Humidifier Demand surges as Flu Cases Rise, New Guide Reveals Top Picks for 2025
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New York, NY – January 26, 2025 – As influenza cases continue to climb nationwide, demand for humidifiers is spiking, prompting WIRED to release its annual guide to the best humidifiers for home and travel. Experts warn that drier indoor air, common during winter heating seasons, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms and even increase the survival rate of the influenza virus. The guide arrives as a recent study highlights concerning gaps in consumer knowledge regarding proper humidifier cleaning, and a renewed caution against chemical disinfectants.
The increasing prevalence of respiratory illnesses,coupled with growing awareness of the link between indoor air quality and health,is driving the humidifier market.Millions of Americans are seeking solutions to combat dry air, but navigating the diverse range of options – from cool mist to warm mist, ultrasonic to evaporative – can be overwhelming. WIRED’s 2025 guide aims to simplify the process,offering recommendations for various needs and budgets,while emphasizing the critical importance of regular cleaning to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Finding the Right Humidity for You
The guide details a range of humidifier options, catering to different spaces and lifestyles. For larger homes, whole-house humidifiers integrated with HVAC systems are highlighted. Portable options are categorized by size and technology, including ultrasonic humidifiers known for their quiet operation and evaporative humidifiers favored for their self-regulating capabilities. Travel-sized humidifiers are also featured, addressing the needs of individuals seeking relief from dry air while on the go.
Cleaning is Key: New Research Highlights Risks
Maintaining a clean humidifier is paramount. WIRED notes instructions vary widely,from cleaning “after every use” for dishwasher-safe models to “once a month.” A 2023 study published in the Chest journal found that many participants were unsure how to properly clean their humidifiers, but frequently used vinegar and water solutions. The guide recommends consulting the humidifier’s user manual for specific instructions, and highlights the effectiveness of water and citric acid solutions.
Crucially,the guide emphasizes a warning from a 2017 South korean study published in ScienceDirect which linked certain humidifier chemical disinfectants to lung injury. WIRED strongly advises against using chemical disinfectants and champions dishwasher-safe water tanks as a safer choice.
WIRED’s “Our Favorite Humidifiers for Home, Travel & more (2025)” is available now at https://www.wired.com/story/best-humidifiers/.
