Air Humidifiers: Benefits, Risks, and Their Application

Air Humidifiers: Benefits, Risks, and Their Application

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We’ve seen them and heard about them, but what do air humidifiers really do for our health and do we really need them that much?

What most of us know about air humidifiers is that they increase moisture levels in the air by releasing water vapor. Generally, these devices are used to reach a healthy level of humidity indoors so as to prevent skin irritation and other ailments that arise from dry air. These devices are also reported to moderately ease the symptoms of colds, asthma, and allergies. Due to these factors, air humidifiers are fairly common household devices now, with brands like Levoit continuously innovating to upgrade and update this technology. 

However, do we really need these devices in our homes in the Philippines?

Air Humidifiers: Benefits, Risks, and Their Application

The simple answer is no, as the Philippines has a high relative humidity with the average monthly relative humidity varying between 71% in March and 85% in September. This is due to us having year-round high temperatures and the fact that we’re surrounded by large bodies of water as an archipelagic country. Meanwhile, air humidifiers are typically recommended for homes that have humidity levels below 30%.

In fact, not only are air humidifiers not generally needed here, but they can actually do more harm than good as too much moisture and condensation in your home can result in musty odors and the growth of harmful bacteria, molds, and mildew. Too much humidity in your home for too long can also ultimately result in sickness by triggering asthma and allergy symptoms, such as coughing and itchy eyes.

Air Humidifiers: Benefits, Risks, and Their Application

In lieu of air humidifiers, you can instead purchase air diffusers to add nice-smelling fragrances to your home without the moisture. And if you’d like to monitor the humidity in your home, we also suggest trying out a hygrometer. 

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