Picture yourself at home on a cold winter’s night, suffering from chapped lips, dry skin, and a terrible cold that doesn’t seem to be going away. Not a pretty picture, right? Well, believe it or not, these are all symptoms of exposure to dry air, which is very common during winter.

One of the best ways to keep these symptoms at bay is to have a humidifier at home. Warm mist humidifiers, in particular, are great companions during winter because they release warm steam that raises both the humidity level and the ambient temperature in your home, keeping you warm and comfortable. Aside from these benefits, warm mist humidifiers can also help curb cold and flu symptoms by keeping your nasal passages moist, while at the same time reducing allergies, asthma attacks, and even snoring!

Before you rush out and buy a warm mist humidifier, however, take a moment to read this article, which is designed to help you find out which warm mist humidifiers might be best for you and your family. Read on to find out more!

  • Remote control and touch-sensitive buttons
  • 36-hour runtime
  • 1.5-gallon tank
  • Compatible with aromatherapy essential oils
  • 2-year warranty

  • Top fill tankless design
  • Humidistat with auto on/off
  • 3.17-gallon mist output per day
  • Suitable for rooms up to 650 sq ft
  • 3-year warranty

  • 95% Bacteria-Free Mist
  • Two output levels
  • Medicine Cup
  • Automatic Shut Off
  • 3-Year Warranty

  • Two output levels
  • Medicine Cup
  • Water Low Indicator
  • Automatic Shut Off
  • 3-Year Warranty

  • Auto on/off humidistat
  • Tank empty indicator
  • Medicine cup for liquid inhalants
  • 24-hour runtime
  • 3-year limited warranty


Levoit is a trusted and well-respected name in the humidifier world, and this model is no exception. It is designed for large spaces and emits 500 ml of moisture per hour so that you will see a change in the humidity levels very quickly.

This unit is a bit more expensive than the others featured, but you do get lots of extras. There is a remote control, so you can turn it on and set it from the comfort of your chair, it has a customizable humidity sensor that lets you set the machine to the desired level, and when it reaches it, it shuts itself off.

It has a 1.5-gallon water tank, and a runtime, on the lowest setting, of 36 hours, so you won’t be getting up in the middle of the night to check that the reservoir hasn’t run dry.

This model even has a dedicated essential oils tray to add that extra touch of scent to your room, helping you de-stress and relax in a humidified space.

This Levoit warm mist humidifier tends to create a lot of moisture around the base of the Machine, so don’t place it on any surface that you don’t want to be damaged. Also, make sure that you set it on a towel to soak up the water.

There are also build quality issues with this thing, as many have reported leaking water tanks and buttons that don’t respond when pressed.

Pros

  • Remote control
  • Customizable humidistat
  • Large water tank
  • 36-hour runtime
  • Essential oils tray

Cons

  • Creates a lot of residual moisture
  • Build quality issues

This Boneco warm mist humidifier has a tankless design with a top fill feature to make it less of a chore when you need to refill it. It means that rather than carrying a heavy water tank around the home, you can fill this thing with a jug or watering can. Just think; no more spills and splashes!

It also has a built-in humidistat that automatically turns the unit off when the correct humidity level is reached, and the clever bit is that it turns on again when it senses the moisture levels dropping below the desired 45 – 60 percent.

This is a perfect feature for those that don’t have the time to monitor the levels, and just want a humidifier that they can set and forget.

It produces a lot of mist too, with up to 3.17 gallons per day, so it should be effective at regulating the humidity quickly. It has a coverage of 650 sq. ft, meaning that most spaces are catered for, and if you want to place it in the bedroom, it is whisper-quiet, so even the lightest sleepers will get a good night’s sleep, and wake to feel refreshed.

If you are interested in using essential oils to scent your room, then this Swiss designed humidifier has a dedicated oils tray to diffuse your favorite scents.

On the downside, the lights can’t be turned off, so if you like a totally dark environment to sleep in, they might keep you awake, and because the humidistat is an auto on/off, the machine will power down every few minutes, then power up again, creating a noise disturbance.

Pros

  • Auto on/off
  • Easy fill tankless design
  • Produces a lot of mist
  • Whisper-quiet

Cons

  • Bright lights may keep you awake
  • Noisy when it shuts off and on


The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745 is one of the most popular warm mist humidifiers on the market, with 1-gallon tank capacity and 1.9-gallon daily output capacity. It can cover medium to large areas around 500 sq. ft. in size. It comes with a medicine cup for medicinal inhalants for added relief from cold and flu symptoms.

The V745 is a small, budget-friendly warm mist humidifier with a daily humidity output of 1.9 gallons. There are two humidity output levels from which to choose, as well as a medicine cup for medicinal inhalants such as Vicks VapoSteam that’s great for relieving a stuffy nose and other flu symptoms. It also has an automatic shut-off feature and an optional night light.

