Doctors Say These Warm-Mist Humidifiers Can Keep You Healthier During

A humidifier is one of those small appliances we tend to forget about until we actually need it. Especially in the winter, when humidity levels drop, the climate becomes uncomfortably dry, or when the inevitable cold and flu season wreaks havoc on our bodies. Whether out of precaution or necessity, if you’re looking for a humidifier, you’ll definitely want to consider one that emits steam for these reasons.

“Steam humidifiers (vs. cool mist humidifiers) are considered better for the skin because they promote higher moisture levels within the space,” says Sony Sherpa, MD, holistic physician at Nature’s Rise. This is especially helpful in dry climates, either year-round (we’re focusing on Los Angeles) or seasonally. Additionally, steam humidifiers are great during cold and flu season, too, because heating water to a boiling point creates water vapor that is released into the air for whole-home humidification. They help kill bacteria and viruses in the air, which may help reduce the risk of bacterial and viral infections. This makes them the ultimate defense against winter congestion and the seemingly never-ending cycle of illness.