Apartment Humidifiers – Best Humidifier For Apartment Use

best humidifier for apartment

Living in an apartment or condo presents its own unique set of issues and concerns. In order to keep your living space comfortable – and particularly during winter months when air is dry and humidity is low – use of the best humidifier for apartment use can improve the conditions.

Low humidity is actually not good for your home or your health. Wood can dry out and crack or warp. Dust and bacteria that exist in dry conditions can be an irritant to our respiratory tract. It can trigger asthma, cause itching from dry skin or create other skin irritations.

Using a good humidifier in your apartment in these conditions will not only preserve your belongings and the structural integrity of your apartment or condo, but it will also keep you and your family healthy. Too little moisture in the air is harmful but that can be controlled with a humidifier.

Types of Humidifiers

There are four basic types of humidifiers:

1. Warm Mist

These humidifiers produce a warm, soothing mist that can be seen and felt. These are ideal for treating colds and flu but tend to only cover a small area. They also need to be cleaned often and are generally not that easy to clean. Warm mist humidifiers are quieter than cool mist and produce steam so they should be kept out of the reach of children.

2. Cool Mist

This type of product uses a filter to trap minerals and impurities. They are then evaporated into the air with a cool invisible mist. These units are usually easy to clean and are best in warmer climates. They also provide coverage in larger areas. Cool mist humidifiers are louder than warm mist and the filters require constant changing.

3. Ultrasonic

These humidifiers use a metal diaphragm that vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency. This produces water droplets that are then delivered into the air by a fan. Ultrasonic units are generally silent in operation and create a cool fog in a room. Maintenance is not an issue and these are easy to operate for home use.

4. Whole House

Because of the size of these units, they generally do not move from room to room. But they also cover a much larger area and speaking of size, the tanks are in the 5-gallon range so you can go days between fillings. Whole-house humidifiers do require regular cleaning and there are parts that will have to be replaced, such as filters and wicks, every three or four months.

You can also get even larger furnace humidifiers. To see more information about these units, click here.

Our Picks For The Best Humidifier For Small Apartment Use

Here is a closer look at four of the best humidifiers for apartment use (if you need information on dehumidifiers for apartment use, click here):


InnoGear 500ml Essential Oil Diffuser

InnoGear 500ml Essential Oil Diffuser

This combination diffuser/humidifier can add aroma or water to the air around you. It has an auto-off function when the water has all been used up. There are four different time settings and you can also adjust the intensity of the mist to produce a calming and relaxing atmosphere.

There are 2 mist levels to choose from… strong or weak. Using ultrasonic technology, this humidifier for apartment use is extremely quiet and will not disturb your sleep, study, or meditation.

Pros:

Compact size for the best humidifier for small apartment
Easy to operate

Cons:

Emits too little mist to be an effective humidifier according to some users
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LEVOIT 4L Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

LEVOIT 4L Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

As this is an ultrasonic humidifier, it is very quiet when in operation. With a 4-liter / 1.05-gallon tank capacity, this humidifier can run for up to 40 hours without refilling. It has a built-in humidistat to help you monitor the current humidity and you can set it for the level you wish to have.

A wi-fi connection makes adjusting settings easy and gives you all the information you need. There are three mist levels and you can choose between nightlight and sleep modes. When the water runs out, it will automatically shut off making it the best humidifier for apartment use.

Pros:

Easy to set up and operate
Excellent customer support

Cons:

Some find it a bit difficult to clean
Humidistat is not very accurate according to some users
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LEVOIT 6L Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

LEVOIT 6L Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

This ultrasonic best humidifier for condo features both warm and cool mist that you can set at three different levels. It is easy to operate as it features touch control and remote control options. The 1.5-gallon tank allows for 36 hours of continuous use at the lowest level.

The mist output measures up to 500 milliliters per hour and will easily regulate the humidity in an office, bedroom, or living room. The display shows current conditions so that you can judge how much or how little mist to add. It can also be used as a diffuser.

Pros:

Easy to refill the tank
Easy to operate

Cons:

The design is bulky and somewhat awkward
Some users claim the unit is not easy to clean
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AIRCARE MA Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier

AIRCARE MA Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier

Console-style humidifier designed to service a house up to 3,600 square feet. There is a digital humidistat that automatically maintains your desired humidity level. It will also shut off automatically when it reaches your pre-set level.

The evaporative wick traps mineral deposits making this unit easy to clean. It runs smoothly and quietly without any major moving parts. When the tank runs dry, this whole house humidifier will automatically shut off, saving energy and money.

Pros:

Digital accuracy on the humidistat
Works extremely well

Cons:

Runs loud on the highest setting
Filters require regular replacement
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Apartment Humidifier FAQs

What are some advantages of using a humidifier in an apartment?

