Operating Design
Your first choice will be to decide on the basic operating design of your humidifier.
Consider the below when shopping:
Cool Mist vs.
Warm Mist
Your choice of humidifier design may be based on whether you prefer warm mist or cool mist.
Keith Goldstein / Getty Images
There are also cool mist models that purify the moisturized air.
These large models are effectivelywhole-house humidifiers.
Water tank size is often a convenience decision since a large tank requires less frequent filling.
While it’s tempting to choose a large-capacity unit, this may not be beneficial.
Take measurements to determine the correct room size you are looking for.
Models for 700 square feet are more than adequate for a typical bedroom or living room.
Very large room humidifiers are usually suitable only for homes with large open-concept layouts with good airflow throughout.
Control Precision
Another variable to consider when choosing a portable room humidifier is the control feature.
Humidifiers with digital electronic controls generally offer more convenience and greater precision than those with mechanical analog controls.
Packaging or product description will usually denote how long the unit will run on a filling.
Decide whether the weight of a full tank could be a problem for you.
Take time to inspect the unit to see how easily the water tank removes from the base.
Also, note if the model will require filter changes.
Evaporative models have wick filters that trap dust and particles.
Some units have two-stage filtration, which is important for removing allergens.
All humidifiers requireregular cleaningto reduce bacterial growth, andcleaning is easy with vinegar.
Check the product information as some models have dishwasher-safe water reservoirs, which makes cleaning easier.
The base of the unit also requires manual cleaning regularly.
You should have at least two noise controls on the unithigh and low options.
If you cannot tell from the packaging, this is certainly worth asking the retailer.
Otherwise, you better be diligent to shut it off when it runs dry.
Some cool mist humidifiers have UV light features or special tank coatings that kill bacteria in the water.
Some units even glow soothingly as a nightlight.
Humidifiers vs. Diffusers
It’s common to confuse a humidifier with a diffuser.
They look similar and affect the air in your space.
A hybrid humidifier gives you the best of both worlds.
You will generally pay a little more for a humidifier with a long warranty.
A humidifier can also help you breathe easier and can, therefore, increase your sleep quality.
Humidifiers: Ease skin, breathing symptoms.Mayo Clinic.
Humidifiers: Why you might need them.
