Benefits Of Using A Humidifier – Do You Need One?

What are the benefits of using a humidifier? You have probably heard people talking about using humidifiers and how much better their lives are, but have you heard anyone talk about the actual benefits of using one? Do you even know what they do?

I am here to tell you everything you need to know about using a humidifier and the benefits which they will bring. I use one almost all of the time, and I feel much better on a daily basis. Now, I am not saying that a humidifier is going to make you healthier and give you a better quality of life, but there are many benefits to using a humidifier.

What is a Humidifier?

A humidifier is used to add moisture to the air. It features a large reservoir which is filled with water. A filter sits with an end in the water, and some of the moisture is absorbed into the filter. A fan is used to push air through the filter, and, as it does, small particles of moisture are added to the air. This adds moisture to the air and changes the relative humidity of the air to be at a comfortable level (as long as you monitor the level and act accordingly).

So what are the benefits of having the correct levels of moisture in the air?

Decreasing dryness

When you add moisture to the air, you are decreasing the dryness of the air. There are many humidifier health benefits associated with adding moisture to the air. The main benefits involve your respiratory system and your skin.

Adding moisture to the air around you can improve dry skin, if you have dry skin already, or prevent dry skin from becoming a problem. This includes the skin inside and out. You will find that your lips are a lot less dry and will not crack as they may have before. You will also notice that it is less dry, which is great for those who suffer from eczema.

More moisture means that you will suffer less from dry throats and coughs. You will also suffer less from a dry nose and nosebleeds. Your eyes will also be less irritated as the natural moisture in your eyes will not be dried so easily.

Influenza and Coughs

Did you know that adding more moisture to the air can help protect you from the flu? Humidity levels above 40 percent (I recommend 45 percent for your home), helps to deactivate influenza particles rendering them less effective. The humidifier health benefits do not end there. If you do have a cough, dry air can not only make a cough damaging to your throat, but the dryness will keep hold of your phlegm in your throat. More moisture means that your cough can be more productive and get you back to full-health quicker.

Helping with Allergies

Not only can a humidifier help with your allergies, but it can help with asthma symptoms too. If you have dry sinuses or airways, you can be prone to more allergic reactions. The same is true with asthmatic reactions. Moisture in your sinuses can help to stop allergens from getting into your body and can relieve the symptoms of asthma.

What are Cool Mist Humidifier Benefits and Why Should I Care?

Humidifiers use either cool mist or warm mist to add moisture to a room. Both are beneficial, as they add moisture to a room, but are there any additional health benefits associated with either?

In truth, a cool mist humidifier does not give you additional health benefits over a warm mist humidifier, but they will save you some money as the water does not need to be heated, and they will not raise the temperature of a room. This is important when you are sleeping, as a change in temperature can affect your sleep.

Are There Benefits to Sleeping With a Humidifier?

I mean, with you in the room, not actually sleeping with one in your bed. When you sleep with a humidifier in your room, you are getting all of the benefits that you get throughout the day, and there is the additional benefit that your snoring is reduced. This will directly affect you as your breathing system will not be as irritated by the snoring, while those around you will benefit from the reduction in noise.

When an airway is dry, it can make snoring worse. When you are sleeping, you cannot just go and drink a glass of water to lubricate your throat. Running a humidifier will keep your airways lubricated through the humid air that is being breathed in.

Going Beyond Yourself

A humidifier can have many health benefits for you and for your family, but did you know that there are also benefits for your home? The humid air is great for your houseplants, and in turn, for you.

Plants pull the toxins from the air. By improving the health of your plants, you allow your plants to improve your own health.

The moist air will also stop any of your wood furnishings from becoming dry and cracking. This is especially important for large items such as pianos or antiques which have been in your family for a long time.

Conclusion

You do not have to spend  a lot of money to improve the health of you and your family. A humidifier is often an overlooked household appliance, but having one in your home can have some real and lasting health benefits. Not only will you look better, but you will feel better too.

Your skin is going to be naturally moisturized. Your breathing will be easier, both during the day and at night. You give yourself a better chance of avoiding the flu, and fighting it easier should you get it. You also protect your loved ones from your awful snoring.