Will humidifier help stuffy nose. Humidifiers for Stuffy Noses: Breathing Easier with Proper Indoor Air Moisture
How do humidifiers alleviate sinus congestion. What types of humidifiers are most effective for nasal stuffiness. Which features should you look for in a humidifier for sinus relief. How can proper humidifier use and maintenance maximize benefits for stuffy noses.
The Science Behind Humidifiers and Sinus Relief
Humidifiers have become increasingly popular for managing sinus issues and stuffy noses. But how exactly do they work? Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can have several beneficial effects on the sinuses and nasal passages.
When the air is too dry, it can irritate the delicate tissues inside the nose and sinuses. This irritation can lead to inflammation, swelling, and increased mucus production – all of which contribute to that stuffy, congested feeling. By increasing the humidity in the air, humidifiers help counteract these effects.
- Moistens and soothes irritated nasal passages
- Thins out thick mucus, making it easier to clear
- Reduces swelling in nasal tissues
- Helps prevent nosebleeds caused by dry air
Experts in sinus health generally agree that adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can be beneficial for overall sinus health and comfort. However, it’s important to use humidifiers properly and maintain them regularly to avoid potential issues.
Types of Humidifiers: Finding the Right Fit for Your Sinus Needs
Not all humidifiers are created equal when it comes to sinus relief. Understanding the different types available can help you choose the best option for your specific needs.
Whole-House Humidifiers
These systems are installed directly into your home’s HVAC system and can humidify the entire house. While they’re more expensive upfront, they offer consistent humidity levels throughout your living space.
Cool Mist Humidifiers
Cool mist humidifiers come in several subtypes:
- Impeller: Uses a rotating disc to create a fine mist
- Evaporative: Utilizes a fan to blow air through a wet wick or filter
- Ultrasonic: Employs high-frequency vibrations to produce a cool mist
Cool mist options are generally safe for use around children and pets, as there’s no risk of burns from hot water or steam.
Warm Mist Humidifiers
These units boil water to create steam, which is then cooled slightly before being released into the air. Some people find warm mist more soothing for sinus issues, especially during cold weather.
Combination Units
Some humidifiers offer both warm and cool mist options, allowing you to switch between modes based on your preferences or the season.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Humidifier for Sinus Relief
When shopping for a humidifier to help with your stuffy nose, several features can make a big difference in both effectiveness and ease of use.
- Size and capacity: Ensure the unit is appropriate for the room size where you’ll be using it
- Ease of cleaning: Look for models that are simple to disassemble and clean thoroughly
- Humidistat: This feature allows the unit to maintain optimal humidity levels automatically
- Noise level: Consider how quiet the humidifier is, especially if you plan to use it while sleeping
- Runtime: Check how long the unit can run on a single fill, particularly for overnight use
- Additional features: Some models offer aromatherapy options or UV sterilization for added benefits
Does the type of water used in a humidifier matter for sinus relief? While most humidifiers can function with tap water, using distilled or demineralized water can help prevent mineral buildup in the unit and reduce the risk of spreading minerals or microorganisms into the air.
Maximizing the Benefits: Proper Humidifier Use and Maintenance
To get the most out of your humidifier for sinus relief, proper use and regular maintenance are crucial.
Optimal Humidity Levels
Aim to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Humidity that’s too low won’t provide the desired benefits, while excessive humidity can promote mold growth and dust mite proliferation.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your humidifier at least once a week to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, which typically involve using a mixture of water and white vinegar or a mild disinfectant.
Filter Replacement
If your humidifier uses filters, replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps ensure the unit continues to function effectively and doesn’t release contaminants into the air.
Proper Placement
Position your humidifier on a flat, water-resistant surface, away from electronics and wooden furniture. Elevate it slightly to prevent moisture accumulation underneath.
Is it safe to use essential oils in a humidifier for added sinus relief? Unless your humidifier is specifically designed for use with essential oils, it’s best to avoid adding them directly to the water tank. Doing so can damage the unit and potentially release harmful substances into the air. Instead, consider using a separate essential oil diffuser alongside your humidifier.
