What is the Quietest Humidifier? (Guide for Best Silent Humidifier 2021)

Although some homeowners don’t care, especially if buying a humidifier for less frequented areas, such as the basement, the majority of shoppers want a humidifier that produces very little noise or no audible sound at all. The amount of noise produced becomes an even bigger issue if the humidifier is intended for overnight use. 

The great news here is that most humidifier manufacturers strive to reduce noise output as much as possible. Indeed, many have invested in cutting-edge technologies to make sure that the humidification process doesn’t interrupt your sleep.

This guide should help you find that the quietest humidifier that would allow you to enjoy your sleep every single day. Let’s start, however, with a review of some of the best products in this category.

Best Quiet Humidifier Reviews 2021

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. Honeywell Cool Moisture Console Humidifier 

Honeywell Cool Moisture Console Humidifier
  • MULTI-ROOM COOL MIST HUMIDIFIER: Need a humidifier for large rooms? Want to add moisture to your whole house? This 3 gallon, easy fill humidifier console with a humidistat & auto shut-off can help control humidity in your home. It runs for 24 hrs. on low
  • FILTERED COOL MOISTURE: Evaporative Technology blows moisture off a wicking filter, helping it evaporative into the air quickly. It's not possible to over-humidify with evaporative technology because you can't add more moisture to the air than it can hold
  • HONEYWELL HUMIDIFIERS: Humidity levels in your home between 40-60% can make the air feel warmer & improve your breathing comfort, sleeping, nasal congestion & dry skin. Dry air can cause static electricity, damage wooden furniture & irritate health issues
  • HUMIDIFIERS FOR BABIES, CHILDREN, ADULTS: Humidifiers diffuse moisture into the air, and many find that a humidifier for the home, bedroom or nursery becomes an essential part of a good nights sleep when the air is dry, in allergy season, or when sick
  • HONEYWELL QUALITY: Improve humidity levels in your home & improve your comfort with a Honeywell humidifier.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Honeywell Cool Mist console-style humidifier is a 3-gallon, easy-to-refill evaporative humidifier. It blows moisture off a wick filter. The unit is designed to keep humidity levels in your home within the 40 to 60 percent range. Measuring 21 x 13 x 17.5 inches (L x W x H), the two-tank humidifier is designed for large rooms, up to 2,300 square feet.

Several features combine to make the Honeywell a good candidate for noiseless night operation. First off, although it’s an evaporative humidifier (thus uses a fan), Honeywell uses innovative QuietCare technology to reduce the amount of noise the unit produces even at full operation.

Secondly, this humidifier has three speeds (Low, Medium, and High). During the night, you can choose the Low operation mode for quiet performance. Finally, the Honeywell also features an adjustable humidistat and multiple output settings, giving you complete control. 

Pros 

  • Two-tank, three-gallon capacity
  • Wicking filter removes impurities 
  • Three fan-speed settings 
  • Digital, adjustable humidistat

Cons

  • Fans tend to make white noise

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2. Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier 

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Pure Enrichment® MistAire™ Ultrasonic Cool Mist...
  • INSTANT DRY AIR RELIEF: Ultrasonic cool mist technology safely and quickly moisturizes dry air for up to 25 hours of continuous operation in medium to large rooms up to 250 square feet. Powerful mist output with high and low settings makes this humidifier ideal for bedrooms, baby nurseries, office, and indoor plants.
  • YEAR-ROUND COMFORT: High and low-speed settings combined with a 360° mist nozzle help you consistently balance and regulate the humidity in your home all year long for relief from congestion, coughs, cold-like symptoms, allergies, dry skin, and sinus issues.
  • ENCOURAGE RESTFUL SLEEP: Easily run the humidifier overnight to maintain a healthy humidity level in your space. The optional night light offers a soothing glow while the whisper-quiet operation ensures you can sleep peacefully without any disturbance.
  • EASY-FILL TANK & AUTO SHUT-OFF: The sleek and transparent 1.7 liter water tank is easy to fill right from your kitchen or bathroom sink and the compact design doesn’t take up too much tabletop space. Plus, the automatic shut-off feature turns the humidifier off when the water level is low or the tank is removed.
  • 5-YEAR WARRANTY: This BPA-free humidifier comes with an AC power adapter, disk cleaning brush, and Pure Enrichment’s guaranteed 5-Year Warranty. Our customer support team provides quality service and peace of mind to millions worldwide all from a brand you can trust.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

A gorgeous humidifier that combines a white base and translucent, light blue tank, the Pure Enrichment MistAire is a 0.4-gallon (1.5L), 360-degree mist nozzle humidifier. The humidifier which comes with a two-year warranty and 24/7 customer support can run for up to 16 hours on High mode.

