Finding the best humidifiers may help with some health issues you've been noticing recently. After all, humidifiers are the easiest way to bring back the moisture your home is lacking. Just like how high humidity can be bad news, low humidity can lead to dry skin and allergy irritations. From compact units perfect for smaller flats to larger models designed for basements and entire homes, there is a model for every need.
They also can come with features like auto shut-off, essential oil modes or air purifier functions, making these devices both efficient and user-friendly. Nobody wants dry air to the point that your airways feel irritated and your skin noticeably lacks moisture. Very dry air can affect your health in many ways, especially if you suffer from asthma or any other respiratory illness. It can make these issues worse and a lot harder to manage. Appliances such as dehumidifiers and humidifiers can be an excellent way to restore a healthy environment in the home.
Best humidifier at a glance:
• Best overall humidifier: Dyson PH3A Pure Humidify - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best humidifier on a budget: Vintoney 500ml Cool Mist Humidifier - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best quiet humidifier: Beurer Compact Air Humidifier LB37 - Buy now on Boots
Chris Michael, managing director of air treatment brand Meaco, explains that a humidifier can also be beneficial in the winter when central heating dries out the air. Chris says: "A humidifier is commonly used in the winter to help combat dry air caused by heating a dry space; this can help to relieve dry skin and dry throats, prevent or reduce snoring and make breathing easier if you have a blocked nose or a cold. Slightly higher relative humidities also make it more difficult for viruses and bacteria to survive."
On top of being a great way to bring back moisture, humidifiers are amazing for keeping track of your home humidity levels. The ideal range of indoor humidity is between 40 to 60 per cent. Any humidity levels below 30 per cent are too dry. So, without further ado, let's take a look at the best humidifiers.
Best humidifiers for allergy season
Dyson leads the home appliances market with the latest technologies and innovative designs, built to make life just that little bit easier, and this smart humidifier is no different. Featuring multi-stage air purification and real-time air quality monitoring, this is as smart as a humidifier could get.
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Tested by Yours.co.uk Editor Claire Tapley**: "In the summer months I suffer very badly with hay fever, particularly at night. I'll often be woken up with an incredibly itchy throat. This humidifier has completely stopped this. It cleverly filters the pollen out of the air and even shows you on the screen when there is a high level of pollen in the room.
I also love the fact that it features a gentle fan, keeping you cool in the summer. It doesn't create dry air as it uses the water in the filter to generate a gentle and subtle humidity. I have certainly noticed that my skin is more hydrated and less dry since using this humidifier in my bedroom.
I also love seeing on the display how quickly it removes any chemicals from the air. When I spray deodorant the fan automatically comes on fully to disperse it. You can see level of chemicals go gradually down on the screen display too.
It has a large water tank in the base that can hold five litres and provides up to 36 hours of humidification. The water tank is on wheels and it has a pop-up handle, so it's really easy to move around when it needs refilling. It also has a self-cleaning function.
The remote is great for keeping by your bedside if you want to adjust the fan at night or you can simply set it to 'night mode' which features a very subtle and quiet breeze.
This premium humidifier has features to stop the build-up of bacteria, that can breed in moist environments. A UVC light that kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria in the water to prevent this. Water is being cleaned before it's pumped into the air. This is what sets it apart from lesser humidifiers, which can become a breeding ground for mould.
This is an expensive product but well worth the money if you can afford it. It's also quite large so you'll need a fairly large room to use it in.
I would totally recommend this for anyone who suffers from allergies, hot flushes and dry skin as this clever device can help all of this and give you piece of mind that the air you're breathing is clean and clear of chemicals."
