The health benefits of humidifiers are well documented, and many people use them to improve the air quality in their homes. What, though, are the benefits of humidifiers and diffusers that emit aromatherapy oils? How good are humidifiers that disperse essential oils into the atmosphere? We take a look at 8 of the best so that those who are interested can begin infusing their space with some splendid scents.

  • 1.1-gallon tank
  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • 3 mist levels
  • Separate essential oils tray
  • 2-year warranty

  • Diffuser and humidifier in one
  • Auto shut-off
  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Cool mist safe for children
  • 1-year warranty

  • 1.6-gallon water tank
  • Essential oils tray
  • High mist output
  • Auto shut-off
  • 2-Year Warranty

  • 3-in-1 functions
  • Ultrasonic humidifier
  • 500ml tank capacity
  • Maximum 180-minute timer
  • 1-year warranty

  • 1-gallon tank capacity
  • 70-hour run time
  • Ultrasonic
  • Water refill indicator
  • 3-year limited warranty

  • 7 LED colors
  • Aroma dispenser
  • Replaceable filter
  • Ultrasonic
  • 2-year limited warranty

  • 2.4 liter tank capacity
  • LED and nightlight feature
  • 48-Hour run time
  • 360-degree nozzle
  • 2-year warranty

  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Filter free
  • 1-gallon water tank
  • Medicine and essential oils cup
  • 3-year warranty


Levoit has created a humidifier that is whisper-quiet and has intuitive one-touch controls, an adjustable mist output, and a dedicated essential oils tray for your favorite fragrances. This humidifier has a substantial 1.1-gallon water holding tank, which means it should cater for larger rooms and can also run for 36 hours continuously when in the low mist setting.

Cleaning should also be simple as it has a 3-inch water tank that’s easily accessible, unlike the Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier by Everlasting.

On the downside: the one-touch sensor is very sensitive making it difficult to judge the settings and to switch it on or off. In addition, reviews of this model on Amazon often reflect that this unit is also prone to leaking.

Pros

  • Large water tank
  • 36-hour run time
  • 3 mist settings
  • Intuitive one-touch controls
  • Dedicated essential oils tray

Cons

  • One-touch controls over sensitive
  • Prone to leaking


This InnoGear diffuser/humidifier is our budget pick. It retails at just under $20, which means it’s a bargain that come with great features. It operates at a whisper-quiet level, so it’s ideal for bedrooms and nurseries, and since it is an ultrasonic cool mist humidifier, it’s perfectly safe for the kids and pets.

This InnoGear is fun too, with 7 bright LED color settings to match your mood, or to make  a great night light for younger children that are scared of the dark.

It has 3 working modes: intermittent (with mist released every 30 seconds with a run time of between 6 and 9 hours), continuous (consistent mist with a run time of 3 to 5 hours), and night light only.

On the downside, it can be a bit tricky to fill the aroma cartridge due to its location on the unit, which then causes spillage and leaking. At this price, though, and with the excellent reports of impeccable customer service, this is a product worth buying.

Pros

  • Efficient customer service department
  • Night light
  • Diffuser and humidifier in one
  • Whisper quiet
  • Ultrasonic

Cons

  • Tricky to get to the aroma cartridge
  • Prone to leaking

This Ultrasonic Humidifier by Everlasting is the most expensive humidifier on the list, so you’d expect it to be good. It has a 1.6 -gallon water reservoir, a dedicated essential oils tray, auto shut-off when the water runs dry, and it will run continuously for up to 50 hours.

This model has a room coverage of about 400 sq.ft, so it is ideal for bedrooms and smaller spaces, and it can raise humidity levels quickly with its output of 270ml an hour. A fan disperses the essential oils into the atmosphere to create a calm and inviting environment.

Unlike other humidifiers, this model doesn’t require a filter, so there are real savings to be made by buying this, but the manufacturer warns that if you live in a hard water area, the machine may emit white chalky dust. To counteract this, they recommend using distilled or demineralized water instead.