Potential Risks and Precautions When Using Humidifiers for Sinus Issues
While humidifiers can be beneficial for stuffy noses and sinus problems, there are some potential risks to be aware of:
- Overhumidification: Too much moisture in the air can lead to mold growth and dust mite proliferation
- Bacterial and mold growth in the unit: Improper cleaning can turn your humidifier into a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms
- White dust: Minerals from tap water can be dispersed into the air, potentially irritating airways
- Burns: Warm mist humidifiers pose a burn risk, especially for children and pets
To mitigate these risks, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, clean your humidifier regularly, and monitor indoor humidity levels. If you have severe allergies or respiratory issues, consult with your healthcare provider before using a humidifier.
Combining Humidifier Use with Other Sinus Relief Strategies
While a humidifier can be an effective tool for managing sinus congestion and stuffy noses, it’s often most beneficial when used as part of a comprehensive approach to sinus health.
Nasal Irrigation
Using a neti pot or saline nasal spray can help flush out mucus and allergens from your nasal passages. This can be particularly effective when combined with the moisturizing effects of a humidifier.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keeps your nasal passages hydrated from the inside out. Use your humidifier alongside proper hydration for optimal results.
Air Purification
An air purifier can remove allergens and irritants from the air, complementing the work of your humidifier in creating a more comfortable breathing environment.
Elevating Your Head
When sleeping, use an extra pillow to elevate your head slightly. This can help promote sinus drainage and work in tandem with your humidifier to relieve congestion.
Can using a humidifier help prevent sinus infections? While a humidifier can help alleviate symptoms and create a more comfortable environment, it’s not a guaranteed preventive measure against sinus infections. However, by maintaining proper humidity levels and following good sinus health practices, you may reduce your risk of developing sinus infections.
Top-Rated Humidifiers for Sinus Relief: Expert Recommendations
Based on expert reviews and user feedback, here are some highly-rated humidifiers that may help with sinus congestion and stuffy noses:
- Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier: Offers both warm and cool mist options, easy to clean, and suitable for larger rooms.
- Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier: Compact and ideal for smaller spaces, featuring an automatic shut-off function.
- Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier: Quiet operation and simple design make it perfect for bedrooms.
- Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier: Features UV technology to kill bacteria and fungi, suitable for larger areas.
- Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier: Compatible with VapoSteam for additional respiratory relief.
- TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier: Large capacity tank and dual mist options for versatile use.
When choosing a humidifier, consider factors such as room size, desired features, and your specific sinus health needs. Remember that regular cleaning and proper maintenance are crucial for any humidifier to provide optimal benefits for your stuffy nose and sinus issues.
Are there any natural additives that can enhance the effectiveness of a humidifier for sinus relief? While it’s generally not recommended to add substances directly to your humidifier’s water tank, you can create a more soothing environment by using separate aromatherapy diffusers with essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender. These can complement the humidity provided by your humidifier to create a more comfortable breathing space.
Humidifier for Sinus Problems: What Works Best?
A humidifier can moisten the air in your indoor environment, easing the symptoms of sinusitis, like a stuffy nose, dry throat, and congestion.
According to experts, the key to getting the most benefits from a humidifier is to keep it clean and to use it properly.
In this article, we’ll look at what to keep in mind if you’re thinking of using a humidifier to help clear up your sinus issues.
Different humidifiers work in different ways, but the basic principle is the same: They release water vapor into the air.
When the air you breathe is too dry, it can irritate your nose, mouth, and sinuses. The inside of your nose may swell, crack, and even bleed a bit. And the mucus your body produces may become thick and hard to remove.
According to sinus experts, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier is generally good for your sinus health.
Moist air can help thin out and loosen mucus. And the water vapor in the air can moisturize and calm irritated airways and ease dry eyes caused by sinusitis.
Humidifiers range from pricey whole-house systems to inexpensive tabletop units. Their features and temperature capabilities can also vary a lot.
Most of the humidifiers sold are portable cool mist humidifiers. Some propel warm mists or steam. And some units can switch from warm to cool.
