The Best Steam Humidifier For 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Steam Humidifier
Best Steam Humidifier

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Aprilaire - 800Z 800 Whole Home Steam Humidifier, Steam Humidifier

The Apriaire 800 humidifier is high-quality and uses electrode technology, which heats water to make steam. There is no need for cleaning, and the canister only needs to be replaced once a year. It's lightweight, long-lasting, and simple to use. Read Review

2. Best Capacity: Aira Nano Ionic Facial Steamer by Vanity Planet - (Beige)

The Aira Nano is an ionic facial steamer that can be used by all skin types, even sensitive ones. It is the perfect way to get healthy and beautiful skin with a simple "just add water" process. The Aira Nano has a patented design that disperses steam fast and evenly throughout the face and it is effortless to use. Read Review

3. Best Quite: Crane 2 in 1 Personal Steam Inhaler & Warm Mist Humidifier

With a 2-in-1 personal steam inhaler & humidifier, you can relieve cold and flu symptoms, nasal congestion, dry cough, sinus irritation and nose bleeds. The Crane 2 in 1 Personal Steam Inhaler & Warm Mist Humidifier has an easy to use 'steam on/off' feature that allows you to choose how frequently you want the humidifier to release steam. It also features a two-hour auto shut off timer. Read Review

If you have ever had a severe case of dry skin, you know how painful it can be. Luckily, there are ways to get relief and reduce the severity of the condition. One of the best home remedies for dry skin is using a humidifier.

They offer instant relief and long-term benefits by helping your skin retain moisture. Having a humid environment at home allows you to keep your home comfortable and is also beneficial for your health. Using a humidifier helps relieve tension buildup in your sinuses and lungs and lower stress levels. They also act as an air purifiers, removing pollutants from the air that irritate your skin. Check out our top picks of the best steam humidifiers on the market today.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 15 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. As result, we believe the best steam humidifier is Aprilaire - 800Z 800 Whole Home Steam Humidifier, Steam Humidifier. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.

