Humidifiers help the air in your bedroom maintain moisture during the winter months — or potentially year-round, if you live in a dry climate. Sleeping in air that’s too dry can lead to dry skin, a scratchy throat, and even nosebleeds.
To help you find the right humidifier for your needs, my fellow product testers and I have tested some of the top-rated models on the market and assembled this list of the best of the best. We also put together a buyer’s guide based on our research and experience with these products, so you’ll know what to consider when shopping and how to boost the relative humidity levels in your bedroom for optimal sleep.
Since 2014, my fellow product testers and I have helped 60,108 people find the best mattress and products based on their body types and sleep preferences. To do this, we’ve tested over 300 beds and sleep products in our studio using our thorough review methodology, including all the bed frames featured in this guide.
While curating this list of the best air humidifiers, I consulted with our Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, to ensure our methodology and specific recommendations are accurate.
Read on to see which models made my list.
Best Humidifiers (2025)
- Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier – Best Humidifier
- Crane 1 Gal. Drop Cool-Mist Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Bedrooms
- Crane .5 Gallon Owl Ultrasonic Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Babies
- Vornado Lucerna 3 Alchemy Ultrasonic Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Large Rooms
- Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Budget Shoppers
- Honeywell HUL520B Mistamate Cool Mist Humidifier – Best Cool Mist Humidifier
Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.
What I Looked for in the Best Humidifiers
When searching for the best humidifiers, I focused on ease of use, long-term maintenance, and the features that directly affect daily comfort. Bedrooms are for resting and relaxing, so I recommended models that weren’t disruptive or demanding to maintain.
- Noise: A humidifier should improve your overall sleep, not disrupt it. We recommended units that operate quietly, even at higher humidification settings.
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential for preventing mold, bacteria, and mineral buildup, which can impact your air quality and the lifespan of your humidifier. We chose models with wide openings, simple designs, and dishwasher-safe parts to make cleaning less of a chore.
- User-friendliness: No one wants a humidifier that’s a hassle to fill, operate, or adjust in the middle of the night. I gave preference to models with intuitive controls and features to make everyday use as effortless as possible.
Best Humidifier Video Review
Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier – Best Humidifier
The Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier is our pick for the best humidifier, thanks to its impressive capacity, expansive coverage, and luxurious touches. If you’re looking for a premium model that offers extra features, then the Cloud should be on your shortlist. Our product tester Nicole Davis gave the Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier a 4 out of 5 or higher across key categories such as noise, cleaning, and user-friendliness.
After taking a few weeks to test the Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier at home, Nicole gave it high scores across the board, including perfect 5-star ratings in the cleaning and coverage categories. Nicole appreciated that the Cloud’s components were dishwasher-friendly and easy to take apart, which made cleaning a breeze. She was also impressed by the amount of space it covered – according to Virtuvi, the Cloud can work in spaces as large as 600 square feet.
“The water reservoir is dishwasher-safe, which is awesome — that’s how they recommend cleaning it,” Nicole said. “It’s also really easy to disassemble to clean the other parts.”
Nicole also awarded the Cloud 4-star ratings in the user-friendliness and noise categories. While it didn’t take her long to learn the Cloud humidifier’s controls, she noted that the six-button interface may present a steeper learning curve for folks who aren’t tech-savvy.
Nicole used a decibel reader app to measure the noise level of the Virtuvi Cloud Humidifier and recorded a reading of 32 decibels.
“The Virtuvi is not loud by any means but it hums a bit,” Nicole said. “I like a little white noise, but keep that in mind if you prefer a very silent sleeping environment.”
Another thing shoppers should keep in mind is its price. At $235 before any promotions, the Cloud comes with a premium price tag. However, if you’re looking for an advanced air humidifier that can cover large spaces, then the Virtuvi is a worthwhile investment.
Crane 1 Gal. Drop Cool-Mist Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Bedrooms
Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
The Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist humidifier is filter-free, has a one gallon tank, and features a directional mist outlet.
