Your bedroom is arguably the most important space to unwind, relax and rest, but what's the ideal humidity level for maximized comfort?
You might not consider it important, but our HVAC pros all agree that the right humidity range can help prevent dry skin, sinus irritation, and even curb allergens like mold and dust mites.
Here, they share the best humidity level for your bedroom, how to maintain it, and exactly why it matters.
What's the ideal humidity level for your bedroom?
Lane Martin, co-founder of Modern PURAIR, advises, 'For a bedroom, the ideal humidity sits between 30 per cent and 50 per cent. That range keeps things comfortable while helping prevent dry skin, sinus irritation, and allergens like mold or dust mites.'
Therefore, maintaining this humidity level is also an effective way to pollen-proof a bedroom and combat common allergens.
Lisa Purvins, CFO & vice president at Pro-Tech Heating & Cooling agrees with Lane, but amends the levels to a slightly tighter range.
She says, 'I recommend keeping the humidity level in a bedroom between 40 per cent and 45 per cent. This will help support better sleep, respiratory comfort, and protection of furnishings.
'If the air is too dry – below 30 per cent – it can cause dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity. On the flip side, if the humidity is too high – above 50 per cent – it can promote mold and mildew growth, dust mites, and a general feeling of stuffiness, all of which can negatively impact sleep quality and health.'
And, as Tim Alagushov, co-founder and COO of IRBIS Air, Plumbing & Electrical, adds, humidity above 50 per cent may also potentially damage walls, furniture, and even electronics. For this reason, it's crucial to get it right.
A hygrometer, such as the AcuRite Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer available at Walmart, is the easiest way for homeowners to know exactly where their humidity levels are, and adjust from there.
'This will tell them if they are having chronic humidity issues and possibly help them identify what is causing it,' adds Tim. 'For example, is it seasonal, linked to showering or cooking, and so on.'
How to maintain the ideal humidity level
How you maintain the correct humidity level in your bedroom will depend on the air in your space, and how it makes you feel.
For example, have you spotted any signs of high home humidity in your bedroom? This might include mildew, along with the tell-tale musty smells and visible condensation.
If you have, says Lane, your recommended course of action is investing in the best dehumidifier you can, to reduce your home's humidity.
He explains, 'If the air feels damp then a dehumidifier can bring it back into balance. During colder months a small humidifier [such as the bestselling Pro Breeze Mini Portable Dehumidifier available at Walmart] can help, especially if you’re waking up with a dry throat or congestion.'
If you're not sure on the things you need to know before buying a dehumidifier, it's always best to go for a pro-approved product when making a purchase.
'A Frigidaire 35 Pint Dehumidifier available at Amazon is a solid choice,' says Lisa. It’s Energy Star rated, easy to use, and has a built-in humidistat to help you monitor and maintain the right level.'
On the other hand, if the humidity in your bedroom is too low, leaving you wondering why your house feels dry, you'll need a humidifier instead. The difference between a humidifier and a dehumidifier is that they serve opposite functions – dehumidifiers reduce moisture, while humidifiers increase it.
'If humidity levels are too low, a humidifier can add moisture to the air,' advises Tim. 'For individual rooms, a portable unit [such as the LEVOIT Top Fill Humidifier available at Amazon] is often sufficient. For more chronic issues affecting the whole house, consider installing a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier in conjunction with your HVAC system.'
What to shop
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This mini dehumidifier is both effective and energy-saving, with a 16 oz capacity tank and one-touch switch design.
This vertical dehumidifier covers up to 500 square feet, with a large 9-liter water tank, to support up to 48 hours of mist output with a single refill.
This digital thermometer and hygrometer features a fast refresh and practical comfort indicator, and a compact display with large numbers.
FAQs
Is 70% humidity too high for a bedroom?
Yes, 70% humidity is far too high for a bedroom, per our experts' suggestions. At these levels or above, you may find yourself needing to prevent damp and mold in a bedroom, as well as struggling to sleep and suffering potential health issues.
Meet our experts
'Maintaining the right humidity isn’t just about comfort, it also helps protect your home by preventing mold growth and damage to wood or paint caused by too much moisture,' says Lane.
Wondering what a humidistat is, and whether you need one? Our experts explain everything you need to know in our detailed guide.
