Should I buy a humidifier or dehumidifier?

To decide between a humidifier and a dehumidifier, you need to look at your indoor moisture level. The ideal indoor relative humidity is between 30% and 50%.

• Buy a Humidifier if your indoor humidity is under 30%. This typically happens during cold winter months or in dry, arid climates. Low humidity causes dry skin, irritated sinuses, static electricity, and dry throats.
• Buy a Dehumidifier if your indoor humidity is over 50%. This is common in hot, humid summers, damp basements, or poorly ventilated crawl spaces. Excess moisture causes musty odors, window condensation, mold growth, and triggers allergies or asthma.

The easiest way to decide: Spend a few dollars on a digital hygrometer (humidity monitor) to measure your indoor air before buying. If you experience dry nasal passages and static shock, go with a humidifier. If you smell musty air or see condensation on your windows, go with a dehumidifier.