TOP 10 best air humidifiers for apartments: traditional, steam, ultrasonic

Air quality affects our health, comfort and the condition of the home in which we live. Newborn babies suffer especially greatly from low humidity. Dr. Komarovsky recommends maintaining it at a level of 50-70%, which is almost impossible during the heating season. The first thing you should think about in this case is a humidifier. It will help avoid dryness in the room, prevent allergies and improve the microclimate. If you have already made a purchase decision, let's choose which air humidifier is best to buy for your apartment.

Types of Humidifiers

Depending on their mechanism of action, humidifiers can be divided into three categories:

1. traditional;
2. ultrasonic;
3. steam.

Traditional. It works on the principle of natural humidification - air is driven by a fan through a filter soaked in water and pushed out. Thanks to the traditional method of operation of the unit, there is no risk of “overdoing it” and achieving too high humidity - the air takes in as much as needed.

This humidifier has low performance, but acts gradually and safely. Dust settles inside the device, which is why you need to regularly fill it with clean water.

Due to the active operation of the fan, a traditional humidifier is often quite noisy, so it is not suitable for everyone to place in the bedroom.

Ultrasonic. In short, the water in it turns into steam by boiling at normal room temperature. This becomes possible due to the conversion of ultrasonic frequencies into mechanical vibration and the generation of waves of high and low pressure.

As a result of these processes, fine particles are produced, and the droplets thrown outside by the fan evaporate. A cold water mist appears before our eyes.

Ultrasonic humidifiers have high performance. At the same time, the quality of the water poured into the device is of great importance, because all harmful impurities enter the air along with the steam, which settle on various surfaces with a white coating and pollute our lungs. There are three ways to avoid this:

• pour distilled and purified water;
• purchase a humidifier with the function of preheating the liquid, which destroys the microorganisms contained in it;
• choose a device with the ability to ionize air.

To avoid over-humidification, it is better to ensure that the device is equipped with a hygrostat, which will determine the moisture content in the room, and then turn the device on or off.

Steam. The method of operation is similar to the operation of a regular kettle. The water inside the device heats up, and the steam, coming out, humidifies the air. This humidifier performs its task faster than its competitors, but it is better not to use it without a hygrostat.

Thanks to high temperatures, water gets rid of harmful impurities without installing additional filters. It is better to install the unit on the edge of the table so that a puddle does not form under it.

General information, functions

Traditional air humidifiers include “cold type” devices. This is the main feature that distinguishes the “traditionality” of the device – the absence of heating and ultrasonic vaporization elements. Such humidifiers can be simple, operating only for humidification in one mode, or with several operating modes and additional functionality.

The main task of such devices is to humidify the air to optimal parameters. Most models are equipped with additional features that allow you to achieve the required level of microclimate.

Additional features of traditional humidifiers:

• enhanced multi-stage cleaning;
• aromatization;
• ionization;
• disinfection.

The presence of cleaning systems is a must on modern models. They allow you to remove dust and other elements from the incoming air. In addition, filters allow you to protect the device itself (the formation of plaque on internal parts) and extend its service life. Improves the quality of cleaning – ionization and disinfection.

With the option of adding aroma capsules, the cold evaporation humidifier can be used for aromatherapy

Modifications with the possibility of adding aromatic capsules allow you not only to humidify and purify the air, but also to give it a pleasant smell. Such functionality allows the device to be used for aromatherapy. The spread of a certain smell in the air has a tonic, calming, relaxing and healing effect on the body.

How to choose a good one

Before choosing a humidifier, you need to pay attention to the criteria that play a primary role for you and additional functions. Be sure to consider before purchasing the device:

