Best humidifiers for rooms in 2020: which to choose? (comparison)
In this guide to the best humidifiers for rooms in 2020, we will explain what use a humidifier, how it works and how to choose the model that best suits your needs. We will provide short reviews of the best models and deepen the different types of humidifier for the house on the market.
We talked several times, especially in our insights on the best air purifiers and dehumidifiers better, than indoor air quality is important not only for the preservation and longevity of our objects, walls and plants but also (and especially) to health and to avoid respiratory problems.
Especially, in winter, the use of a humidifier can aiuare to prevent such problems and to ensure an optimum humidity.
Best humidifiers for rooms
Below is a list of the best moisturizers for 2020 environments:
All have different features and prices: we have tried to include models that meet the most common requirements and who understood the different types (more information in the guidance below). The choice depends mainly on what one wants to do and the size of the room.
Below is the comparison of the best humidifiers analyzed here:
Best evaporative humidifier
Best ultrasonic humidifier
Best humidifier smart
Best humidifier Children
Philips AC2729 / 10 (purifier 2 in 1)
Type humidifier
A natural evaporation (tecologia Nanocloud)
A ultrasound and hot (both cold mist that hot)
A ultrasound and hot (whether hot cold steam)
Ultrasonic (Nanocloud technology)
Up to 36 h, at low speed
Humidification capacity
Main features
Automatic mode, night mode, 3 humidity settings, timer, automatic shutdown if the tank is empty or it is necessary to change the filter
Automatic, 5 speed, timer, night light
Automatic mode, night mode, Children mode, timer, HEPA filter and double filtration, automatic shutdown if the tank is empty
3 mode of purification, 4 levels of moisture (automatic mode), only purification function or function 2 in 1, timer, light, notification empty tank on display
Button on / off and pan door essence
auto shutdown, LED (7 colors)
28-50 dB (depending on the mode, and if the purifier is in operation)
Best evaporative humidifier
Type humidifier
A natural evaporation (tecologia Nanocloud)
Humidification capacity
Main features
Automatic mode, night mode, 3 humidity settings, timer, automatic shutdown if the tank is empty or it is necessary to change the filter
Best ultrasonic humidifier
Type humidifier
A ultrasound and hot (both cold mist that hot)
Up to 36 h, at low speed
Humidification capacity
Main features
Automatic, 5 speed, timer, night light
Best humidifier smart
Type humidifier
A ultrasound and hot (whether hot cold steam)
Humidification capacity
Main features
Automatic mode, night mode, Children mode, timer, HEPA filter and double filtration, automatic shutdown if the tank is empty
Philips AC2729 / 10 (purifier 2 in 1)
Type humidifier
Ultrasonic (Nanocloud technology)
Humidification capacity
Main features
3 mode of purification, 4 levels of moisture (automatic mode), only purification function or function 2 in 1, timer, light, notification empty tank on display
28-50 dB (depending on the mode, and if the purifier is in operation)
Best humidifier Children
Humidification capacity
Main features
Button on / off and pan door essence
Humidification capacity
Main features
auto shutdown, LED (7 colors)
Philips HU4803 / 01: the best purifier evaporation (and quieter)
Among the best humidifiers for rooms can not miss the Philips brand, has always been one of the leading products for air quality as dehumidifiers and air purifiers. In particular, the Philips HU4803 / 01 is the best purifier Evaporation of the moment.
With a 2-liter tank, it is suitable for small to medium-sized environments (20-25mq), although still efficient in larger spaces up to 30mq. The range is about eight hours.
Compared to ultrasonic models and, especially, to those hot, this type of humidifier has a very low energy consumption (17 W) and is much quieter (only 26 dB).
In addition to automatic mode, which allows to maintain the desired rate of humidity (40%, 50% or 60%), the night mode is also present. Excellent opportunity to set the timer and turn off automatically in the event the filter or the tank respectively, require the replacement and filling.
The Nanocloud technology (natural evaporation) as stated by the company, produces water molecules so small as to spread the 99% fewer bacteria than other categories of humidifiers and does not generate limestone (it is however advisable to wash the filter every week and replace every three months).
Philips HU4803 / 01 of Air Humidifier with NanoCloud technology …
Levoit LV550HH: the best ultrasonic humidifier, suitable for large venues
The humidifier Levoit LV550HH is undoubtedly among the best ultrasonic humidifiers, capable of emitting both warm mist (450 ml / h) that cold steam (300 ml / h).
Thanks to its 5.5-liter tank, has a range of up to 36 hours (at low speed) and is suitable to be used to humidify medium-large environments (40-70mq).
The device has a blue night light and a special remote control (but also comfortable touch controls directly on the surface). It also allows you to select up to 5 speed and set the timer.
Like the previous model, this also incorporates a humidity sensor, thanks to which it is possible to activate the automatic mode that manages the issuance of the mist (from 30% to 80%) according to the environmental conditions.
This ultrasonic humidifier also has a box to allow the diffusion of aromas. Here, in fact, you can insert the appropriate pad for aromatherapy (available separately).