Sleepopolis Score
4.50 / 5
Introducing an air humidifier into your sleeping environment can benefit your health and immunity. As Dr. Raj Dasgupta explains: “An air humidifier can help prevent nasal dryness and excessive mucus production. It can also provide you with some relief from throat irritation when feeling unwell.” If you’re looking for a solid humidifier that will fit right in your bedroom, I recommend the Crane 1-gallon Drop Cool-Mist Humidifier. Our product tester Nicole Davis gave the Crane 4 stars or more for user-friendliness, cleaning, and maintenance.
While testing the Crane Drop Cool-Mist Humidifier over the course of a few weeks, Nicole appreciated how easy it was to “set it and forget it.” She appreciated the Crane humidifier’s simple user interface and gave it a perfect 5 out of 5 in this category.
“There is one knob that you turn to adjust the mist level,” Nicole said. “The light is green when it’s on and red when it needs water. Overall, this humidifier is very intuitive and easy to use.”
Nicole also appreciated how easy it was to clean and find replacement filters for the Crane, awarding it a 4 out of 5 in the cleaning and maintenance categories. She docked a point off of each category because of a few hard-to-reach spots and the fact that it did not come with a complimentary replacement filter.
“I gave this a 4 for filter because it actually doesn’t come with it, you have to order separately,” Nicole said. “That being said, the filters are easily purchased on Amazon and it slips right in where the cap is in the water reservoir. I also gave it a 4 for cleaning — like all humidifiers I’ve used, there are a few areas that are hard to reach, but a used toothbrush works fine to get to them!”
Overall, if you’re new to air humidifiers and would like to test the waters with an affordable and easy-to-use model, then the Crane Drop Cool-Mist Humidifier is the perfect starting point. However, you may want to look into other options for a premium upgrade from your current setup.
Crane .5 Gallon Owl Ultrasonic Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Babies
If your child often struggles with sniffles caused by allergies or common colds, an air humidifier can help clear their nasal passages right up. Starting at $39.49 on Amazon, the Crane Ultrasonic Owl humidifier is an affordable (and adorable) option for kids that’s quiet and easy to clean and maintain. Product tester Cait Giddings gave the Owl a 4 out of 5 or higher in the noise, cleaning, and user-friendliness categories.
Cait tested the Crane Ultrasonic Owl in her kiddo’s room to get the most accurate results possible. Fortunately, it passed the noise test, earning a 4 out of 5 in this category. The Owl was not loud enough to get in the way of her little one getting a restful sleep.
“The Crane Owl humidifier is quiet and unobtrusive,” Cait said. “Any noise it makes feels like low-level white noise.”
Cait also appreciated how easy it was to clean the Owl and awarded it a perfect 5 out of 5 in this category. If your little adventurer is prone to making messes or getting their sticky fingers on all sorts of things in their room, you can rest easy knowing that the Owl is easy to wipe down. It is also easy to clean all the nooks and crannies to prevent mold and mildew from building up.
She also gave the Owl another 5 out of 5 for user-friendliness because its simple and straightforward design made it easy to get it up and running. “It’s easy enough that even an almost-three-year-old can master the night light settings to make it change colors throughout the night,” Cait said.
However, there are a couple of things to consider before purchasing the portable Crane Ultrasonic Owl Humidifier. First, the Owl is designed for nurseries and smaller bedrooms; Cait said that it did a good job of humidifying her son’s bedroom but was unsure if it could cover a bigger room.
She also noted having trouble with the Owl leaking and having to place a baking tray underneath it to prevent water from getting everywhere. Despite its overall rating of 4.4 stars on Amazon, she’s not the only one who has encountered this problem, so it’s something to be mindful of if you decide to go with the Owl for your child’s bedroom.
Vornado Lucerna 3 Alchemy Ultrasonic Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Large Rooms
A big bedroom can be a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, you have more room for a king-size mattress. However, it also means you have to find an air humidifier that covers all of that extra space. Fortunately, the Vornado Lucerna 3 Alchemy Ultrasonic Humidifier can cover a lot of ground at just under $100. Our product tester Kate Meier was impressed by its performance overall and gave it a 4 out of 5 or higher in the coverage, noise, and cleaning categories.
