Humidifiers and diffusers are both popular options for improving the air quality in your home, but which one is the better choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the two to help you decide which one is best for your specific needs.
From understanding how each device works to learning the pros and cons of each, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make a more informed decision.
What is a Humidifier?
A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air by releasing water vapour to help maintain an ideal level of humidity. This can be especially beneficial during the dry winter months when indoor heating can make the air in your home very dry.
Humidifiers can help alleviate symptoms of dry skin, nosebleeds, irritating throat, and even snoring. It helps keep the air in your home comfortable and helps reduce allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. The type of humidifier you choose will depend on your particular needs and the size of your room.
Types of Humidifiers
Based on their mode of operation, there are four main types of humidifiers. These include:
#1 - Ultrasonic Humidifiers
These humidifiers use high-frequency sound vibrations to turn water into a fine mist that is then released into the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers are relatively quiet, easy to use, and require little maintenance. However, they can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly.
#2 - Evaporative Humidifiers
Evaporative humidifiers use a built-in fan to draw air through a wet wick filter, resulting in a cool mist being released into the room. They are affordable and energy efficient but need regular cleaning and filter replacements.
#3 - Impeller Humidifiers
Impeller humidifiers use spinning discs to create a mist that is released into the air. They are easy to maintain but are more expensive than the other types of humidifiers. They do not filter out allergens or particles from the air and are generally louder as well.
#4 - Central Humidifiers
Central humidifiers must be connected to your home’s HVAC system. This allows them to add moisture throughout your entire house. It usually maintains a humidity level between 40 and 60 per cent. They are highly efficient and require little maintenance, but are also the most expensive option. Both installation and maintenance costs are most often high for central humidifiers.
What is a Diffuser?
A diffuser is a device that disperses essential oils, perfumes, and other fragrances into the air to create an aromatic environment. It breaks essential oils into smaller molecules and then disperses the mist into the air. These oils can have a variety of benefits, including improving mood, reducing stress, and even helping to purify the air.
Types of Diffusers
Based on their mode of operation and power source, there are seven types of diffusers for your home or office. They include:
#1 - Ultrasonic diffusers
Ultrasonic diffusers use ultrasonic waves to convert water and essential oils into fine mist. They are great for large rooms and can last for hours without the need to refill. Ultrasonic diffusers are not only affordable but also very quiet and require little maintenance.
#2 - Nebulizing diffuser
Nebulizing diffusers are the most effective type of essential oil diffuser, as they use a high-pressure, air-powered nebulizer to break down the essential oils into a very fine mist. This ensures that the essential oils are dispersed evenly and rapidly throughout the room. Nebulizing diffusers are often quite loud, but the quality of diffusion is unparalleled.
#3 - Evaporative diffusers
Evaporative diffusers are one of the most affordable and popular types of essential oil diffusers. These diffusers work by blowing air over a pad saturated with essential oil. As the air passes over the pad, the oil evaporates and fills the room with fragrance.
#4 - Heated diffusers
Heated diffusers are also known as heat diffusers or “warmers”. They work by heating an essential oil-infused pad or tray with an electric heating element. The heat causes the essential oil to be released into the air. While these diffusers do not disperse as much fragrance as other types, they can be used safely in areas with small children or pets.
#5 - Electric diffusers
Electric diffusers use fans to disperse scent into the air. They are usually powered by an electrical outlet and have adjustable settings for the intensity of the scent. And while they are the most expensive of all types of diffusers, they offer more control over the level of fragrance in a room.
#6 - Candle diffusers
Candle diffusers use a candle flame to heat the essential oil to release it into the air. These diffusers are very easy to use and can add a pleasant scent to any room. However, they require constant supervision and should not be left unattended since they pose a fire risk.
#7 - Reed-based diffusers
Reed-based diffusers consist of a bottle containing essential oils with bamboo or reed sticks inserted into the neck of the bottle. The essential oils travel up the reeds and evaporate into the air, giving off a pleasant scent. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and long-lasting. However, they do require periodic replacement of the reeds as they absorb the essential oils in the process.
