Best Small Dehumidifiers and Mini Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers come in a wide variety of sizes. If you need something compact and portable, for use in small rooms or on the go, then you need a small dehumidifier such as the Peltier and desiccant types. If you’re thinking of getting one of these small dehumidifiers, it’s important to consider the size of your space and the levels of humidity, or your dehumidifier will not be effective at all.

Peltier dehumidifiers use a method of dehumidification based on the Peltier Effect or thermoelectric cooling, thus called Peltier or thermoelectric dehumidifiers. Meanwhile, desiccant dehumidifiers use a hygroscopic chemical such as silica gel or calcium oxide.

Small and mini dehumidifiers are particularly popular for their whisper quiet operation and inexpensive price. So, if you need a small and quiet dehumidifier for the bedroom, or something light and portable for your motorhome, then keep reading to find the best mini dehumidifier for you.

Small Dehumidifiers Comparison Table

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Dimensions: 6.6 x 9 x 12.69 inches
  • Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
  • Capacity: 52 oz
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  • Dimensions: 11.1 x 6.4 x 5.2 inches
  • Coverage: 1,100 cu. ft.
  • Capacity: 16 oz
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  • Dimensions: 5.75 x 5.75 x 8.94 inches
  • Coverage: 215 sq. ft.
  • Capacity: 22oz
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  • Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 10 inches
  • Coverage: 285 sq. ft.
  • Capacity: 35 oz
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  • Dimensions: 12.4 x 8.5 x 7.7 inches
  • Coverage: 200 sq. ft.
  • Capacity: 34 oz
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  • Dimensions: 6.25 × 1.25 × 4.75 inches
  • Coverage: 333 cu. ft.
  • Capacity: 6oz
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Best Small Dehumidifiers

Pro Breeze Mini Dehumidifier

Pro Breeze PB-02-US Bedroom Dehumidifier

Among mini Peltier dehumidifiers, Pro Breeze is the top choice for many consumers. This “mid-sized” mini dehumidifier extracts up to 18 ounces (500 ml) of excess moisture with a tank capacity of 52 ounces (1500 ml). This means you only have to empty it at least every two days up to a week. This model is perfect for any space up to 250 square feet. This smaller Pro-Breeze unit, on the other hand, has a 9 oz maximum capacity and an 18 oz water tank.

The sleek and simple design of this Pro Breeze dehumidifier comes with a single button on the top part for the on and off switch. It is also equipped with the auto shut-off feature for when the water tank is almost full, along with a “FULL” indicator light to alert you when this happens. The only moving part is the small fan inside, which makes for a whisper quiet operation.

Emptying the tank is also made hassle-free by simply sliding the tank along the front of the dehumidifier, pulling the plug out, then pouring the water into the sink or drain. Or, collect the water in a bigger bucket to use it elsewhere. One thing to note about Peltier dehumidifiers is the optimal operating temperature is from 59°F to 86°F. They will not work below 41°F. Additionally, since they are small in capacity, you may not notice a significant change in humidity if used in larger rooms.

Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use
• Energy efficient
Cons
• Very limited operating temperature

Gurin Mini Dehumidifier

Gurin DMD210V Dehumidifier

This small dehumidifier also features a simple and convenient design with just the on and off switch, along with LED indicator lights for the power and full tank alert. It also comes with the standard automatic shutoff feature to prevent water overflow. To drain the water, simply slide out the tank from the front of the unit, remove the plug, and pour the water. 

Running on 22.5 Watts, it consumes about 0.54 kilowatts after 24 hours of use. Although, like the Pro Breeze and most other mini Peltier dehumidifiers, it works best in tiny rooms at temperatures between 59°F and 86°F, and 60% to 90% relative humidity. It may not work at all in colder rooms.

Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use
• Low energy consumption
• Affordable price
Cons
• Low capacity
• Very limited operating temperature

Afloia Mini Dehumidifier

Afloia Mini Dehumidifier

While a lot of today’s small dehumidifiers feature a convenient design similar to the Pro Breeze and Gurin above, you can also find less common designs like this mini Afloia dehumidifier. It can remove up to 11 oz (320ml) of excess moisture while the internal water tank can hold 22 oz (650ml). It is ideal for spaces within 2300 cubic feet or 215 square feet. 

Similar to other small dehumidifiers, this Afloia unit is equipped with the standard auto shut off and the green indicator light will turn red when you need to empty the water. The tank can be accessed from the back of the unit. To drain, simply take out the tank, remove the cover, and pour out the water. 

As opposed to other models, Afloia features an air intake on the back while the exhaust is on top along with a single button for the on and off switch. Available in black or white, it fits perfectly in a master bathroom or walk-in closet, laundry room, and even an RV or trailer. Operating at a minimum 33 decibels, you can even use this small dehumidifier in your bedroom, placing it on a bedside table or shelf.

Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use
• Low energy consumption
• Affordable price
Cons
• Low capacity
• Very limited operating temperature

Seavon Portable Dehumidifier

SEAVON 35oz Portable Dehumidifier

Another brand offering a range of mini dehumidifiers is Seavon. One of its “mid-sized” Peltier models is this unit with a 16 oz (450ml) daily capacity and a 35 oz (1000ml) water tank. It is recommended for small rooms within 2600 cubic feet or 285 square feet.

This Seavon dehumidifier has two working modes: high speed and low speed, which operates at 30 to 39 decibels. An additional feature that we like is the seven-color changing LED light. These features make this unit ideal for your bedroom or a child’s room.

The exhaust can be found on the top along with two buttons for the power switch and the other to control the speed and light. When the water tank reaches full capacity, the unit will shut off automatically and the red light will flash. 

Since this model is bigger than most “small” dehumidifiers, it also has a recessed handle on the back for portability. To ensure clean air, another extra feature is the removable and washable filter behind the air intake on the back of the unit. 

Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use
• Energy efficient
• Larger capacity than similar models
• Seven-color night light
• With air filter
Cons
• Limited operating temperature

Tenergy Sorbi Dehumidifier with Air Purifier

Tenergy Sorbi Dehumidifier with Air Purifier

While a regular dehumidifier does a good job in eliminating excessive moisture and musty odors, an additional air purifier can also improve the air quality, remove dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and other airborne allergens. The Tenergy Sorbi Dehumidifier with Air Purifier provides both of these functions for a reasonable price. It can remove up to 750ml of moisture from the air in a single day and hold 1000 ml in its large water tank. This small space dehumidifier can cover up to 200 square feet. 

This compact dehumidifier features a front inlet with a removable HEPA filter which captures 99.97% of microparticles. It is also designed with a top exhaust with soft touch buttons to control the dehumidifier, air purifier, and to choose between the two fan speeds: Low and High, with noise levels ranging from 35 to 42 decibels. You also have the LED lights to indicate the power status and fan speed, as well as a full tank alert. The unit will shut off automatically when the water tank is full. Pull the tank from the back of the unit, remove the plug, and pour out the water carefully.

It is recommended to replace the filter every six months. The filter can be easily accessed by pulling out from behind the air inlet. You can buy ahead a three-pack replacement filters to save a few bucks. The dehumidifier comes with a one-year warranty and an extended two-year coverage if you register your unit with Tenergy Life.

Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use
• With HEPA filter
Cons
• Low tank capacity for its size
• Higher price

Eva-Dry E-333 Wireless Mini Dehumidifier

Eva-Dry E-333 Rechargeable Dehumidifier

Eva-Dry offers compact dehumidifier units for different purposes. The Eva-Dry E-333 wireless desiccant is one of their best-selling compact dehumidifiers. If you’re not familiar with desiccant dehumidifiers, they typically use renewable silica gel beads to adsorb moisture from the air. This is the same substance you see in packets inside shoe boxes with a label DO NOT EAT.

Through the indicator window you can see the silica gel beads change color from orange to green once they have absorbed about 4 to 6 ounces of moisture. This usually happens within 20 to 30 days. To recharge, just plug the unit into a power outlet to dry out the moisture. This very easy process can take about eight to ten hours.

This Eva-Dry mini dehumidifier is completely safe and environment-friendly. It doesn’t require batteries or electricity in order to operate. It contains non-toxic beads, is 100% leak-free, and pet safe. The beads can last up to ten years and the unit comes with a five-year warranty. As the name suggests, the E-333 dehumidifier can cover an area of up to 333 cubic feet. Keep in mind that this type of dehumidifier does not reduce humidity levels significantly. Their main purpose is to keep moisture out in tight spaces. 

The Eva-Dry E-333 is extremely light and portable, weighing around 14 ounces or barely a pound. It can fit in closets, safes, cabinets, and even gym bags. You can also use this little dehumidifier to minimize moist air in smaller rooms, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or in the car and boat cabins. It is also available in twin packs and a bigger capacity unit.

Pros
• Light and compact
• Cordless
• No batteries required
• Renewable and eco-friendly
Cons
• Small capacity
• Recharging process can cause a fire hazard

Types of Dehumidifiers and How They Work

There are two methods of dehumidification used in small dehumidifiers. The technology in the thermo electric cooling technology used in thermoelectric dehumidifiers is based on the Peltier effect, where electricity runs through a Peltier module creating a temperature difference between the two sides to remove moisture in the process.  This can be a really useful approach in a small dehumidifier. If you want to know more about how the technology works, check out our detailed article here.