Pros

  • No filter required
  • Cool mist for safety
  • 1.6-gallon water tank
  • Auto-shut-off
  • High mist output

Cons

  • Requires distilled water
  • Tricky to clean
  • Fiddly to fill up the water tank

This model boasts a 3-in-1 function that enables the user to have a diffuser for the essential oils, a humidifier for air quality, and a night light. The water tank holds 500ml, and the unit has a maximum constant run time of up to 10 hours. The timer can be set to 60, 120, or 180-minutes, and when the water runs dry, it shuts itself off.

The ultrasonic feature emits micro-particles of water through vibration, meaning that no heat is necessary and thus making it ideal for areas where young children and pets may come into contact with it. This humidifier/diffuser is whisper-quiet and has an adjustable mist output, and it is extremely popular on Amazon, selling over 10,000 units.

On the downside, the LED light continuously changes color without the ability to change it. Also, the refill of the reservoir is tricky because you have to remove the adaptor, which is located at the base of the humidifier. Inevitably, when you have refilled the tank, trying to plug the adaptor back in means that you get spillages.

Pros

  • Ultrasonic
  • 10 hour run time
  • 500ml water tank
  • Whisper-quiet
  • 3 in 1 function

Cons

  • LED lights continuously change color
  • Difficult to avoid spillages when plugging the unit in with full reservoir

This PureGuardian model has a 1-gallon water tank with a run-dry indicator, so you know when it needs a refill. This model will run for an impressive 70 hours on one tank of water before refills, and it has an easily accessible essential oils tray on the side of the machine.

Keeping it clean should be a breeze too because this PureGuardian’s water tank has been treated with Silver Clean Protection that fights the build-up of mold and bacteria. It has 3-speed mist control, a multi-directional mist output, and because this humidifier doesn’t use a fan, it’s ultra-quiet.

On the downside, there are issues with slime build-up on the base of the machine, and when you use it in the highest setting, whatever you set it on becomes exceptionally wet. The water tank is completely inaccessible, so buying a cartridge to remove the hard elements from the water is essential and thus another ongoing cost to consider. For optimum use, place it in a small or medium sized room; if you want to avoid the dreaded white dust, try using a decalcification cartridge to remove the chalk from the hard water.

Pros

  • 3-year limited warranty
  • 70-hour run time
  • Easy to reach aromatherapy tray
  • Refill indicator
  • Silver Clean Protection treatment

Cons

  • Issues with slime build-up on the base
  • Water tank inaccessible
  • High mist setting creates high levels of moisture

Avalon has produced a cute little humidifier that looks great in any room. Because of its size, it is better suited to smaller and medium-size spaces, like bedrooms and nurseries, and its pure silent ultrasonic diffuser means it won’t disturb sleep patterns.

The color changing LED lights add to the sense of fun, and make an excellent night light for little ones who have a fear of the dark. The good news is that the light is optional and is operated via an on/off button on the base.

The aroma drawer is easily accessible, making refilling simple, and the water tank has a capacity of 1 gallon, so on the lowest setting this unit should run continuously for about 10 hours.

There are little annoyances that might make you think before you buy this model. The shape makes the humidifier hard to clean, for example, and since the manufacturer recommends not using any cleaning products, you never really get the interior workings free from mildew. There are also issues with leaking, and when the water tank gets refilled, it can be difficult to slide back in.

Pros

  • Looks great
  • 10-hour run time
  • 1-gallon water tank
  • Easily accessible aroma drawer
  • Pure silent diffuser

Cons

  • Awkward shape means it’s a challenge to clean
  • Leaks
  • Water tank tricky to replace after refill

This Geniani humidifier has a continuous run time of 48 hours when operated on the lowest mist setting, thanks to the 2.4-liter tank capacity. It also has a smart LED light indicator to let you know the current status of the humidifier. It has 2 mist output levels, and the 360-degree nozzle ensures that the essential oils and vapor are delivered evenly in the room. It works best in medium or smaller rooms, and the whisper-quiet operation lends it well to bedrooms and nurseries.

