How to increase humidity in house in winter?
In the winter, temperatures tend to drop inside and outside of your house. How to increase humidity in house in winter? This can lead to a lower humidity level as well, which can cause more than just an uncomfortable atmosphere in your home. Low humidity levels inside have been tied to respiratory issues, dry skin problems, increased static electricity and even furniture damage due to lack of necessary moisture in the air. If you’re looking for ways to adjust your home’s humidity levels this winter season, here are some steps you can take that will help add moisture back into the air and keep your home comfortable throughout the cooler months.
What is the Optimal Humidity Level during Winter?
Before we dive into ways to increase humidity in your house during winter, it’s important to know what the ideal humidity level is for this time of year. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the recommended indoor humidity level during winter is between 30-50%. This range helps balance comfort and health while also protecting your home from any potential damage caused by low humidity. Now, let’s explore a few simple ways to increase humidity in your house during winter.
How to increase humidity in house in winter? – 6 best ways
Invest in a Humidifier
One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase humidity in your home during winter is by using a humidifier. These devices are specifically designed to add moisture back into the air, helping alleviate any discomfort caused by dryness. Humidifiers come in different sizes and types, including cool mist and warm-mist options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. You can find a wide selection of humidifiers at your local home goods store or conveniently order them online.
See more: Benefits of crawl space dehumidifiers?
Use Houseplants
Placing a few houseplants strategically around your home not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also serves as a natural way to increase humidity indoors. Plants have a remarkable ability to release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. This means that during the winter months, having more plants in your home can help balance the humidity levels, creating a more comfortable environment for you and your family.
Utilize Your Stovetop
Cooking on your stovetop not only provides delicious meals but also offers an easy way to add much-needed moisture to the air. While it may not be as efficient as a dedicated humidifier, boiling water or simmering soups and stews will release steam into your home, effectively increasing the humidity levels. This simple and natural method can help keep your house comfortable throughout the winter season.
Dry Clothes Indoors
During winter, drying clothes outside may take longer due to colder temperatures. Instead of relying solely on a dryer, consider hanging your clothes indoors to dry. As the clothes dry, they will naturally release moisture into the air, contributing to an increase in humidity levels. This not only helps with drying your laundry but also serves as an additional way to improve the overall humidity in your home during the winter months.
Place Bowls of Water Around Your Home
Another straightforward and effective way to add moisture to the air is by placing bowls of water strategically around your home. As the water evaporates, it will gradually increase the humidity levels in its immediate surroundings. For an extra touch, you can even add a few drops of essential oils to the water, creating a pleasant and refreshing scent throughout your home.
Keep Bathroom Doors Open
When taking a shower or bath, keeping the bathroom doors open can make a significant difference in increasing the humidity levels in your home. The steam generated by hot water will naturally disperse throughout the house, effectively improving the overall humidity. This simple and effortless method allows you to add moisture to the air without any additional effort or equipment.
By incorporating these simple yet effective strategies, you can maintain optimal humidity levels in your home during the winter season, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant living environment for you and your loved ones.
See More: How To Preventing Mold In Basements?
Advantages of Increasing Humidity in Your Home During Winter
Aside from the obvious benefits of a comfortable living environment, there are several other advantages to increasing humidity levels in your home during winter. These include:
- Improved health and reduced risk of respiratory problems: According to the Mayo Clinic, dry air can irritate nasal passages and cause respiratory issues. By increasing humidity levels, you can alleviate these symptoms and reduce the risk of any potential health problems associated with low humidity.
- Moisturized skin: Dry air can lead to itchy, cracked skin. By adding moisture back into the air, your skin will thank you for keeping it hydrated and healthy.
- Reduced static electricity: Low humidity levels often cause an increase in static electricity, causing clothes to cling and hair to stand on end. By increasing humidity, you can eliminate this nuisance altogether.
- Protect furniture and wood flooring: Low humidity levels can lead to damage or warping of wooden furniture or flooring. By maintaining proper levels of moisture in the air, you can prevent this potential damage.
Conclusion
Winter can be especially challenging when it comes to managing humidity levels. With the right effort and tools, however, homes can still retain adequate moisture and make for a more comfortable atmosphere during the winter months. From using plants to adjust your thermostat to investing in a humidifier or dehumidifier, there are plenty of ways you can take action and increase humidity levels in your home this season. If you take on these steps and keep track of humidity regularly, you’re sure to have a cozy winter in your home free from dry air. Let us know how these steps help improve your home’s air quality or if you have any other methods for adjusting humidity. Leave us a comment below to let us know!