Our Top Picks

  • HUMIDITY FOR HEALTH Aprilaire Humidifiers can help you maintain optimal humidity in your home of 35% – 45% which has been shown to reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and symptoms related to allergies and asthma by minimizing the formation of bacteria and viruses, fungi, and dust mites. In addition, you’ll feel more comfortable while also preserving items in your home susceptible to damage from changing humidity or dry conditions
  • Material Type: Steel
  • FULL COVERAGE up to 6,200 square feet in tightly built homes. Choose from 6 levels of output adding 11.5 to 34.6 gallons of moisture into the air per day based on voltage and installation
  • BUY WITH CONFIDENCE This high output steam humidifier was designed with electrode technology and manufactured in the U.S.A. by Aprilaire – the inventor of the whole home evaporative humidifier, and the leader in indoor air quality solutions
  • PURIFIED WATER NOT REQUIRED Electrode technology requires impurities in the water to promote the transfer of electricity. Water filtration is not recommended – minimizing installation complexity and operating costs
  • Included Components: Steam Hose (6 Ft), 7/8" Drain Tubing (10 Ft), Valves, Installation Instructions
  • AUTOMATIC HUMIDIFIER with dual sensors to monitor and respond to both outdoor temperature and indoor relative humidity to deliver optimum humidity 24/7 throughout the home – simply set it and forget it.Water in steam canister, steam pipes, and dispersion tube can be as hot as 212°F (100°C)
TOP Choice #2 Aira Nano Ionic Facial Steamer by Vanity Planet - (Beige)
Our Score:
9.6
Vanity Planet
  • High-Performing, Skin-Inclusive, Self-Care Essentials—For Everyone: We share your desire for the best skin ever. That’s why Vanity Planet continues to evolve the everyday beauty routine with accessible, top-selling skincare and styling devices, and advanced treatments to suit every skin type. Our trend-forward beauty and wellness products deliver spa-grade experiences to the home—for unbeatable well-being, approachable fresh starts to beautiful skin, and attainable holistic rituals.
  • Bunny Ears Spa Headband: Constructed from soft material to give you a spa-like comfort at home, this headband has an adjustable bunny ear closure, perfect for keeping your hair out of the way when washing your face, using a mask treatment, applying makeup, and more.
  • Ideal Face Mist: Aira uses an ion generator that enriches the water molecules, helping the steam penetrate and clean even deeper. Includes an 85ml water tank that can be easily displaced to fill the desired level of water by unscrewing the plug. Once filled, close the water tank, fasten the plug, and insert the water tank for use. We recommend to only use distilled water while avoiding dumping any oils, herbs, and scents in the tank.
  • Your In-Home Detox Session: Relax and unwind while detoxifying your skin of impurities with Aira, your personal, at-home ionic steamer system. Aira is perfect for all skin types. It clarifies your complexion, offers better blood circulation, and makes your skin more receptive to skincare treatments resulting in a more moisturized and softer appearance. This bundle includes a Beige Aira and customizable Bunny Ears Spa Headband.
  • Experience the Spa at Home: Get ready for a full spa experience. Soak the basket’s foam portion with your favorite essential oil and place it on the device’s nozzle. (There are three baskets included to prevent the mixing of oils). For the best results, we recommend using the steamer no more than 15 minutes a day, two-to-three times a week.
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Crane's easy to clean humidifier design features a detachable bottom fill tank, which is recommended by health professionals for promoting clean humidifier habits. The mist chamber and cap also are removable, giving you access to clean the entire base. We recommend cleaning the humidifier based on frequency of use and provide many educational resources on how to clean your humidifier.
  • WARM MIST HUMIDIFIER: Crane's warm mist humidifier has a 0.5 gallon tank capacity and can run whisper quite for up to 8 hours. Our humidifiers are filter free, but we offer an optional demineralization filter (HS-1932) for those with excessive minerals in their water that screws directly into the tank. The humidifier is effective up to 250 feet and helps relieve cough, cold, and flu symptoms, nasal congestion, dry cough, sinus irritation, nose bleeds, and dry skin and hair.
  • 2 FUNCTIONS: Crane's 2 in 1 device features both a warm mist humidifier function and a personal steam inhaler function. No matter what function is being used, an auto shutoff safety function is built in if the unit runs out of water, overheats, or is not assembled properly.
  • STEAM INHALER: The personal steam inhaler can be easily setup by simply replacing the humidifier tank with the inhaler attachment. The steam inhaler is a recommended non-medicated alternative to over the counter cough and cold medicine. For a more effective treatment, use with Crane's HS-1950 Menthol Vapor Pads and the HS-1950L Lavender and Sweet Orange Vapor Pads.
  • GERM FREE MIST: Crane’s 0.5 gallon warm mist humidifier heats up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit ensuring germ free mist. The humidifier function is also equipped with a medicine cup and is compatible with the HS-1950 & HS-1950L vapor pads.
4 PureGuardian H4810AR Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier
Our Score:
9.4
Guardian Technologies
  • Silver clean protected tank: Silver clean protection fights the growth of slimy mold and mildew on the surface of the water tank a common problem with traditional humidifiers; Ultrasonic technology is ultra-quiet making it ideal to have on while you sleep
  • Additional features: The humidifier is equipped with the option for warm or cool mist and 3 speed settings; a low water indicator light lets you know when it's time to refill the water tank; It also features a soft glow night light and a timer
  • Pure guardian: By guardian technologies offers a full range of small appliance based solutions for happier and healthier lives at home, focused on creating powerful, safe and innovative technologies to help facilitate healthier, happier home environments; Input voltage: 120v 60hz
  • Warm and cool mist humidifier: The Pure guardian H4810AR ultrasonic cool mist humidifier guards against dry air in the home, perfect for those with colds, allergies and dry skin; The easy fill 2 gallon tank is ideal 600 square feet rooms and runs up to 120 hours
  • Aromatherapy tray: The aromatherapy tray option helps create a relaxing environment with your favorite essential oil; Oils are not included; Create a better home environment and optimize your comfort with an ultra-quiet, soothing cool mist
5 Vicks Warm Steam Vaporizer
Our Score:
9.3
Vicks
  • HUMIDIFIERS FOR BEDROOM AND MORE – A warm steam vaporizer is great for young children and adults, and fits perfectly into any room. Use when the air is dry, in allergy season, when sick or even just to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels
  • COUGH AND CONGESTION RELIEF – Vaporizers for bedroom and home can be helpful when it’s difficult to sleep with cough and congestion. It can provide temporary relief by adding necessary moisture to the air, and VapoSteam (not included) offers extra comfort
  • NIGHT LIGHT – This kids and baby humidifier with night light makes bedtime even more comfortable with the added night light. It’s quick and easy to use, too, with a wide tank opening for easy cleaning and filling
  • A CENTURY OF POWERFUL RELIEF – At Vicks, we believe that everyone deserves a touch of care. Our line of humidifiers, steam inhalers and vaporizers help you breathe better and sleep more comfortably, wherever you are
  • WARM MIST HUMIDIFIER – Vicks Warm Steam Vaporizer and Humidifier is an essential part of a good night’s sleep when family members are sick, during allergy season or when the air is dry. Works with Vicks VapoPads and VapoSteam for extra soothing comfort
6 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers
Our Score:
9.1
Everlasting Comfort
  • Whisper Quiet: Our large room humidifier is nearly silent (less than 35 dB) for no disturbances day or night. Unlike other humidifiers for home, ours shuts off automatically when water level is low, an essential safety feature for children’s rooms and bedrooms. Important: Try to keep humidity between 40 to 60 percent to avoid water accumulation
  • 2 Year Replacement Policy: At Everlasting Comfort, we care about your experience with our products, pledging to replace your cool mist humidifier if you’re not satisfied with the product in any humidifiers for bedroomway
  • Not Your Average Bedroom Humidifier: Our vaporizer humidifier has a built in essential oil tray that works like an aromatherapy diffuser. Along with a cool mist, you enjoy the benefits of your favorite essential oil, be it calming lavender or enlivening citrus. Pro Tip: Use in conjunction with the Everlasting Comfort Essential Oils Set for a fresh smelling aroma throughout your home
  • 50 Hours Without a Refill: The large capacity 6L (1.6 gallon) tank of our ultrasonic humidifier runs for up to 6 nights per fill. Unlike smaller cool mist humidifiers 2L and 3L capacities that require frequent fill ups, it works 2 times longer. Up to nearly a week of nighttime use (8 hours per night on the lowest mist output setting)
  • Higher Multidirectional Mist Output: Fully adjustable settings make our air humidifier a big improvement over standard humidifiers, covering double the space at up to 500 sq. ft. Turn the dial to select mist intensity. Turn up to high when your skin, throat, and nasal passages are parched, low to protect your indoor plants from dry out. With the 360 degree nozzle, you can choose direction so you can aim the mist towards your bed for better sleeping
  • Included Components: Owner's Guide
  • LARGE CAPACITY TANK — 0.8 gallon removable water tank with integrated handle provides up to 2 gallon output every 24 hours
  • SUPERIOR SUPPORT — When you choose a Steamfast product, you’re investing in superior performance and design that will deliver total satisfaction. If not, we’ll replace it, for 2 years. Supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS.
  • FILTER-FREE — Easy top-fill design with max-fill indicator for easier refills, low maintenance, and filter-free humidification
  • Built to meet U. S. voltage requirements. Certified, safety-tested, and warrantied for use only in the U. S.
  • AUTO SHUT-OFF — Equipped with 2 steam settings, 3-minute heat up time, and auto shut off for peace of mind
  • AROMATHERAPY READY — Add your favorite essential oil to the oil ring to release your favorite aroma
  • HIGH CAPACITY FILTER - Remove allergy-causing pollens, contaminants, and odors from your indoor spaces while improving air quality and well being through natural humidifying and air purification
  • 3-in-1 HYBRID - Operate as a humidifier, air purifier or both. High performance, adjustable hybrid provides optimal humidity and cleanses the air of contaminants simultaneously
  • WIRELESS APP TECHNOLOGY - Convenient BONECO app offers intuitive user guidance and navigation, as well as real-time measurements and control of your humidifier and air purification system.
  • IDEAL PROFILES AND SETTINGS - Six performance levels and pre-sets, including Auto, Sleep, and Baby profiles provide optimal air quality for daily use, deep restful sleep or a pleasant restful environment for baby. Integrated aroma compartment can be used to diffuse your favorite essential oils and aromas
  • EASY USE AND CLEAN UP - Easy control knob, real-time humidity measurement and control, and automatic shut-off make for convenient operation while dishwasher and washing machine safe components provide easy cleanup
  • [3 Levels of Mist Setting] With highest constant 300mL/H mist output, you can easily customize your humidity to relieve stuffiness, congested sinuses, dry skin, itchy nose & throat. Note: 45%-60% is the recommended humidity range for human health.
  • [Large Capacity Humidifiers for Home] 1.85Gal/7L humidifier for large rooms up to 500ft²/46m², long last for 24 hours humidification in one refill. Perfect humidifier for bedrooms, office, baby rooms, yoga rooms, greenhouse, etc.
  • [Smart Humidifier & Voice Control] Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. Connect the humidifier with 2.4Ghz WI-FI and Tuya Smart App to turn on/off, set the timer and adjust the mist level in the Tuya Smart App.
  • [Whisper Quiet & Water Shortage Protection] This large capacity 1.85Gal humidifier with humidistat operates under 26db, ensuring a full night of sleep for your family especially your babies. If reach your customized humidity or no water in the humidifier, it will automatically turns off to prevent damage and keep you safe.
  • [30 Days Free Replacement & 1 Year Warranty] Supports 24 hours service online for any refund, return or technical assistance. Please feel free to contact us. NOTE: Before use, please put one tissue paper into the tiny essential oil tray box for longer lifetime.
  • MONEY-BACK SATISFACTION GUARANTEE:We aim to add joy and simplicity to your everyday life! If you’re not 100% satisfied with our item, we’ll refund your purchase with no questions asked!
  • WHAT YOU NEED: Tired of investing in expensive treatments in order to soothe your breathing issues? Would you like to make sure your little ones enjoy a smooth and safe steam inhalation during their cold or cough periods? This machine is the perfect choice!
  • INCREASED EFFICIENCY: This machine for kids and adults has an optimal atomization rate and creates an ultra-fine mist, with small particles. The continuous and stable air pressure is incredibly comfortable for the user.
  • PREMIUM QUALITY AND SAFE: This Mesh tubing and mouthpiece machine is made with superior quality, highly durable materials, featuring a convenient solution cup which is easy to clean and removable.
  • HIGH EFFICIENCY & SSTABILITY:The jet air system does not generate heat, the driving efficiency is up to 96%,no worry about the temperature rise and deterioration of the liquid.

