Vicks CoolRelief Filter Free Humidifier VUL600

Best Humidifier Review & Buying Guide 2023

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Humidifiers are useful not only for treating air dryness, but also for spiritual practices such as pranayamas and breathing exercises. . The popularity of humidifiers has increased greatly in recent years. This has led to many new brands entering the humidifier market, offering different types of humidifiers at different prices.

This makes it difficult for us consumers to find the best humidifier for our needs. Once there are different offerings with different benefits, I often find it hard to choose the right one. I’m sure you’ve also faced the same dilemma about which humidifier to buy.

If you’re one of those harried shoppers, don’t worry. This article is written especially for you. In this article, I’ll introduce you to some of the best humidifiers on the market and explain who they’re suitable for. Later, in the buying guide section, I’ll also cover how to choose the best humidifiers based on different criteria. So let’s get started.

Contents

Best Humidifier Reviews

Here I’ve selected 9 of the best humidifiers you can buy on the market. You’ll see that I’ve differentiated them according to different types. Some are best because of their smart technology, others because of their capacity. I hope this will help you make the best choice.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier (Best Quiet Humidifier)

AquaOasis Cool Mist HumidifierAquaOasis Cool Mist HumidifierCHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier qualifies as the best quiet humidifier on my list. You may have experienced hissing or whistling sounds coming from your humidifier. Usually, this noise is caused by the mist generation. Undoubtedly, this noise is annoying and irritating. But with AquaOasis Cool Mist humidifier, there’s no such noise. It’s a completely silent ultrasonic humidifier. This saves you from the annoying noise that a working humidifier makes.

But the noiselessness isn’t the only thing that makes it stand out. The larger than average water tank is another great feature it’s to offer. The water tank capacity of this ultrasonic humidifier from AquaOasis is 2.2 liters. This means that you can use it continuously for over 24 hours without having to refill it.

The mist that the AquaOasis Cool Mist humidifier produces is cool. So, it’s the perfect choice for hot summer days. It can also be used to treat dry air in the winter. No more dry throat and nose in winter.

What really sets the AquaOasis Cool Mist humidifier apart is its simple analog control system. Instead of buttons and a touch screen, the AquaOasis Cool Mist humidifier has a knob that can be turned 360 degrees. This allows you to easily set the desired mist strength.

Speaking of mist control, you can also adjust the direction of the mist flow. The nozzle can also be rotated 360 degrees.

I highly recommend the AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier if you’re looking for a quiet humidifier. You can leave it on your nightstand and sleep peacefully. Will the humidifier burn out overnight? No. There’s an automatic shut-off feature that turns the humidifier off once the tank is empty.

Pros:

  • 360O rotating nozzle
  • Continuous operation for 24+ hours
  • Automatic shut-off for safety
  • Cleaning brush included
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Difficult to clean
  • No filter design causes minerals to build up in the internal mechanisms
  • The tank had to be filled upside-down

Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier (Best Humidifier For Large Room)

Everlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Cool Mist HumidifierEverlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Cool Mist HumidifierCHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist humidifier is the best humidifier for large rooms. I’m talking about rooms with a size of 500 square meters. This humidifier can easily cover such a large room with its mist. This makes the Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist humidifier a perfect choice for office and commercial spaces.

The design of this humidifier fits perfectly in an office or a hospital. It’s a sleek, monochromatic design. It’s available in black and white colors.

The Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist humidifier has an analog dial that allows you to adjust the amount of mist. There are two nozzles on the top of the humidifier. The dual nozzle design provides high humidity. It can easily humidify a small house and treat dry air without you having to invest in a whole house humidifier.

The nozzles can be rotated 360°. However, both nozzles point in the opposite direction.

It can be refilled from the top. With such a large humidifier, refilling is a bit difficult. The tank of this Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist humidifier has a capacity of 6 liters. With this, you can run the humidifier for 50 hours continuously.

This humidifier comes with a no-filter design. This saves you the hassle of spending more money on changing the filter.

One of the standout features of the Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist humidifier is its essential oil tray. Yes, besides the huge 6-liter water tank, there’s another essential oil container. You can pour in an essential oil of your choice to diffuse the aroma in the air. So you can create any kind of environment for aromatherapy.

