Today we spend more time inside than ever, and keeping our houses and workplaces comfortable has become a real quest. Temperature, humidity, air purity, all should be taken into account if we aim at a pleasant environment. As the cold season approaches, the air tends to become dry, and the symptoms associated with low humidity start to appear. If you’re done dealing with congestion, dry skin or chapped lips, you should consider buying a cold mist humidifier for your house. It produces room temperature vapors that are dissipated into the air, thus maintaining an even humidity and increasing thermal comfort.
Contents Navigation
8. Honeywell HUL520W
If you are looking for a compact solution for your bedroom or office, Honeywell HUL520W fits perfect on every desk or nightstand. Moreover, it operates at a super quite level, so your peace and rest will not be disturbed. With a large tank opening, refilling it should be a breeze, and once this task is done, it won’t bother you for up to 20 uninterrupted hours.
Ultrasonic Technology
Unlike other humidifiers, that produce a lot of noise while dispersing water vapors into your room, with this model you won’t hear more than a whisper thanks to its incorporated ultrasonic technology. This makes it perfect for bedrooms and even baby rooms, as it incorporates some important safety features:
- Auto Shut-Off – turns it off when water is consumed
- Adjustable mist output – allows you to set the right humidity level
- Rubber Feet – prevent it from sliding and falling off surfaces
It includes a power knob that is easy to operate and allows you to turn it on/off and set the level of mist output. With a weight of only 3 pounds, you won’t have any trouble moving it from one room to another, or even carrying it with you on trips.
Factors To Consider
- Water Tank Capacity – 1.8 L
- Applicable Area – 120 sq. ft.
- Maximum Run Time – 20 hours
- Dimension – 8.5 x 8.5 x 9.5 inches
Conclusion
By increasing humidity to a safe level of 40-60%, it prevents your wooden furniture from getting deteriorate and reduces the number of bacteria and viruses that are found in the air. This way, flu symptoms such as congestion, irritated throat, and breathing problems are diminished, and dangerous microorganisms are kept away from your family. On the other hand, if humidity is too high, mold and mildew may invade your house, so make sure that it stays under 60%.
7. Safety 1st IH304
With a rather large tank, that can ensure your comfort for up to 24 hours, this nicely designed humidifier will do a great job in small rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, baby bathrooms or offices. It outputs cold mist that not only increases moisture level but chills the air and brings freshness into your house. Moreover, it is built on ultrasonic technology that uses vibrations to produce mist, thus avoiding upsetting high noises.
360°-Degree Turn
Equipped with a nozzle that turns 360 degrees, it won’t release mist on your drapes or walls. All you need to do is turn it towards the open spaces in your house and it will fill your air with refreshing vapors. Furthermore, for easier use, other useful features are available:
- 2 Mist Outlets – that increase room coverage and allow you to adjust mist output
- 2.5 L Water Tank – keeps it running for up to 24 hours
- Auto Shut-Off – prevents it from overheating
It is safe to use around children, as it doesn’t use any chemicals to produce mist and it doesn’t release any dangerous gases. Besides, it is ultra-quiet, thus ensuring good rest, especially if your baby struggles with congestion or breathing problems.
Important Notes
- Dimensions – 7.5 x 7.2 x 10.2 inches
- Maximum Run Time – 24 Hours
- Water Tank Capacity – 2.5L
- Applicable Area – 100 sq. ft.
Improves Breathing
Low humidity is held responsible for numerous breathing and skin conditions. If the air in your house is not humid enough, you may experience dry eyes or itchy skin. Safety 1st IH304 uses 2 nozzles to release mist all over your space, thus helping reduce symptoms of:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Flu
It includes an indicator light that lets you know when it’s empty, so you won’t have to check on water level every hour. With no filters included, it helps you save the money and time that you would have otherwise spent on them.
6. Crane EE-5301
A humidifier is essential for newborns, as in the first months of life they use only their little noses to breathe. To prevent nasal congestions and irritated sinuses, this model releases the perfect amount of cold mist into the air, and it does it without any noticeable noise, thanks to its ultrasonic technology. Furthermore, with a 3.8 L water tank included, it can run for up to 24 hours without interruption.