The materials used are BPA free, PVC free, and phthalate free also, so it removes the worry that harmful chemicals may enter your atmosphere. On the downside: it can leak when you refill it because the water tank gets filled upside down in the process. Also, there isn’t a clip mechanism for the water tank to lock in place; instead, it just sits on the base using gravity to hold it in place. There also isn’t an ample opening to get access to the water tank to clean it, so you have to pour in the cleaning solution, give it a shake, and hope for the best.

Pros

  • 48-hour run time
  • Smart LED indicator and night light function
  • Ultrasonic
  • BPA free

Cons

  • Water tank inaccessible for cleaning
  • Water tank sits on the base without the means to lock in place
  • Leaks when refilling

Vick is a well-known brand, producing remedies for many ailments, so it stands to reason that they should employ their expertise to create a humidifier with medicinal properties.

This humidifier comes equipped with a medicine cup that emits decongestant remedies into the atmosphere to help you get a restful sleep. The cup can be used to infuse your indoor air with aromatherapy fragrances too. This humidifier is whisper-quiet and filter-free for reduced ongoing costs, it has a 1-gallon water tank, and it shuts off when the reservoir is dry.

It’s also the only warm mist humidifier to make this list, so placing it in a child’s bedroom may not be the most safe as this generates heat. Vicks claims, though, that the mist this model emits is 95 percent bacteria free, so it can allow you to have the best quality air.

On the downside, the water fill hole is so small that you have to be patient while it fills, and cleaning the tank is a challenge for the same reason. A lot of people report that the whisper-quiet claims are untrue as this humidifier is noisier than others in the same class.

Pros

  • Medicinal uses
  • 1-gallon tank
  • Auto shut-off
  • Filter-free
  • Over 5,000 units sold on Amazon

Cons

  • Refill nozzle far too small
  • Can’t access the water tank to clean it
  • Medicine cup tiny
  • Noisier than others in its class

Comparison Chart

FEATURESInnoGear Ultrasonic Cool Mist HumidifierUltrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier by EverlastingURPOWER Aromatherapy Diffuser/HumidifierLevoit Cool Mist Bedroom HumidifierPureGuardian H965 Cool Mist HumidifierAvalon Premium Cool Mist HumidifierGeniani Cool Mist Aroma HumidifierVicks Warm Mist Humidifier
CoverageMedium RoomMedium roomSmall RoomsMedium RoomsSmall RoomsMedium RoomsMedium RoomsMedium Rooms
TypeCompactCompact CompactCompactCompactCompactCompactCompact
Type of MistCoolCool Cool Cool CoolCoolCoolWarm
ControlsManualManualManualManualManualManualManualManual
Auto Shut-OffYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Tank Capacity 500ml1.6-gallon500ml4.5 L1-gallon1-gallon2.4 L1-gallon
Size Inches6.1 x 4.3 x 4.114.7 x 12.6 x 84.8 x 6.6 x 6.67.9 x 6.1 x 13.87.5 x 7.5 x 13.216 x 9 x 412.4 x 6.5 x 5.512 x 7.9 x 14.2
Weight Lbs10.4 oz4.251.24.352.3 3.551.74.25
Warranty 1-year2-year1-year2-year3-year2-year2-year3-year

Buyer’s Guide:

Humidifiers for Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy humidifiers help boost the humidity of your indoor air while also making your home will smell fantastic with the scent of your favorite herbs and flowers. Aromatherapy works by affecting the limbic system, which is a region of the brain known to influence the nervous system.

Essential oils have also been shown to lift moods, and create an environment that encourages positive mental attitudes. Different scents have varying effects on the mind; lemon oil can ease depression; and lavender can be good for relieving headaches.