Meanwhile, cordless dehumidifiers use a desiccant substance to absorb moisture from the air. They typically contain silica gel which changes color to indicate when it’s saturated. They do not need to be plugged to work, but they do need to be recharged every few weeks to dry out the moisture collected.

Where to Use Mini Dehumidifiers 

Small dehumidifiers such as the thermoelectric and desiccant types can work really well if used in the right space. Weigh the following advantages and disadvantages to determine if this type of dehumidifier is right for you.

First and foremost, mini dehumidifiers are particularly popular for their ultra quiet operation. They can produce as low as 30 to 40 decibels since the only moving part (in the case of the Peltier type) is the fan, and it is generally a pleasant white noise. Because of this, these dehumidifiers are perfect for small bathrooms or other tiny spaces where you need a quiet dehumidifier. Likewise, a wireless desiccant model extracts moisture while producing no noise at all.

Also, these dehumidifiers have a very basic design and almost anyone can operate them easily. Most mini Peltier units only have one or two buttons. One push and the unit will start dehumidifying. As for the desiccant, you can place it almost anywhere and only have to plug it in about once a month. Since there are no removable parts (except the tank for the thermoelectric type), small dehumidifiers require little to no maintenance.

Furthermore, compared to full-sized compressor-based dehumidifiers, these smaller models consume very little power—even as low as 20 Watts for the smallest units or around 0.5kW for 24 hours. As long as you use it in the recommended area, you’ll feel a significant change in the relative humidity and barely notice it in your electricity bill. 

Obviously, a small dehumidifier has a small capacity, typically ranging from 250 ml to one liter per day (or around 0.5 to 2 pints), and 4 to 10 oz for cordless units. In comparison, compressor dehumidifiers can remove 20 to 50 pints of moisture per day. Because of their small physical size and moisture removal capacity, they can only be used in very small spaces (typically around 100 to 200 square feet). They will make little to no impact on humidity levels in a large room. 

Lastly, the optimal operating temperature for mini Peltier dehumidifiers is from 59°F to 86°F. They will not work below 41°F. When the air is too cold, the Peltier will not be able to absorb moisture effectively. In this case, a desiccant may be the better choice.

How to Choose the Best Small Dehumidifier

Small dehumidifiers are typically inexpensive and very easy to maintain, but it doesn’t mean you can get anything and expect it to work in the same capacity as a full-size dehumidifier. Manage your expectations and consider the following factors first to find the best dehumidifier for your specific needs.

Dehumidification performance

Although there isn’t a huge difference in the moisture removal capacity among most small dehumidifiers, it’s important to know exactly how much moisture your unit can remove each day. The “mini” models have a moisture removal rate of 6 to 10 oz per day, while mid-sized models have around 11 to 18 oz capacity, and “large” units can take at least 20 oz per day. Wireless models have as little capacity as 4 oz up to 10 oz.

Tank capacity

Unlike compressor-based dehumidifiers that need to be drained multiple times a day, mini Peltier units have a removable water tank large enough to hold at least two days up to a week’s worth of moisture. The tank is very easy to remove, empty, and replace. Make sure to rinse before reinstalling to avoid mold growth.

Coverage area

Small dehumidifiers can usually cover around 100 to 200 square feet, while the performance may decline in larger spaces. Manufacturers indicate the recommended area it can operate on, either in square feet or cubic feet. Measure the length, width, and height of the space to ensure that your dehumidifier can cover all corners. Cordless units are usually placed in closets or small storage spaces instead of a full room. For large bedrooms with high humidity levels, you may need more than one unit.

Portability

Small dehumidifiers are generally very light and portable, some even weighing less than 2 pounds while the largest are about 6 to 7 pounds. If you want to use your dehumidifier on a bedside table or bathroom counter for example, it will be helpful to know the dimensions and weight to ensure it can fit where you need it. 

Extra features

Peltier dehumidifiers have a very basic design, usually with just a single button for the power switch. And that’s fine for the most part, but this limits your option and it can also be wasteful of energy. Larger units give you more control over the fan speed and noise level, and even the humidity level in the case of the IVADM45 unit. Some also come with a removable and washable dust filter. 

Conclusion

Small dehumidifiers require little to no maintenance. The most you’ll have to do is replace the small fan with a generic 12-volt fan in the rare case that it breaks. This is easy to find and install with some basic knowledge in electronics.

Make sure to use your dehumidifier only in the right space. Keep a few inches distance from other objects to promote airflow. Like any dehumidifier, it’s also important to keep your unit clean to maintain proper functioning for a long time. Do not let standing water stay in the tank for days. Empty and clean the tank as soon as you can and let it dry before putting it back into the unit. For dehumidifiers that come with a filter, remember to wash it at least every few weeks or replace it when necessary. 

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