Reduces Microbe Growth By 99.96%
It is known that microorganisms tend to develop faster in humid places, and an ordinary water tank would make a great host for them, but this is not the case with Crane EE-5301. Made of special materials that are resistant to microbes, it prevents the growth of:
- Mold
- Germs
- Bacteria
- Viruses
Besides, it doesn’t require a filter that would need regular replacement and would generate extra expenses. The tank is removable and easy to clean, thus increasing the sanitizing level.
Buying Guide
- Dimensions – 8.6 x 13.4 x 8.6 inches
- Maximum Run Time – 24 Hours
- Water Tank Capacity – 3.8 L
- Warranty Period – 1-Year
Preserves Your House
Dryness doesn’t only affect your skin and airways, it has the same effect on your house, especially if you own many wooden furniture pieces. Able to cover areas that are up to 500 sq. ft. large, and including a nozzle that can rotate 360 degrees, Crane EE-5301 can save your house from the following damages:
- Shrinking Wood
- Static Electricity
- Dry Wallpaper that peels
- Cracked Wall Paint and Furniture
Furthermore, the incorporated Auto Shut-Off function keeps it from overheating when it runs out of the water, this way preventing fires and increasing safety when it is used around kids and pets. Another big bonus is that it consumes less than a light bulb and won’t increase your electricity bill.
5. TaoTronics TT-AH001
Provided with a built-in humidistat, TaoTronics TT-AH001 helps you keep an eye on the humidity level in your house. Designed to run for a long time, due to its extra-large 4 L water tank, it can cover an interval of up to 30 hours without requiring your assistance. Moreover, if the water is running low, its Auto Shut-Off function will kick in, keeping your house safe from fires. And if you are planning to use it in your baby’s room, you’ve made the right decision, as it produces a sound under 38dB.
3 Mist Levels
Some humidifiers may upset you with a mist output that is either too high or too low. Due to its smart design and multiple adjustment functions, with TT-AH001 you are in control of every parameter. You can set the percentage of moisture or choose between 3 different mist levels. Here are some of its most representative features:
- Night Light & Sleep Mode – lets you choose when it’s time for a quieter run
- Low Water Indicator – announces you when it needs to be refilled
- Built-in Handle – makes it easier to maneuver
Able to cover areas that are up to 322 sq. ft., it is great for small to medium rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, nurseries or offices. You can place it on a nightstand or a kitchen table, and it will fit perfectly everywhere, as long as it is 2 feet above the floor.
Important Features To Remember
- Dimensions – 8.1 x 5.3 x 11.8 inches
- Maximum Run Time – 30 hours
- Water Tank Capacity – 4L
- Warranty Period – 1-Year
Conclusion
Provided with a porous cartridge that removes waterborne viruses, bacteria, and germs, it won’t contaminate your house with any dangerous microorganisms. Furthermore, this filter neutralizes odors and keeps the water fresh for a long time. You just need to remember to replace it with a new one every 4 to 6 months. With a power consumption of only 30 W and a timer that allows you to select the moment it needs a break, this proves to be one of the most economical models on the market.
4. PurSteam World’s Best Steamers PH-355
Built of premium quality components that ensure a powerful and ultra-safe running, PH-355 is one of the most popular humidifiers on the market. Using a high-frequency ultrasound oscillator of 2.4 Mhz, it fills your rooms with a cold refreshing mist that counterattacks the effects of dry weather, saving you from flu symptoms, allergies, and asthma attacks. And it comes at a very accessible price that makes it even more attractive.
Practical Design
It was designed to cover small to medium spaces and it does a great job, due to its 2.2 L water tank that allows it to run for 17 hours between refills. Its upper side is transparent and lets you check the level of water while spreading a nice diffuse blue light. Furthermore, its efficiency is enhanced by many practical features:
- Knob Control – allows you to choose humidity level
- Night Light – guides you at night and adds beauty to its design
- Adjustable Mist Speed – you can choose between low an high depending on your current needs
It includes 11 variable mist control settings and can provide a 350 ml/h mist output, thus acting efficiently against damages that may be produced by dry air. It will protect your wooden furniture from shrinking and cracking, managing this way to prologue its lifespan.