Here is a brief breakdown of humidifier types and features:
Whole-house humidifiers
About 4 percent of the humidifiers sold in the United States are systems that can humidify the whole house. Generally, these systems must be installed by HVAC professionals, so they can be quite expensive.
Whole-house humidifiers connect directly to your home’s water lines and have filters that must be replaced at least twice a year.
Impellers
This type of cool mist humidifier is driven by a small motor, which draws water up using a spinning disc. The disc propels water through a mesh screen, creating a light mist.
Evaporators
A type of cool mist humidifier, evaporators contain a fan and a wick. When you fill the unit with water, the wick becomes wet. The fan blows cool air through the wick, where it gathers moisture before being released into the room.
Ultrasonic units
Ultrasonic humidifiers can blow either warm or cool air. They propel tiny water droplets by vibrating a metal or ceramic diaphragm under the water level. Ultrasonic units are usually quieter than evaporators.
Steam
A simple steam humidifier boils water and releases the steam into the room. These portable units are often inexpensive. It’s important to note that studies haven’t confirmed whether steam humidifiers are effective at reducing sinus issues.
There are many factors to consider when buying a humidifier. Although price is an important consideration, here are some other factors to keep in mind when trying to choose the right humidifier for your sinusitis.
- Buy the right size. Make sure you buy a humidifier that’s the right size for the space where it’ll be used. A humidifier that’s too large for the space can create too much moisture which, in turn, could encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. A humidifier that’s too small won’t give you the level of humidity you need to help relieve your symptoms.
- Easy to clean. Choose a model that’s easy to take apart and put back together, so cleaning is quick and simple.
- Humidity feature. Look for a humidistat feature that shuts off the device when the air reaches an optimal humidity.
- Listen before you buy. Turn the humidifier on and listen to it before you buy it. Some models may be loud enough to disturb your sleep.
- Read reviews. Be sure to read the ratings and reviews on different humidifiers before you buy one. Make sure it has the features you need and that it will be easy to clean and maintain.
- Check out the warranty. Look for a product warranty that lasts at least a year.
Product recommendations
Healthline has given these portable humidifiers top ratings. You can buy each of these products online.
- Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier. This moderately priced, easy-to-clean humidifier has plenty of useful features and can produce both warm and cool mist.
- Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier. Ideal for smaller rooms, this humidifier is easy to clean and has an automatic shutoff feature.
- Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. This quiet, compact humidifier is super easy to use and works well in smaller spaces.
- Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier. Well suited to larger rooms, this quiet unit has the advantage of ultraviolet technology that can eliminate bacteria and fungi in the air.
- Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier. This warm mist humidifier can be used with Vicks VapoSteam, which may provide respiratory relief when you’re congested.
- TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier. Featuring a larger capacity tank, this humidifier can also switch between producing warm or cool mist.
- Hey Dewy Portable Facial Humidifier. Powered by a USB cable, this small, portable humidifier is well suited for use on airplanes and in other public spaces.
Was this helpful?
The right kind of humidifier may help reduce sinusitis and allergy symptoms when used correctly.
Here are a few tips on how to use a humidifier:
- Fill with distilled water only. Tap water often has minerals that can be irritating if inhaled.
- To prevent your indoor space from becoming too humid, run a humidifier only when you need it. Don’t run it all the time. If possible, opt for a humidifier that will shut off when the humidity reaches a certain level in your indoor space.
- Take the humidifier apart and clean it daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the humidifier uses filters, make sure you replace these regularly.
- Make sure to rinse away any disinfectant thoroughly. Breathing in disinfectant particles can harm your lungs.
- Test the air humidity. For the best indoor air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining between 30-50 percent humidity. Humidity levels above 50 percent can induce the growth of bacteria and molds.
Some health experts are hesitant to recommend humidifiers in places where someone’s health is vulnerable. One of the main reasons is because humidifiers that aren’t properly cleaned can disperse bacteria or fungi through the air.
Steam humidifiers are less likely to breed and spread germs, but there is some concern over the possibility of burns from hot water with steam units.
It’s also important to use caution if you decide to use essential oils with your humidifier. Some people and pets are sensitive to oils.