1. Room size. Manufacturers indicate in the instructions how much area the humidifier covers. The larger the room, the larger the water tank and the higher the intensity should be.
2. Water consumption and tank capacity. Calculate the time it takes for water to evaporate from a full tank. It should not be less than 8 hours, otherwise the device will notify you in the middle of the night that you need to add water.
3. Noise level. Here we are talking not only about the constant hum of the device, but also about additional sound signals - a low water level indicator or “gurgling” during operation.
4. Energy consumption. Typically, a steam humidifier consumes the most electricity, followed by ultrasonic and traditional ones.
5. The presence of a hygrometer, hygrostat. You can set the desired humidity level and device. Having achieved it, it will automatically turn off.
6. Control type. There are three ways: built-in panel, remote control or smartphone. There are also models equipped with a smart home system (for example, Xiaomi).
7. Backlight. Light indicators on the panel will provide information about the humidity level and operating mode even at night, but excessive brightness can interfere with sleep.
8. Ergonomics. Evaluate how convenient it will be for you to use the humidifier, the ability to add water, change the filter, and clean the device itself.
9. Ionization (increase in negatively charged particles) and aromatization of air.

Before purchasing, decide which features are worth paying extra for.

Traditional humidifiers

Ballu EHB-010

Average price: 2900 rub.

The Ballu concern supplies our market with a budget compact air humidifier with a simple design. Due to the low rate of water evaporation, it is able to work all night without stopping. The sponge inside the device absorbs dust well and requires replacement every six months. Buyers complain about frequent fan breakdowns.

Ballu EHB-010

Advantages

• several evaporation modes;
• aromatization;
• night mode, which makes the fan run quieter;
• water control function;
• sleep timer;
• low declared noise level

Flaws

• slowly moisturizes;
• no hygrometer;
• poor ergonomics;
• It is necessary to replace the sponge 2 times a year.

Coway AM-1012ED

Average price: 13190 rub.

The model from the South Korean company, unlike its previous competitor, is equipped with a hygrostat. It has a pre-filter that does not require replacement, and the cartridges are easy to clean. The automatic operating mode calculates the optimal humidity.

Coway AM-1012ED

Advantages

• ionization;
• 3 operating speeds, including night mode;
• convenient pouring of water from above;
• timer;
• auto shut-off function when there is no water;
• aromatization.

Flaws

• inaccurate hygrostat;
• loud melody when turning the device on and off;
• high price.

Philips HU 4706 / HU 4707

Average price: 4900 rub.

A compact device from a well-known brand with the NanoCloud function is designed to purify and humidify the air in a small room. Stylish design and comfortable ergonomics make it a pleasant part of any interior.

Philips HU 4706 / HU 4707

Advantages

• low power consumption;
• convenient to pour water;
• 2 operating speeds, including night mode;
• Automatic shut-off function when there is no water.

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Disadvantages

• no hygrometer;
• poor room humidity;
• The filter needs to be replaced every 3 months (can be found on Aliexpress for little money).

Maintenance and care

The main advantage of traditional humidifiers is their ease of care and maintenance. In order for the device to operate efficiently and for as long as possible, the following rules must be followed in a timely manner:

1. Replenish the volume of water in the container.
2. Wipe the device weekly with a dry cloth.
3. Rinse the water container once every 15-20 days. The frequency of the procedure depends on the intensity of use.
4. Change filter cartridges every 3-6 months.
5. Avoid power surges.
6. Give the device a “rest” so that it does not work 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

When used carefully, a traditional humidifier will effectively and efficiently humidify the air in the room.

Ultrasonic humidifiers

Boneco U700

Average price: 14520 rub.

Thanks to the large tank, the premium model from the Swiss company can work without adding water for 15-20 hours. Due to the presence of a demineralizing cartridge, pre-heating of water and an ionizing silver rod Ionic Silver Stick, harmful impurities do not enter the air, and a white coating does not form on the furniture.

Boneco U700

Advantages

• aromatization;
• air purification;
• fan speed adjustment;
• timer;
• the ability to dim the display and illuminate the case at night;
• low notification volume;
• adjustment of the direction of blowing and humidification;
• control of water level and cleaning of the device;
• large water tank.

Flaws

• inconvenient to pour water;
• noisy;
• the concentrate settles inside and around the device itself;
• incorrect hygrostat;
• The stated performance is not true.

Timberk THU ADF 01

Average price: 2322 rub.

The youthful, inexpensive model focuses on creating an atmosphere - the device works primarily as a fragrance, night light, speaker, and only then as an air humidifier.