There are several benefits to using a humidifier in an apartment, including:

– Improved air quality: By adding moisture to the dry air, a humidifier can help to raise the standard of air in your apartment. This can lessen the possibility of respiratory issues as well as other health problems brought on by dry air, such as dry skin and eyes.
– Lower risk of infection: The spread of viruses and bacteria can be facilitated by dry air. A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, lowering the risk of illness and infection.
– Better sleep: Dry air can make it difficult to sleep because it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing, nasal congestion, and other respiratory issues. A humidifier can assist in maintaining moisture in the air, which will help you breathe easier and sleep better.
– Protection for furniture: Moist air can rust metal objects, while dry air can cause wood furniture to split and crack. A humidifier keeps the humidity in your apartment at a healthy level, protecting your furniture and other belongings.
– Energy savings: Because humid air feels warmer than dry air, it can help cut down on the wintertime need for heating. Energy savings and lower utility costs may result from this.

What are some disadvantages of using a humidifier in an apartment?

Humidifiers have some potential drawbacks, particularly in an apartment setting, even though they can be a great way to add moisture to dry indoor air. Some of the potential disadvantages of using a humidifier in an apartment include:

– Increased risk of mold and mildew: If a humidifier is not properly cleaned and maintained, it can turn into a haven for bacteria and mold. This may result in unappealing odors, harm to the humidifier, a reduction in the quality of the air indoors, and even health issues.
– Furniture and electronics damage: Excessive air moisture can harm wood furniture and other household materials. Additionally, it can raise the chance that electronics like TVs and computers will sustain moisture damage. This is particularly true in small apartments, where a concentrated area of high humidity is not uncommon.
– Increased energy usage: Running a humidifier can result in an increase in energy consumption in an apartment, which could result in higher electricity costs. The humidifier may also increase overall energy waste and carbon footprint if it is not energy-efficient.
– Noise: Some humidifiers make quite a bit of noise, which can be a problem in a small apartment, especially when people are trying to sleep.

What is a humidifier, and why might I need one in my apartment?

A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air in a room or an entire apartment. It works by increasing the level of humidity in the air, which is the amount of water vapor present in the air.

There are several reasons why you might need a humidifier in your apartment. For example, low humidity can cause dry skin, chapped lips, and other discomforts. It can also exacerbate respiratory problems, such as asthma and allergies, by irritating the airways. A humidifier can help to alleviate these symptoms by adding moisture to the air.

In addition, low humidity levels can also damage wooden furniture, musical instruments, and other items in your apartment. By maintaining a healthy level of humidity, you can protect your belongings and ensure that they last longer.

During the winter months, when heating systems tend to dry out the air, a humidifier can be especially beneficial. It can help to keep your apartment at a comfortable humidity level, which can also help you save on heating bills. By using a humidifier, you can keep the air in your apartment moist, comfortable, and healthy.

What are some things to consider when looking for a dehumidifier for apartment use?

There are a few things to think about when selecting a humidifier for your apartment. For starters, you should pick a humidifier that is the appropriate size for your apartment. A smaller humidifier might be adequate for one room, but a bigger one might be required to humidify an entire apartment.

If you intend to use the humidifier in a bedroom, you should also think about how loud it will be. While cool mist humidifiers can be a little noisy, ultrasonic humidifiers typically have the lowest noise levels.

Finally, you should pick a humidifier that is simple to maintain and clean. To stop the development of mold and bacteria, regular cleaning is necessary for all varieties of humidifiers. Choose a humidifier with a removable tank that is simple to clean, and be sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance recommendations.

Can a humidifier help with allergies or respiratory issues, such as asthma?

Yes, by introducing moisture to the air and lowering the dryness of the airways, a humidifier can help with allergies or respiratory problems like asthma.

Dry air can aggravate the airways, making breathing difficult and raising the possibility of developing respiratory infections. A humidifier can ease dry and irritated airways, making it easier to breathe, by increasing the humidity in the air.

A humidifier can also assist in easing allergy symptoms like congestion by moistening the nasal passages and easing the dryness and irritation that can aggravate allergy symptoms.

However, it’s important to use a humidifier correctly, as too much humidity can actually make respiratory issues worse. It’s recommended to maintain a humidity level of 30 to 50 percent, and to clean and maintain the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

It’s also important to note that a humidifier is not a substitute for proper medical treatment for respiratory issues, such as asthma. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and take any prescribed medications, in addition to using a humidifier as a complementary treatment.

How often do I need to clean my humidifier, and what’s the best way to do it?

Cleaning your humidifier on a regular basis will help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, both of which could be dangerous for your health if inhaled. However, in general, it is advised to clean your humidifier every few days, or at least once a week. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the type of humidifier and how frequently you use it.

