The best humidifiers help maintain optimal humidity levels to keep dry indoor air at bay, stopping dry skin, asthma, sore throats, and even mould. But finding the right one in New Zealand is harder than it seems.
Everything from tank size to the humidifier's output capacity needs to be considered, as it affects how often you need to refill it, how well it will perform in a room, and how much it will cost.
This guide is here to point you in the right direction in finding the best humidifier for your home. We'll explain everything you need to know and show you our pick of the best humidifiers in NZ you can grab.
What to consider when buying a humidifier
From budget to size, here's a breakdown of what to look out for in a humidifier:
- Budget: Humidifiers range from budget-friendly basic models to high-end units with advanced features, from $30 to upwards of $300. Spending more can offer premium features like multiple operation modes, larger tank capacity, and additional functions like air purification. However, basic models can still effectively humidify a room, so consider your specific needs and how often you'll use the unit.
- Room Size Compatibility: Check the humidifier's coverage area (in square metres) to ensure it matches your room size. Larger rooms require humidifiers with a higher output capacity.
- Tank Size: Larger tanks mean less frequent refilling but can make the humidifier bulkier. Tank sizes are typically measured in litres.
- Type of Humidifier: Ultrasonic, evaporative, and steam vaporizers are common types. Ultrasonic models are quieter, while evaporative models are better for larger areas.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Some models require more maintenance than others. Consider how easy it is to clean the unit, as regular cleaning is essential for preventing mould and bacteria buildup.
- Additional Features: Features like auto shut-off, adjustable humidity levels, and built-in hygrometers for humidity monitoring can enhance convenience and effectiveness.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for energy-efficient models to save on electricity costs, especially if you plan to use the humidifier frequently.
- Noise Level: If you're sensitive to noise or plan to use the humidifier in a bedroom, check the noise level, often measured in decibels (dB).
The 5 Best Humidifiers NZ
1. Breville the Smart Mist Humidifier
Price: $247
Key Features
- Ideal for medium-sized rooms (20 to 40 m²).
- SensAir Live Comfort Control for automatic humidity adjustment.
- Offers both cool and warm mist options.
- Utilises a water atomizing transducer for a fine mist.
- Includes a water filter cartridge for pure mist.
- Features seven adjustable mist levels.
- 5-litre water capacity with a removable water tank.
While on the pricey end, the Breville Smart Mist Humidifier LAH400WHT stands out in the humidifier market with its versatile controls and user-friendly features.
Designed for medium-sized rooms (up to 40m²), it provides a great balance of humidity, thanks to the SensAir Live Comfort Control. Whether you prefer cool mist on warm summer nights or warm mist during chilly winters, this humidifier adapts seamlessly.
The water-atomizing transducer ensures a fine, gentle mist, while the water filter cartridge guarantees purity. Its seven mist levels offer customization, further enhanced by the aromatherapy function. The 5-litre water tank is easy to remove and refill, and the empty tank indicator is a great bonus.
The Breville Smart Mist Humidifier is an excellent choice for maintaining a comfortable and refreshing home.
2. Philips Air Humidifier 2000 Series
Price: $286
Key Features
- NanoCloud technology spreads 99% fewer bacteria than ultrasonic humidifiers.
- 360° design to distribute humidified air evenly.
- Three fan speeds.
- Humidification rate of 200 ml/h.
- Perfect for smaller rooms in the house, up to 32 m².
The Philips Air Humidifier 2000 Series is pricey, but it's a fantastic option for those looking for a simple and effective way to humidify their home.
The humidifier uses NanoCloud technology to spread 99% fewer bacteria than ultrasonic humidifiers, making it a safe and healthy choice for families. The 360° design ensures that the humidified air is evenly distributed throughout the room, and the three fan speeds allow you to customise humidity levels to your needs.
Moreover, The humidifier is also very quiet, making it perfect for use in bedrooms and nurseries.
3. Beurer LB55 Electric Indoor Air Humidifier
Price: $247
Key Features
- Utilises heat technology for sterilised, bacteria-free air.
- Suitable for large spaces, covering areas up to 50m².
- Two output levels for adjustable comfort.