Factors To Consider
- Dimensions – 11 x 10.2 x 8.5 inches
- Water Tank Capacity – 2.2 L
- Weight – 3.1 pounds
- Maximum Run Time – 17 hours
Perfect for Baby Rooms
Many factors should be considered before choosing any appliance for nurseries or baby rooms. As a rule, anything that doesn’t meet common safety standards should be avoided, as you wouldn’t want your kid to get hurt. With PurSteam World’s Best Steamers PH-355 you won’t have to worry about your baby’s safety, thanks to its functions that were designed to prevent incidents:
- Auto Shut-Off – turns it off when water inside the tank is fully consumed
- Low Water Indicator – helps you keep the tank always full
- Noiseless Technology – doesn’t affect your baby’s sleep
Featuring a wide cap that allows easy and thorough cleaning, you won’t have to deal with mold or bacteria growth and your baby will breathe only the cleanest air.
3. VicTsing VS-PHM004YUS-VD
If you are looking for an appliance that can perform more than one function at a time, you will be pleased to hear that VicTsing VS-PHM004YUS-VD was designed not only to cover your house in an invigorating cool mist but to transform it into a genuine sanctuary. It is both a humidifier and a diffuser for essential oils. All you need to do is add your favorite aroma into the water tank, and it will spread it all over the place.
100% BPA Free
Bisphenol is a chemical substance that is often found in plastic products. Studies have proven that a certain percentage of this compound can pass into aliments or beverages, affecting especially babies and children. VS-PHM004YUS-VD doesn’t use materials that include BPA, avoiding this way the release of harmful substances into the air and keeping your family safe of:
- High Blood Pressure
- Infertility
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Asthma
Moreover, it includes an Auto Shut-Off function that activates 5 seconds after the diffuser has run out of water, and turns it off, this way preventing it from overheating and causing unfortunate household accidents.
Important Features
- Dimension – 6.7 x 6.7 x 6 inches
- Water Tank Capacity – 300 ml
- Coverage Area – 82 sq. ft.
- Maximum Run Time – 8 hours
Versatile and Stylish
This model was created to please the eye and sure does a great job with its wooden-alike exterior that brings a hint of natural warmth into your home. Due to its small dimensions, you can place it even in narrower places like your bathroom, kitchen or nursery. In addition, it comes with many useful features that were designed to enhance your experience:
- 7 Led Lights – you can choose between a brighter and a dimmer option for every single color
- Timer – allows you to set its running time to 1 hour, 3 hours, 6 hours or continual
- 2 Mist options – for either strong or standard mist
While other humidifiers tend to break if you add essential oils in their water tank, this model is made of resistant materials that support this function. It doesn’t need any additional aroma compartment. However, you should keep in mind that oils are not included in the package and you will have to buy your own.
2. Pure Enrichment PEHUMIDIF
With a maximum run time of 16 hours at high speed, Pure Enrichment PEHUMIDIF is one of the most efficient humidifiers to be used during the night. Due to the large 1.5 L water tank that comes with it, you won’t have to worry about it running out of water. No more waking ups during the night to refill the tank and surely no more chapped lips in the morning. Now you can get your well-deserved rest, and sleep through a full quiet night, as it doesn’t even produce much sound.
360-Degrees Nozzle
Some appliances and materials are not meant to get wet, and a daily mist shower surely won’t do them any good. You will want to keep the water away from them, and here is where a 360-degree nozzle finds its best use. By rotating it, you can choose between places that need moisturizing and places that don’t, and, this way, avoid the damage of:
- Electronics and electrical installations
- Fabrics and sensitive wood furniture
- Plants
When it comes to cleaning, you will find everything you need in the package, and this means a brush that you can use to remove any debris and buildup from the ultrasonic disk. Furthermore, it will save you money in the long run, as it doesn’t include any filters that need replacing or washing.
Important Specifications
- Dimensions – 10.9 x 9.2 x 6.9 inches
- Weight – 1.75 pounds
- Maximum Run Time – 16 hours
- Warranty Period – 5-Year.
5-Year Warranty
If you are interested in acquiring a model that will last you for a long time, you should know that Pure Enrichment PEHUMIDIF comes with many practical maintenance options. Robust and built of quality materials, it won’t break easily, but for your ease of mind, here are some advantages that come with this package:
- 5-Year Warranty – for any manufacturing flow
- Customer Support – available 7 days a week
- ETL Certification – that guarantees that it complies with high safety standards
Provided with an adjustable mist output that allows you to choose between a low and a high level, getting the humidity you desire shouldn’t be a problem. It will help relieve common problems that are caused by dry air, such as congestion, dry eyes and skin or allergies. With a soft nightlight included, that won’t interfere with your dreams, it is a wonderful choice for homes where peace is cherished.