Aside from being a great companion during your sick days, the V745 does an excellent job of humidifying the room. It works quickly and can increase humidity levels in a matter of minutes without getting too hot. It’s also easy to fill, clean, and maintain. Although it lacks a low water indicator, it shouldn’t be too big of a problem since you can easily check the water level through the transparent water tank. Users have also praised it for its durability.

However, users have also complained that it works very loudly, making noticeable bubbling noise even on the low setting. Others complained of leaking problems after a few months of use, blaming critical design flaws. With all things considered, however, the V745 still remains to be an excellent, budget-friendly option to keep your home warm and cozy.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Large room coverage
  • Humidifies quickly
  • Easy to clean/maintain
  • Not too hot
  • Easy to check water level

Cons

  • No humidistat
  • No low water indicator
  • Leaking problems
  • Loud

The Honeywell HWM705B Warm Moisture Humidifier is a compact warm mist humidifier capable of covering small rooms up to 250 sq. ft. in size. It has a tank capacity of 1-gallon and has a daily humidity output of 2 gallons.

The HWM705B from Honeywell is almost identical to the Vicks V745: the same tank size, nearly the same daily humidity output capacity, and roughly the same size and shape.

At first glance, you can see several similarities to the V745. Even the features are more or less the same: two humidity output levels to choose from, a medicine cup for medicinal inhalants, and an automatic shut-off function. The HWM705B has the added benefit of having a low water indicator which lets you know when it’s time to refill the tank. The HWM705B also has a slightly higher daily humidity output of 2 gallons, meaning it works a little faster at humidifying a room.

Aside from these features, the HWM705B is just as affordable as the V745. Also, the long-term costs are kept low because the HWM705B is very energy efficient and won’t increase your electricity bill. Refilling and maintenance are a breeze, with easily accessible parts and pieces. Its biggest advantage over the V745 is how quiet it is: even the lightest sleeper won’t be bothered with this running through the night.

Unfortunately, the HWM705B is limited by a small room coverage of 250 sq ft, as well as the lack of a humidistat which could have been helpful to monitor the humidity levels. Like the V745, several users have also complained of leaking problems with the HWM705B.

Overall, the HWM705B is still a strong contender and is probably one of the best in its price range along with the V745. You get a humidifier that’s strong enough for small rooms without being too loud or take up too much space without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Small and lightweight
  • Energy efficient
  • Easy to fill and maintain
  • Medicine cup
  • Humidifies quickly
  • Quiet

Cons

  • Small room coverage
  • No humidistat
  • Leaking problems

The Honeywell HWM-340 is a console-type warm mist humidifier capable of releasing 3 gallons of  95% bacteria-free steam per day. It has a 1.3-gallon tank capacity and can humidify areas up to 400 sq. ft. in size.

While it doesn’t have all the great features and modes that the Boneco U330 Warm Mist has, the HWM-340 has all the features that you would expect from a mid-range warm mist humidifier.

The HWM-340 has all the essentials: an automatic shut-off feature when the water levels get too low, a low water indicator to remind you when it’s time to refill the tank and a humidistat. Also, the HWM-340 also has two humidity output levels to choose from as well as a medicine cup for medicinal inhalants, which can help during flu season. These features are more than enough to make the HWM-340 easy to use and provide enough supplemental but important information to the user.

The HWM-340 is just a fraction of the price of the Boneco and just a little more expensive than both the V745 and the HWM705B. It’s affordable in the long run too because it doesn’t consume too much electricity, even for a warm mist humidifier. It’s easy to fill, clean, and maintain.

It’s not without flaws, though; like the other humidifiers, the HWM-340 also has its fair share of users complaining about leaking problems. The most worrisome complaints were about the humidistat which seemingly did not work for some people, regardless of how long the humidifier is left running. Despite these complaints, several of those who purchased the HWM-340 still stand by its reliability and well-roundedness.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Quiet
  • Energy efficient
  • Large room coverage
  • Easy to fill and maintain
  • Medicine cup

Cons

  • Leaking problems
  • Problems with humidistat

Comparison Chart

FEATURESBoneco U330 Warm MistVicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture HumidifierHoneywell Top Fill Warm Mist Humidifier HWM-340W  Levoit Large Room Humidifier
TypeConsoleCompactCompactConsoleConsole
Type of MistWarmWarmWarmWarmWarm and cold
Type of HumidificationSteamSteamSteamSteamSteam/ Ultrasonic
Room Coverage860 sq. ft.500 sq. ft.250 sq. ft.400 sq. ft.650 sq ft +
Tank Capacity2 gal1 gal1 gal1.3 gal1.5-gallon
Humidification Performance3.5 gal/day1.90 gal/day2.0 gal/day3.0 gal/day500 ml per hour
HumidistatDigitalXXYesYes
ControlsElectronicDial KnobDial KnobDial KnobElectronic + remote control
Water Low Indicatorx
Automatic Shut Off
Weight10 lbs4.25 lbs3.73 lbs4.02 lbs4.92 lbs
Dimensions14 x 9.5 x 13.212 x 7.9 x 14.210.75 x 6.5 x 12.6814.21 X 8.19 X 12.7611.3 x 7 x 10.5
Warranty3 years3 years3 years3 years2-years

Buyer’s Guide:

Warm Mist Humidifier

If you live in a colder environment, where the winter really bites, the air inside your home can be dry and lack essential moisture to keep your skin healthy, your nasal passages open, and for you to feel refreshed and alert. A warm mist humidifier is one possible answer, because not only does it regulate the levels of humidity in the home, it also produces a warm vapor that increases the ambient temperature in the room.