It goes without saying that the best air humidifier for large bedrooms should be able to cover a lot of square footage. Kate gave the Lucerna 3 a perfect 5 out of 5 in this category because it offers up to 600 square feet of coverage, which should be more than enough for even the most sizable sleep setups.
Kate was also very pleased with the overall day-to-day experience of using the Vornado Lucerna 3. She appreciated that this model didn’t need a filter, meaning there was nothing to replace. However, she still noted a couple of hard-to-reach spaces while cleaning the humidifier, which is why she gave it 4 stars instead of a perfect 5.
“The only thing about cleaning, which is probably true with most humidifiers, is that the water chamber is quite large, and the opening to get into it is quite small,” Kate said. “In the event you find a mold spot, you will need to use a long-handled brush. Otherwise, the instructions say to use mild detergent and water.”
Kate also gave the Vornado humidifier a 4 out of 5 in the noise category. On both of its settings, she noticed a slight hum. She used a decibel reader app to assess its loudness and found that each setting registered between 31 and 34 decibels.
“The humidifier has two settings, low and high,” Kate said. “Both settings were registering between 31 and 34 decibels. At night, however, I sleep with a ceiling fan on high, and that noise drowns out anything coming from the humidifier. So while this isn’t silent, it is far from disruptive or noisy.”
The Lucerna 3 is a strong contender for folks with spacious bedrooms, thanks to its filterless construction, impressive coverage, and easy-to-use interface. However, Kate noticed its tank doesn’t fully lock onto the base, meaning that folks with small kids or pets should be mindful not to put it anywhere they can knock it over.
Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier – Best Humidifier for Budget Shoppers
Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
The Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Cool Mist humidifier has a 3-liter capacity and doubles as a diffuser.
Sleepopolis Score
4.60 / 5
Shoppers seeking the humidifier that offers the most moisture for the money should look no further than the Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. At only $38.99 before any discounts, the Levoit earns the title of best cheap humidifier. It was also a solid performer all around, earning a 4 out of 5 in noise, cleaning, and user-friendliness.
Product tester Matt Schickling was impressed with how much the Levoit Dual 150 delivered for under $40. After spending some time with it in his bedroom and experiencing it for himself, he gave it a perfect 5 out of 5 for value.
He was especially pleased with how quiet it stayed throughout the night and awarded it a 4 out of 5 in the noise category.
“This thing is pretty dang quiet,” Matt said. “It’s a much lower hum than the humidifier in my basement and even lower than a ceiling fan. The noise it makes, while not completely silent, is not very noticeable unless you’re listening for it. It has not disturbed my sleep, work, or general concentration.”
Matt also gave it a 4 out of 5 in the cleaning and user-friendliness categories, which is a good sign, considering that cheaper humidifiers can often be complicated (or impossible) to maintain. He appreciated that his unit came with a free filter that was easy to replace. However, he took off a point because there were a few spots that were difficult to reach and scrub.
“Overall, this is relatively easy to clean,” Matt said. “There are a few crevices within the container that are a bit annoying to clean, but in my experience, you can usually just rinse it out without having to apply too much elbow grease.”
You can’t really beat the Levoit for the price. Aside from a few hard-to-clean areas and an average 2-year warranty, we think most folks should be pleased with what they’re getting for just under $40.
Honeywell HUL520B Mistamate Cool Mist Humidifier – Best Cool Mist Humidifier
Using a humidifier might seem counterintuitive if you’re a hot sleeper. After all, why would you want something to add humidity to an already warm sleeping environment? The good news is that cool mist humidifiers exist to help these sleepers reap the benefits of having a humidifier without having to tolerate any of the discomfort. The Honeywell HUL520B Mistamate is our pick for the best cool mist humidifier because it earned a 4 out of 5 or better in most testing categories, including a perfect 5 out of 5 for cleaning and user-friendliness.