1. Honeywell HCM350W
If you are wondering what makes this model from Honeywell so popular among buyers, let us shed some light on this subject. Not only that it is very practical, with a large 3.8 L water tank included, that ensures its optimal functioning for up to 24 hours, but it features an innovative filtering technology, based on Ultra Violet light and wicking filters, designed to release only germ- and particle-free mist into the air. With HCM350W you won’t have to worry about breathing calcar deposits that are an effect of hard water and may get sprayed into the air with other humidifiers.
99.9% Germ-Free Mist
Studies have shown that viruses and germs multiply faster in less humid environments, so keeping a good level of humidity in your house may be the best way to avoid flu and seasonal colds. But what do you do with microorganisms that travel through water and get dissipated into your room through the cold mist? Meet Honeywell evaporative technology that includes:
- Ultra Violet Light – kills 99.9% germs, bacteria and viruses that are found in the water
- Wicking Filter – absorbs the sanitized water and uses it to moisturize the dry air as it passes through it
- Self Regulating System – automatically adjusts the mist output according to the humidity level in the room
The water tank is made of break-resistant materials and it is safe to use in a dishwasher. Provided with a wide tank opening, it is easy to clean and fill, thus helping to prevent any mold or bacteria growth on its interior walls.
Important Notes
- Dimensions – 17.5 x 9.4 x 11.8 inches
- Maximum Run Time – 24 hours
- Applicable Area – 150 sq. ft.
- Warranty Period – 1-Year
Multiple Health Benefits
Cold weather especially can decrease the thermal comfort in your living place, favoring the occurrence of irritating symptoms such as difficulties in breathing, cough or sneezing. By keeping the RH level between 40 and 60%, Honeywell HCM350W reduces the risk of:
- Influenza
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Congestion
As long as you remember to replace the filter periodically, it will do a fantastic job at keeping viruses, bacteria and other potentially harmful airborne particles away from your house. Genuine Honeywell Filters are treated with Protec Antimicrobial that stops up to 99.99% of mold growth, so we recommend the use of these specific ones.
Top 8 Cool Mist Humidifiers Comparison
| 1. Honeywell HCM350W | 2. Pure Enrichment PEHUMIDIF | 3. VicTsing VS-PHM004YUS-VD | 4. PurSteam World’s Best Steamers PH-355 | 5. TaoTronics TT-AH001 | 6. Crane EE-5301 | 7. Safety 1st IH304 | 8. Honeywell HUL520W | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| THE BEST | OUR CHOICE | |||||||
Applicable Area |
150 sq. ft. | 250 sq. ft. | 82 sq. ft. | N/A | 322 sq. ft. | 500 sq. ft. | 100 sq. ft. | 120 sq. ft. |
Water Tank Capacity |
3.8 L | 1.5 L | 300 ml | 2.2 L | 4 L | 3.8L | 2.5L | 1.8 L |
Smart Functions |
Ultra Violet Light & Humidity Monitor | Automatic Shut Off | Essential Oil Diffuser | Ultrasonic Technology | Sleep Mode & Nightlight | Automatic Shut Off | Ultrasonic Technology | Automatic Shut Off |
Dimensions |
17.5 x 9.4 x 11.8 inches | 10.9 x 9.2 x 6.9 inches | 6.7 x 6.7 x 6 inches | 11 x 10.2 x 8.5 inches | 8.1 x 5.3 x 11.8 inches | 8.6 x 13.4 x 8.6 inches | 7.5 x 7.2 x 10.2 inches | 8.5 x 8.5 x 9.5 inches |
Weight |
9.4 pounds | 1.75 pounds | 1.45 pounds | 3.1 pounds | 3.52 pounds | 4.5 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 3 pounds |
Maximum Run Time |
24 hours | 16 hours | 8 hours | 17 hours | 30 hours | 24 hours | 24 hours | 20 hours |
Warranty Period |
1-Year | 5-Year | 1-Year | 1-Year | 1-Year | 1-Year | 1-Year | 3-Year |
How Does It Work
The benefits of a humidifier cannot be contested, especially when it comes to relieving the symptoms caused by low humidity. When the cold season approaches, nasal congestion, dry skin, itchiness are just a step away, and the best way to fight these symptoms is to increase the humidity level in your house. Unlike warm mist humidifiers, which boil the water to produce vapors that are further released into the room, cool mist humidifiers work more like evaporative coolers, using the warm air as the main catalyst for evaporation. Another method that is often found on these appliances is ultrasonic technology.
