Signs You Need a Humidifier
Dry Skin & Irritated Eyes
Low humidity makes it harder for skin to
maintain its natural moisture balance,
leading to dryness and eye irritation.
Cracked Wood
Protect your furniture and musical
instruments from warping and cracking
due to insufficient moisture.
Respiratory Discomfort
Dry air can irritate the nasal passages
and throat. Respiratory issues might
experience increased symptoms—such
as a scratchy throat, nasal congestion.
Static Electricity
Experience frequent static shocks and clinging clothes? Low humidity might be the culprit. Increasing indoor humidity with a humidifier can reduce static build-up.
What is a Humidifier?
A humidifier is a device that adds moisture (water vapour) to the air, helping to increase indoor humidity levels.
Humidifiers are especially useful in colder seasons or in arid regions of Australia, where heaters and climate conditions can severely dry out indoor air.
Why do I need a Humidifier?
✓Assist Those with Asthma and Allergies
✓Improve Sleep and Comfort
✓Create a More Pleasant Indoor Environment
✓Help with Dry Skin and Irritated Eyes
Smart Features for Modern Humidifiers
Built-in Humidistat
Automatically maintains your preferred humidity level
Timer & Sleep Modes
Schedule operation and enjoy quiet nighttime settings
Auto Shut-off
Safety feature prevents damage when water runs out
How do Humidifiers work?
Humidifiers increase indoor humidity by converting water (from a refillable tank) into fine mist or steam. There are different technologies used, and understanding them helps you choose the right type for your home.
1. Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Use high-frequency vibrations to turn water into a cool, fine mist.
✓Pros: Quiet operation, energy efficient, safe around children since no heating element is exposed.
✕Cons: Some models can leave a slight “white dust” residue if you use hard water (minerals in the water are dispersed into the air).
2. Evaporative Humidifiers
Use a fan to blow air over a wet wick or filter, causing the water to evaporate naturally into the air.
✓Pros: Less risk of over-humidification; the humidity level naturally self-regulates because evaporation slows as the air becomes more saturated.
✕Cons: Regular filter or wick changes are often necessary to prevent bacteria or mould growth.
3. Warm Mist Humidifiers
Boil water to produce steam, which is then cooled slightly before being released.
✓Pros: Warm mist can be comforting in winter, helps reduce bacteria because the water is boiled.
✕Cons: Uses more energy (due to heating element), poses a burn risk if placed where kids or pets can access it.
4. Hybrid or Dual Mist Humidifiers
Combine both warm mist and cool mist technologies.
✓Pros: Versatile; you can switch between warm and cool mist based on your preference.
✕Cons: Typically more expensive; larger, more complex units.
Our Top Humidifiers
How much space do I need to humidifiy?
Choosing the right size humidifier is crucial.
| Size | Unit |
|---|---|
| Small Room (up to 15 m2) | A compact unit is usually sufficient |
| Medium Room (up to 15-30 m2) | Consider a mid-sized humidifier with a larger tank |
| Large Room (30+ m2) | Look for higher output or multiple units to maintain a comfortable humidity level |
Ideal Humidity Levels to Relieve Congestion, Coughs, Dry Skin, and Eyes
Maintaining the right humidity levels can do wonders for your comfort and health, especially if you're dealing with congestion, persistent coughs, dry skin, or irritated eyes. Here's how a humidifier can help:
| Symptoms | Humidity Levels | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Congestion and Coughs | Aim for 40-50% humidity | Adding moisture to the air helps thin mucus in your nasal passages and throat, making it easier to breathe and reducing irritating coughs caused by dryness |
| Dry Skin | Target 45-55% humidity | Humidifiers combat low humidity that strips moisture from your skin, helping to prevent flakiness, itchiness, and cracking—perfect for Australia's dry climates. |
| Dry Eyes | Stick to 40-50% humidity | By keeping the air hydrated, humidifiers reduce eye irritation and discomfort, especially for those who wake up with gritty or tired eyes |
| Respiratory Health | Maintain 30-50% humidity | Proper humidity levels keep your airways moist, reducing inflammation and protecting against respiratory issues worsened by dry air |
With the right humidifier, you can create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment tailored to your needs.
For best results, use a hygrometer to monitor your indoor humidity and adjust your humidifier as needed. Too much humidity (above 60%) can encourage mould, so balance is key!
Monitoring Your Humidity Levels
Just like with dehumidifiers, a digital hygrometer is a handy tool for meaturing indoor humidity.
ThermoPro Digital Thermometer and Humidity Level Hygrometer
- Displays current humidity and temperature.
- Has a minimum and maximum indicator for humidity.
- Remembers high and low temperatures over time.