What to Look For in a best steam humidifier?

A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best steam humidifier. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best steam humidifier:

Water Tank Capacity

Water tank capacity will be closely linked to the size and type of humidifier. The manufacturer will give you an estimate of how long it takes to empty the water tank. Make sure the model you choose has enough power if you intend to use your humidifier for long periods of time, or even both.
Another consideration is whether the tank has a removable lid, so it can be placed under a bathroom or kitchen faucet. And how heavy the container is to transport it back. It may be possible to use a pitcher to carry the water to your humidifier.

Size

The space where moisture is required should be considered when choosing the right size humidifier. There are three basic sizes for humidifiers. They can be portable (also known tabletop), whole house or console.
These portable humidifiers have small water tanks and are therefore easier to transport. It's also easy to transport from one area to another. You will often find tabletop humidifiers in a nightstand, or on a desk. These portable humidifiers come in small sizes, such as personal and travel size models. These humidifiers come in a similar size to a water-bottle and are easily portable.
Concealed humidifiers, which are smaller units and sit on the floors, have larger water tanks with increased capacity that need to be filled less frequently than portable humidifiers. They are suitable for up to 1,000 square foot (depending upon the model).
Attached to your home’s ductwork, whole-house humidifiers add humidity and heat throughout the house. They can be used to increase humidity in larger areas, such as spaces over 1,000 feet. This type of humidifier doesn't need refill as it connects to your household's plumbing.

