Warm Mist Humidifier or Cool Mist?

The pros and cons of each type humidifier

by Mercia Tapping, President, AllergyBuyersClub.com

Cool Mist Humidifier Pluses

• Cool mist humidifiers are easier to clean (all water tanks should be rinsed every few days)

• Cool Mist humidifiers will cover a larger area

Cool Mist Humidifier Minuses

• Slightly noisier than warm mist units due to the fan noise

• You can hear the water gurgle when it flows out of the tank

• Cool mist can feel slightly cool and clammy at certain room temperatures

INFO LINKS Humidifiers Overview - view all humidifiers sold by AllergyBuyersClub.com Humidifiers Comparison Chart - a comparison with pluses and minuses of all the best humidifiers Warm mist vs. cool mist humidifiers - Learn the differences between cool mist humidifiers and warm mist types Best Humidifier Articles - Editor's top picks on humidifier info

Warm Mist Humidifier Pluses

• They are quieter than cool mist units

• Warm mist humidifiers feel the most comfortable especially in Northern winter

• Mist is very clean because they have an anti- bacterial coating or often pass over an ultraviolet light for additional germ protection

Warm Mist Humidifier Minuses

• Warm mist humidifiers in general require frequent cleaning, and are harder to clean than cool mist humidifiers

• Warm mist machines cover a smaller area than cool mist humidifiers, often no more than one decent sized bedroom

• The boiling sound can often be heard on high speed but it is not a noise issue for most people

• The gurgling sound can be heard when it flows out of the tank humidifier

• Mineral filter pad replacements are needed for Slant Fin warm mist humidifiers, adding to the running expense. It’s one more thing to think about and remember to put on one’s shopping list. Newer Warm mist models such as Hunter, Clairion and Air-O-Swiss do not require mineral pads.

See all the humidifiers at Allergybuyersclub.com

First Published: January 2006
Updated: April 2007

Send this article to a friend

.................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..................................................