Steam humidifiers can be perfect for those with respiratory symptoms or dry skin. Dry air can cause many different types of issues but getting the best steam humidifier will counteract this. Steam humidifiers are a highly efficient way of getting that moisture into the air.
While they can make your life easier, trying to choose the best one can be tough. We’re here to help you out with our extensive reviews on the top 10 models out there. We’ve also developed a buying guide with FAQs to give you all the info you need. Let’s find the best steam humidifier for you!
Best Steam Humidifier
Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier
Vicks has been able to make this warm mist humidifier that has an excellent level of quality. It doesn’t require a filter and has an decent capacity of one gallon. That gives it a possible runtime of 24 hours and will allow you to sleep peacefully.
That warmer air is going to have a wide range of benefits, including providing cough relief. A great feature of this machine is that it is almost silent in its operation. That allows you to use it right by you when you’re sleeping.Â
The humidifier is very simple to use with its dial and that’s aided by the clear tank to let you see the level of water. The build quality is very good and that is backed by it having a long 3-year warranty.Â
Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture Humidifier
Honeywell has made this steam humidifier that has a very similar look. For those looking to use essential oils, this would be perfect as it allows you to get that relaxation and rich aroma. It is aided by the steam that will come out of its one-gallon tank.
If the water does run out at any point then the humidifier will automatically shut off. That’s unlikely as the clear tank will show you when you need to top it up. The easy-grip handle is another great safety feature.
There are two settings available and the humidifier is great for average-sized rooms. It has the type of quality you’d expect from Honeywell and there’s no surprise that it’s so highly rated.
Aprilaire 800 Whole Home Steam Humidifier
Do you want to be able to humidify your entire home? If so, you’d need a hugely powerful humidifier such as this. It has an incredible coverage of 6,200 square feet which should be more than enough for most properties.
You get a huge level of control over the unit which includes six different output options, ranging from 11.5 to 34.6 gallons per day. The water dispersed into the air is going to be pure but without the need for a filter.
All this will be controlled via the automatic digital control panel. This will allow you to set the perfect level of humidity you want and then you can forget about it. It allows you to have all the benefits without needing constant adjustments.Â
Crane EE-5202 Inhaler & Warm Mist Humidifier
The stand out feature of this steam humidifier is its 2-in-1 functionality. Not only does it work perfectly as a steam humidifier but you can also use the steam inhaler function for when you need to clear your sinuses.Â
The tank is a little smaller than on some other models at 0.5 gallons but it still has a runtime of 8 hours. No filter will be required and this is a perfect addition to any bedroom, especially with the fact that it’s whisper quiet.
You can also add Crane’s vapor pads to the unit which are either designed to clear congestion or help you have a peaceful night of sleep. On top of this, the humidifier is also easy to clean and maintenance will be minimal.Â
BONECO – Digital Steam Humidifier
This Boneco model takes on a slightly different look with its stylish black and white boxed design. It has a 1.5-gallon tank which is good enough for large rooms as at the highest setting it can have an output of 3.5-gallons per day over an 860 square foot area.
The functionality is very high with its digital interface. It will show you the level of humidity, has a dimmer for night-time use, is programmable and can even be set for automatic or economy modes.
The intelligent machine is great at being able to produce a warm mist and no filters are going to be required. There are two anti-mineral pads included which make maintenance easy and give it long-term usability.Â
LEVOIT Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Air Humidifier
Here we see another stylish machine with a digital display. As well as being able to give you that warm mist as a steam humidifier, this device can also give you cool mist for those warm summer days.Â
The level of usability on this machine is simply fantastic. You’re able to set it to your perfect humidity level then simply leave it alone. Along with that, you can also set your mist level, choose between warm/cold and set it on a timer.
Tank capacity is at 1.5-gallon and at the lower level, this will give you an amazing 60 hours of continuous operation. It’s ultra-quiet and the ease of use is aided by it coming with a remote control.Â
Vicks Warm Steam Vaporizer
Here we see another steam humidifier from Vicks but one that takes on a much different look. It’s perfect for the bedroom as it is quiet but it also has a medicine cup for soothing oils, and a nightlight.
The 1.5-gallon tank is going to give you a whole day of operation before you need to fill it again. Despite being white, the unit is translucent enough for you to be able to see how much water is remaining for easy refilling.
It works brilliantly in small to medium-sized rooms and will automatically shut off once it’s empty. You’ll be able to get all the benefits from the steam vapor and it will make your home a very comfortable environment.