Young children benefit hugely from humidified air. The reduced bacteria in the atmosphere, coupled with the moist conditions make for the perfect sleeping environment for babies and toddlers. The elderly can also improve their well-being through humidification. Keeping the air levels moist will ensure that not only do they sleep well, but that they don’t suffer from dry skin or eyes. Humidifiers also help to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu, keeping airways open and reducing congestion.

Cool mist humidifiers don’t use any heat to disperse the vapor, relying instead on vibrations. They are referred to as “Ultrasonic” humidifiers as they have a diaphragm that vibrates at a high frequency to produce water molecules roughly 1 micron in diameter. Because they don’t produce heat, cool mist humidifiers might take longer to humidify a room, but they are safe around children and pets. They are also ideal for bedrooms and quiet spaces as they don’t require a fan to disperse the mist.

Warm mist humidifiers operate by heating the water in the holding tank to produce steam, which gets dispersed into the atmosphere via a fan. Because the mist is warm, humidity levels will adjust quicker, but the overall effect on breathing is that same as the cool mist variety because by the time it reaches your airways the vapor has cooled to room temperature. Warm mist humidifiers can be a little noisier because of the fan, but in essence, the health benefits of both are equal.

Perks:
  • Fresh smelling home – Having your home smell beautiful all year round is inviting and uplifting. Also, if you have pets, aromatherapy oils can mask a multitude of odors.
  • Sound mind and body – It’s no secret that the two are intrinsically linked. If you feel good about yourself, it follows that you will take care of your physical side too.
  • Balances humidity levels – The EPA (Environment Protection Agency) recommends that the optimum humidity levels in our homes should be 30 to 60 percent. Humidifiers increase the moisture content of our air to improve sleep, skin, mood, and health.
Setbacks:
  • The cost – Some aromatherapy humidifiers are expensive, costing upwards of $100. And then you have to buy the essential oils, which on average could cost you around $20 a set.
  • Maintenance – These devices require upkeep; without regular cleaning and maintenance, humidifiers can become havens for bacteria and other contaminants.
  • White dust – Unless you are committed to spending money on distilled or demineralized water, you are going to find small deposits of white powder around your home, as the chalk in the water gets dispersed in the vapor.
HUMIDIFIER

Pros

  • Scented home environment
  • Great for mood and health
  • Keeps the room humidity regulated

Cons

  • The costs can be significant
  • Maintenance of the humidifier is crucial
  • Leaves white dust if you don’t use specialist water

  • Why do I need demineralized water?
  • Humidifiers disperse water vapor around the room in the form of mist. The mist contains traces of chalk and other minerals that are naturally found in drinking water. While these minerals are perfectly safe, they leave a residue over time that is known as “white dust.” Demineralized or distilled water has these minerals removed so is kinder to your humidifier and doesn’t leave residue everywhere.

  • How should I clean my humidifier?
  • Most makers recommend that instead of using detergents, which could contaminate your machine and in turn the air you breathe, water and distilled vinegar should perform the task adequately. The water tank will need a soak in this solution for about thirty minutes at a time. Also, use small brushes to get to the hard to reach parts.

  • How often should I clean my humidifier?
  • Each model is different, but as a good rule of thumb is to clean the humidifier thoroughly every week. That means stripping it down and soaking the components in a solution of water and distilled vinegar, including the water tank. Regular cleaning stops bacteria from growing and eliminates any mold spores that could find their way back into the atmosphere of your home.

Final Thoughts

While a humidifier can improve your breathing, your skin, and your sleep patterns alongside protecting your furniture, an aromatherapy humidifier goes a step further to boost your mood and aid in the recovery of afflictions like headaches. Adding aromatherapy oils to your humidifier is the most efficient way of evenly dispersing the scent around your home. It spreads mood enhancing fragrances while at the same time regulating the humidity of your home.

 

 

Further Reading