Dry winter air pulls moisture from your skin and nasal passages, leading to scaly skin and chapped lips, or in worse cases, cold and flu symptoms. Humidifiers add moisture to the air to help maintain healthy levels of humidity, hydrate your skin, and make breathing easier. For even more comfort during cold seasons, you may opt for a warm mist humidifier.
There are hundreds of different humidifier models you can find in the market, but to get the best unit for you, there are a few factors you need to consider. You must look at the capacity, run time, and tank design of the humidifier, among other useful features. To make things easier for you, we have put together a list of the best warm mist humidifiers today and the features you need to look for before you make a purchase.
First, check out a quick summary of our top six picks for the best warm mist humidifier.
Warm Mist Humidifiers
Hupro Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity: 6 liters Coverage: 500 sq ft. Dimensions: 14.06 x 12.8 x 9.69 inches Weight: 6.07 pounds With humidistat 12-hour timer With filter |
Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity: 1 gallon Dimensions: 7.9 x 12 x 14.3 inches Weight: 4.6 Pounds Works with Vicks VapoPads and VapoSteam |
HoMedics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity: 1.7 gallons Dimensions: 15.5 x 11.5 x 14 inches Weight: 7.69 pounds Dual tanks Demineralization cartridge |
LEVOIT Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity: 6 liters / 1.59 Gallon Dimensions: 11.6 x 7.7 x 11.3 inches Weight: 5.3 pounds With humidistat 12-hour timer With filter |
Pure Guardian Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity 2 gallons Coverage 600 sq ft Dimensions 7.75 x 15.03 x 12.48 inches; Weight 5.55 Pounds 4, 8, 12-hour timer 120 hours runtime |
Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier | Tank Capacity 1 gallon Dimensions 10.75 x 6.5 x 12.68 inches Weight 4 pounds Easy use Budget price |
Top 6 Best Warm Mist Humidifiers
Hupro Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier
The HuPro PRO-771 ultrasonic humidifier provides two misting options depending on your needs: cool and warm mist. Its six-liter water tank is good for medium to large rooms up to 500 square feet. It features three mist power modes (Hi/Med/Low) and a built-in humidistat you can adjust from 30% to 85% RH. The auto shut-off feature will kick in when the tank is empty.
The large tank has a wide opening on top which allows you to pour water directly into the tank and clean the tank quickly without taking it out. For a more thorough cleaning, you can also remove the tank easily. The humidifier also comes with a water filter to purify and soften water. Additionally, it also acts as an essential oil diffuser for an even more enhanced experience.
All controls can be found on the touch panel. Press the Humidity button to adjust the humidity level or change the mist output speed. To enable Warm Mist mode, press the corresponding button and wait for about 15-20 minutes. The maximum mist temperature is 140F. In Auto mode, the humidifier will automatically adjust the mist output depending on the ambient temperature and your selected humidity level.
This Hupro humidifier also features a 360-degree rotatable mist nozzle to spread droplets all around the room. Working under 30 decibels on low settings, this humidifier is perfect for bedrooms or other spaces where you need a quiet device. Furthermore, if you select Sleep mode, all the lights and sounds will turn off for undisrupted sleep. You can also set a timer for up to 12 hours to save energy or to let the device rest when you don’t need it. Also included is a remote controller that allows you to adjust the settings as you would on the control panel, without having to get up. A few issues that come up in negative reviews are the potential leaks and inaccurate humidity sensor.
PROS
- Large capacity
- Automatic humidity control
- With remote controller
- Essential oil diffuser
CONS
- Potential leaks
- Inaccurate hygrometer
Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier
While warm mist can provide comfort and relief on other occasions, it is probably most useful for coughs, congestion and other respiratory conditions that may disrupt normal breathing during sleep. This Vicks warm mist humidifier is specifically designed to release warm, soothing vapor to help relieve congestion from the common colds and cough. It can also reduce respiratory discomfort to help you breathe and sleep better.
This humidifier features a scent pad door that allows you to enjoy soothing Vicks VapoPads for added comfort as you run the unit. The door has slots for up to two Vicks VapoPads, with one sample pad included in your purchase. Furthermore, the Medicine Cup accepts inhalants like Vicks VapoSteam to hydrate dry, irritated nose and breathing passages. The medicated steam helps alleviate coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with colds and allergies.
The Vicks warm mist humidifier features a one-gallon tank with a wide opening to make it easy to fill and clean your humidifier. You can easily turn on and off the unit and adjust the mist output speed with the knob. The humidifier will shut off automatically and the reset light will illuminate when the tank is empty. This model doesn’t have a filter, so that’s one less thing to worry about when using and cleaning it. It’s quiet and portable enough that you can bring it anywhere from your own bedroom, a child’s room, your office, or really any other room it’s needed.