Levoit Environment House Humidifier Ultrasound 5,5L, Aromatherapy with …
If you try another option ultrasonic (cold vapor only) suitable for ambient temperatures up to 60 square meters and with similar characteristics (obviously does not have the hot function), also we suggest the humidifier Argo Hydro Digit, which has a price and energy consumption minor:
Proscenic 807C: the best humidifier smart
Proscenic 807C can be considered the best smart humidifier of the moment, thanks to its intelligent functionality.
Indeed, it is fully controllable through the app ProscenicHome (iOS or Android) and therefore not only manageable remotely but also with the voice (Proscenic is in fact compatible with the virtual assistant Amazon Alexa).
In terms of features, it is comparable to Levoit just seen. It is an ultrasonic humidifier which can emit both hot steam and cold. E ‘can also put drops of essential oil, and therefore use it with the dual purpose of aroma diffuser.
The tank is 5,5L and autonomy can be up to 36 hours (350 ml / h). This too smart humidifier is recommended for environments 40 square meters to 70 square meters.
Also in this model we are the integrated sensor and automatic mode, with the ability to set the required humidity level between 30% and 75%.
But there are also a night mode, one for children and one anion mode, for a purified environment and more hygienic. Much appreciated the HEPA filter and double filtration system.
Proscenic 807C Humidifier with APP & Alexa, Humidifier Environment …
Philips AC2729 / 10: the most comprehensive (purifier and humidifier)
If you do not have a purifying and you have a higher budget, undoubtedly, the best alternative is to opt for an air purifier and humidifier 2 in 1. Among them, the Philips AC2729 / 10 can be considered the most complete and one of the most performing.
Integra an ultrasonic humidifier with a humidification capacity of up to about 65-70mq (500 ml / h) and it is possible to set the function only purifier or the 2-in-1 mode.
Therefore, in the latter case, it humidify and purify the air at the same time. As the Philips seen before, this model also uses the Nanocloud technology, minimizing the percentage of bacteria released into the air (compared to a normal ultrasound).
This purifier / humidifier and integrated hygrometer lets you choose from four levels of moisture (and maintain the level selected automatically) and 3 purification methods (generally for allergies and night mode).
The display will show the actual amount of PM 2.5 in the air as well as, of course, the moisture.
As the Proscenic, it is equipped with WiFi and smart functionality, so it is controllable from smartphones, via the dedicated app.
Philips AC2729 / 10 air purifier 65 m² Black, White
Humidifier Chicco 5872: the best baby humidifier (hot)
The Chicco 5872 is probably the best baby humidifier, at least among those hot. This type of product, though requires more maintenance and attention (especially when heating or move the humidifier from side to side) is great for the kids. This is because the hot steam is partially able to eliminate bacteria and sanitize the air.
The dimensions are rather small and the tank of 1.8 L, provides a range of about 8 h. This humidifier is recommended for environments of 20-25 square meters, up to 30 square meters.
It is a very basic humidifier, especially when compared with the patterns seen previously. In fact, it does not integrate sensor, neither timer nor automatic mode. Simply just push the button to activate it. So very easy and quick to use.
It has, however, a pan door flavors, so it can be used to spread essences.
1 By ONE: the best economic humidifier
1 By ONE is one of the most popular and probably the best economic humidifier. It is a ultrasonic device, from quite basic functionality, just like the Bean just seen.
This model has reduced dimensions and a 1.3 L tank, but it is also available in a version 2.8 L. The autonomy is of about 6 hours and is recommended for small rooms (15-20 square meters). These features make it an excellent humidifier for children and bedroom furniture.
Very liked the design: the humidifier fact integrates a LED night light 7 color. Inside also presents an ionizer filter.
Also good chance to use it as an aroma diffuser.
1byone Ultrasonic Humidifier Fresh Breeze from 6L, No Noise and …
The best-selling humidifiers
Here are the rankings of the best most popular humidifiers:
Humidifier: what is and how it works
But what good is a humidifier? As suggested by the same term, this product allows you to achieve an adequate level of humidity in your home, office and so on.
In fact, beside the presence of pollutants, another factor to take into consideration when checking the quality of indoor air is the moisture level. It ‘important to ensure that this is neither too high nor too low.
A percentage is too high can become worn furniture humidity, plaster and equipment and encourage mold and bacteria causing asthma, colds and allergies. Similarly, a too dry environment can lead to respiratory problems of different types (cough, sore throat, stuffy nose), red eyes, dehydration and weakness.
A problem that is felt especially with the arrival of autumn and winter and the ignition of heating systems, which, in fact tend to dry out the air. In particular, in the presence of babies and young children in the home, it is often recommended to use a humidifier to prevent coughs, allergies and other problems which are more likely than adults.
The rate of optimal indoor humidity should be around between 40% and 60% (values that vary depending on the room and the temperature). To measure it, we can use a hygrometer such as Switchbot tested some time ago, or the same humidifier, if it has that feature.
Therefore, a humidifier helps us to restore these values and “humidify the air” if too dry environments.
