Humid summer air is hot, sticky, and uncomfortable, so most of us avoid the outdoors like the plague during the hottest months of the year. So why on earth would we want to increase the level of humid air inside our homes in the winter? Our bodies need a moderate level of moisture for various health reasons. Moreover, there are other non-medical benefits of raising the moisture content inside, too. Here, we’ll discuss why we need humidity and what you can do to increase humidity levels at home.
Why do we need humidity?
Prevent dry skin – When the temperatures drop outside, we crank up the heat inside. This dry heat is the leading cause of dry winter-skin, which can feel tight, itchy, and uncomfortable. Find out what you need to do to winter-proof your skin.
Static electricity – When humidity levels are low, you’ll notice more static electricity on clothing, bedding, and even in your hair! You may also frequently ‘shock’ yourself on metal objects inside the house. While these shocks won’t do any damage, they certainly don’t feel very good.
Chapped, dry lips – In the same way that dry air will cause skin irritations, it can also cause lips to chap and become cracked and painful.
Respiratory and sinus issues – Dry air can irritate allergies and asthma and can cause breathing problems, inflamed nasal membranes, painful sinus pressure, sore throat pain, and other respiratory discomfort. It can also increase snoring and sleep problems.
Joint and muscle pain – When there isn’t an adequate level of moisture in the air, it can cause dehydration. In turn, this can cause joint and muscle pain, especially in those with an underlying condition.
Healthier plants – By increasing the humidity inside your home, your plants will thrive. If you’ve noticed the leaves on your indoor plants are wilted, drooping, and turning brown, it could be caused by dry air.
Structural damage – In extreme cases, dry air can wreak havoc on your home. It can cause paint to crack and chip, gaps and cracks in drywall, separation of floor joists, and other structural damage.
How to increase humidity levels
Once you are aware of the many reasons to maintain a balanced humidity level at home, you can get started adjusting it. Here are several ways to increase humidity levels:
1. Humidifier – The most logical method of increasing the level of moist air is to use a humidifier. Humidifiers are very affordable and can be used anywhere in the home. It will put off a fine water mist into the air, making it more comfortable on your skin, breathing passages, and so on. There are potential dangers to using an unclean humidifier, so be sure to read the operating instructions thoroughly before using.
2. Water containers – Place a small container of water on top of wood burning stoves, fireplaces, and near radiators when they’re in use. The water will heat up and release steam into the air. Take care not to place the water near electrical devices, or where children or pets can reach it.
3. Live plants – Healthy plants will improve the air quality in your home. Water them more often than you would in the summer and mist them daily with a squirt bottle.
4. Air dry clothes – If at all possible, air dry clothing instead of turning on the dryer. Hang the clothing over a heat vent to speed up the drying process, and the moisture from the clothes will increase humidity levels, too.
5. Add a water feature – Bring in a decorative water feature that will look great and increase humidity levels at the same time. A table top water fountain, free-standing water garden, or other water feature will add a calming effect to your home while adding moisture to the air.
Final note
As important as it is to not let the air inside your home get too dry, it’s equally essential that the air not become too moist as it can cause mold and mildew growth. For best results, purchase a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in your home and adjust it accordingly.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
How to Winter-Proof Your Skin
Tell Tale Signs It’s Time to Change the Furnace Filter
Creating Zen with Water Features
Source: Personal knowledge