PROS
- Small and portable
- Easy to use controls
- Works with Vicks products for added relief from common colds and cough
CONS
HoMedics TotalComfort Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier
The HoMedics TotalComfort Ultrasonic Humidifier features warm and cool misting options. Its unique design includes two water tanks with durable plastic housing for a total capacity of 1.7 gallons. With this large volume of water, the unit can keep running for up to 80 hours. You can refill one tank while the unit is running with the other one in place.
Adjust the mist level easily with the control knob–rotate clockwise for a higher output and the other direction for less mist output. By default, the humidifier puts out cool mist. To change the mist temperature, press the Warm Mist button and it will illuminate as the unit works to release warm mist. Night mode will turn off the LED lights while the unit continues to run at the set mist output speed and temperature.
This humidifier features auto shut off to automatically stop operation when the tanks get too low on water. The Clean Tank technology helps prevent dust buildup due to hard water as well as mold and mildew growth inside the tank. The unit also includes two demineralization cartridges to improve the quality of the mist. The HoMedics demineralization cartridges will help reduce the occurence of white dust or a mineral deposit from hard water. This cartridge must be replaced after 30 to 40 fillings, or more often if you are using very hard water in your humidifier. Remember to replace the cartridge if there is an increase in white dust build-up.
PROS
- Large dual tanks
- Long runtime
- Night mode with nightlight
- With demineralization cartridges
CONS
LEVOIT Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier
The LEVOIT LV600HH is both a warm and cool mist humidifier for year-round use to help relieve congestion, coughs, bloody noses, dry skin, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. With a mist output of up to 500 mL/hr, this unit can easily handle spaces as large as 753 square feet or 70 square meters. The large 1.5-gallon (six-liter) water tank can last up to 60 hours of continuous use at the lowest mist setting.
This humidifier features a
built-in humidity sensor and adjustable humidistat that automatically adjusts the mist level to maintain your desired humidity level. The tank needs at least 480ml of water for the humidifier to function. If the water level is lower, the humidifier will automatically turn off and the warning light will illuminate. You can change the settings on the control panel or using the included remote controller so that you don’t have to get up from the bed, for instance.
For a better, undisrupted sleep, this ultra quiet humidifier also features Lights off and a 12-hour timer so you don’t have to worry about any potential accidents in case you leave the unit on at night or when you’re away. As an added feature, you can also pour a few drops of your favorite essential oils to the aroma box for a cleaner, fresher air. Remember to clean the tank and wipe off the exterior once a week to prevent dust buildups and help your humidifier last longer.
PROS
- Large capacity
- Automatic humidity control
- Essential oil diffuser
CONS
• Potential leaks
• Inaccurate hygrometer
Pure Guardian Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier
The Pure Guardian H4810AR Ultrasonic Humidifier provides warm or cool mist to combat dry air in the home throughout the seasons. It’s perfect for dry skin in the summer, or colds and allergies in the winter. The easy-to-fill, wide 2-gallon tank can last up to 120 hours, humidifying medium to large rooms of 600 square feet.
The easy-to-use control buttons allow you to choose from low, medium, and high mist levels. Press the Warm Mist button to get warm mist after 15 to 20 minutes. You can set a timer for four, eight, or 12 hours, and turn off all the lights to lessen distractions. The ultrasonic technology makes for ultra-quiet operation for undisturbed sleep. This unit also includes an aromatherapy tray so you can add essential oils to create a more relaxing environment.
Pure Guardian features a Silver Clean protected tank to guard against mold, mildew, and bacteria growing on the surface of the water tank. It has no evaporator pads or wick filters you need to clean or replace—just the water tank. The dual rotating nozzle spreads the mist in two directions throughout the room. However, since there are no filters, the humidifier may be more prone to white dust buildup from minerals if you use hard water.
PROS
- Large capacity
- Long runtime
- Essential oil diffuser
CONS
- Potential leaks
- White dust buildup
Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier
The Honeywell HWM705B warm mist humidifier helps maintain optimal indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60% RH. Warm mist can help relieve cough and congestion due to colds, and keep nasal passages hydrated during cold and dry winters. This humidifier is great for use in bedrooms when it’s difficult to sleep and breathe in cold seasons.
This Honeywell humidifier features a one-gallon water tank that can last up to 24 hours without refills. It offers two comfort settings with an adjustable mist output and a warning light for when the water tank is empty. The tank has an easy grip handle to make removing and refilling the tank a breeze.