Pros
- Purifies, chills and humidifies your environment, mimicking the feel of a natural breeze
- Monitor your air quality and adjust the Dyson via the app
- Excellent performance and quiet
Cons
- It's large and needs a dedicated place on the floor
Capacity: | 5L |
Dimensions: | 92.3 x 31.2 x 15.5cm |
Special features: | 3-in-1 air purifier, fan and humidifier, Dyson Link app control, Alexa voice control, 10-speed settings, timer, night-mode and sleep timer, breeze mode, air multiplier technology and remote control. |
Best humidifier on a budget
Ideal for small to medium rooms, this affordable ultrasonic quiet humidifier was designed to help you sleep like a baby. The night light function makes this a great addition to your bedroom, and the waterless auto-off function means you don't have to worry about damage to the device once the water runs out. With a 500ml capacity, this humidifier allows for hours of uninterrupted running. Add filtered plain water and set to continuous or intermittent for up to 16 hours of misting. For the price, this option is hard to beat.
This Vintoney humidifier has received over 2,020 reviews on Amazon rating it 4 out of 5. Customers use it to add moisture to air during winter when the central heating dries air out. Additionally, it's been used to combat a pet dog's snoring!
For £20 the build quality is good. It's fairly resistant to spillages as the top screws on. Plus, the thick durable plastic feels good to touch. Also, it comes with extra foam filters that siphon the water.
Pros
- Two misting modes, intermittent and continuous, for up to 16 hours of misting
- Quiet and night function
- Consumes very little power and can even be run off a power bank
- Auto shut-off when water drops below a certain level
Cons
- Essential oils cannot be used with this humidifier
Capacity: | 500 ml |
Dimensions | 13.5 x 10 x 9.8 cm |
Special features: | Nightlight mode, ultrasonic quiet, waterless auto-off function, large capacity, USB powered. |
The Beurer Compact Air Humidifier LB37 is a smart device to have if you wish to add a little more moisture or fragrance to your home. This was tested and reviewed by Akhila Thomas, digital writer for Yours.co.uk and she said, “As a compact and elegant device that could fit easily into small rooms and a wide variety of home decors and aesthetics, the The Beurer Compact Air Humidifier LB37 does the job of adding moisture into dry air very efficiently.”
“It comes equipped with a 2-litre water tank and two levels of output to a maximum of 200ml/hour. I used it overnight and true to its claims, the ultra-quiet night-time function ensures there is no noise to keep you up at night. It also comes with 12 pads to which you can add aromatic oils to add some fragrance to your room as well. It also automatically switches when the water tank runs dry, which saves energy too. Overall, this humidifier definitely offers good value for money.”
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Ultra-quiet night-time function
- 2-litre water tank and two levels of output
- Automatically switches when the water tank runs dry to save energy
- 12 pads to add aromatic oils for fragrance
Cons
- The water tank sits perfectly on the bottom part, but does not click into place, so it can easily tumble over if the tank is empty
The Beurer LB45 Air Humidifier is perfect to add some moisture to the air if you constantly face issues like dry, itchy skin, chapped lips, persistent coughs, and allergy flare-ups. With two adjustable misting nozzles, this humidifier was tested and reviewed by Robin Kirkley, Commercial Content Writer for Motorcycling News at Bauer Media. “I have been using this humidifier for over 1 month now and it has been an excellent choice for me. I've noticed a real improvement in the air quality in my home, especially in small and medium-sized rooms, and it’s great for maintaining a comfortable environment during drier seasons.”
It is quite simple to use with a colour-coded water level warning indicator and an automatic switch-off once the tank becomes empty. Although the humidifier is compact, the tank holds 4l of water for hours of humification. “Plus, it runs super quietly, which is a huge bonus when I have it in a bedroom or workspace where I don’t want the constant hum of a machine,” he added.
“One feature I love is the separate compartment for aroma pads. I’ve been adding essential oils to it, turning the humidifier into a diffuser, which adds a lovely touch to the room, especially when I want to relax with some lavender or eucalyptus scents in the air.”
“The only downside is refilling the water tank—it was a bit of a hassle at first. I found it awkward to handle since you have to turn it upside down to fill, and it’s difficult to see the fill indicator. Needless to say, I had a few leaks while learning how to top it up. Despite that small annoyance, I still think the Beurer LB45 is a great option for the price—quiet, effective, and with the added bonus of aromatherapy.”
Pros
- Comes with a colour-coded water level warning indicator and automatic switch-off once the tank becomes empty
- The tank holds 4l of water
- Runs very quietly
- Has a separate compartment for aroma pads
Cons
- Refilling the water tank is a bit of a hassle as you have to turn it upside down to fill, and it’s difficult to see the indicator
Best humidifier for design
Energy-saving and efficient, this humidifier provides precise humidification and reduces power consumption, with an automatic switch-off when empty. With a stylish contemporary art vibe, the Oskar humidifier provides optimal hygiene and freshness with ease. Its innovative design also allows for use with essential oils, so you have a humidifier and aromatherapy diffuser all in one.
Customers praise it for being extremely quiet running (just 26db). Because of its large size, (3.5 litre tank capacity) it will humidify for longer without have to frequently refill the water tank. Just note, that it will need a dedicated table-top or floor space.
It's extremely energy-efficient with an astonishingly low power consumption of 6–18W. It has dimmable lights so it can be used in the bedroom without disturbing sleep. Combine with essential oils for a relaxing aromatherapy experience.
A pop-out spout in the side allows you to easily fill it with water. Plus, there's a slot to add essential oils too. Discreet lights indicate the power levels and a hydrostat monitors the humidity level of the room, ensuring you don't over-humidify which can lead to mould.
One downside is that it requires a screwdriver to disassemble it for cleaning. Also, customers have commented that the filters begin to smell musty after a month or two and need changing.
Pros
- Swiss contemporary design that's available in different sizes and in black, white or silver
- It can be operated with essential oils as an aromatherapy diffuser
- Warning light if you switch it on without water inside and for when the filter needs changing
Cons
- Filters need changing every few months and don't have great longevity
Capacity: | 3.5L |
Dimensions: | 24.6 x 24.6 x 29 cm |
Item weight: | 3.1 kg |
Special features: | Humidistat, quiet night mode, suitable for aroma diffusion, fragrance dispenser, automatic switch-off and LED control lights |
Best humidifier for babies
Designed to promote easier breathing for babies, this cool mist humidifier regulates the safest humidity levels, recommended for little ones. Using silent and ultrasonic technology, it continuously humidifies and refreshes the air to help babies breathe better; ensuring the air is healthy while they sleep. With seven built-in coloured night lights, creating the ultimate soothing atmosphere in the nursery has never been easier.
To use, remove the chimney and the essential oil tray. Take the tank and turn it over. Unscrew the valve and fill the water tank with cold water. Screw the valve back on and put the tank back on the base. Replace the oil tray and chimney. There are user-friendly digital controls that show you the humidity level and room temperature. Set the nightlight by pressing the light button once, then repeatedly to cycle through seven colour options. Or, long press for three seconds so that the colours automatically change. Additionally, there is an auto mode on the Hygro Plus; long press the respective button for three seconds to activate it. Then, use the +/- buttons to set the desired humidity level. Also, it has a timer function that ranges between 30 minutes and three hours.
Add a few drops of Olbas oil to relieve congestion... it's a versatile humidifier. In general, while most users find it creates an effective flow of vapour, several have encountered faults. But, most resoundingly the negative comments are that it's noisy and disturbs sleep.
Pros
- You can turn the direction of the air easily without moving the whole appliance
- Produces a good amount of vapour
- Versatile use aside from the advertised, for relieving congestion and even misting plants
Cons
- Customers comment that it is noisy – water drips inside it
Capacity: | 3.8L |
Dimensions: | 26.8 x 24.2 x 35cm |
Special features: | Regulated humidity levels, 360-degree adjustable mist outlet, multi-coloured night light, essential oil diffuser, automatic shut-off and a touch screen, backlit for easier use. |
Best humidifier for essential oils
This aesthetic humidifier, with a faux wood base, is ideal for living rooms or bedrooms. It works for up to 16 hours to convert your favourite essential oils into a cool mist, to help relaxation, relieve stress, ease allergies and more. Use when you have a cold as it will act as a soothing decongestant. The cover has a spout so you can direct where you want the mist to go. It can be controlled using the app to easily turn it on and off and change the settings and mood lights. Alternatively, you can set a timer to suit you.
This popular humidifier and diffuser has over 9,100 reviews on Amazon, rating it 4.4. out of 5. In particular, the sensory effect of the colour-changing combined with aromatherapy helps users to relax. A scale on the inner bowl shows you the water level. Just bear in mind that you must keep the cover on when it's misting. Also, it needs regular cleaning – just wipe it out with a damp cloth and maybe a drop of white vinegar – it's not dishwasher-friendly.
Pros
- Good for aromatherapy – therapeutic
- Choose from a range of timer settings or continuous, plus colour selection or automatically changing colour
- Automatic shut-off when water runs off
- Smart functions including voice activated or controlled via an app
Cons
- Some customers that it leaks
Capacity: | 500ml |
Dimensions: | 17.2 x 17.2 x 14cm |
Special Features: | Timer, auto-off safety switch, seven LED light colours, easy control via smart app. |
Best compact humidifier
Elevate your home's ambience with this multi-functional humidifier. Designed to enhance air quality by reducing allergens, it offers a quiet operation, ensuring a peaceful environment. It lets you cycle through various colours and you can add oils for a lovely aroma. Whether it's for a nursery, plants or simply as a stylish bedroom accessory, this humidifier promises both health and comfort.
The AENNON humidifier has 2,965 reviews on Amazon, rating it 4.2 out of 5. Customers like that it's compact, and the mist can be aimed in different directions. It's been used to moisturise skin, relieve stress and reduce cold symptoms. Even on a low setting, it produces a lot of mist, and on the highest, it's like dry ice for Halloween. Just note that it can leave surfaces slightly damp if you run it continuously.
The filter will need replacing with every 500 hours of use. Replacement filters are available on Amazon UK.
Pros
- Elevate skin irritation, mist tropical indoor plants, relieve breathing issues and more!
- Angle the top so mist comes out in any direction you choose
- Creates a soothing ambience and absolutely silent running
- Can run for up to 20 hours on the lowest setting
Cons
- White is a bit conspicuous, would be aesthetically nicer in black or a wood effect
Capacity: | 2.8l |
Dimensions | 20 x 21 x 29cm (WDH) |
Special features | You can add essential oils |
Best humidifier for a large room
With a coverage up to 47 square metres, this LEVOIT Humidifier will ensure large rooms are kept at an optimum humidity level. It has a handy auto function that uses a sensor to detect when a room is not humid enough. The machine will turn itself on and produce mist to raise the humidity to an optimal level. Ideally, a room should be between 40–60 per cent.The main control panel has power, mist, nightlight and sleep mode buttons. Also, it has a clear display that shows the room's humidity level.
This is a popular pick on Amazon, with over 36,060 reviews rating it 4.3 out of 5. Customers praise it as being one of the best humidifiers they've owned. It is filled with water from the top, which is less messy than bottom-fill models where water can splash or leak. Plus, it has a water filter inside so you can fill it with tap water. Clean it every two weeks and pour away any standing water. In hardwater areas, it will benefit from periodic descaling.
It's a smart device that can be controlled by the VeSync app. As such, your phone becomes a remote control for the humidifier. Or, it will work without the app, if you prefer.
