Best Quiet Humidifiers for Bedrooms: The 2023 List - Soundproof Living (2024)

I already touched upon the benefits of owning a high-quality, quiet dehumidifier. And while some of my friends (and readers like yourself) struggle with humidity, I also know more than a few people who have issues with dry air.

With that in mind, I decided to cover the other side of the proverbial coin of moisture. In other words, I began looking into humidifiers and vaporizers. As a result of my research, I’ve compiled a list of the best quiet humidifiers of 2023.

But that’s not all this article will cover. You will also get a handy guide on buying the right humidifier for your bedroom or children’s room, as well as a list of useful tips on how to keep your unit clean and running quietly. More importantly, you’ll find out just how important it is to own a humidifier and how it might benefit your life overall.

1. Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

If you want to get rid of bacteria from your room without the noise, you will definitely enjoy Crane USA’s ultrasonic humidifier. This stylish little unit has the shape of a transparent teardrop and it has a soothing, milky-white design. Of course, since it’s a humidifier designed for bedrooms and nurseries, it’s incredibly small. But don’t let that size fool you — this spectacular item can cover an area of up to 50 square feet.

In terms of noise, you will barely be able to hear the Crane humidifier. It’s ultrasonic, i.e., it runs at less than 30 decibels, well below any level of noise. When you turn it on, it’ll sound like a pleasant whisper, or like mild television static.

Crane will run for 24 hours if you leave it on the extra-low setting. However, any setting above that will deplete the water inside the tank sooner. Moreover, it has an automatic shut-off feature that activates once the water tank is completely empty.

One potential setback of Crane is the lack of filters. Sure, it will make your refilling job a lot easier, but regular maintenance will be a bit of a chore. If you live in a hard water area, you might need to purchase a demineralization filter, just to be on the safe side.

2. Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Humidifier

Another product that has a neat teardrop design and a 360-degree mist nozzle, the Pure Enrichment MistAire is a beautiful unit with a lot to offer. And when compared to Crane, it also shares the same basic setbacks. Mainly, if you were to use MistAire in hard water areas, it might underperform. In addition, the main water tank is difficult to clean, which might be a dealbreaker for some users.

However, the benefits far outweigh the flaws. MistAire is another whisper-quiet ultrasonic humidifier, running at 30 decibels. It’s perfect for bedrooms since it doesn’t take up a lot of space and isn’t noisy. Couple that with its 16-hour runtime on the lowest setting and you have the best recipe for a good night’s sleep, with enough moisture in the air.

Looking at the design, you might be tempted to buy MistAire just because of how beautiful it is. But the white-and-blue combination is there for more than just aesthetics. The light-blue, see-through tank lets you easily check how much water you have left. And thanks to its 360-degree nozzle, it can reach a wide area, making it suitable for large and small rooms alike.

I feel that it’s instructive to note just how popular Pure Enrichment MistAire really is. On Amazon alone, there were a staggering 10,000 units sold, making it one of the most sought-after humidifiers. That fact alone earns MistAire a spot on this list.

3. Vicks VWM845 Warm Mist Humidifier

Vicks is the first warm mist humidifier on this list, and it’s here for a good reason. Just like MistAire, this product has had thousands of units sold over the years, with people praising it as one of the best warm mist humidifiers on the market.

Naturally, all of the praises Vicks is getting are warranted. After all, Vicks is a household name that has produced high-quality items for decades. Everyone knows the health benefits of their most famed product, the VapoRub. So, it was only a matter of time before the brand included humidifiers and vaporizers in its product line, including the one you’re currently reading about.

As a warm mist humidifier, Vicks removes over 95% of all bacteria from the air. Couple that with the automatic shut-off feature and you get a splendid unit that performs incredibly well and helps you stay healthy. Moreover, Vicks doesn’t use filters, so you won’t have to go through the hassle of replacing any after the water runs out.

Lots of humidifiers, both warm and cold mist ones, don’t have any humidity regulation settings. But Vicks most definitely has it; thanks to its two output settings, you can regulate the level of moisture at any given time.

In terms of runtime, it’s a bit behind the previous options I mentioned, at 12 hours on the lowest setting. But that’s more than enough time if you want to keep the unit on while you’re asleep.

4. Honeywell HCM350W Cool Moisture Humidifier

The HCM350W has been on the market since 2020, and to date has remained one of the best-rated units out there. Thanks to its simple and effective design and noise-free performance, it’s possibly the most high-quality product that Honeywell has to offer.

With its 1-gallon tank, the HCM350W will have more than enough water to provide your room with cold mist. It will maintain the humidity level between 40 and 60, i.e. the perfect level for improving your overall health. Your skin, breathing, and sleeping pattern will improve and there will be next to no static electricity in the air.