If you’re able to manage your sinus symptoms on your own, and you start to feel better, you may not need to see a healthcare professional.
But if you develop any of the following symptoms, it’s important to get medical care as soon as you’re able:
- sinus symptoms that last longer than 10-14 days
- fever over 102 degrees
- facial pain, redness, and swelling
- vision changes
- symptoms that carry on after you’ve finished antibiotics
- persistent headaches
- severe headache that doesn’t get better when you take over-the-counter medication
A humidifier is a good tool to have on hand if you experience sinus issues from time to time. It may help break up mucus, relieve a stuffy nose, and ease discomfort in your nose and throat.
A word of caution, however: Humidifiers need to be frequently and thoroughly cleaned, or they can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which may worsen your sinus problems.
There are also other steps you can take to relieve your sinus issues. This includes irrigating your nasal passages, using warm and cold compresses, and limiting the use of certain medications.
Humidifier for Sinus Problems: What Works Best?
A humidifier can moisten the air in your indoor environment, easing the symptoms of sinusitis, like a stuffy nose, dry throat, and congestion.
According to experts, the key to getting the most benefits from a humidifier is to keep it clean and to use it properly.
In this article, we’ll look at what to keep in mind if you’re thinking of using a humidifier to help clear up your sinus issues.
Different humidifiers work in different ways, but the basic principle is the same: They release water vapor into the air.
When the air you breathe is too dry, it can irritate your nose, mouth, and sinuses. The inside of your nose may swell, crack, and even bleed a bit. And the mucus your body produces may become thick and hard to remove.
According to sinus experts, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier is generally good for your sinus health.
Moist air can help thin out and loosen mucus. And the water vapor in the air can moisturize and calm irritated airways and ease dry eyes caused by sinusitis.
Humidifiers range from pricey whole-house systems to inexpensive tabletop units. Their features and temperature capabilities can also vary a lot.
Most of the humidifiers sold are portable cool mist humidifiers. Some propel warm mists or steam. And some units can switch from warm to cool.
Here is a brief breakdown of humidifier types and features:
Whole-house humidifiers
About 4 percent of the humidifiers sold in the United States are systems that can humidify the whole house. Generally, these systems must be installed by HVAC professionals, so they can be quite expensive.
Whole-house humidifiers connect directly to your home’s water lines and have filters that must be replaced at least twice a year.
Impellers
This type of cool mist humidifier is driven by a small motor, which draws water up using a spinning disc. The disc propels water through a mesh screen, creating a light mist.
Evaporators
A type of cool mist humidifier, evaporators contain a fan and a wick. When you fill the unit with water, the wick becomes wet. The fan blows cool air through the wick, where it gathers moisture before being released into the room.
Ultrasonic units
Ultrasonic humidifiers can blow either warm or cool air. They propel tiny water droplets by vibrating a metal or ceramic diaphragm under the water level. Ultrasonic units are usually quieter than evaporators.
Steam
A simple steam humidifier boils water and releases the steam into the room. These portable units are often inexpensive. It’s important to note that studies haven’t confirmed whether steam humidifiers are effective at reducing sinus issues.
There are many factors to consider when buying a humidifier. Although price is an important consideration, here are some other factors to keep in mind when trying to choose the right humidifier for your sinusitis.
- Buy the right size. Make sure you buy a humidifier that’s the right size for the space where it’ll be used. A humidifier that’s too large for the space can create too much moisture which, in turn, could encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. A humidifier that’s too small won’t give you the level of humidity you need to help relieve your symptoms.
- Easy to clean. Choose a model that’s easy to take apart and put back together, so cleaning is quick and simple.
- Humidity feature. Look for a humidistat feature that shuts off the device when the air reaches an optimal humidity.
- Listen before you buy. Turn the humidifier on and listen to it before you buy it. Some models may be loud enough to disturb your sleep.
- Read reviews. Be sure to read the ratings and reviews on different humidifiers before you buy one. Make sure it has the features you need and that it will be easy to clean and maintain.
- Check out the warranty. Look for a product warranty that lasts at least a year.