What makes the MistAire great for noiseless operation is the ultrasonic operation. Ultrasonic humidifiers don’t have a fan, thus make very little noise. The MistAire is also a small, portable unit, further reducing the amount of noise it can make.  

Above all, the unit features multiple modes and settings to give you control over your indoor climate. A Night Mode slows down the speed of moisture output, thus significantly reducing the amount of noise emitted. High and Low settings are also available.

For reduced noise, switch to the Low-speed setting. The MistAire comes with all essential components, including an AC power adapter and disk cleaning brush. 

Pros

  • Digital humidistat
  • Automatic shutoff
  • Ultrasonic technology
  • 360-degree mist nozzle

Cons 

  • A bit challenging to clean
  • Small tank (1.5L)

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  3. WinJoy Cool Mist 5L Ultrasonic Humidifier

Winjoy Cool Mist Humidifier, 5L Home Ultrasonic...
  • [Efficient Output & All Night Mist] With super high mist output up to 350ml/hr,VillSure cool mist humidifier moisturizing more efficient when put it in bedroom,nursery,offices ,perfect for any room, big or small.5L large capacity water tank allows you to enjoy all night moisture (14-40hours) without worrying about water shortage.
  • [Healthy Material & Hidden handle]VillSure humidifier for bedroom is made of BPA-Free ABS material without toxic and bad smells.Hidden handle design makes it easier to add water.VillSure aims to provide healthy and effective humidifiers for adults, babies and pregnant women.
  • [Whisper-Quiet Technology & Auto Shut-Off]VillSure vaporizer humidifier adopt advanced ultrasonic whisper technology,which lower the noise level to 36db for quiet humidification.It will automatically shut off with red LED light on when runs out of water.
  • [Dial Knob Mist Control & Rotary Nozzle]Unlike button control,VillSure ultrasonic cool mist humidifier features a classic dial knob and 360°degree rotating nozzle which makes it much more precise to adjust mist output volume and the spray direction.Choose what you want to keep an ideal humidity level in your home.
  • [Aromatherapy & Quality Guarantee] VillSure humidifier for babies features a independent oil tray,allows you to add your favorite oils and enjoy pleasant aromatherapy.All our products provide 24 months quality guarantee,Any problem,please contract us via the the Contact Seller button in the Your Orders section,we will sent you a refund or replacement within 24 hours.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This 5L (1.3-gallon) WinJoy is another worthy consideration when shopping for a quiet humidifier. Also an ultrasonic humidifier, the WinJoy runs for up to 20+ hours uninterrupted, meaning that you can have it for the entire night without having to refill the tank. 

Qualities that make it a good choice for quiet operation include, among others, the ultrasonic operation and Whisper Quiet technology. Even in Max Mode, it produces a mere 36 decibels of noise which is close to what your TV produces.

Additionally, the WinJoy features knob controls and auto-shutoff.  The knob controls allow you to adjust the amount of moisture coming off the unit. A low-water indicator and water-out shutoff functions protect the unit.

WinJoy, via Villsure, offers exemplary customer support. If you have any noise issues, give them a call. Buyers also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month replacement warranty. 

Pros

  • Easy to refill
  • Lightweight
  • Ultrasonic operation
  • Less than 36 decibels of noise

Cons

  • Glows/shines in the darkness 

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  4. Honeywell QuietCare HCM630 Cool Moisture Humidifier

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Boasting Honeywell’s QuietCare technology that produces 30% less noise than similar humidifiers, the HCM630 is a three-speed manual fan control humidifier with variable humidity output. It produces just 35 decibels of noise at Low Speed and 55 decibels at High Speed. When fully refilled, the humidifier runs for 24 hours on Low Speed.

The HCM630 features a compact design for easy handling and storage. Its other qualities include easy to use manual controls at the top of the unit, a removable tank with an ergonomic handle, and a large 3-gallon water tank that cleans and refills with ease. 

The humidifier which is designed for spaces up to 1,050 square feet comes with all filters pre-installed and a 3-year limited manufacturer warranty. The filter, however, must be replaced every one to two months. 

Pros

  • Ultra-silent QuietCare technology
  • Adjustable humidity control
  • Three moisture settings
  • Treated filters

Cons 

  • Awkward shape

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  5. Vicks Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Vicks Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
  • Variable Cool Mist Control allows you to regulate the humidity level in the room for maximized comfort
  • Directional Mist Outlet allows you to control the "plume"
  • Use with Vicks VapoPads for soothing menthol scent
  • Free Protec Demineralization Cartridge removes minerals and other impurities from the water

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also known as the V5100NS, the Vicks Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier is a 1.2-gallon portable humidifier that runs interrupted for about 20 hours after a complete refill. It comes with an adjustable mist control so you can refine your indoor climate to your desired levels. 