Comparing Humidifiers and Diffusers
Before choosing between a humidifier and a diffuser, it's important to understand their strengths, benefits, and handicaps. Let's go over a few of them.
#1 - Use Case
The main difference between humidifiers and diffusers is the type of benefit they offer. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, while diffusers release essential oils to provide aromatherapy benefits.
#2 - Health Benefits
Humidifiers help alleviate symptoms of dry skin, nosebleeds and even snoring. The humidifier mist reduces dryness in the air, which helps to soothe dry, irritated skin and reduce static electricity. Diffusers, on the other hand, help improve mood, reduce stress, and purify the air. Thus, humidifiers have more physical benefits to the body, whereas diffusers provide mental benefits.
3. Time of use
Humidifiers are designed to keep the air in a room from becoming too dry. They are most beneficial during winter months to maintain a balanced humidity level between 40 and 60 per cent. Diffusers are used all year round, although the oils may have a different effect depending on the season. They work best in areas with low humidity and provide aromatherapy benefits.
4. Water holding capacity
Humidifiers require a refillable water reservoir and will need to be refilled every few days. They typically can hold a half gallon of water while the reservoir of some diffusers holds less than a cup of water. This is because diffusers do not hold water but essential or scented oils.
5. Maintenance
Humidifiers require regular cleaning and refilling just like diffusers, which also often requires the replacement of essential oils and cleaning of the diffuser itself.
6. Cost
For the cost, humidifiers are typically more expensive than diffusers. Humidifiers often require filters and regular maintenance whereas diffusers rarely need special upkeep. You must however be sure to change your oils as and when there's a need for a top-up or refill.
Which is Right for Your Home?
Deciding between a humidifier or diffuser for your home boils down to your individual needs. If you have allergies, asthma, or any other breathing issues, a humidifier may be the better choice. Humidifiers help reduce the symptoms associated with these ailments, as well as help ease dry skin and protect wooden furniture from cracking.
Diffusers, on the other hand, can provide relief from stress and anxiety, and even improve sleep. They are also great for diffusing essential oils, which can help cleanse the air and add a pleasant scent to your home.
If you need both moisture and fragrance, consider using an ultrasonic humidifier that can be used as a diffuser too. Note that not all humidifiers can be used as diffusers by adding oil to water. This can damage your humidifier. Choose a humidifier with a built-in aromatherapy function to combine the two features in a single device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions on the use and importance of humidifiers and diffusers.
Can I use a humidifier and a diffuser at the same time?
If you are looking to both moisturize and scent the air in your home, using both a humidifier and a diffuser is the best option. You can use both devices at the same time or at different times depending on your needs. Just be sure to follow the instructions on your devices to ensure that they are being used correctly and safely. Similarly, you could get a humidifier that allows you to combine scented oils with its water reservoir.
Are there any safety concerns with using a humidifier or diffuser?
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for both humidifiers and diffusers to ensure safe use. This includes turning them off when you leave the house. Not following these instructions can lead to potential hazards, such as fires or electrical shocks.
There is also the risk of mould growth. If your device is not properly maintained, water can become stagnant and become a breeding ground for mould. Be sure to clean your device regularly while keeping an eye out for any signs of mould or mildew.
Can I use any type of essential oil in a diffuser?
No, not all essential oils are suitable for use in diffusers. It is important to use only high-quality, pure essential oils that are specifically designed for use in diffusers. Some essential oils have components that can damage the diffuser or be dangerous when inhaled. Additionally, some essential oils are inappropriate for certain medical conditions. It’s important to do your research to select the right type of essential oil for your diffuser.
Made a Choice?
Both humidifiers and diffusers can be beneficial for improving the air quality in your home, but they offer different types of benefits. Consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which one to choose.
And whether you choose a humidifier or a diffuser, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and keep the device clean to ensure safe and effective use. For Aussies, our guide on the best humidifiers has the best models to choose from.
