What is a humidifier and what can you use it for?
What is a humidifier?
A humidifier is a device that creates a good humidity level. In an ideal situation, the humidity is between 40 to 60%. If the humidity drops below 40%, you'll get dry eyes or dry skin, for example. The humidity drops if you turn the central heating on, for example. A humidifier in your home ensures that the air absorbs moisture, which brings the humidity back up to the right level.
How does a humidifier work?
There are 4 ways to humidify air. Each of these works differently:
- Ultrasonic humidifiers emit vibrations below the water surface, which creates a visible mist. This mist is absorbed by the air.
- Cold water humidifiers use water filters to humidify the air. They do this by sucking the air through these water filters.
- Steam humidifiers heat up the water, so the vapor can be absorbed by the air.
- Humidifiers with a cleaning function humidify the air by moving these rotating discs past the water tank.
What do you use a humidifier for?
Wooden furniture
If you have wooden furniture, flooring, or musical instruments at home, it’s important that the humidity remains stable. Low humidity will cause the wood to dry out and eventually shrink and tear. It's best to avoid this. A humidifier prevents your wooden furniture from drying out, so you can enjoy your furniture for longer.
Dry eyes and skin
Low humidity levels lead to a host of problems. You can get dry eyes and dry skin, for example. It's also possible that your airways become irritated due to the dry air. By increasing the humidity, you make these effects less severe or even prevent them.
Plants and animals
Plants and animals also benefit from a humidifier. Plants dry out if the humidity is too low. As a result, the leaves will start to hang and turn brown along the edges. In addition, pets can get respiratory issues in the same way humans are. A humidifier will help you maintain an optimal climate for your plants and animals