- Features an auto safety cut-off when the tank is empty.
- Comes with a removable 6-litre water tank for easy refilling.
The Beurer LB55 Electric Indoor Air Humidifier is designed to enhance air quality in larger rooms up to 50m², making it a great fit for larger homes.
It employs heat technology so that the air is both humidified and free of bacteria, which is particularly beneficial for those with dry skin or respiratory issues. The humidifier offers two output levels, allowing for customisation according to specific comfort preferences. Additionally, the 6-litre water tank, which is easily removable, only needs a little maintenance.
Its automatic safety cut-off feature is valuable, ensuring safety and efficiency in case the tank runs dry. The Beurer LB55 Electric Indoor Air Humidifier is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, high-capacity solution for indoor air humidification.
4. Xiaomi Mi Smart Antibacterial Humidifier SKV4140GL
Price: $179
Key Features
- Ultrasonic humidification with UV-C Light for sterilised, bacteria-free mist.
- Adjustable mist level with three options.
- Quiet operation, less than 38dB noise level, suitable for sleeping environments.
- Remote control via the Mi Home App for convenience.
- Compatible with voice control through Google Assistant and Alexa.
- Top=fill 4.5-litre water tank for easy refilling.
The Xiaomi Mi Smart Antibacterial Humidifier SKV4140GL is a modern, user-friendly device priced at a low $179. Its ultrasonic humidification with UV-C light assures the mist released is free from bacteria, setting it apart from many other humidifiers.
The device offers three adjustable mist levels, ideal for customising moisture in a room. Its quiet operation makes it perfect for use during sleep, and the convenience of remote control via the Mi Home App, as well as compatibility with voice control assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, adds to its user-friendliness.
The large 4.5L water tank is top-fill, simplifying the refilling process. Overall, the Xiaomi Mi Smart Antibacterial Humidifier is a superb choice for those seeking a blend of functionality, convenience, and advanced features.
5. Philips Series 1000 HU4706/70 Air Humidifier
Price: $167
Key Features
- Three-stage advanced evaporation system.
- NanoCloud technology.
- 1.3-litre water tank.
- Effectively kills bacteria and prevents the formation of white dust.
If you're after a more affordable humidifier for your desk, the Philips HU4706/70 is a great air purifier that effectively kills bacteria and prevents the formation of white dust.
It has a three-stage advanced evaporation system that filters out 99% of bacteria and viruses. It also has a NanoCloud technology that spreads fine mist throughout the room, providing relief from dry air.
Despite being of a smaller capacity than others, the 1.3-litre water tank still provides up to 24 hours of continuous use. For smaller rooms, you can't go wrong with the Philips HU4706/70 humidifier.
The 5 Best Humidifiers NZ: FAQs
1. How do I choose the right size humidifier?
Measure the room in square metres or square feet. A general rule is to use a humidifier with a 0.4 litres per hour output for every 20 square metres (215 square feet).
2. What are the differences between ultrasonic, evaporative, and steam humidifiers?
Ultrasonic humidifiers use vibrations to create mist, are typically quieter, and are suitable for smaller spaces. Evaporative models use a fan to blow air through a wet wick or filter, which is ideal for larger areas. Steam vaporizers that heat water to create steam are more energy-intensive but effective for thorough humidification.
3. How often should I clean my humidifier, and why?
Clean your humidifier at least once a week to prevent mould and bacteria buildup. Regular cleaning ensures healthy air quality and extends the life of the unit.
4. Can humidifiers help with allergies?
Yes, maintaining optimal humidity levels can alleviate allergy symptoms by keeping mucous membranes moist and reducing airborne allergens.
5. How much should I expect to spend on a humidifier?
Prices range from around $30 to $200. Spending more generally offers additional features like larger capacity and digital controls.
6. Do humidifiers use a lot of electricity?
The energy usage varies by type. Ultrasonic and evaporative models are generally more energy-efficient than steam vaporizers.
7. Are there humidifiers that also purify the air?
Yes, some higher-end models combine humidification with air purification, filtering out dust and allergens.
8. What's the ideal humidity level for my home?
Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%. This range is comfortable for most people and helps prevent mould growth.