One unique feature of Honeywell’s HCM350W is its native UV technology. When it’s humidifying, this unit will get rid of 99% of harmful bacteria from the air. It’s a perfect humidifier for the winter months, since it will keep your flu and colds at bay.

When using the lowest setting, you can humidify the room with HCM350W for 24 consecutive hours. Not only is that perfect for your sleeping schedule, but it’ll also keep your home hydrated if you’re away for a while.

Of course, the HCM350W has its own flaws. For instance, it uses filters that you will need to replace often. However, the filters are quite expensive, so you’ll be spending a lot of money to keep this device running smoothly. In addition, you will have to replace the wick regularly, as well as frequently take the fan out and clean it.

5. Ledonti WiFi Dual Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

As you can tell from its name, this humidifier releases cool and warm mist alike. As such, it is a perfect device for any season and home. It also doubles down as an essential oil diffuser, so it can help your home smell amazing besides improving your air humidity.

This humidifier is hefty, as the tank can fit a little more than a gallon of water. With that much liquid, the device can cover an impressive 300-square-foot area for up to 20 consecutive hours. It also comes with 3 levels of humidity control, so you can adjust the settings to fit your needs. If your home isn’t large, the low or medium setting will suit you just fine.

The humidifier features a shut-off timer. If you set it up, the device will turn off after 8 hours. So you’ll be able to sleep peacefully or save energy when you aren’t at home.

To make using the humidifier even more convenient, the manufacturer designed it so you can connect it to the Tuya App. This app allows you to make schedules for the humidifier, turn on sleep mode with just a click, and adjust humidity levels whenever you want.

When you turn on Auto Mode, the humidifier will be able to scan the moisture levels in the air. Then, it will regulate the humidity based on the acceptable levels you set up. In other words, the appliance will do all the work for you and activate or deactivate when necessary.

Finally, It’s important to mention that the humidifier never exceeds 30 decibels of sound, even at its highest setting. As such, it is perfect for nighttime, as it won’t disturb your sleep.

6. Orgtoy Humidifier for Large Bedrooms

With a tank that can hold more than 1.6 gallons of water, this Orgtoy model is one of the largest on this list. On the lowest setting, it can work for up to 60 hours without a pause. On the other hand, the water will run out in about 24 hours if you use the highest setting.

Depending on the setting you opt for, the humidifier is suitable for areas between 215 and 430 square feet. The noise from the device never exceeds 26 decibels, so you can keep it running even when you and your family are resting.

Like many humidifiers mentioned, this one can also serve as a gentle night light. You can turn the light on or off with a simple press of a button, and it is operated separately from the humidifier. In other words, you can activate the light even if the humidifier isn’t on.

Furthermore, this humidifier has a 3.5-inch water inlet, which you can also use to clean the tank. While the opening isn’t small, you might struggle with the cleaning process a bit if you have larger hands. However, if you use a scrub or a brush, you’ll have no issues.

If you’re worried about the humidifier overheating and malfunctioning as a result, there is good news. Namely, the humidifier will turn off for a few minutes at a time to prevent overheating. So, you don’t have to worry about leaving it on when you’re away from home.

7. SmartDevil Small Desk Humidifier

Are you looking for a tiny humidifier that will make little noise and take up even less space? In that case, this SmartDevil model is the right pick for you.

Since its dimensions are 3.74 x 3.74 x 5.08 inches, the humidifier can truly fit on any desk or nightstand, no matter how small. It is ideal for bedrooms and offices, but you can also use it in any room of up to 50 square feet.

As far as quietness goes, there are better models on this list. Still, the noise only goes up to 30 decibels, so you will be able to sleep with the humidifier on.

However, as far as spraying power goes, this model is definitely close to the top of the list. The humidifier makes micron-sized water particles through the process of ultrasonic vibration. So, the mist is extra fine and you can choose to spray it continuously or intermittently by pushing a button.

If you opt for intermittent spraying (3-second breaks between two consecutive sprays), the humidifier will be able to work for about 18 hours. On the other hand, continuous spraying makes the water run out faster, so the device can be on for 10 hours.

And finally, I’ll mention something about the safety of this model. Namely, as soon as the water level in the tank becomes lower than the water level probe, the sprayers will turn off, eliminating any potential safety hazards. In other words, you can leave the device on while sleeping or running errands and rest assured that it will turn off on its own when the time comes.

8. Everlasting Comfort Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

With a single fill, this humidifier can run for 5 nights (or 50 consecutive hours). The tank can hold up to 1.6 gallons of water, making this model one of the largest on this list.