After testing this air humidifier over the course of a few months, product tester Riley Otis found a lot to love about it. She gave the HUL520B a perfect 5 out of 5 in the user-friendliness and cleaning categories because of how easy it is to use and maintain.
“This humidifier is very intuitive and easy to use,” Riley said. It has one dial that allows you to control how much mist is coming out. Once you add water to the tank and place it on the base, it’s ready to use. It also doesn’t need a filter! The tank is detachable from the base and has a holes large enough to fit your hand through.”
Riley also gave the HUL520B a strong 4 out of 5 in the noise category. She noted that aside from infrequent noises here and there, the Honeywell remains nearly silent throughout the night.
“The Honeywell humidifier is so quiet that I often forget it’s on,” Riley said. “However, every once in a while, I can hear the water gurgle as bubbles rise to the surface. That said, this doesn’t happen frequently and isn’t loud or disturbing.”
Aside from the occasional noise that may bother some sleepers, Riley didn’t have many flaws to note about the Honeywell HUL520B. However, she was unable to determine how much space it could cover. Amazon’s AI chat claims it can cover small rooms up to 250 square feet, but this wasn’t listed anywhere on the packaging. Based on Riley’s experience, it should cover most bedrooms, but sleepers with particularly spacious rooms might want to look for a humidifier that specifies its coverage.
Other Humidifiers I Considered
While these air humidifiers didn’t quite make my list, they still showed above-average performance during our testing. These models are well-built and offer good value. However, they just lost to the more competitive alternatives in our roundup.
Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
The Pure Enrichment MistAire is another solid budget-friendly choice that’s easy to use and maintain. At only $39 before any discounts, the MistAire is a great option for rooms that are 250 square feet or smaller. Unfortunately, it’s just a smidge louder than the other humidifiers on this list, which is why it didn’t quite make the cut.
Dreo HM311S Smart Humidifier
If you’re looking for smart home features in an affordable yet high-quality humidifier, the Dreo HM311S Smart Humidifier is a great choice. Even on its maximum setting, it runs pretty quiet, and our testers appreciated that you could just refill the tank without having to replace a filter. I left it off my list because it only had a 12-month warranty, which is weaker than most of the other models featured here.
How We Picked and Tested These Humidifiers
To find the best humidifiers for everyday use, we relied on hands-on testing experience to evaluate performance, ease of use, and practicality. My goal was to choose models that work well and are simple to live with. These humidifiers are quiet enough for nighttime use, easy to clean regularly, and intuitive to operate right out of the box.
Here’s how we break down the key categories and test them on each model.
Noise
Because evaporative humidifiers typically run in bedrooms and quiet spaces, noise was a top priority in our testing. We used a decibel meter app to assess the loudness of each one. If a model had more than one setting, we measured each of them before settling on an average score. In general, devices registering under 35 decibels received a 4 out of 5, while those under 30 decibels scored a perfect 5.
We also performed real-world tests: Our testers slept with each humidifier running overnight to gauge whether it was noticeable or disruptive in a typical sleep environment. Models that blended into the background and didn’t interrupt sleep naturally performed better.
Cleaning
Our testers made it a point to thoroughly clean each humidifier themselves to see how easy (or frustrating) it would be for the average user to maintain over time. We disassembled each unit and examined the surfaces, paying close attention to accessibility.
Models that featured broad, open tanks and minimal crevices tended to be much easier to wipe down, making the process quick and straightforward. These units required no special tools, and we could complete a full clean in just a few minutes.
On the other hand, some humidifiers had narrow openings, awkward corners, or small parts that made cleaning a chore. A few models required extra effort to scrub or reach into tight areas, which could lead to mold or mineral buildup if not properly maintained. This was especially true when using hard water, which can leave behind stubborn deposits that make cleaning even more difficult. We rated each model based on how practical it would be to clean regularly without frustration and chose those that made routine upkeep effortless for the list.