Product recommendations
Healthline has given these portable humidifiers top ratings. You can buy each of these products online.
- Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier. This moderately priced, easy-to-clean humidifier has plenty of useful features and can produce both warm and cool mist.
- Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier. Ideal for smaller rooms, this humidifier is easy to clean and has an automatic shutoff feature.
- Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. This quiet, compact humidifier is super easy to use and works well in smaller spaces.
- Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier. Well suited to larger rooms, this quiet unit has the advantage of ultraviolet technology that can eliminate bacteria and fungi in the air.
- Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier. This warm mist humidifier can be used with Vicks VapoSteam, which may provide respiratory relief when you’re congested.
- TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier. Featuring a larger capacity tank, this humidifier can also switch between producing warm or cool mist.
- Hey Dewy Portable Facial Humidifier. Powered by a USB cable, this small, portable humidifier is well suited for use on airplanes and in other public spaces.
Was this helpful?
The right kind of humidifier may help reduce sinusitis and allergy symptoms when used correctly.
Here are a few tips on how to use a humidifier:
- Fill with distilled water only. Tap water often has minerals that can be irritating if inhaled.
- To prevent your indoor space from becoming too humid, run a humidifier only when you need it. Don’t run it all the time. If possible, opt for a humidifier that will shut off when the humidity reaches a certain level in your indoor space.
- Take the humidifier apart and clean it daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the humidifier uses filters, make sure you replace these regularly.
- Make sure to rinse away any disinfectant thoroughly. Breathing in disinfectant particles can harm your lungs.
- Test the air humidity. For the best indoor air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining between 30-50 percent humidity. Humidity levels above 50 percent can induce the growth of bacteria and molds.
Some health experts are hesitant to recommend humidifiers in places where someone’s health is vulnerable. One of the main reasons is because humidifiers that aren’t properly cleaned can disperse bacteria or fungi through the air.
Steam humidifiers are less likely to breed and spread germs, but there is some concern over the possibility of burns from hot water with steam units.
It’s also important to use caution if you decide to use essential oils with your humidifier. Some people and pets are sensitive to oils.
If you’re able to manage your sinus symptoms on your own, and you start to feel better, you may not need to see a healthcare professional.
But if you develop any of the following symptoms, it’s important to get medical care as soon as you’re able:
- sinus symptoms that last longer than 10-14 days
- fever over 102 degrees
- facial pain, redness, and swelling
- vision changes
- symptoms that carry on after you’ve finished antibiotics
- persistent headaches
- severe headache that doesn’t get better when you take over-the-counter medication
A humidifier is a good tool to have on hand if you experience sinus issues from time to time. It may help break up mucus, relieve a stuffy nose, and ease discomfort in your nose and throat.
A word of caution, however: Humidifiers need to be frequently and thoroughly cleaned, or they can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which may worsen your sinus problems.
There are also other steps you can take to relieve your sinus issues. This includes irrigating your nasal passages, using warm and cold compresses, and limiting the use of certain medications.
Is it possible to turn on a humidifier with a runny nose? If an air humidifier is used as an additional therapeutic agent for a runny nose, it is recommended as an indispensable device for dermatitis and flaking.
- Do I need to turn on the humidifier if my child has snot
- What can be added to a humidifier for a cold
- What kind of air is needed for a cold
- Benefits of the Nasal Humidifier
- How a humidifier affects the nose
- Do I need to turn on the humidifier when coughing
- Is it necessary to humidify the air with a cold
- When it is recommended to turn on the humidifier
- Does a humidifier help with nasal congestion
- Can a humidifier aggravate nasal congestion
- Can Humidifiers Cause Sinus Infections
- How long should the humidifier be switched on
- Is it possible to cough from a humidifier
- Is it possible to sleep in a room with a humidifier
- Should the humidifier be turned off at night
Is it necessary to turn on the humidifier if the child has snot
If it is too dry, the mucous membrane dries up, cracks and loses its barrier functions, which makes the body much more vulnerable to airborne infection. Therefore, many doctors recommend using a humidifier for a child with a cold, as well as for the prevention of SARS and influenza.