Thanks to several improvements to its technology, the manufacturer has made this humidifier its best offering so far. The device covers an area of up to 500 square feet, and it features a multidirectional mist system.

As such, the humidifier is an ideal choice for anyone who has frequent sinus and throat infections caused by dry air. The unit is so strong that it will keep your air at an optimal humidity level at all times, ensuring that you are always comfortable.

The humidifier is a good option for nurseries and children’s rooms, as it is never louder than 35 decibels. Still, there are a few models mentioned that are a bit quieter, so it wouldn’t hurt to consider them instead.

This model also features an essential oil diffuser, so it can truly turn your room into a relaxing and comfortable space. Plus, it looks really modern and high-tech, making it a great addition to any type of interior design.

9. Syvio Ultrasonic Humidifier and Essential Oil Diffuser

As far as looks go, no model on this list compares to this humidifier by Syvio. It is compact and pretty, but it can still fit just shy of a gallon of water. Moreover, it covers an area of approximately 320 square feet. As the name suggests, this model also has a built-in essential oil diffuser.

According to Syvio, this humidifier works 4 times as efficiently as others on the market. This efficiency is owed to the 360-degree rotating nozzle and a unique misting system that keeps your air healthy.

Furthermore, the manufacturer insists that this model is perfect for plants, as it can create an environment in which most domestic species can thrive. So, if you’re a houseplant lover, this humidifier is truly a must-have.

Contrary to most other models on the market, you don’t have to flip this one upside down to fill it. Instead, you fill it right at the top, and the entire process takes less than a minute.

This unit is one of the best choices you can make for your kid’s room, both because it is BPA-free and because it is whisper-quiet. If you keep it at a medium setting throughout the night, it won’t be louder than 24 decibels.

10. Livatro Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Covering an area of about 217 square feet, this Livatro humidifier is quite efficient for its price range. The tank can hold a little over a gallon of water, and the device can work continuously for around 40 hours.

The handy part is that you can fill this model up without removing the top portion, as it minimizes the possibility of leaks and spills. However, this fact does make the device somewhat more challenging to clean without a brush.

The unit makes about 38 decibels of noise as it works, which isn’t a lot. Still, there are quieter options to pick from, especially for a nursery or children’s room.

Safety-wise, the humidifier is an excellent option. Namely, it features an auto-shut-off feature that deactivates the device as soon as the water starts running low. So, you can safely leave it running in your room while you’re sleeping and be sure that no hazards will occur.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Quiet Humidifier

Humidifier Type

Broadly speaking, there are two major types of humidifiers. Based on the type of mist they create, they are classified as either cool mist or warm mist humidifiers. However, you might also come across a third type. Known as a dual humidifier, this product can produce both hot and cool mist, depending on your needs.

Cool Mist Humidifiers

As the name suggests, these humidifiers produce cool mist. In terms of availability, they are the most common type on the market because of how safe and reliable they are.

Cool mist humidifiers themselves have two subcategories. The first of the two includes the so-called evaporative models. This type of humidifier uses a wick filter; a fan will blow into the wet wick, causing the air to cool in the process. And while this process is great if you want to avoid any mold and mildew growth or water condensation, the wicks are expensive and they need to be replaced frequently.

The second subcategory of cool mist products includes the ultrasonic models. They use a small vibrating diaphragm called a nebulizer to produce a fine mist. And because they have no fans, these models are some of the quietest on the market. However, lots of water tends to condense around an ultrasonic humidifier, so the surface below can get soaked.

Warm Mist Humidifiers

Warm mist products, also known as steam vaporizers, are not as common as cool mist humidifiers. However, they are usually not very pricey, so people tend to buy them quite often.

There are a few setbacks to warm mist humidifiers. A typical unit uses a heating element to boil the water inside and release warm mist. With that in mind, you have to be careful with the humidifier, since the water can cause severe burns. In addition, the warm mist isn’t something you want in your home if you have a cold, since it can cause your nasal passages to swell and endanger your breathing.

Of course, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. A typical warm mist humidifier is perfect if you’re in the middle of winter because the mist will maintain warmth inside the house. In addition, you can use a warm mist unit together with a medical inhalant for cough relief.

Noise Level

It should go without saying that, in order to get the best quiet humidifier, you’ll need to get one that produces a specific level of noise. But how can you know which units are quieter than others?

Before buying a particular brand of a humidifier, check their sound pressure level. If it’s anywhere below 35 decibels, you’re good to go. Furthermore, check the type of your unit as well; ultrasonic humidifiers usually produce the least amount of noise.

Capacity

Each unit has a water tank, and when picking the right humidifier, you need to find out what the tank’s capacity is. That way, you’ll know when and how to refill it and, more importantly, how big of an area it can cover.