Some of the top features of the V5100NS include variable speed operation that allows you to select the rate at which moisture is expelled into your room. A directional mist outlet lets you choose the direction in which you want the moisture blown.

The V5100NS also uses a Vicks VapoPad for a soothing menthol scent and a Protec demineralization cartridge to remove impurities from the water. 

This Vicks unit is extremely quiet and often recommended for bedrooms and other situations where quiet humidification is required. 

Pros

  • Variable cool mist control
  • Directional mist outlet
  • Free demineralization cartridge 
  • Vicks VapoPads provide soothing menthol scent

Cons 

  • Scaling is a huge problem

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  6. AnyPro Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier 

No products found.

Finally, you should also consider the AnyPro cool mist ultrasonic humidifier. With three timer settings, optional blue night lights, and a 2-liter (0.5-gallon) tank, the AnyPro passes the test as one of the most efficient portable humidifiers for small rooms.

The best part about the AnyPro, however, is its quiet operation. Even at maximum speeds, the unit produces just 60 decibels. But, if you want a tranquil environment, try the Whisper Quiet level at 40 decibels, or better, the Quiet Mode that produces just 20 decibels of noise. 

Other noteworthy features of the AnyPro include a detachable power adapter, 10-12 hours of continuous, uninterrupted operation, and a digital hygrometer that allows you to monitor and control your indoor climate.  The AnyPro weighs just 1.34 pounds when empty. 

Pros

  • Lightweight for greater portability
  • Beautiful tabletop design
  • High and Low mist output options
  • Produces just 20 decibels of sound in Low Mode

Cons 

  • Tiny tank (only 0.5 gallons)
  • Short run time (only 10-12 hours)

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Buying the Best Silent Humidifier: Everything Worth Knowing

A good humidifier is vital to both your comfort and health. If you have a runny nose or a sore throat, for example, letting a humidifier run round the clock would put enough moisture in your indoor air, thus help you fight the situation. 

However, it’s also not easy getting through the night with a noisy humidifier. If the noise is too much, even falling asleep might be a problem. In this section, we look at several considerations to help you find a quiet humidifier for noiseless night operation. 

quiet humidifier for sleeping

Understand the Different Types of Humidifiers

Although all humidifiers produce some form of noise, some types produce more noise than others. By understanding the different types of humidifiers and how they work, you can identify the less noisy models. 

For purposes of simplicity, we can group humidifiers into three broad categories, i.e., evaporative, ultrasonic, and whole house. Ultrasonic humidifiers are the least noisy of the three. 

The reason is simple – ultrasonic humidifiers don’t use fans. If you read about the working mechanism of evaporative and steam humidifiers, you’ll learn that they both heavily rely on a fan or a set of fans to function. Evaporative humidifiers need fans to break water into mist and then use the same (or a different set of) fans to blow the mist into your rooms. Steam humidifiers, meanwhile, don’t need fans to produce steam but are heavily dependent on strategically positioned fans to blow the steam into your rooms.

These fans are a major source of noise in any humidifier. These are suggestions that up to 70% of the noises from your humidifier come from the fanning unit.

Ultrasonic humidifiers don’t have nor need blower fans. That’s because an ultrasonic humidifier uses sound waves to break down water into mist and distribute it throughout your home. As such, the only sound you’ll hear from an ultrasonic humidifier is the mild vibrations as the water particles are broken into moisture. This makes ultrasonic humidifiers the best choice when shopping for a noise-free humidifier. 

Cool Mist vs. Warm mist Humidifiers

Another way to categorize humidifiers is based on the temperature of the mist they produce. Here, there are two broad categories – cool mist and warm mist humidifiers. Cool mist humidifiers produce mist at room temperature while warm mist models produce heated mist, thus they can also help with indoor heating. 

Generally speaking, cool mist humidifiers are noisier than their warm mist counterparts. Why? Because, as with ultrasonic humidifiers, warm mist models don’t need fans to blow moisture into your rooms!

In most cases, water is boiled until it turns into steam.  When in a confined space, steam can build a huge amount of pressure. Manufacturers make use of this naturally-created pressure to push moisture out of the humidifier to all corners of your home. 

In addition to the pressure inside the humidifier, the warm moisture also spreads by convection. 