Pros
- Smart features: control it via the free VeSync app and monitor the room's humidity
- Directional nozzle to angle the mist where you want it to go
- Mist function has four settings: auto, low, medium and high
- Aroma box to add essential oils for aromatherapy
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent the build-up of mould and limescale
Capacity: | 6L |
Dimensions: | 24.5 x 19.2 x 34cm |
Special features: | Adjustable mist level, night light, sleep mode, auto mode, VeSync app control, aroma box |
Best humidifier for warm mist
The key benefit of warm mist is that it moves through the air better than cool air. Bacteria is killed off as heated water becomes steam, so it's more hygienic. Also, warm mist is more effective at moisturising skin, combatting flu symptoms and hydrating a dry environment.
Specifically, this Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier is designed to ease coughs and cold symptoms. It's a reasonable price and has 1,066 reviews on Amazon, rating it 4.1 out of 5. What we really like is that a range of tank sizes are available as well as the Vicks VapoPads, including menthol scent pads.
This particular model has coverage up to 37m2 and can release scented vapour for up to eight hours. On low, it can gently humidify for up to 24 hours. The base has an easy-to-use dial control to turn it on and set the power setting (either low or high).
It requires cool room temperature water and it will take a minute or two to start producing warm mist. Position the humidifier away from walls and surfaces where you don't want condensation building up. After use, let the unit stand for 15 minutes so it can cool down.
While it is a popular pick, this model needs regular cleaning in order to stay hygienic and limescale-free. Some customers have commented that it's a bit of a faff to clean.
Pros
- Produces 99% bacteria-free mist
- It can emit vapour between 12–24 hours and humidify a small-to-medium size room
- Range of compatible VapoPads
- Simple to use dial control may be preferable to a smart model
Cons
- Needs regular cleaning and descaling
Capacity: | 3.8L |
Dimensions: | H7.7 x W12.4 x D12cm |
Special features: | Range of compatible Vicks scent pads, two power settings, auto shut-off |
Best humidifier for dry skin
The key benefit of the LEVOIT Smart Warm&Cool Humidifier is its OasisMist feature that can humidify a room for up to 45 hours with a gentle cool mist. It moisturises skin, helping to alleviate skin allergies and dryness. It can also produce a warm mist which has the benefit of dispersing through air better than cold vapour. Just like steam from a hot shower, a warm mist is soothing and can ease congestion. There are three heat temperatures for the warm setting. For example, it could be used to simulate the humidity for hot yoga.
It's a smart humidifier that can be controlled by the user-friendly VeSync app. You can monitor the humidity level of the room you've assigned the humidifier too. Also, set a schedule for when you want the humidifier to be on. Additionally, it can be controlled by Alexa or a Google Home. Simply tell your voice assistant when you want to turn the humidifier on and off.
This is an extremely popular humidifier and an Amazon UK Exclusive. Levoit has over 40,500 reviews rating their products 4.2 out of 5. Online reviews comment that it's compact, similar in size to an old fashioned computer tower block. A customer comments that they love the responsive one-touch controls and stylish digital display with its clear icons and humidity reading. However, bear in mind a full water tank is very heavy to lift.
Pros
- Extremely quiet running, less than a whisper
- Very powerful and produces a lot of mist
- Slot for aromatherapy essential oils
- It's made of sturdy plastic that's a doddle to wipe clean
Cons
- Very heavy when the water tank is full
Capacity: | 4.5L |
Dimensions: | 27.4 x 30.4 x 15.2cm |
Special features: | Aroma Diffuser, Quiet, Auto Shut off, Digital Display, Removable Tank, Adjustable Humidity Control, Remote Control, Service Filter Indicator, Portable, Humidistat |
Best humidifier FAQs
Signs that you need a humidifier at home
Prone to colds and flu: If you find that you are particularly prone to colds and flu, this could be a sign your home is lacking humidity. Higher humidity decreases the infectivity levels of common colds and flu. It helps you sleep when you have a cough. Bacteria particles cling to moisture, and if it hits the water vapour before you, the chances of it infecting you decrease.