The process of turning the water into a refreshing cool mist is pretty simple, and once you’ve understood how these devices work, you will be able to better distinguish between the two types and make the right choice for your home. So, let’s take a closer look at the technology behind them.
Two Effective Technologies
The years of research and innovation produced two types of cold mist humidifiers, one that uses evaporation to release the mist and increase humidity, and one that implies a spinning disk driven by a performant motor which splits the water into microscopic droplets. Each of the two methods has its benefits and drawn-backs, but when it comes to their main purpose, the result is excellent.
Evaporative Humidifier
The three components that are found obligatory in this type of humidifier are the wick filter, the water reservoir, and the fan. Although the fan size and power may vary, and the filter can be either of higher or lower quality, the process is the same, implying the following steps:
- The reservoir is filled with water according to its volume and capacity.
- Once the device is turned on, the water is drained from the reservoir into the wick through a paper sheet or a cloth.
- The fan draws the warm air in the room and blows it towards the wick, activating the evaporating process that leads to a drop in temperature.
- The cold mist is then released into the room, increasing humidity and creating a refreshing atmosphere.
Often, evaporative humidifiers use filters to remove the particles and pollutants that travel through the air. Depending on the quality of the filter, they can capture bacteria, germs, viruses, pet hair, dust mittens, mold, mildew, fungus, and even odors or VOCs.
Ultrasonic Humidifier
Renowned for their whisper-quiet operations and efficiency, ultrasonic humidifiers cannot function without 3 main components: the water recipient, the nickel electrodes, and the piezoelectric ceramic disk. Here’s how the process follows:
- Once the recipient is filled with water, the device is turned on.
- The electric current crosses the 2 nickel electrodes and reaches the disk.
- As the disk is piezoelectric, it starts to vibrate at an ultrasonic frequency which breaks the water molecules, turning them into smaller particles.
- The mist is instantaneously transmitted through the air into the room, all at an inaudible level of sound.
Ultrasonic humidifiers don’t use filters, as the high vibration process is powerful enough to sanitize the air. However, water deposits such as minerals or chlorine are broken along with the water molecules and end up in the air. This fine powder is known as ‘white dust’ and, although it is not dangerous for your health, it tends to deposit on the proximal furniture. An efficient way to ameliorate this problem is to replace the tap water with distilled water or try to find milder water.
Benefits
Whether you choose the first or the second variant, the most important benefit is the improvement it brings to your health. Cold and flu symptoms will be alleviated and allergies reduced. Plus, during the summer, the cool mist will refresh the air in your house and drive away a small part of the summer heat.
However, a cool-mist humidifier can also bring you financial advantages, and these include:
Conclusion
Cold mist humidifiers run on ultrasonic vibrations, a technology that provides effective results without consuming much energy, thus turning them into real money savers. Many of them are equipped with large tanks that are easy to fill and clean and can run for tens of hours without interruption. Furthermore, their main function is supplemented by many attractive features that increase their usability and turn them into genuine gadgets.
If you are looking for a humidifier that can last you through the whole night without requiring any refill, you should consider Pure Enrichment PEHUMIDIF. Safe for baby rooms and with a 5-Year warranty included, this is one of the best choices for people who want their peace of mind.
Built of BPA-free materials, VicTsing VS-PHM004YUS-VD, is one of the safest humidifiers on the market. Moreover, it has a beautiful and stylish design that will impress any of your visitors, and its tank allows you to add essential oils directly into the water for nicely-scented moments.
Honeywell HCM350W is your best choice if you are looking to keep your house as sanitized as possible. Both UV light and a filter are available with this model, to ensure a 99,9% germ-free cold mist. Besides, it has a pretty fair price and, with a 1-Year warranty, you won’t have to worry about extra expenses.
