Simple Ways to Increase Humidity in a Dry Home

Dry indoor air can cause discomfort, from dry skin and irritated sinuses to static electricity and wilting plants. If your home feels like a desert, it’s time to take action. Increasing humidity doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here are five sure ways to add moisture to the air and create a more comfortable living environment.

1. Use a Humidifier

A humidifier is one of the most effective tools for adding moisture to dry air. Available in various sizes and styles, humidifiers can be tailored to fit any space, from small bedrooms to large living areas.

Choose a model with adjustable settings and easy maintenance. Remember to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the buildup of mold or bacteria, ensuring safe and healthy operation.

Humidifier pushing out water vapor into the air.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

2. Add Indoor Plants

Indoor plants not only beautify your space but also help increase humidity. Through a process called transpiration, plants release moisture into the air, naturally raising the humidity levels.

Opt for plants like peace lilies, spider plants, or areca palms, which are particularly effective at adding moisture. Grouping plants together can amplify their humidifying effects.

Humidifier surrounded by plants.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

3. Place Bowls of Water Around the House

An easy and cost-free way to boost humidity is to leave bowls of water in strategic locations around your home. Place them near heat sources like radiators or sunny windowsills to encourage evaporation.

For an aesthetic touch, use decorative bowls or add floating candles and flowers. This simple trick can subtly increase humidity while enhancing your decor.

A bowl of water.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

4. Air-Dry Your Laundry Indoors

Skip the dryer and hang your wet laundry indoors to dry. As the water evaporates from the fabric, it adds moisture to the surrounding air, helping to combat dryness.

Drying clothes indoors not only increases humidity but also saves energy and reduces wear and tear on your garments, making it a win-win solution.

Laundry in a home.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

5. Cook and Boil Water More Often

Every time you boil water for cooking or prepare a pot of soup, you’re releasing steam into the air. Embrace recipes that involve boiling or simmering to naturally increase humidity in your kitchen and beyond.

Even brewing tea or making pasta can contribute to adding moisture. Just remember to practice kitchen safety and use exhaust fans sparingly if you’re aiming to retain the steam.

Boiling water.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

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Dry air doesn’t have to be a permanent problem in your home. With these simple and effective tips, you can boost humidity levels and enjoy a more comfortable living environment. Whether you use a humidifier, incorporate plants, or embrace creative solutions like air-drying laundry, achieving balanced indoor air has never been easier. Try these methods today and breathe easier tomorrow.

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