Steamfast SF-920 Warm Mist Humidifier
This tall model is highly portable and allows you to place it in any room you wish. The 1-gallon tank will have a runtime of around 12 hours. If it runs out while you’re sleeping then it will automatically shut off with no issues.Â
The water tank is very easy to fill and you have the option of top-filling it or the tank is also removable. Another great feature is the aromatherapy ring on the top of the unit where you’ll be able to put any essential oils.Â
It’s very easy to use and maintenance will be minimal. Part of the reason for that is no filter is required. It gets to work very quickly and you won’t have to worry about it making too much noise.Â
Vicks VWM845 Warm Mist Humidifier
For those who like to add vapors to their steam, this is going to be perfect. It has a bottom section where you’ll be able to place Vicks VapoPads which are perfect for being able to ease congestion. On top of that, there is a medicine cup where you’re going to be able to add your own oils.
Along with the soothing experience, you’ll also find this steam humidifier very easy to use. This is partly due to the removable tank being easy to fill and clean. Adjusting the settings is also simple with the dial it has.
It’s able to produce a lovely warm mist with the 1-gallon tank that is powerful enough to be used in large rooms. No filter is required which makes this a simple humidifier but one that is highly effective.
Elechomes UC5501 Ultrasonic Humidifier
This is perhaps the most stylish steam humidifier out there. It looks great and is available in either black or white. One of its most striking features is the large display that will measure the amount of humidity in the room.
You’re able to control this humidity, either by using the buttons on the unit or via the remote control. You get plenty of options which, along with humidity control, also includes a sleep function, timer, steam control and the ability to choose between warm or cool.
The 1.6-gallon tank will give you a long runtime and this can be used in larger rooms. The 360-degree nozzle will give you even distribution of steam and you can also include essential oils into the mix.
Best Steam Humidifier – Buying Guide
Coverage area
Before you get a steam humidifier, it’s a good idea to roughly work out the square footage of area that it can cover. Some smaller devices would struggle in larger rooms. If you’re not sure then it’s best to get one that is a little bigger.Â
Size and tank capacity
Tank capacity is going to have a large effect on the runtime and coverage area. A large tank capacity will also mean a bigger unit and one that is heavier. While it may make sense to get a large humidifier, it’s worth considering if you need it to be portable, whether you have the space for it and how it needs to be refilled.
Noise
Some of these machines can help you to sleep but not if there is an annoying buzz next to you. It’s a good idea to look for a near-silent humidifier if you want one for your bedroom. Many of the top models make a very minimal amount of noise.
Additional features
The functionality on some of these models is brilliant. An auto shut off feature is a good idea for safety once the tank is empty. On top of that can be the ability to add essential oils, a timer, the ability to set your preferred humidity level, cool mist function and different steam settings.
Continuous run time
The run time will be mainly linked to the tank capacity and how much steam can be generated at any one time. It’s worth bearing in mind that the advertised run time on many of these models is what it can do on the lower settings. On the highest setting, the run time may be a lot shorter.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best steam humidifier?
The best steam humidifier for you is the one that is big enough for the space you have and has all the features you’re looking for. Some may be looking for a small model for a bedroom whereas others may be looking for a whole home humidifier. All the humidifiers we’ve looked at here are brilliant and simply get the one that most closely matches your needs.
Are steam humidifiers worth it?
Steam humidifiers have a range of benefits. Most notably they are great at being able to ease congestion and aid in a peaceful night of sleep. It makes them a brilliant investment for most users.
Can I use oil in a humidifier?
Essential oils can be a great way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. It’s common for humidifiers to have a vapor tray or medicine cup where such oils can be added. It’s important to note that not all humidifiers will have this feature.
What percent should I set my humidifier?
The guidance on humidity changes throughout the seasons. In summer it’s suggested that you keep the humidity below 60% and there may be times when you don’t need it switched on. In the winter, you should keep the humidity between 25-40% as this would be your most comfortable range. If you have a humidifier with a hygrometer on it then you can test it out for yourself and find your most comfortable level.
Should the humidifier run all night?
Many people find that running a humidifier all night is going to give them the most comfortable sleep. There is usually no reason not to do so but there are a few things you want to check. Firstly, ensure there is enough water for it to run consistently. Secondly, check that it has an auto-shutoff feature incase the tank does run empty.