What can be added to a humidifier for a runny nose
Top essential oils for colds:
- Chamomile oil
- Tea tree oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Peppermint oil
- Lavender oil
- Ginger root oil
- Rosemary oil
- Basil oil
What kind of air is needed for a runny nose
The optimal parameters of the air in the room are about 20°C, humidity 50-70%. Be sure to frequent and intensive cross-ventilation of the premises.
Benefits of a nasal air humidifier
Humidified air relieves discomfort from colds, flu, and acute respiratory infections. The use of a humidifier reduces nasal congestion, helps thin the mucus, and stimulates the expectorant effect with a dry cough.
How a humidifier affects the nose
Increasing the humidity of the surrounding air helps to reduce the density of secretions and allows fluid in the nose to move more freely.
Do I need to turn on the humidifier when coughing
The humidifier has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the bronchopulmonary system. Our alveoli need a kind of lubrication, the quality of which decreases when the room is dry. Therefore, I recommend that patients use a humidifier for asthma and dry cough.
Is it necessary to humidify the air in case of a runny nose
A humidifier in the children’s room will not only prevent the child from getting sick, but will also facilitate the course of a cold that has already overtaken the baby (optimal humidity in the room facilitates nasal breathing in case of a runny nose).
When it is recommended to turn on the humidifier
The humidifier will need to be turned on as soon as the hygrometer reading drops below 40%. If the humidity rises above 60%, the device can be turned off.
Does a humidifier help nasal congestion
Using a humidifier at home can relieve nasal congestion and help break up mucus so you can cough it up. Humidified air can ease the discomfort of colds and flu.
Can a humidifier make nasal congestion worse?
“They can get nasal congestion, cough, and even wheeze,” Richel said. To prevent bacteria from entering, experts recommend cleaning the reservoir and humidifier reservoir with disinfectant every three days, changing the water to distilled water every day to reduce mineral deposits, and changing filters regularly.
Can humidifiers cause sinus infections
When you inhale air through your nose, moisture helps to reduce irritation and therefore inflammation of the nasal passages. The bad news: A humidifier that isn’t properly maintained can make your allergies and sinusitis worse.
How long should the humidifier be on
The humidifier should run all night to reduce the chance of illness and nosebleeds. The ultrasonic device reduces contamination by airborne germs. If you cough or sneeze in dry air, germs stay in the environment for a few more hours.
Is it possible to cough from a humidifier
If a humidifier is installed at home, the occurrence of a cough can be affected by: Uncontrolled humidity parameters, leading to the creation of a favorable environment for all kinds of viruses and bacteria; Incorrect location of the device, which does not comply with the specified safety parameters in the instructions.
Is it possible to sleep in a room with a humidifier? It is important to make sure that it is installed safely and that the steam is supplied correctly. It should be distributed throughout the room. If the humidifier is next to the bed, it is not directed towards it.
Should the humidifier be switched off at night
With this in mind, the humidifier must be switched on at different times. How long he has to work depends on the time of year. In winter, the humidity is very low, so it is better to turn on the device after airing and leave it on for a long time, for example, all night.
Six places in the apartment where you can not put a humidifier – article on TSK
Want a simple example that clearly explains why it is important that the air in your apartment is sufficiently humidified? Imagine a hot summer day – one when the asphalt melts in the sun and even on the street there is nothing to breathe. But it is worth passing a good downpour with a thunderstorm – and the picture changes! The head clears up, strength returns, mood and performance improve.
Air that is too dry can cause poor sleep, red eyes, nasal congestion, decreased immunity, exacerbated asthma symptoms, and even premature aging. A humidifier will help correct the situation – a special device that spreads microscopic drops of moisture in the air.
In what rooms is it important to maintain the correct humidity
Not all rooms are in dire need of humidification. This is usually necessary where you spend most of your time, as well as in rooms where central heating radiators are located. The hallway, pantry, bathroom, and in some cases the kitchen will do without a humidifier. It is much more expedient to install high-quality ventilation or an exhaust hood in them. But the air in the nursery, bedroom and other living rooms is better to moisten additionally, especially during the heating season. Choose the power of the device based on the area of \u200b\u200bthe room: in the description for each model, all important parameters are usually indicated.