Role of Size in Humidifier Noise

best quiet humidifier for baby room

The size of the humidifier also plays a significant role in the quietness of the appliance. In general, smaller humidifiers that produce only a few gallons of moisture per day don’t need so much power to push/fan the air throughout your rooms. An evaporative humidifier meant for a 120 square foot space, for example, will have just a small fan. 

Bigger humidifiers, by comparison, need large fans/blowing mechanisms. Think about a whole-home humidifier that produces over 20 gallons of moisture every day. To blow a whole 20 gallons of moisture out of the humidifying unit, you need a larger than average blowing system. To ensure that the moisture reaches every corner of the home (not just one room), you’d need an even more-powerful blowing system. 

The point here is that if you’re shopping for a noiseless humidifier that wouldn’t make it difficult to sleep, then it would be in your best interests to go for a smaller humidifier. If you already own a large room humidifier, consider buying a second, smaller tabletop model just for the bedroom. It doesn’t even have to humidify the entire bedroom. As long as it keeps the area around your bed sufficiently humidified, that would be great. 

Controls/Level of Control

Another important factor is the amount of control you have over the humidifier. Most humidifiers have an Auto Mode that automatically adjusts the humidification settings depending on the current indoor climate. If there’s sufficient humidity, the Auto Mode switches to an “idle” state or even turns off the humidifier. Then, when the humidity levels drop, the humidifier automatically springs back to life and raises indoor moisture to the desired levels. Such control can help with noise issues at night.

An even better feature, however, is a Sleep Mode. In Sleep Mode, most humidifiers run both slowly and more quietly. Different manufacturers use different technologies to ensure ultra-quiet operation in Sleep Mode. It’s your job to research these technologies and find out the best of them. 

Finally, you’re also likely to come across two mode modes; Silent Mode and Low Mode. Silent Mode is straightforward. When in that setting, the humidifier produces significantly less noise. Low Mode, meanwhile, doesn’t necessarily tie back to noise output. Instead, it’s usually either about the speed at which the fan rotates or the rate at which moisture is released from the humidifier. Whichever is the case, it means that the humidifier slows down. Whenever a humidifier slows down, noise output also reduces. You should, therefore, keep an eye out for these control features. 

If you can find a humidifier with a digital humidistat, executing most of these controls becomes effortless. 

Read the Product Label

small quiet humidifier in a room

It’s also imperative to check the product description/details and read the label to find out the noise rating of the product. Most, if not all, manufacturers indicate the average noise levels (in decibels) of the product during regular operation. Where the noise output isn’t indicated, move on to the next product.

Ideally, you want to know about the maximum and minimum noise output. The maximum noise level of a humidifier refers to the noise produced when the unit is operating at full-throttle or High/Max Mode. The lowest noise levels, meanwhile, could be the output at Low Mode, Silent Mode, or Sleep Mode. Again, all figures are given in decibels, though we’ve come across models where the noise output was given in bels. 

Without going into the technical details, just remember that normal conversations are usually at around 60 decibels, and 10bels = 1 decibel. A great humidifier, therefore, produces less than 60 decibels of noise even in Max Mode. Otherwise, it would interfere with your conversations. In Sleep Mode, some units, especially humidifiers for bedrooms go as low as 20 decibels, which is incredible. 

How to Maintain a Quiet Room Humidifier

Lastly, your humidifier will produce less noise if it’s properly cleaned and maintained. As we’ve now mentioned severally, it’s the fans that produce the most noise in a humidifier. If you opt for a fan-less, ultrasonic option, the vibrating column will the primary source of noise in your humidifier.

Both of these areas can accumulate dust and dirt, which might, in turn, compromise motion. When motion is compromised, both fans and vibrating systems produce more noise. 

It is also possible for two moving parts of the fan to touch or a component within the fan to become loose. Or, the fan might break. Any of these issues can result in increased noise from the humidifier. 

The only way to prevent these problems and therefore make your humidifier quieter is to ensure proper maintenance. Select a great spot where dust wouldn’t enter the unit, perform regular cleaning every day or after a few days, and schedule a professional cleaning at the end of every heating season.  

Wrap Up

Finding a quiet humidifier doesn’t happen by chance. If you want a quiet humidification, you may have to keep off some types of humidifiers altogether. Large, cool mist humidifiers, especially evaporative and steam models, for instance, aren’t very good candidates. Instead, go for portable warm-mist ultrasonic models. Above all, check the noise rating on the label and ensure that the humidifier you choose offers a range of settings that give you sufficient noise control.

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AUTHOR
Melanie Mavery is an aspiring HVAC technician who is fascinated by the trends and opportunities in the HVAC industry. She spends most of her day writing content on home improvement topics and outreaching to prospects.  She's always looking for ways to support HVACs!