User Interface
To evaluate the user interface, we assessed how long it took to go from unboxing the humidifier to getting it up and running. Our testers used a timer and tried to operate each device without referring to the manual unless they were truly stuck. Humidifiers we could plug in, fill, and turn on in under 30 seconds (with clearly labeled buttons and intuitive controls) were the most impressive.
If a unit required multiple attempts, guesswork, or more than a minute to start humidifying, we considered that a significant drawback. Ultimately, we favored models that made setup feel quick and natural rather than something to fumble through.
What to Consider When Buying a Humidifier
Beyond decibels and user-friendliness, there are a few other factors to consider when buying the right humidifier for your sleep setup. Whether you’re outfitting your bedroom or a larger area, these details can influence how well your humidifier functions.
Room Size
You should check the specs to make sure the air humidifier you choose is powerful enough to handle the square footage of your room. For small to medium-sized bedrooms, most top-fill or ultrasonic models should get the job done. However, if you’re trying to add moisture to a larger bedroom or even a living room, look for models rated for 500 to 600 square feet to ensure even humidity coverage.
You should also consider energy-efficient models for humidifying larger spaces and bedrooms. Look for humidifiers that have the EPA Energy Star certification, as these models are able to maintain optimal humidity levels while consuming less electricity, ultimately saving you money on energy bills and reducing your environmental footprint.
Capacity
Water tank capacity determines your humidifier’s maximum runtime and how often you’ll need to go through the hassle of refilling the humidifier. Large tanks that hold gallons of water can run through the night and beyond without interruption, which is especially helpful if you use the humidifier while you sleep. Just keep in mind that bigger tanks may also mean a bulkier design, so balance size with your available space.
Price
Humidifiers can range from around $30 for basic models to over $150 for units with high-end features and settings. The key is to find a solid model without overpaying for features you don’t need. While expensive models often offer better build quality, quieter performance, and easier maintenance, many affordable picks still perform well in smaller spaces.
If you’re on a budget, look for models that focus on the essentials: quiet operation, consistent mist output, and easy cleaning. There are many portable humidifiers that offer all the must-have features at an affordable price.
On the other hand, if you’re investing in something long-term, it may be worth paying a bit more for features like automatic shutoff, built-in humidistats and hygrometers that monitor and help regulate the room’s humidity, and diffusers for essential oils.
Warranty
A generous warranty can offer you peace of mind, especially for humidifiers you plan to use daily or seasonally. Many models come with a one-year warranty, but some premium brands provide more coverage.
When shopping, check what the warranty includes. Some warranties only cover manufacturing defects, while others offer broader protection, including replacement parts or entire unit swaps. A good warranty is especially valuable if you’re investing in a higher-priced model or one with electronic components, including digital displays and smart features.
Air Humidifier FAQs
Are humidifiers safe for your lungs?
Yes, assuming you clean them regularly. Dirty humidifiers can disperse mold or bacteria into the air that can irritate your lungs.
Is it good to sleep with a humidifier in your room?
Yes, it is good to sleep with a humidifier in your room, especially in climates with dry air or during the winter when your heating system is frequently running. Sleeping with a humidifier can help prevent dry skin and irritation in your throat and sinuses.
Can I use tap water in my humidifier?
It’s best to use distilled water, as tap water can leave mineral buildup and disperse white dust into the air.
Which is healthier, a warm mist humidifier or a cool mist humidifier?
Both types of humidifiers are effective. However, cool mist humidifiers are generally safer for homes with children because they don’t pose a burn risk.
How often should I clean my humidifier?
Ideally, you should rinse and empty it daily and give it a thorough cleaning every three days or at least once a week.
What is the difference between an air purifier and a humidifier?
An air purifier has antimicrobial properties and removes particles like dust, pollen, and smoke from the air. Meanwhile, a humidifier adds moisture to the air to relieve dryness. They serve different purposes and can be used together for better indoor air quality.