Dry skin and lips: Dry skin is the easiest way to spot your home that needs moisture. Whether it's suddenly turned irritable or has been an ongoing issue, dry skin is incredibly uncomfortable. Using eco-friendly moisturisers, lotion and Vaseline may not be enough to rehydrate your skin. A humidifier can help you to retain more moisture and reduce skin cracking and wrinkling when it's too dry.
Snoring: Dry air can contribute to the intensity of your snoring. With low levels of humidity, your nose can become increasingly congested. This can restrict the air able to pass through, causing you to breathe out of your mouth. Low humidity can ultimately be the reason you’re keeping your partner up at night or vice versa.
Plant health: Most indoor plants thrive in humid environments. If you’ve found your indoor plants struggle to live for a long time, the low humidity in your home could be the issue. This also depends on the plants you have, but if your plants don’t retain moisture, a humidifier could help.
Are humidifiers and diffusers the same?
Humidifiers and diffusers share a few of the same processes but are by no means the same. A diffuser is typically smaller and designed to be used with aromatherapy or essential oils. Why not try an aromatherapy diffuser? Whereas, a humidifier is generally a larger device that increases moisture levels in the air and maintains a well-balanced humidity level.
Carolina Goncalves is the Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmica. She explains why a humidifier is beneficial for people with allergies:
Ask the expert
How does a humidifier work?
A humidifier works by increasing the moisture level in the air, creating a more comfortable and healthy environment, particularly in low-humidity climates or seasons. There are three main types: evaporative, ultrasonic, and steam vaporiser models. An evaporative humidifier uses a wick filter to absorb water from a reservoir, with a fan blowing air through the moistened filter to release water vapour. Ultrasonic humidifiers generate a fine mist through high-frequency vibrations, dispersing water droplets into the air. Steam vaporisers, or warm mist humidifiers, heat water to produce steam, which cools slightly before being released. These devices aim to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%, reducing dryness in the skin, nose, throat, and lips, and alleviating symptoms of colds, flu, and allergies. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and using distilled water, is essential to prevent the growth of mould, bacteria and other pathogens.
Will a humidifier help with allergies?
Certainly, using a humidifier can be advantageous for individuals with allergies. When the air is overly dry, it can cause the mucous membranes in the nasal passages to desiccate, causing irritation and increasing susceptibility to allergens like dust, pollen, and pet hair. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier helps to maintain optimal humidity levels, ideally between 30-50%. This alleviates dryness in the nasal passages, throat, and skin, facilitating easier breathing and reducing allergy symptoms. Additionally, proper humidity can prevent the spread of airborne allergens and support the respiratory tract's natural defences. However, it is crucial to regularly maintain and clean the humidifier to prevent mould and bacteria growth, which could exacerbate allergy symptoms.
How is a humidifier beneficial during allergy season?
A humidifier is beneficial during allergy season as it helps maintain optimal humidity levels of 40-50%. Humidifiers work by adding moisture to the air, which helps thin mucus, making it easier to drain and clear nasal passages. This reduces pressure and congestion and maintains mucosal moisture, thereby preventing sinus inflammation and dryness. In addition, humidifiers can reduce the presence of airborne allergens such as dust and pollen by making them heavier, causing them to settle out of the air. This can alleviate allergic symptoms and improve overall air quality. Furthermore, maintaining proper humidity levels can help prevent dry skin and irritation, contributing to overall comfort during allergy season.
This article contains expert commentary from Chris Michael, managing director of air treatment brand Meaco. And Carolina Goncalves, Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmica. Carolina has extensive experience supporting Men’s and Women’s health, specialising in multiple areas including weight loss, skin care, nutrition, sexual health, hair loss, allergies and asthma management.
Ellen Kinsey was a Senior Health and Wellness Product Writer and has been a part of Bauer Media since 2020. She has left Bauer Media to study Ayurveda in India to expand her knowledge and skills in the health and wellness field, where she plans to continue making journalistic contributions.