The air inside our homes is often more polluted than the air outside, and one of the main culprits is low indoor humidity. Not only can low humidity make us feel uncomfortable, it can also lead to serious health problems. The professionals at IAQ Works are the homeowner’s advocate. Their goal is to help you create a healthier indoor space through education, awareness and action. They support clean air for all and they know it’s possible for every single indoor space.
The Ideal Humidity Level for Your Home
When it comes to humidity, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal humidity level for your home depends on a variety of factors, including the climate you live in, the type of home you have, and your personal preferences. In general, the ideal indoor humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. However, if you live in a climate with high humidity levels, you may want to keep your indoor humidity level on the lower end of that range. Conversely, if you live in a climate with low humidity levels, you may want to keep your indoor humidity level on the higher end of that range.
The type of home you have can also impact the ideal indoor humidity level for your home. Homes with high ceilings and large windows tend to have lower indoor humidity levels than homes with low ceilings and small windows. This is because high ceilings and large windows allow more air to circulate, which helps to keep humidity levels down.
The Risks of Low Indoor Humidity
When the air inside your home is too dry, it can lead to a number of problems. Low indoor humidity can make you more susceptible to colds and respiratory infections, it can cause dry skin and eyes, and it can even damage your wood furniture and floors. In extreme cases, low indoor humidity can even be dangerous. When the air is too dry, it can actually cause electrical shocks. And if you have a fireplace, low humidity can make it easier for a fire to start and spread.
Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do to combat low indoor humidity. Investing in a humidifier is an obvious solution, but you can also try opening your windows on humid days, using a dehumidifier in particularly dry rooms, and even boiling water on the stove to add moisture to the air. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your health and your home from the risks of low indoor humidity.
How to Increase Humidity Levels in Your Home
If you live in a dry climate, you may have noticed that the air in your home feels dry, too. This can be especially noticeable in the winter when the air is already dry. Low indoor humidity can cause a variety of problems, including dry skin, static electricity, and cracked woodwork. It can also make respiratory problems worse. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to increase the humidity in your home. Here are four tips:
Use a humidifier
One of the easiest ways to increase the humidity in your home is to use a humidifier. There are a variety of humidifiers on the market, so you can choose one that best fits your needs. Some humidifiers are small and portable, while others are larger and require a water line.
Hang wet towels or clothes
Hanging wet towels or clothes in your home can also help to increase the humidity. As the towels or clothes dry, they will release moisture into the air. Just be sure to hang them in a well-ventilated area so that mold and mildew don’t have a chance to grow.
Place bowls of water around your home
Another simple way to increase the humidity in your home is to place bowls of water around the house. The water will evaporate and release moisture into the air. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the water to give your home a pleasant scent.
Grow houseplants
Houseplants can also help to increase the humidity in your home. As the plants transpire, they release water vapor into the air. Some of the best plants for increasing humidity include Boston ferns, palms, and peace lilies. By following these tips, you can increase the humidity in your home and create a more comfortable environment.