Here is a how-to for cleaning your humidifier step by step:
–          Disassemble the humidifier after unplugging it. Remove the filter, if necessary, and empty the tank of any leftover water.
–          After adding a cleaning agent like white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, fill the tank with water. Allow the solution to sit for 30 to 60 minutes.
–          Scrub the tank with a soft-bristled brush, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Pay special attention to any areas where mineral buildup or mold has developed.
–          Rinse the tank and all other removable components in clean water completely.
–          Use a fresh, damp cloth to clean the humidifier’s exterior.
–          Reassemble the humidifier and add fresh, distilled water to the tank.

The manufacturer’s manual should be consulted for more thorough cleaning instructions because different humidifiers may have unique cleaning requirements.

Will a humidifier make my apartment too damp or cause mold growth?

The humidity in your apartment can reach unhealthy levels if a humidifier is not used properly, which could lead to the growth of mold. However, if you use and maintain the humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions and keep an eye on the humidity level in your apartment, there shouldn’t be any problems.

It is advised to keep the humidity in your apartment between 30 and 50 percent because levels above this range can foster the ideal environment for mold growth. To determine the humidity level in your apartment, use a hygrometer and modify the humidifier’s settings accordingly.

It’s also important to use distilled water in your humidifier, as tap water can contain minerals that can contribute to the growth of mold and bacteria. In addition, you should clean your humidifier regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance.

If you notice any signs of mold or mildew in your apartment, such as a musty odor or discoloration on walls or surfaces, it’s important to address the issue immediately. In addition to cleaning your humidifier, you may need to take other steps to reduce the humidity in your apartment, such as using a dehumidifier or increasing ventilation.

Can a humidifier help reduce static electricity in my apartment?

Yes, a humidifier can help reduce the static electricity in your apartment. Static electricity is more common in dry air, as there is less moisture in the air to conduct electricity. When the air is too dry, static electricity can build up on surfaces and cause annoying shocks, especially in the winter months when indoor heating can dry out the air.

By increasing the humidity in your apartment, a humidifier can help to reduce the buildup of static electricity. The added moisture in the air helps to conduct electricity, which can help to dissipate any static charges that have built up on surfaces.

However, it’s important to maintain a healthy humidity level of 30 to 50 percent, as too much humidity can also be problematic and may contribute to other issues such as mold growth.

Can I use tap water in my humidifier, or should I use distilled water?

While it’s possible to use tap water in your humidifier, it’s generally not recommended. Tap water often contains minerals and other impurities that can accumulate in the humidifier over time, leading to mineral buildup and potential bacterial or mold growth. When the humidifier releases mist or steam, these microorganisms can be released into the air, potentially causing respiratory issues.

Using distilled water is a better option as it is purified and stripped of all minerals and impurities. This can help to reduce the risk of bacterial or mold growth and improve the overall air quality in your home.

If you must use tap water, it’s important to clean your humidifier more frequently to prevent mineral buildup and bacterial or mold growth.

How do I choose the right size humidifier for my apartment?

The size of your apartment, the desired level of humidity, and your personal preferences all play a role in selecting the right size humidifier for your apartment.

Generally speaking, you ought to select a humidifier that is suitable for the size of your apartment. A large humidifier might be too much for a small room, while a small humidifier might not work in a big apartment. You can use that as a guide since most humidifiers will list the square footage that they are intended to cover.

In addition to the size of your apartment, you’ll also need to consider the desired humidity level. If you live in a dry climate, you may need a more powerful humidifier to achieve a comfortable level of humidity. On the other hand, if you only need a small increase in humidity, a smaller humidifier may be sufficient.

Finally, it’s important to consider your personal preferences. Some people prefer a cool mist humidifier, while others prefer a warm mist humidifier. Cool mist humidifiers are generally safer around children and pets, but warm mist humidifiers can be more effective at reducing bacteria and other microorganisms in the air.

Can a humidifier help me save on heating bills during the winter months?

A humidifier can help your home’s air feel warmer and cozier, but it is unlikely to have a significant impact on your winter heating costs.

Humidifiers do not actually raise the temperature in a room; instead, they add moisture to the air, which can make it feel warmer and more comfortable to breathe. They therefore have no direct impact on your heating expenses.

However, using a humidifier in your home during the winter can help you feel more comfortable at a lower thermostat setting. This can lead to a slight decrease in your heating bill, as you won’t need to keep your home as warm to feel comfortable. Additionally, if the air in your home is too dry, you may feel the need to turn up the heat to compensate, which can result in higher heating bills.

In summary, while a humidifier may not directly impact your heating bills, it can help you feel more comfortable at a lower thermostat setting, which could lead to some energy savings.

In Conclusion

If you live in a dry climate, you can remedy the situation by controlling the humidity. The best humidifier for apartment use permits you to add moisture to the air to increase comfort. With a safe humidity level, you preserve your property and stay in good health.

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