This has a double effect of helping you breathe easier, and get a better night’s sleep, as well as reducing your heating costs.

Also, older people, who are more susceptible to winter viruses can benefit from a warm mist humidifier, as it helps to fight off bacteria and airborne pollutants that cause allergic reactions and carry viruses.

  • Alleviate cold and flu symptoms
  • Reduce allergies and asthma attacks
  • Prevent dry skin
  • Reduce snoring
  • Protect wooden furniture
  • Aid a better night’s sleep

A cool mist humidifier doesn’t require heated water to create steam like a warm mist humidifier does. While a warm mist humidifier creates a more humid environment, it also makes that environment warmer. A cool mist humidifier works with water that is the same temperature as the room, so while it humidifies the room, the temperature stays the same.

It’s important to note that warm and cool mist humidifiers are equally effective at humidifying the air. By the time the water vapor reaches your lower airways, it will be the same temperature regardless of whether it started out warm or cool.

Warm mist humidifiers are better if you live in a house full of adults or are looking to increase the temperature of the room while maintaining optimum humidity.

However, if you have young children, or want to cool or maintain the temperature in the room, a cool mist humidifier is a better option. Also, cool mist humidifiers make better bedroom companions than warm mist varieties as they are less noisy.

PROSCONS
Warm mist humidifier
  • Increase the room temperature
  • Produce fewer bacteria
  • Reduce white dust
  • Require more power
  • Aren’t as safe as cool mist humidifiers
  • Noisier
Cool mist humidifier
  • Cheaper to run
  • Virtually silent
  • No danger of scalding
  • Produce more bacteria
  • Require filters
  • More maintenance

  • What are the types of warm mist humidifiers?
  • There are two types of warm mist humidifiers:
    Steam/Vaporizer – Steam humidifiers (or steam vaporizers, as they are popularly referred to) works by boiling or heating water at very high temperatures, releasing steam and moisture into the air. They are popular remedies for the common cold as most steam humidifiers allow medicinal inhalants to be incorporated into the steam produced. Furthermore, this type of humidifier releases “cleaner” mist as compared to cool mist humidifiers because bacteria is eliminated during the heating process so you can rest assured that the mist you’re inhaling isn’t contaminated.
    Unfortunately, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding steam humidifiers and warm mist humidifiers because of the risk they pose. They tend to get very hot while in use and are considered unsafe for use around children and pets. Low-quality steam humidifiers may have poorly designed heat sources that could cause the product to overheat, melt, leak, and potentially start fires.
    Ultrasonic – An ultrasonic humidifier uses a diaphragm that vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency (thus the name) to create water droplets that are released in the form of mist. These types of humidifiers can either emit cool mist only, warm mist only, or both. An ultrasonic humidifier that can emit both warm and cool mist is called a dual mist ultrasonic humidifier.
    Dual mist ultrasonic humidifiers and cool mist ultrasonic humidifiers are extremely popular these days. Based on our research, however, there aren’t many ultrasonic humidifiers that only produce a warm mist that is worthy of attention.
  • Can I add essential oils to my warm mist humidifier water tank?
  • You should only add essential oils or decongestant inhalants to the dedicated tray, or cup, provided with the humidifier. Adding oils to the reservoir could lead to internal damage, which in turn means that you will shorten the life of your humidifier and invalidate the warranty.

Final Thoughts

Having a warm mist humidifier at home provides you with a litany of health benefits and makes all those dry, low-humidity days more bearable. They’re affordable and do just as good a job as cool mist humidifiers at adding moisture to the air.

If money was no object, then you could buy the Boneco U330 Warm Mist humidifier. It is an excellent choice; however, we think the Levoit Large Room Humidifier is worthy of being crowned our HowToHome pick. It caters for larger spaces, has smart technology, and emits 500 ml of moisture every hour.

For those with a keen eye on the purse strings, the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745 is our budget pick, because it will serve you well and give you additional benefits from its medicinal applications and costs a fraction of price compared to others on this list.

All the humidifiers have their merits, and we’re positive that there’s at least one out there that would fit your needs. Hopefully, we’ve made the task of finding the best warm mist humidifier that little bit easier.

Further Reading

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Humidifiers