This model also comes with an essential oil cup so you can easily pour a few drops of your favorite oils and enjoy aromatic warm mist. It’s also filter-free so you may find a buildup of white powder inside, as noted in a few customer reviews. Considering that it’s the cheapest model in this list, the Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier is a great choice for cold and dry winter days.
PROS
• Easy to use
• Affordable price
• Essential oil diffuser
CONS
• White dust buildup
What Is a Warm Mist Humidifier Used For?
Humidifiers are commonly used in cold and dry winters. Dry skin, chapped lips, and itchy eyes are often signs of low humidity. It can also cause dehydration, nosebleeds, itchy throat, and other cold symptoms. Prolonged exposure to dry air can lead to drying and cracking of wood.
A humidifier simply adds moisture to the air. Different types of humidifiers use different methods to do this. An ultrasonic humidifier produces warm or cool mist through a metal diaphragm that vibrates at a high frequency. It is ideal to use at night because of its nearly soundless operation.
Warm mist humidifiers use an internal heating element to boil water and make steam. This process may also increase the air temperature, which will be especially useful in the winter. The heat is better for reducing bacteria and germs in the air, and impeding mold growth inside the machine. Furthermore, warm mist humidifiers can achieve higher levels of moisture saturation, or the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold. They can also be used with some medicated products (like the Vicks humidifier with Vicks VapoPads and VapoSteam) to help alleviate cold and allergy symptoms or other respiratory conditions.
On the down side, warm mist humidifiers may consume more energy than the more common cool mist humidifiers. Warm mist can also pose a danger for burns or irritation if there are children or pets around. For safety, it’s best to keep your humidifier out of their reach when you need to operate in warm mist.
How to Choose the Best Warm Mist Humidifier
Consider the following factors when choosing a warm mist dehumidifier for your home.
Size
To find the best humidifier for you, the total area of your room is the first thing you must consider. Depending on the tank capacity and mist levels, most humidifiers have a recommended area of coverage. In general, these units can hold one to two gallons of water, which should be able to cover most medium to large bedrooms. Keeping in mind the optimal humidity levels from 40% to 60% RH, adjust your humidifier’s mist output accordingly.
Run time
The run time in most product descriptions is calculated based on the lowest mist setting of the humidifier. A smaller tank capacity typically means shorter run time, but it can vary depending on the ambient temperature and humidity, the size of your room, and the discharge rate. The models we featured above should last at least overnight on the lowest setting. Check whether the auto shutoff and timer functions are functioning properly so that you won’t have to worry about leaving your humidifier running while you sleep or when you’re away.
Tank design
The tank design of your humidifier will also play a critical role in your experience. Look for a unit with a large tank that you can easily remove and replace. A top-filling design with a wide opening may be most convenient for refilling and cleaning the tank.
Ease of Use
Humidifiers are relatively easy to operate with only a few buttons (or adjustable knobs) to control the mist speed, temperature, timer, and lights. Smaller units like the Honeywell have a single knob for controls, while larger ones even have an adjustable humidistat and remote controller. Consider what you value more in your unit: simplicity or precision.
Ease of Cleaning
Note that you need to clean your humidifier at least once every week of use to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria inside the tank. To make the task easier for you, look for a humidifier that is easy to disassemble. If it has an essential oil tray or additional filters, make sure these parts are easily accessible for regular cleaning.
Extra Features
You may also want to consider additional features such as the Auto Shutoff function, different mist levels, and a timer. All of these can be extremely useful depending on your needs. Most of the models above have an option for warm and cool mist. With this type of humidifier, you can use a single unit for humidification throughout different seasons.
How to Use and Maintain Your Warm Mist Humidifier
Warm mist humidifiers are fairly simple to use. To reduce the risk of burns, it is recommended to place the humidifier on an elevated surface away from wandering hands. FInd a sturdy, level surface such as a table, desk, or nightstand and secure your humidifier.
For optimum performance, clean your humidifier at least every week. Rinse the tank every time you refill to remove any slimy remnants of water, oils, and minerals. Disinfect the tank every week with liquid soap or a vinegar solution.
Check the filter if your unit has one. Remove the white powder residue, or replace the filter as necessary. The manufacturer indicates when you need to clean or replace the filter.
Conclusion
Warm mist humidifiers are good for cold and cough relief during dry winter months. To find the best unit for you, consider the features we discussed or choose your favorite from our top six picks. Remember to clean your humidifier and place it in an appropriate location for the safety of the device and everyone at home.
