Let’s find out what is the BEST humidifier by type.
Our team of air enthusiasts has been scouting the market, reading diverse content extensively, and consulting experts in the field to put together the best collection of humidifiers for you!
You can jump into one of the humidifier types listed below if you already have a preference or if you are in a hurry. If not, let’s dive in.
- Best cool-mist Humidifiers
- Best warm-mist Humidifiers
- Best Whole-house Humidifiers
- Best Impeller Humidifiers
- Best Ultrasonic Humidifiers
- Best Steam Humidifiers
- Best Humidifiers with evaporators
The Top 7 Best Humidifiers By Type
Dry air can cause several health problems, including dry skin, irritated eyes, and respiratory issues. That’s why investing in a good humidifier is crucial for maintaining healthy air moisture levels in your home.
But with so many different types of humidifiers on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best humidifiers by type to help you make an informed decision and keep your indoor air quality at its best.
Best Humidifiers By Type: Cool Mist Humidifiers
A fan is used by cool mist humidifiers to spread cool mist throughout the air. They’re perfect for warmer climates or during summer when the air is already dry.
They’re also ideal for households with children or pets since they don’t use hot water or steam, which can be dangerous if knocked over.
Examples of cool mist humidifiers include Honeywell HCM-350 Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier and TaoTronics Cool Mist Humidifier.
Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Visible Cool Mist Humidifier is the best cool mist humidifier on the market currently!
Want to read more about cool mist humidifiers, click here.
Best Humidifiers By Type: Warm Mist Humidifiers
Warm mist humidifiers use heating elements to boil water and disperse warm mist into the air. They’re perfect for colder climates or winter when the air is naturally dry.
They’re also great for bedrooms since the warm mist can help soothe cold or flu symptoms.
Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier is the best warm mist humidifier. Other great options include the Elechomes Warm & Cool Mist Humidifier and Honeywell HWM705B Warm Mist Humidifier.
For a more detailed drill-down on the best warm mist humidifiers, click here.
Best Humidifiers By Type: Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Water is transformed into a fine mist and disseminated into the air using high-frequency vibrations produced by ultrasonic humidifiers.
They’re known for being quiet and energy-efficient, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms or offices.
According to our findings, Levoit Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is the best Ultrasonic humidifier. Other great alternatives include Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier and Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier Diffuser.

Whereas this is simply a snippet of ultrasonic humidifiers, there’s another detailed article on the best ultrasonic humidifiers if you wish to read more.
Best Humidifiers By Type: Steam Humidifiers
Steam humidifiers, also known as vaporizers, are a type of humidifier that uses electricity to boil water and release steam into the air.
These humidifiers are effective at adding moisture to the air and can be used in various environments.
Vornado Element A2 Air + Steam Humidifier shown above is the best steam humidifiers on the market. Other wonderful alternatives include:- Honeywell HCM-350 Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier and BONECO Steam Humidifier S450.
Steam humidifiers are ideal for those who live in very dry environments or for those who need to humidify large rooms or entire homes.
They are often more powerful and effective at adding moisture to the air than other types of humidifiers.
Some models, like the Honeywell HCM-350 Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier, use ultraviolet technology to kill bacteria and germs, which makes them an excellent option for those who want to maintain clean and healthy indoor air.
When choosing a steam humidifier, consider the size of the room or area you need to humidify and the maintenance. Additionally, also consider the cleaning requirements of the model you choose.
Some steam humidifiers require more frequent cleaning and maintenance than others, so read the instructions carefully before purchasing.
overall, steam humidifiers are an excellent option for those who need a powerful and effective humidifying solution for their home or office. With the options listed above, you can find the best steam humidifier for your needs and enjoy the advantages of better indoor air quality.
Best Humidifiers By Type: Evaporative Humidifiers
Fans are used by evaporative humidifiers to circulate air through a wet wick filter, which adds moisture to the atmosphere.
They’re energy-efficient and don’t require much maintenance, making them an excellent choice for those who don’t want to constantly refill their humidifier.
Vornado EV100 Evaporative Whole Room Humidifier is the best evaporative humidifier. Other alternatives include Honeywell Top Fill Cool Moisture Tower Humidifier and AIRCARE MA1201 Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier.
Central Humidifiers (Whole House Humidifiers)
Central humidifiers are installed directly into your home’s heating and cooling system, adding moisture to the air throughout your home.
They’re perfect for those who want a permanent and hassle-free solution to dry air in their home.

Overall, Aprilaire 800 Whole House Steam Humidifier is the best whole-house humidifier. Some brilliant alternatives include: Honeywell Home HE360A1075 HE360A Whole House Humidifier and Bryant Carrier Humidifier Water Panel Pads
Best Impeller Humidifiers
Impeller humidifiers are popular humidifiers that use a rotating disk to create a cool mist. They’re perfect for small spaces and are generally more affordable than other types of humidifiers.
Here are some of the best Impeller humidifiers on the market: – Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, Kaz Inc. Vicks Nursery 1 Gallon Vaporizer with Night-Light, and Pure Enrichment MistAire Studio Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier.

Among them, Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is the Best Impeller Humidifier according to our findings.
Generally, these humidifiers are great for small rooms, such as bedrooms or nurseries. They are quiet and energy-efficient, making them an excellent choice for those who want to moisten the air in their room without disturbing their sleep.
Impeller humidifiers also don’t require much maintenance, and their compact size makes them easy to store when not in use.
When choosing an Impeller humidifier, consider the size of your room, noise level, and maintenance requirements.
Some humidifiers require frequent cleaning, while others are designed to be low-maintenance. For example, the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is easy to clean and has a built-in antimicrobial material to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Generally, Impeller humidifiers are an excellent choice for those who want a compact, energy-efficient, low-maintenance humidifier for their small rooms. With the options listed above, you can find the best Impeller humidifier for your needs just in case you opt for something else and take advantage of enhanced indoor air quality.
Are Evaporative Humidifiers the same as Steam Humidifiers?
Evaporative humidifiers are not the same as steam humidifiers. While both types of humidifiers add moisture to the air, they use different methods.
Fans are used in evaporative humidifiers to push air through a wet wick or filter, releasing moisture into the air. This process is similar to how a breeze blowing over wet clothes causes the water to evaporate and humidify the air.
Evaporative humidifiers are generally more affordable and energy-efficient than steam humidifiers. Still, they may be less effective in very dry environments.
On the other hand, steam humidifiers use electricity to make steam by heating water, which is then released into the air to humidify it.
Steam humidifiers are often more effective at adding moisture to the air, and they can be used in various environments. However, they can also be more expensive to operate and maintain.
Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between an evaporative humidifier and a steam humidifier.
Evaporative humidifiers may be a good choice for those on a budget or those who live in moderately dry environments.
In contrast, steam humidifiers may be more suitable for those who need a more robust and versatile humidifying solution.
Our Verdict
No matter your needs, there’s a humidifier out there that’s perfect for you. Whether you’re looking for a cool mist, warm mist, ultrasonic, evaporative, or central humidifier, the options listed above are some of the best humidifiers by type on the market.
Consider factors like room size, noise level, and maintenance requirements when choosing a humidifier. With the right humidifier, you can improve indoor air quality and enjoy a more comfortable living space.
We are enthusiastic that you will find the best humidifier for you and live a better life with this guide!