Depending on how large your bedroom is and how often you spend your time at home, you’ll probably need a humidifier that can produce mist for at least 24 hours. If possible, get a product that goes well beyond that capacity.

Coverage Area

Coverage area is actually intimately linked to the water tank capacity; usually, the smaller the capacity is, the smaller coverage the humidifier will have.

Now, if you have a large bedroom, you don’t want to buy a humidifier that’s too small. It will be a waste of money and you won’t get the desired humidity. But the same goes for oversized units; unless you plan on covering more than one room with the same product, don’t waste money on something huge.

Runtime

Some users will only have the humidifier on for a couple of hours. However, if you have a snoring problem or live in an incredibly dry area, you will need to keep the humidifier on for a lot longer than that. So, when buying a unit for yourself, make sure that it has the runtime that suits your needs. The rule of thumb is simple: the bigger the water tank, the longer the runtime.

Warranty and Price

Just like any other electrical appliance, a humidifier should be made to last. With that in mind, when shopping for your vaporizer of choice, always check the warranty. A typical humidifier can usually run for a couple of years, with the high-end models lasting for over a decade.

In terms of pricing, it comes down to what type of product you need and how often you plan on using it. Personally, I’d suggest avoiding ultra-cheap models, since they could be underperformers. On the other hand, you don’t have to pay thousands of dollars just for a humidifier. Instead, do a bit of market research and track down the best-rated models, like the ones on the list above. Then pick a model according to your budget and specific needs.

Bonus Features

Bonus features are not vital to a humidifier’s performance. However, they can actually prove to be invaluable to you. For example, if your humidifier has an automatic shut-off function, you don’t have to physically turn it off after waking up in the morning. Once it’s done humidifying the room, it’ll shut off immediately. Other features involve smart LED shut-off indicators, extra controls for intensity and mist type, and the ability to add scented liquids and essential oils to the water tank.

How to Keep Your Humidifier Quiet

Now, let’s see what you can do to keep your humidifier in good condition and running quietly.

Regular Maintenance

If you own a humidifier, it’s important to clean it regularly. A dirty unit may produce various noises, such as gurgling and dripping sounds. Moreover, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other potentially harmful organisms.

With that in mind, here are some basic tips on how you can clean and maintain your own unit:

• Read the instructions well and stick to them
• Wash and dry the unit after each and every use
• Find the proper cleaning tools and chemicals
• Always use fresh distilled water
• Replace the filter
• Clean it before and after storing it
• Make sure that the area around the humidifier is dry
• Unplug the product when you’re done using it

Placement

When it comes to your bedroom, the best place to put a humidifier should be at least 3 feet away from the bed. If you are bothered by the noise it produces you should place it even further away from the bed.

There are other, general guidelines you ought to follow too. For instance, make sure that the unit is at least 2 feet above the floor and that it’s on a level surface that isn’t wood or metal. If you have to place it on a metal or wooden surface, simply put a plastic tray between the surface and the unit itself.

Additional Tips

There are a few other things you can do to make your humidifier quieter. For example:

• Place the fan away from walls or anything else that might obstruct the airflow
• Put the humidifier on a folded rag or towel so that it doesn’t vibrate as much
• Take the top off the impeller tip
• Replace the filter

Final Words: Benefits of Owning a Humidifier

Proper air humidity is incredibly important to our health and well-being. I’ve personally met a lot of people who think that a humidifier is a “luxury item” and that it serves no real purpose. But that’s simply not true; a high-quality, quiet humidifier can help you keep your health in check.

An average humidifier gets rid of harmful particles in the air while making it ‘wetter.’ Moist air will add some humidity to your airways and sinuses, which will reduce the risk of asthma and various allergies. In addition, you will be less likely to catch the flu and your coughs will contain more moisture; the more moist the cough, the more phlegm you’ll release during a cough.

Most of us tend to have some skin or hair issues, and dry air is, more often than not, responsible for them. The same goes for cracked or chapped lips. So, if you want to see your skin glisten again or your hair reclaim its full volume, a humidifier is definitely the way to go.

Now, snoring might not be as serious as influenza or allergies, but it is a problem lots of modern households face. In order to get rid of that pesky snoring habit, you’ll need more humidity in the air as soon as possible.

Finally, a humidifier is just as beneficial to your home, your pets, and your plants as it is to you. Like us humans, animals require some moisture in the air to help them with their own allergies or illnesses. Plants, in particular, will benefit from being in an environment with lots of humidity, as it boosts their growth and development.

As for our homes, both wooden floors and brick-and-mortar walls can crack over time due to dry air, so some humidity is necessary.

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