The range of 35–60% is considered to be a comfortable indicator of air humidity for a person. For children’s rooms, pediatricians recommend a constant level of about 45%. In other rooms, focus on your own feelings.
Children’s room
The right microclimate in the room helps the baby sleep better and strengthen the immune system. It is not surprising that many people first think about purchasing a humidifier after the birth of a child. Dry air is dangerous with the appearance of crusts on the nasal mucosa, difficulty in breathing and, as a result, frequent night awakenings. In some cases, due to the stuffiness and dryness of the air, the baby may even experience nosebleeds.
When choosing a humidifier for the nursery, give preference to silent models with a timer and night mode, as well as the ability to adjust or completely turn off the backlight so that it does not disturb the baby at night. A good option for children’s rooms is humidifiers with an air purification function and ionization.
Bedroom
The right microclimate is important not only for children, but also for adults. It has been proven to significantly affect the quality of sleep, skin condition and overall well-being. Therefore, a humidifier in the bedroom is definitely a good solution. You can choose any model, but, as in the case of a children’s room, it is better to give priority to the most silent and with a night-time backlight.
Seven ways to get quality sleep today >>
Kitchen
Putting a humidifier in the kitchen is not always worth it. First of all, this should be done if its area exceeds 20 m² or it is combined with a living room or dining room. In a small room, the device will create excessive humidity.
The humidifier will also come in handy for those who grow seedlings or are engaged in floriculture in the kitchen: it can be placed near moisture-loving plants. The main thing is to place the device as far as possible from the stove.
Office or other living room
Typically, a room, whether it is a purpose-built office or multi-purpose living space, has one or more computers. Yes, and the TV, shelves with books, home textiles contribute to the accumulation of dust and the deterioration of air quality. Therefore, it is recommended to control the humidity from time to time.
Six places where the humidifier must not be placed
1. Near heaters. Central heating radiators or space heaters dry out the air. It would seem that the humidifier should just be there to neutralize their effects, but in fact its work will turn out to be meaningless: moisture particles will evaporate without having time to be distributed around the room. Consider this also if you are forced to install a humidifier on the windowsill – there must be at least 30 cm to the radiator.
2. Next to the window. Putting a humidifier next to an open window also makes no sense: the effect of its operation will be almost zero. In addition, you will not avoid constant condensation and smudges on the glass. If there was no other place for the device, then turn it on at minimum power and direct the steam jet away from the window.
3. On the floor. If you don’t want to ruin your parquet or laminate flooring or slip on wet tiles, don’t place the humidifier on the floor. The exception is special floor models. Desktop options are recommended to be placed at a height of at least a meter from the floor so that moisture is evenly distributed throughout the room without leaving puddles.
4. On furniture. Be careful when installing the humidifier on cabinets and shelving. Do not push the appliance too deep, otherwise a white coating will remain on the back wall and shelves, and the furniture itself will swell and deform from excessive moisture. The minimum distance to the top shelf or the inner wall of the cabinet is about 30 cm. The neighborhood of the humidifier with books is also undesirable, since the pages and bindings will quickly lose their shape and turn yellow.
5. In the bedroom by the bed. Cool humidified air is important for healthy sleep and well-being. However, we do not recommend placing the device on a bedside table. Even the quietest model, whose operation is invisible during the day, can annoy with its sound at night and interfere with sleep. Turn on the device an hour before you go to bed, or place it away from the bed.
6. Close to appliances. Another popular humidifier location is the computer desk. However, moisture can damage the equipment! Make sure that the steam jet is not directed at the computer, and that water drops do not accumulate on surfaces and do not fall on sockets. Do not use the humidifier continuously and do not leave it unattended.
How to place the humidifier in the apartment
- Choose a flat surface. There is less chance that water will leak out of the reservoir or the appliance will tip over. In addition, the built-in humidity sensors may not work correctly if the humidifier is placed on an incline or on a soft surface.
- Do not lean the appliance against a wall. The humidifier must be located at least 30 cm from other vertical surfaces.