Warranties

Humidifiers tend to be small household appliances and warranty coverage can often only be limited. A lot of models offer a 12024 warranty to cover manufacturing defects. Ultrasonic humidifiers are included in some of the more expensive models. The warranty is extended up to three years for those with higher-end models.
The warranties on whole-house humidifiers that are professionally installed can be significantly lower than those for portable units. Some models include five2024 warranties. For any model that is whole-house, be sure to check the warranty to see if there are any problems.

Run Time

Other than choosing the best humidifier, you should also consider its other characteristics. Some humidifiers are only capable of running for about 24 hours, while others require refilling every hour. If you have humidifiers that are more frequently refilled, it is worth having an auto off feature so the humidifier doesn't keep trying to turn on when water runs out.

Humidistat

A humidistat is a feature that monitors the humidity level and allows you to maintain a comfortable environment. The humidistat monitors room humidity levels and turns off the unit when it reaches a certain level. Although it is not an important feature, this helps to simplify the operation of a humidifier. This can prevent excessive moisture from clogging windows and creating musty smells in your room. You don't need a humidistat to monitor humidity levels in your house. A hygrometer is a simple and affordable tool that can be used to measure the level of humidity.

UV Filtration

Due to the fact that humid and moist environments can easily become breeding areas for molds, bacteria, and other pathogens, many humidifiers come with ultraviolet light.

FAQs

How Close Should A Humidifier Be To Your Bed?

While this is not important if you are using cool-mist humidifiers for your home, you need to keep warm-mist humidifiers (i.e. steam vaporizers) away from your bed, particularly while you sleep. It should be kept far enough from children's rooms that they can't reach the water container or cord if you are using it.

What Are The Benefits Of A Humidifier?

Humidifiers can be used to treat dry-air symptoms such as nosebleeds and dry skin. Humidifiers can be especially helpful for people living in cold or dry climates. You should consult your physician if you have asthma or other respiratory issues. Higher humidity levels could make it worse.

Does A Humidifier Help With A Cough Or Allergies?

The short answer is yes. The Cleveland Clinic says that adding moisture to dry air may help with congestion and cough. However, it is important not to overuse the humidifiers. Too high humidity can worsen asthma and allergies, as well as promote mold growth, dust mites and mildew. It is important to follow the instructions on how to maintain your machine. This will ensure that it doesn't emit harmful bacteria or make your health worse.

Can You Put Essential Oils In A Humidifier?

Only if it was specifically created for essential oil. It is best to avoid using essential oils if the manufacturer does not list it as an option. A majority of humidifiers can't withstand essential oil compound compounds. Choose a diffuser designed specifically for aromatherapy.

How Do You Clean A Humidifier?

It is essential to drain and dry the humidifier reservoir prior to refilling. You also need to wash and clean the water tank every so often to stop harmful bacteria and microbes growing. It is common to use vinegar to descale the humidifier, then bleach or other special humidifier cleaners. Some humidifiers can be placed in the dishwasher. Some humidifiers can be placed in the dishwasher, but each type has its own requirements. Follow all manufacturer instructions. Use of distilled water is a common recommendation.4 The filters must be replaced once every three months, or when the manufacturer suggests.

Is It OK To Use A Humidifier Every Day?

You can use a humidifier throughout the day. But, it's not recommended to do so every single day. The humidifier can add excessive moisture to the room and lead to mold or mildew growth if it is kept on 24 hours a day. You should always monitor the humidity level in your home. Turn off your humidifier if it becomes too hot. Humidifiers that run too often can cause a musty, peeling wallpaper or blistered paint. Keep it running for a maximum of 12 hours each morning.

What Does A Humidifier Do?

Humidifiers can be appliances that increase the humidity of air. They do this by creating and releasing steam, mist, or other liquids. Humidifiers help keep your home's humidity at a certain level and protect it from drying out. Although there are both warm and cool air humidifiers, some are capable of both. The way that your humidifier functions depends on its type. Humidifiers all take in the surrounding air and add moisture. The fan diffuses air to raise humidity.

When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best steam humidifier. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.

We can help you with more than just finding best steam humidifier.  Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio