped with a hygrometer and an innovative water tank, which provides a run time of 15 hours. It can be controlled using the Smartmi app and also has voice control. The machine is self-cleaning and has a replaceable filter.

The Simplest Humidifier: Lasko UH250 Ultrasonic Cool Mist

Run time: 18 hours

Room capacity: Not mentioned

Price: £60.92 (buy Lasko UH250 Ultrasonic Cool Mist at ebay)

Why do we choose it? The Lasko UH250 Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is a superb choice for someone looking for an easy-to-use and easy-to-transport gadget at a reasonable price. It has the option to control the nightlight and has three settings: auto-off timer, mist settings and power. The tank is top-filled, easy to clean and with a capacity of 0.924 gallons, it offers a runtime of 18 hours. It has an aromatherapy solvent tray to add scents, but no replaceable filters exist.

Superb Control: Levoit OasisMist 450S Smart Humidifier

Run time: 45 hours

Room capacity: 430 ft2

Price: £99.99 (buy Levoit OasisMist 450S Smart Humidifier at Amazon UK)

Why do we choose it? It is a stylish yet good-performing gadget and has the function to provide both cool and warm mist. The large tank is enough to provide 45 hours of runtime. It has a handle for easy transportation, and the large mouth of the water tank makes the refill process easy. The easy control through the VeSync app allows easy remote control function and remote scheduling. Aroma pads allow it to create an oil diffuser of essential oils. The noise level of just 26dB is near to nonexistent.

Best Cleaning: Homedics TotalComfort Deluxe Humidifier

Run time: 70 hours

Room capacity: 426 ft2

Price: £99.99 (buy Homedics TotalComfort Deluxe Humidifier at Homedics.co.UK)

Why do we choose it? The most fascinating feature of this humidifier is the cleaning reminder on the control panel that turns red when cleaning is needed. The water tank capacity of 1.47 gallons provides a whooping 70 hours of run time. There is a built-in hygrometer, and the controller allows three cool mist settings at 4, 8 and 12 hours.

A demineralisation cartridge promises lower white dust, and the essential oils tray pads allow the addition of fragrance. The additional features are a top-refilled tank, control of the nightlight function and extremely low noise levels. The attractive design and wooden legs make it a good choice for the living room and to be placed on a surface and table. Its mini version is also available on the Homedics website.

Best Steriliser: CarePod31S Stainless Steel Ultrasonic Humidifier

Run time: 30 hours

Room capacity: 500 ft2

Price: $275 (buy CarePod31S Stainless Steel Ultrasonic Humidifier at Amazon)

Why do we choose it? This humidifier recognises the need for thoroughly cleaning the water tank and allows the users to boil the detachable stainless steel tank made of food-grade material. It ensures a thorough cleaning. The container is attractive and has a unique design that allows easy refill. LED controls allow three mist settings at 4, 6 and 10 hours. A reusable filter also serves as an aromatherapy pad for oils.

Best for manual control: Lasko UH200 Ultrasonic Humidifier

Run time: 60 Hours

Room capacity: Not mentioned

Price: (Check the price and availability of Lasko UH200 Ultrasonic Humidifier at Amazon)

Why do we choose it? It is a very small and easiest-to-use gadget. The manual control is very simple and allows easy turning of the dial to adjust humidity levels. The nozzle is rotatable by 360 degrees in literally all directions. The LED nightlight is available in 7 different colours. It has a smart aromatherapy tray for essential oils, and the water tank rings an alarm when empty. There is no filter, but it has a cleaning brush.

Efficient Humidity indicator: Dreo 6L Smart Humidifier

Run time: 60 hours

Room capacity: 550ft2

Price: £82 (buy Dreo 6L Smart Humidifier at ubuy.UK)

Why do we choose it? This gadget has a numerical indicator on the panel. The large 4*2" colour-coded indicator turns into different colours based on humidity levels and is visible throughout the room. The 28dB sound level is little more than a quote whisper, and 60 hours of runtime are considerable. The detachable mist pipe and a carrier handle for transportation make it easy to clean and transport. Its dual-function nature makes it an all-weather choice. The additional features are available in two colours (white and silver), and the smart control through the phone via WiFi.

Longest Runtime: Levoit OasisMist 1000S Smart Humidifier

Run time: 100 hours

Room capacity: 600ft2

Price: $149.99 (buy Levoit OasisMist 1000S Smart Humidifier at Levoit.com)

Why do we choose it? Its tower shape alleviates the issue in case very little space is present in the room. It has a generous water tank that is easy to fill. The controls and indicators are displayed on the LED, and mist levels are highly adjustable. It has a remote control function and can be controlled remotely through a smartphone.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Which type of humidifier is most effective? 

'Effectiveness' is a subjective thing and depends upon choice and need. Warm-mist humidifiers are a popular choice, in winter and in cooler areas as they heat the water and release vapours into the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers are effective and also consume less energy. 

How should I identify a good humidifier? 

The things to consider while choosing 'the best' humidifier are the desired type of mist (cool or warm), capacity and size of the room, operating design, runtime, maintenance requirements, settings and handling, noise levels, health features and safety. 

Which humidifier is best to buy? 

Choosing the best humidifier depends upon needs. The best humidifiers in our ranking are Levoit LV600HH Ultrasonic, Elechomes SH8830 Cool and Warm Mist and Levoit 200S Smart.

What are 5 different types of humidifiers?

Five different types of humidifiers in the market are evaporators, central, impeller, ultrasonic and steam humidifiers. One must choose according to ambient weather and health requirements.  

Can tap water be used inside a humidifier? 

No, the tap water is likely to have mould spores and other impurities that exacerbate the breathing issues. It is critical to use distilled water inside the humidifier. 

Is it okay to sleep overnight while the humidifier is running? 

This practice is beneficial as it moisturises the throat, mouth and skin. However, regular cleaning is necessary to ensure better results. 

What is the natural humidifier? 

An indoor fish tank or fountain is a natural humidifier. The water evaporates and raises the humidity levels in the room. The natural humidifiers, however, allow little control over the humidity levels. 

What is better? Air humidifier or air purifier? 

Both have different purposes. The air purifiers clean the air, but don't add moisture. The humidifiers have the opposite function.

Bottom-line  

Humidifiers allow the control of indoor humidity and help control the symptoms associated with allergies and respiratory infections. The best gadgets in the market are Levoit LV600HH Ultrasonic, Elechomes SH8830 Cool and Warm Mist and Levoit 200S Smart. A careful choice of product, regular cleaning of the machine and water tank and continuous monitoring of humidity levels is necessary to ensure the best results.

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