Timberk THU ADF 01

Advantages

• Bluetooth connection with phone: support iOS, Android;
• acoustics 3 W;
• 4 colors and 3 types of backlight;
• flavoring;
• small size.

Flaws

• the need to add water every 4 hours;
• poor hydration;
• no hygrometer.

Electrolux EHU-3710D/3715D

Average price: 7240 rub.

The humidifier from the Swedish company is equipped with a demineralizing cartridge, water preheating, an ionizer function and a UV lamp, so it works as an air purifier and helps to avoid white deposits.

Electrolux EHU-3710D/3715D

Advantages

• adjustment of the direction of blowing and humidification;
• fan speed adjustment;
• aromatization;
• antibacterial coating of the water tank;
• backlight;
• 4 operating modes;
• remote control;
• timer;
• indication of low water level, humidity and temperature.

Flaws

• heavy condensation;
• an erroneous hygrometer, due to which the room is over-humidified;
• the screen is too bright, there is no backlighting of the buttons;
• a filter cartridge that needs to be changed frequently is difficult to find on sale;
• inconvenient to fill with water.

Disinfecting the device

If you do not take care of the device, bacteria that are harmful to your health may develop in the water tank. To avoid such troubles, disinfection procedures should be carried out:

1. Wash the tank as usual.
2. Pour the prepared peroxide solution (1 tsp/1 liter) into a water container.
3. Place the part in place and turn on the humidifier.
4. As soon as you see steam starting to appear, turn off the device.
5. Wait a few minutes and pour out the solution and rinse the tank with plain water.
6. Fill the container with plain water and let it run for 5 minutes.
7. Pour out the water and rinse the tank.

It is important that after disinfection there is no smell of peroxide left in the device, and the procedure itself must be carried out in a room with open windows.

Steam humidifiers have their advantages and disadvantages. If you need a fast working device, then this is your option. Its indisputable advantage can be considered the function of an inhaler.

Steam humidifiers

Ballu UHB-310

Average price: 2055 rub.

A reliable model that truly cleans and humidifies the air thanks to the demineralizing cartridge and pre-filter. The only device that definitely will not interfere with night sleep is that there is no bright lighting or loud sounds.

Ballu UHB-310

Advantages

• adjustment of the direction of blowing and humidification;
• 3 operating modes;
• aromatization;
• emergency shutdown in case of strong tilt or rollover;
• low water level indication;
• Convenient to pour water.

Flaws

• no hygrometer;
• replace the filter every 3 months.

NeoClima NHL-060

Average price: 3180 rub.

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There is only one power button on the humidifier body, which is also a fan speed control. A simple workhorse that effectively humidifies the air. According to consumer reviews, condensation accumulates around and inside the device.

NeoClima NHL-060

Advantages

• low water level indication and auto shut-off;
• silence of work;
• unobtrusive lighting;
• Moisturizes a small room well.

Flaws

• signal volume;
• a puddle forms under the device;
• inconvenient to fill with water;
• no hygrometer.

Beurer LB 50

Average price: 6200 rub.

A steam humidifier has two steam supply intensities, and on the second it raises the room temperature by literally half a degree. It is easy to maintain, but you will have to do it often - scale forms inside the device, which must be disposed of in a timely manner.

Beurer LB 50

Advantages

• demineralizing cartridge;
• aromatization;
• low water level indication with auto shut-off;
• ease of maintenance.

Flaws

• scale;
• no hygrometer.

Boneco S450

Average price: 15990 rub.

Like all steam humidifiers, the Boneco is prone to scale build-up, which needs to be cleaned at least once a week. This disadvantage is compensated by the high level of moisture and the build quality of the device.

Boneco S450

Advantages

• hygrostat;
• demineralizing cartridge;
• aromatization;
• display brightness depending on lighting conditions;
• two automatic humidity modes;
• timer;
• low water level indicator;
• good ergonomics.

Flaws

• high energy costs;
• noise level is above average;
• the need to get rid of scale;
• price.

Comparative characteristics of humidifier models

To choose an air humidifier for your apartment, we recommend that you first decide on the set of functions that you need. It is equally important that the model fits into the interior and is pleasing to the eye. We hope our rating will help you make the right choice.