Blueair makes some of my favorite air purifiers, so I was excited to learn that they’ve also expanded into humidifiers. Thankfully, I was not let down—with the mist-free, top-fill smart humidifier the invisible mist technology doesn’t create white dust or water residue (a particularly great feature since I don’t want to ruin my furniture while trying to relieve congestion). The humidifier uses an antimicrobial wick filter (lasting six months and has a replacement indicator) that’s designed to capture the minerals that cause white dust, while the wick filter also traps pollutants. The digital controls include easy-to-read icons, including a low water indicator, filter expire indicator, Wi-Fi indicator, and fan speed, along with a built-in hygrometer. Using the app, I can also control the humidifier through my iPhone, which includes monitoring and customizing humidity levels and setting schedules. The water tank has a bucket handle for easy removal and transport, and the auto dry mode speedily dries the filter, reducing the chances that it will develop bacteria or mold. There are three speeds, in addition to an auto and night setting.
Coverage: 538 sq ft | Run time: 50 hours | Size: 9.37″D x 12.67″W x 7.4″H | Weight: 3.3 lbs
I’d never heard of the Chivalz Cool Mist Humidifier before I tested it; however, I was impressed with the performance of this small appliance. It has a generous six-liter top fill water tank, and a 50-hour run time. The ultrasonic humidifier is also very quiet (26dB), and the indicator light button turns blue when it’s working normally,and red when more water needs to be added to the water tank. There’s also a scrub brush included, which makes it more convenient to thoroughly clean the water tank. The essential oil tray provides a place to put your favorite essential oil on a cotton pad. There’s only one knob—a 360-degree adjustable double wind-blow nozzle—which makes it easy to use the humidifier. Keep in mind that this device does not have a built-in hygrometer to let you know the humidity level in the room.
Coverage: N/A | Run time: 24 hours | Size: 8.8″D x 8.8″W x 13.2″H | Weight: 6.6 lbs
Honeywell is a popular humidifier brand, and it makes several models. However, this is one of our favorite Honeywell humidifiers. For starters, while you might find Honeywell humidifiers look rather bland, this model from the designer series has a more aesthetic appeal. But that’s not the only reason we like it. The cool mist humidifier has a 1.25 gallon tank, and the generous opening makes it easy to fill, empty, and clean. The illuminated water tank window makes it easy to see how much water remains or if the tank needs to be refilled. And for those who like to use essential oils, it has an essential oil tray. Scrolling through the control dial adjusts the mist output. Note: The humidifier doesn’t have a hygrometer, but it’s available in black or white.
Here’s what else you need to know about humidifiers:
According to Ratika Gupta, MD, a board-certified allergist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Brooklyn, indoor allergens are a major contributor to allergy symptoms, ranging from sneezing and post-nasal drip to itchy eyes and asthma-type symptoms. And in the winter, when we tend to spend more time indoors, Dr. Gupta says these may be more pronounced. “Humidifiers help keep the nasal passages moisturized so they don’t feel dry,” she explains. “Studies show that moderate humidity levels could help decrease airborne pathogens, which then may decrease the risk of getting sick.”