The operation, as well as performance, a humidifier for environments depend on the type of the same. In fact, there are several types on the market. If you are looking for specialized products to cool the air, we recommend that you focus on evaporative coolers or on portable air conditioners.
Humidifier cold or hot? pros and cons
Ultrasonic humidifiers
The ultrasonic humidifiers, also called cold humidifiers, represent the most popular type on the market, often combining a price accessible to several advantages.
The moisture or water vapor, in this case, is created through the vibrations of the ultrasound that “transform” the water (breaking it into tiny particles) in a sort of cold vapor mist.
Compared to hot humidifiers, requiring a lower energy expenditure (max 30-40W absorption) and are quieter.
In addition, not heating the water there is no risk of sunburn or similar incidents such as those with hot.
Hot Humidifiers
The hot humidifiers are also known as steam humidifiers or to a boil. These heat through the electrodes, the tank water to boiling point, then release the hot vapor in the air (in summer probably advised).
Given the nature of the product, the power consumption is greater (you can get up to 700W absorption) as well as the noise.
In addition, the hot humidifiers require more frequent maintenance because you can easily create limestone, as well as steam on the surface in which it is placed. In this last case, the floor can be slippery, therefore, it is better not to place the device in passageways such as corridors but rather in a corner of the room.
Despite the efficiency, another drawback concerns the wear of the electrodes: obviously a very frequent use may shorten the life of the product life. The advice is to buy reliable products and high-performance, because misuse can also encourage the emergence of mold.
However, among the most important pro it is to point out that the steam is free from bacteria, precisely because it is generated by boiling.
In some cases, the hot humidifiers, can also act as nebulizers.
Evaporative Humidifiers
There is also another category: that of the evaporative humidifiers, often classified, along with those ultrasound, in the macro-category of cold humidifiers. These use a fan that sucks the air veicolandola towards a semi-immersed filter in the tank, thus creating a cold water vapor, precisely (and therefore no condensation).
The energy consumption of this type is very low, even less than 20W. Again, some may be used to spread essences.
The cons of this category is the maintenance since it is necessary to replace (or clean depending on the model) the filters regularly.
How to choose the best humidifier for your needs
Besides the budget and the construction quality and design, there are several factors to consider before buying, to avoid choices that are not suited to their needs. Below we analyze some of the most important.
Dimensions of the environment, autonomy and humidification capacity
One of the first questions you’ll have to bring about the greatness of the environment that you want to humidify. Based on this you have to choose a humidifier for home and autonomy with the ability to adequate humidification.
The size of the tank will affect the autonomy: for example, a 4 liter tank should ensure, at the minimum emission, from 12 to 15 hours of operation of the humidifier in an ultrasound, from 9 to 11 hours in a hot .
The ability of humidification, thus the maximum amount of steam that can emit a humidifier is measured in ml / h. Normally, for a lower setting than or equal to 20 square meters, it should suffice a humidifier 200 ml / h. What is needed is a double-capacity (400 ml / h) for 50-60mq spaces.
consumption
Before buying, you should also power consumption of the device. These are usually from about 20W in the simplest models and cold until you get even at 700W, in the hot models.
Noise
As a product to be used often and in rooms where you spend most of the time, even noise can affect the purchase.
The advice is to opt for models that allow you to decide the level of emissions (and therefore noise), so as to adapt it to suit your needs. The best humidifiers for environments have a noise level below 30 dB.
Some models also have night mode, and then quieter.
Functionality and additional features
Obviously, among the factors to consider when choosing, there is a range of features offered by the humidifier. The most simple and economic models only allow switching on and off, while others will be able to measure the moisture (integrated hygrometer) and consequently adapt its own operation, while also allowing selection of the desired emission level.
Similarly, some have the timer and the possibility of programming and auto-off.
Others are equipped with HEPA filters and ionizer (great for those with allergies) or even are real purifiers. As mentioned, some can also be used to spread flavors and fragrances.
Maintenance
Even the level of maintenance required is an aspect not to be overlooked. This, as explained previously, depends mainly on the type of humidifier that you choose: hot ones require more frequent maintenance, but it is also necessary to pay attention to filters of the humidifiers to evaporation (these must either be cleaned or replaced, according to what declared by the manufacturer).
Common to all types of humidifier is the need to wash (with soap and water) very frequently the tank to prevent the formation of bacteria and molds, as well as limestone (in particular, if you use the tap water).
prices Humidifier
If you’re wondering how much a humidifier for your home, the price varies depending on the type of product, the ability of humidification and features. You can find humidifiers from 25 €, for small environments and basic needs until you get well over 300 € for more complex products and ideal for larger spaces.
How to ensure a good level of internal moisture naturally
Apart from use of a humidifier for rooms, there are small everyday actions that maintain the moisture around to appropriate values. For example, you should always let the house air, by opening windows regularly.
Similarly, it is important to maintain an optimal internal temperature (16 ° -20 °, depending on the room), which, therefore, is not too high. In this case, it may be useful to obtain a smart thermostat to automatically adjust the heating when it reaches a pre-set threshold or too high levels, or of thermostatic valves in the case of central heating.