Since the oil is in a separate tank from the water, you can change the oil without changing the water. No water is wasted here.

Pros:

  • High supply of continuous mist for 50 hours
  • Separate essential oil tray for efficient oil changes
  • Mist coverage up to 500 square meters
  • Two-year replacement policy from the manufacturer

Cons:

  • The water tank is not easy to clean
  • The filterless design does not protect the mechanisms from mineral build-ups
  • Difficult to move around after filling the tank

Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier (Best Affordable Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier)

Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, Medium Room, 1.2 Gallon Tank-Humidifier for Baby and Kids Rooms, Bedrooms and MoreCHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

If this is your first time using a humidifier and you’re looking for an affordable option, you can try the Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. This humidifier is affordable and gives you the same features in creating mist and diffusing aromatics.

The Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier has a water tank with a capacity of 5.4 liters and lasts for 30 hours of continuous use. It dispenses cool mist. The nozzle can be rotated 360 degrees. The mist coverage of this humidifier is ideal for bedrooms and smaller rooms.

Keep in mind that this humidifier is an inexpensive option. So it’s normal that this humidifier cannot cover large areas.

Although it’s a cheap humidifier, it’s some advanced features like automatic shutdown when the tank is empty. It can also hold two Vicks vapopads. These vapopads are an excellent remedy for asthma and cough patients.

There’s one thing this humidifier does better than most other humidifiers. Cleaning. The humidifier is easy to clean. The places where minerals are deposited are easy to reach with a dish brush. So you don’t have to worry about the smelly and dirty mist.

Pros:

  • Space for Vicks Vapopads
  • Automatic shut-off
  • 4-liter water tank
  • 30-hour continuous mist supply
  • Easy cleaning design

Cons:

  • A little noisy
  • Requires frequent cleaning
  • No diffusing system for essential oils

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745 (Best Affordable Warm Mist Humidifier)

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745CHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The Vicks is the first warm mist humidifier on my list. It emits warm mist into the air. The water capacity of this humidifier is 1 gallon. With one refill, you can use it for up to 24 hours.

Since it’s a warm mist humidifier, you can use it as a remedy for colds, coughs, and congestion. The warm mist also makes it a good choice for cold winter days.

It also has a separate essential oil chamber to disperse the aroma in the air. This humidifier has very simple controls. You only have two comfort levels. Level one and level two. This simplifies things.

Since the Vicks V745 humidifier is a filterless warm air humidifier, you’ll need to clean it regularly.

Dry minerals build up in the mist generation unit. This will cause the humidifier to stop working. Fortunately, the humidifier is designed so that you can easily clean it and it’ll work like new again.

This is a budget model. So cleaning the mist generation unit is an acceptable sacrifice you’ll have to make. Otherwise, it’s a great humidifier for warm mist.

Pros:

  • Continuous production of warm mist for up to 24 hours
  • Ultra-quiet operation

Cons:

  • Regular cleaning is required for quiet operation
  • Delivers only warm mist
  • Not safe for children and pets

LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer (Best Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier)

LEVOIT Humidifiers for Large Room Bedroom (6L), Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer for Home Whole House Babies, Customized Humidity, Remote Control, Whisper-Quiet, BlackCHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

This LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer is a sophisticated looking humidifier that can produce both cool and warm mist. This makes it a luxury humidifier for all seasons.

Its luxurious design immediately sets it apart from your average humidifier. You’ll fall in love with its control panel.

The control panel has a LCD with buttons surrounding the screen. There’s the on/off button, the mist level, the warm/cool, timer, and auto button. Even more exciting is that the LEVOIT Warm and Cool humidifier comes with a remote control. With the remote control, you can operate the humidifier completely remotely.

The LEVOIT Warm and Cool humidifier has other smart features besides the remote control. You can adjust the type of the mist (warm or cool) and you can control the humidity in the room. For the humidity you can choose the automatic mode. In automatic mode, the LEVOIT Warm and Cool Humidifier automatically detects what percentage of humidity is needed in the room and adjusts the humidity accordingly. You also have the option to set the humidifier on a timer. When the timer expires, the humidifier turns off. It also has an automatic shut-off function to ensure the safety of the device.

The LEVOIT Warm and Cool humidifier isn’t only luxurious, but also has a large water tank. The water capacity of this humidifier is 6 liters. With this, you can run the humidifier for up to 60 hours without refilling the tank. Also, you’ve a separate pad where you can put essential oils to spread aroma with this humidifier.

With this huge capacity, you can cover up to 753 square feet with this humidifier.

Pros:

  • Remote control interface
  • Covers up to 753 square meters
  • Warm and Cool mist control

Cons:

  • Not an affordable humidifier
  • No filter design will lead to mineral build-up
  • Complicated  cleaning of two mist generation mechanisms

LEVOIT Humidifiers Classic 300S Top Fill Cool Mist Air Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier (Best Smart Humidifier)

LEVOIT Humidifiers for Bedroom Large Room Home, Smart Wifi Alexa Control, 6L Top Fill Cool Mist for Baby and Plants, Ultrasonic, Essential Oil Diffuser, Customized Humidity, Night Light, Quiet, BlueCHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The LEVOIT humidifiers are one of the best ones in the market, for their quality and service.

With the LEVOIT Humidifiers Top Fill Cool Mist Smart Humidifier, you no longer need to be concerned about over-humidification thanks to the clever humidity sensor. The Auto Mode automatically regulates the humidity in your home and modifies the mist levels.

Simply adjust your moisture, turn on the mister, and have pleasure. Additionally, the Classic 300S offers relief in spaces up to 505 ft2 thanks to humidification that is up to 4x quicker than that of other brands, a sizable 6-L tank, as well as up to 60 operating hours. Without worrying, experience the relief of congestion as well as dry skin!

Your most private humidifier is, without a question the Classic300S. To free up your hands, merely use the free VeSync APP to manage settings, make calendars, and integrate to a third-party intelligent voice command. Loading and emptying the tank are made simple by the wide entrance. An item that was thoughtfully made can be convenient for you!

The ideal sleep-humidifying environment is provided for you by the Sleep Mode. You will also adore the calming, mellow night lighting.

The water tank is a top-fill tank. This allows you to refill it easily without disassembling the unit. It also has smart features like automatic humidity level detection and auto shut-off.

With the humidity plus aromatherapy features of the Classic300S, you may fill the aroma box with your preferred essential oils and breathe in beautiful, fragrant air. However, certain measures have to be taken to ensure the highest quality experience. Kindly do not fill it up above the maximum water level in order to improve the experience and enhance product life span.

Pros:

  • Smartphone companion app control
  • Compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa
  • Ultra-silent mist generation
  • Automatic humidity level detection

Cons:

  • Smartphone control requires an account
  • Unwanted newsletter in your account email
  • The tank may get damaged at the bottom and start leaking if frequently moved around carelessly

AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier (Best Whole House Humidifier)

AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier (Espresso)CHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The AIRCARE humidifier is another option you can acquire to achieve the ideal humidifying experience. The Humidifier in the pedestal form is almost perfect for a home up to 2,400 square feet. If your house is around that measurement, this is the option for you.

Your specific humidity level is automatically maintained with precise accuracy by a digital humidistat, saving you from work. The current humidity, ideal humidity, and fan speed are displayed on a digital panel; you can see all of it right in front of your eyes. 

Furthermore, you can choose your desired performance level using the speed of the fan.

The best part about this humidifier is, when the appropriate humidity threshold is achieved or the unit is full, it automatically turns off. This saves you from a great deal of work as you don’t have to go turn it off yourself.

It includes an excellent display that will inform you when to put water or replace the filter (which is once or  even twice per season). You wouldn’t want to put it in the same room as your TV because it generates enough noise that you will hear it when it comes on.

You must add water, generally every 3 to 5 days throughout the winter, if the display shows a “f.”

The water filter needs to be changed if the display shows “cf.” Although there is a pull-out for adding water, most people find it more convenient to just peel off the top of the container altogether because the plastic covering is not weighty. You might find all of these suggestions useful.

For some instruments to maintain their ideal form, strength, and tone, humidity is necessary. You may keep the optimal humidity level of 40 to 60 percent while continuing to listen to music by using an AIRCARE humidifier and hygrometer.

The risk of harm to delicate electrical devices like laptops, personal computers, smartphones, TVs, stereo equipment, etc. can be decreased or eliminated in properly humidified surroundings. These are the things you should keep in mind before purchasing this humidifier.

Pros:

  • Smart humidity level detection and maintenance
  • Decorative design
  • Long operation hours
  • Covers up the whole house
  • Requires less maintenance

Cons:

  • Excessive fan noise on high settings
  • Difficult to fill
  • Not much thought was put into the design of cleaning the tank

MOVTIP 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier (Best Portable Mini Humidifier)

Movtip Portable Mini Humidifier, 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier, USB Personal Desktop Humidifier for Baby Bedroom Travel Office Home, Auto Shut-Off, 2 Mist Modes, Super Quiet (Black)CHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

For people looking for more portable options, this is the one for you. Small and portable, they are ideal for travel, the bedroom, and the office since they effectively moisturize dry skin and further help you stop skin peeling.

There are two modes on this tiny humidifier. The first time you click the lever, it will spray constantly for six hours. When you click the button once again, it will sporadically spray for 12 hours (stopping after 2 seconds).

Longer mist is produced with a 500ml huge capacity. Whenever the water level falls below the safe water level, a designed water level indicator inside will immediately cut off power. Moreover, the seal is sturdy; it is no longer concerned that spilling liquid would cause a leak.

It’s quite simple to use the portable and compact USB humidifier. You only require to press a single button to establish the mist, which is how all functions are controlled. Make your responsibilities easier and simpler!

However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Avoid using distilled water, aromatic oils, or perfume since these substances will clog the cotton ball and render the humidifier useless. Additionally, before switching it on, please wait a few moments for the cotton center to soak.

A chilly mist provider, USB humidifier adds moisture to the air around you to improve its quality. Your suffering when the air is dry, during allergy season, or when you’re ill is substantially reduced by the small size, high capacity, and long-lasting spray. It is very safe because of the automated shut-off feature. The ideal choice for a bedroom, nursery, workplace, living room, desktop, automobile, etc.

Pros:

  • Small and portable design
  • Warm-light
  • Two modes for mist generation

Cons:

  • Reduced water capacity
  • General settings make it last for 6 hours only
  • Not suitable for bedrooms

Sharp KC-860U Plasmacluster Triple Action Air Purifier Humidifier (Best Air Purifier and Humidifier)

SHARP KC860U Air Purifier and Humidifier with Plasmacluster Ion Technology Recommended for Large-Sized Rooms. True HEPA Filter for Dust, Smoke, Pollen, and Pet Dander may last up-to 5 Years.CHECK CURRENT PRICE

 

The air purifier cum humidifier aids to preserve a fresh atmosphere by enhancing air quality. It can fit a 341 square foot family room, living area, or bedrooms.

The Plasmacluster Ion technology also purifies the air in the entire space. In addition, the humidification feature increases air humidity to reduce environmental pollution during colder months. Your effort and duties in managing the humidifier itself are reduced because the display tracks dust and moisture levels. 

It works for up to 1,650 square feet. It has Plasmacluster Ion Technology for a proactive cleaning process in addition to passive filtering.

A humidifier is built into the KC860U, which could improve the comfort of your house. Up to  about 341 square feet of space can be purified by the sharp KC-860U triple-action Plasmacluster air purifier with moisture control function.

Not wary of the weather, it provides a special mixture of air treatment technologies that make you as well as your household more pleasant. The Plasmacluster air purifier from Sharp uses a whisper-quiet fan to draw air through a three-stage filtration system to help eliminate allergens.

The air is purified and smells better thanks to its filter system and the ground-breaking Plasmacluster Ion Technology of air purifiers. Sensors continuously check the air condition in your room to make it even more pleasant. They regulate the fan to provide clean air while maintaining the ideal humidity level. This mixture of qualities is a wise strategy to select healthier household air that’s fresher.

 

Pros:

  • Serves as both air-purifier and humidifier
  • Uses evaporate humidifying technology
  • Displays humidity and dust level of house-air

Cons:

  • Not suitable for large spaces
  • The filter requires regular cleaning and maintenance

So these are the best humidifiers you can get in the market. As you can see, they all have their different specialties. This was the root cause of creating confusion among customers. Since I have distinguished them for different needs, I hope that you will be able to pick the right one from here.

Humidifier Buying Guide

Humidifier technology has advanced a lot. Now we have different types of humidifiers using different technology and principles. A lot of us get confused by seeing these different technologies.

So here is a buying guide about humidifiers. This guide will explain different aspects of humidifiers. I hope that after reading this you will not be confused in choosing a humidifier.

Mist type

The first thing to notice is the mist type of the humidifier. Mists can be of two types depending on the temperature. Cool and warm.

Cool

Cool mist humidifiers are the most common type of humidifier. Though they are called cool mist humidifiers, they don’t release cool mist. Rather the mist that comes out is of room temperature.

Cool mist humidifiers have no heating element. It uses an ultrasonic metal disk that vibrates and makes water into mist(Just like the AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier). In some cool mist humidifiers, a fan is used to push the mist out in the air(Like the AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier). Since the mist is not hot, it immediately dissolves in the air.

Cool mist humidifiers usually have no filter. So if you put tap water in their tank, the waterborne bacteria will also get dissolved into the air.

Warm

Warm mist humidifiers are much healthier than cool mist humidifiers. But warm mist humidifiers tend to be more costly than cool mist humidifiers.

Unlike the cool mist humidifiers, warm mist humidifiers use internal heating elements for boiling the water. This creates a mist and it automatically dissolves in the air. No fan is used to push the mist out in the air. This absence of a fan makes warm mist humidifiers quieter than cool mist humidifiers. The Honeywell HWM705B Humidifier is a good example of such a warm humidifier.

Warm mist humidifiers are considered the healthiest. Because the internal boiling process of the humidifiers kills all bacteria in the water. So, the mist that is dissolved in the air has no harmful bacteria.

However, I will not recommend you get a warm mist humidifier if you plan to place it in a child’s room, or if you have a pet in your house. Your child may hurt him/herself by touching the humidifier. The pet may knock over the humidifier and hurt themselves.

But if you want to enjoy that warm and cozy humidity from a warm mist humidifier, you should get one. Or better, you can get a hybrid of both, a warm and cool mist humidifier.

Warm and cool

There are hybrid humidifiers like the LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer that can provide both warm and cool mist. These types of humidifiers have both ultrasonic coil and internal heating elements. As a result, you can use it on all occasions. For a children’s room, turn on the cool mist settings. And for your bedroom, turn on the warm mist generation settings.

However, these types of humidifiers can cost you double what you would pay for a regular humidifier with one type of mist setting. If you can afford it, then I would suggest you go and buy one.

Technology

There are five different technologies used in humidifiers. Ultrasonic, Evaporative Whirlflow, Vaporizer, Cool-mist/ Impeller, and Warm-mist.

Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic humidifiers work with a vibrating metal coil. This metal coil turns water into mist and dissolves in the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers tend to be smaller in size. They do not use any fan to push the mist to the air. That is why they are very quiet.

Ultrasonic humidifiers are relatively expensive to buy. But since they do not require you to replace any filter, their cost is less in the long term. They are a suitable choice for portable humidifiers. Most of the humidifiers on my list use this technology. The warm mist humidifiers use different technology.

Evaporative Whirlflow

Evaporative Whirlflow is less expensive. But they do require regular filter replacement for smooth operation.

There is a wick at the bottom of the unit. The wick pulls water into it and a fan blows the wick. This creates water vapor that dissolves in the surrounding air and increases humidity. These types of humidifiers provide cool/ room temperature mists.

They are very common in the market and qualify as the cheapest option. However, they do require high maintenance for keeping the wick operational.

The AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier uses this technology.

Vaporizer

The humidifiers that use vaporizer technology boil water and use the steam from the boiled water to humidify the surroundings.

Since they have heating elements, they are not safe for children and pets. But they are healthy for patients with cold and lung-related diseases. The Honeywell HWM705B Humidifier, and the LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer have this technology in them to operate.

Cool-mist/ Impeller

The Impeller/ cool-mist humidifiers use a spinning disk instead of a vibrating disk. The spinning disk throws water into a diffuser that makes the water into tiny droplets. These droplets are tiny enough to get dissolved into the air. You can substitute these types of humidifiers with ultrasonic humidifiers.

Unfortunately, I have not included any humidifier in my list that uses this technology.

Warm-mist

Warm-mist humidifiers are a safer version of vaporizer humidifiers. In this type of humidifier, the water vapor is cooled down slightly before releasing into the air.

If you want to enjoy a cozy and warm humidity environment, then you should get a warm-mist humidifier. The Honeywell HWM705B Humidifier’s technology comes closer to this, but it is not an exact match.

Water tank capacity

Anyone can understand the fact that the bigger the water capacity, the longer it can provide mist. There are different humidifiers with different water capacities in the market. Usually, they tend to range from 1.5 to 6 liters. But there are also smaller portable versions such as 500ml(The MOVTIP 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier).

The ones that have 1.5 liters to 2.2 liters work for about 24 hours. Those with 6 liters can work for up to 60 hours continuously(The LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer, LEVOIT Humidifiers Top Fill Cool Mist Air Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier).

Mist Output Capacity per hour

Mist output capacity also differs from model to model. The need for mist capacity per hour also varies by the environment you are in. Dry environments require a higher level of output. You should go for a mist capacity of 250 to 350 milliliters per hour in that case.

But if you live in a less dry, and more wet area, then go with low mist capacity per hour(80 – 150 milliliters).

Design

There are usually two design types for table-top humidifiers. Top-fill and removable tank.

Top-fill

Top-fill humidifiers are easy to fill. All you need to do is open the cap and fill it with water. But they are difficult to clean because the tank is not removable from the unit (for example Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier).

Removable Tank

Removable tanks are easy to clean because you can take them off the unit and wash it as you please. But they are a little complicated to fill. Because the cap is located at the bottom. You will need to make sure you have closed it properly so it does not leak out.

Nozzle Design

The nozzle is the point from where the mist comes out from the humidifier. There are different types of nozzles. I have discussed them below.

Fixed

Fixed nozzles are less complicated because there are n moving parts here. But they will always point in one direction (Usually top).

360 degrees rotating

If you do not want a fixed nozzle, then go for a 360-degree rotating nozzle. This allows you to change the direction of the mist coming out.

Adjustable

Adjustable nozzles are a better version of the 360-degree rotating nozzle. But they are very rare to see in humidifiers.

Shut Off Feature

It is better to have shut-off features in humidifiers because that will save the equipment from burning out.

Auto Shut off

Humidifiers with automatic shut-off will shut off when there is no water. It saves the equipment from damage and saves electricity. Always buy humidifiers with automatic shut-off.

Timer Shut-off

Some humidifiers come with timer shut-off settings. This lets the humidifier run for a preset time and then shut off. Although it is not necessary, it is a great feature to have.

Number of Mist Settings

There are two types of humidifiers based on their mist settings. 2-4 presets and variable mist level humidifier.

2-4 presets

2-4 preset humidifiers usually have buttons for different mist generation settings. They offer less control. (Example: Honeywell HWM705B Humidifier)

Variable mist

Variable mist humidifiers usually have analog dials for controlling mist levels. This gives you better control over the humidifier in case of mist output. (Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier)

Controls

Based on the control interface, there are different types of humidifiers.

Dial for Adjusting Mist Output

These types of humidifiers offer better control for adjusting the mist output. However, the lack of buttons makes it a little hard to be precise about setting the mist output level.

Some models offer dials with level indication. These models offer better and more precise control over mist output.

Single-button for Mode Change

Another type of model offers a single-button interface that lets you change the mode of mist output. They are considered digital options. But the single button interface makes it a little complicated to change the mode. For example, if you want to set the previous level, you will need to change the level to the maximum then repeat the circle to get to that desired lower level.

Multiple Buttons for Modes, Timers, Fan Speeds

Multiple button interfaces are multiple single button interfaces merged. This type of interface offers control for modes, timer, and fan speed. They are usually observed in evaporative humidifiers. (LEVOIT Humidifiers Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Vaporizer)

Filter

Filter-Free

Ultrasonic and cool mist humidifiers are usually filter-free. This type of humidifier requires less maintenance. But the lack of a filter allows water-borne bacteria to mix up in the surrounding air.

If you are using a filter-free humidifier, it is strongly suggested to use pre-filtered water for your safety.

 

Antimicrobial Filter

Antimicrobial filters are usually observed in evaporative, warm-mist, and vaporized humidifiers. They trap bacterias from mixing up in the air.

But these types of humidifiers require regular maintenance for replacing the filter. This increases the overall long-term cost of use. The Sharp KC-860U Plasmacluster Triple Action Air Purifier Humidifier is such a type of humidifier.

Noise Levels

Ultra-Quiet Operation

Ultrasonic, warm-mist, and vaporized humidifiers are ultra-quiet. They do not have any fans to push the humidity out. This results in silent operations. These types of humidifiers are perfect to use when sleeping.

White Noise

Continuous white noise can be heard on cool-mist and evaporative humidifiers. That is because these types of humidifiers have fans that push the mist out in the air.

There are controversial reviews on the noses of these humidifiers. Some love the white noise while others find it irritating.

Light

Lights are not necessary for humidifiers, but it is a welcome feature to have. The MOVTIP 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier has a warm light feature.

No Light

No light humidifiers are your average humidifiers that have no lights but the indicated LEDs.

Night Light Function

Some table-top humidifiers have some warm LEDs functioning as night lights. These types of humidifiers are great for bedside use.

Color Select

You can also find humidifiers with RGB color settings. They are perfect for a kid’s room as the different light ambient can provide a playful environment.

Aromatherapy Feature

If you want to use your humidifier for aromatherapy, then you must get one that has room for essential oils with aromatherapy pads.

Essential Oil Tray

It is better to go with those that have a tray for diffusing essential oils. They can work with essential oils from any brand.

Aromatherapy Pad

If you do not want to deal with the trouble of pouring essential oils, then you can go for those that have options for aromatherapy pads.

On these models, you just put a pad in the humidifier and it will do the rest. Vick’s humidifiers are a prime example of such humidifiers.

Humidity Sensor

If you do not want to over-humidify your surroundings, then go with a humidifier that has built-in humidity sensors. This will detect the humidity level in your room and adjust to your required level of humidity.

Remote Control

A remote control can be a handy feature to have, especially for big humidifiers. With remote control, you can control your humidifier from a distance. This is perfect if your humidifier is far from the bed.

Descaling

Usually, warm-mist humidifiers come with descaling pads. But nowadays, some cool mist humidifiers have descaling pads too. What these pads do is filter out minerals and prevent them from building up.

This prolongs the life of the humidifier. But it requires you to regularly clean the descaling pad.

Smart Features

If you are into smart technology, then you may look for humidifiers that have smart features like BlueTooth compatibility. These types of humidifiers can connect with your phone and smart home devices.

Then you can control the humidifier via voice command or from the app. I have included LEVOIT Humidifiers Top Fill Cool Mist Air Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier as of this category.

Portability

Based on portability, there are three types of humidifiers.

Mini

Mini humidifiers have less water capacity. But they are lightweight and can be carried anywhere easily. They are perfect for traveling. The MOVTIP 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier is a mini portable humidifier.

Regular

Regular humidifiers are table-top humidifiers. They are medium in size. You can carry them around. But they cannot be carried in your backpack.

Whole-House Humidifiers

Whole house humidifiers are those that are too big to be moved in size. They are not portable at all.

If you want to move your humidifier around the house, then go for a regular humidifier.

Conclusion

So, this was my review of the best humidifier and buying guide. Be sure to use the knowledge when you are buying a humidifier. If you are buying a humidifier now, why don’t you buy one from my suggestion? They are of top quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Cool Mist vs Warm Mist Humidifiers Compare?

I will compare the two types of humidifiers and find the answer to the question ‘is cool mist or warm mist better’?

Stay tuned!

What are Ultrasonic vs Evaporative Humidifier Pros and Cons?

Pros of Ultrasonic Humidifiers

  • lower price
  • quieter operation
  • more secure because no hot water is present in the system

Cons of Ultrasonic Humidifiers

  • higher risk of bacteria present in the vapor because water is not boiled

 

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