If you’re looking to take advantage of the benefits found in a humidifier’s mist then you’re probably also wondering which kind is best for you. Humidifiers generally come in two categories, cool or warm mist, each has a bit of nuance that may suit the needs of your home, family, and even plants. So, before you purchase that new humidifier, let’s discuss what you can gain from a humidifier’s mist and if you should choose a cool or warm mist unit.
See you Later Dry Skin
Having a dry environment can result in drier skin, which can be unattractive and uncomfortable. Using a humidifier mist in your home can prevent chapped lips and dehydrated joints. When your hair is thin and brittle during the winter months, use a humidifier. It will be the beauty product that takes the least amount of effort to use with plenty of benefits.
Aromatherapy at The Press of A Button
With a humidifier, you finally have a place to diffuse those essential oils you were gifted by your co-worker. When you’re at home, you’re likely to enjoy a little bit of relaxation, and having a humidifier can turn any room into a mini spa. Use a humidifier mist to spread the relaxing scent of lavender, or get a bit more energy with lemon peel. With different oils providing different benefits you can easily match a scent that helps you when you need it most.
Fight the Effects of Allergies
Many of us suffer from allergies to pollen or pets as the seasons change. A humidifier’s mist, however, can reduce allergens’ effects on the body. A home humidifier with a humidity level below 50% can help moisturize your nasal and throat passages. As a result, mucus can effectively collect and remove allergens, thereby reducing their impact.
Help Get Rid of Dry Coughs
Can you recall a time when you had a dry cough? They can seem impossible to deal with, eventually causing slight bleeding if it goes untreated. The easiest way to get rid of a dry cough is by adding humidity to your home. A humidifier’s mist can help moisten your airways which release irritants and allow you to safely pass the mucus out of your body.
Hit Snooze on Snoring
Those who suffer from snoring or a partner who keeps you up with their snoring, rejoice! Adding humidity to your home by way of a humidifier’s mist can potentially help reduce snoring at night, which means added rest for everyone. As you inhale more humid air, the area of your airway that becomes irritated gets moisturized and reduces the chances of snoring. To get the most benefit, try running your humidifier whenever you’re home to keep your nasal passages free of irritants.
Combat Airborne Viruses
A Humidifiers mist can help prevent airborne viruses, which is a major health benefit. Winter is the time for influenza, and that’s no coincidence since colder, drier weather acts as a conduit for respiratory viruses. In dry conditions, influenza spreads quickly, but over 40% humidity captures the germs that cause the flu and other viruses, which then drop from the air. If flu season arrives, use a humidifier at home to reduce your risk of getting sick.
Cool Mist Humidifier
Of course, by now you’re ready to dive in and purchase your new humidifier but can a cool mist unit be the right one for you? Most cool mist humidifiers generate humidity through the use of ultrasonic vibration that releases very fine droplets of water into the air. A cool mist humidifier is usually very quiet with only the soothing sound of a fan being present and uses less electricity because the water is not heated before it’s released into the air. The absence of a heating element also makes cool mist humidifiers the top choice for those with children or pets in their homes as they pose no risk of burning your loved ones if knocked over. The only drawback experienced by owners of cool mist humidifiers is the higher chance of bacterial growth which can be remedied by performing routine maintenance as prescribed in the owner’s manual.
Warm Mist Humidifier
A warm mist humidifier works by having a heating element inside that boils water that is then released into the air as mist. Since the internal heating element reaches boiling temperatures, bacteria and mold is eliminated at the source which provides cleaner air for you to breathe. Warm mist humidifiers also operate without a fan which means they are almost completely quiet, quickly adding humidity to small areas in silence. In colder months, many also find the warm mist an added benefit to keep rooms warmer while providing the listed benefits above. The only drawbacks to a warm mist humidifier are higher electricity costs and the burn risk from the internal heating element.
Conclusion
Ultimately the choice is yours on whether or not you choose a cool mist or a warm mist humidifier for your home. If you’re looking to safely add humidity to a large area, have children or pets, and are looking for low energy costs; a cool mist humidifier may be the perfect fit. For those seeking to add warmth with their humidity, kill more bacteria, and want silent operation; a warm mist humidifier can be right for you. So, choose wisely and enjoy the many benefits of having humid air in your home.
