If you have lots of greenery in your home, you probably have lots of tropical plants within your indoor gardening space, as well. (Thanks to their low-maintenance attribute!)
And if you notice, the one thing that is common to all of these plants is their love for humid conditions. Yes, tropical plants do need humidity (a lot of it!) to thrive. Not to mention, their need multiplies when you are living in an area that doesn’t naturally have high humidity.
Although there are various ways to increase the humidity levels of their surroundings, sometimes all your plants need is a good-quality humidifier. Why you ask. Well, because this electrical device provides the necessary moisture to your plant babies and compensates for the naturally low humidity levels!
In this blog, we recommend some of the best humidifiers for plants, tell you what to consider when buying them, and answer the most important questions regarding the same. So, let us get started!
7 best humidifiers for plants in the market
Elechomes 6.5-Liter Top-Fill Humidifier
The Elechomes Humidifier is best known for its versatility – it provides both warm and cool mist options. Most houseplants respond well to warm mist during the winter months and cool mist during the hot summers, which is why it works wonders for them!
Its built-in accurate humidistat system self-regulates the humidity levels to comply with your preferred range. Plus, in its normal mode, you can customize the humidity from 30-90%.
Not just that, its extra-large tank comes with a capacity of 6.5 liters and offers 72 hours of run time, which means you do not have to worry about filling it now and then. This ultrasonic humidifier has a 360-degree swivel nozzle that gives way to an even mist distribution in rooms measuring up to 861 square feet.
This allows you to adjust it away from your furniture and possessions and make it face towards your indoor garden. Plus, it uses a double sealing system to prevent it from leaking and thereby ensures maximum safety.
Honeywell Filter-Free Warm Moisture Humidifier
This Honeywell model is a warm-mist humidifier that successfully provides relief to houseplants from dry air discomforts. The best humidifier for plants is the one that keeps humidity levels between 40-60%, fits perfectly into indoor gardens, and produces little to no noise. And the Honeywell Warm Moisture Humidifier does exactly that!
Most plant parents suggest that their moisture-craving babies that love warmer temperatures pair best with this model. With a one-gallon tank, your plants can enjoy a continuous warm mist for up to 24 uninterrupted hours.
Also, this filters less model does not require you to bear the costs of replacement filters and ensures long-lasting comfort. It is ultra-quiet and comes with two comfort settings plus an automatic shut-off function. And the best part – a refill light keeps you updated as to when you are supposed to add water to its tank.
Pure Guardian H965AR Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
This humidifier is a solid device that features an easy-to-fill one-gallon tank along with an auto-shutoff option so that it does not run while being empty. The best part about this model is that, unlike other humidifiers, it does not allow slimy mold to grow on the surface of the water tank – thanks to its Silver Clean Protection. Plus, its ultrasonic technology gives your plants access to a fine, soothing cool mist and creates a relaxing environment for them.
Not to forget, the mist is multidirectional, which is great if you are in search of a humidifier that can take care of an entire room full of plants. With a 70-hour run time and a low-water indicator light, this device is indeed a nice option to go with.
Pure Enrichment Mistaire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
The Pure Enrichment Mistaire is a well-priced cool mist humidifier, which packs a good range of aesthetic features into a space-saving design. Despite its small, 1.5 liter tank, it restores moisture for as long as 25 hours. Plus, its thoughtful design makes it one of the most stylish humidifiers for plants. It also includes a 360-degree mist nozzle that allows smaller plants to receive sufficient moisture. And if you choose to place your plants inside your bedroom, the optional night light feature and near-silent operation shall act as a bonus!
Overall, its extended five-year warranty, combined with a contemporary look, modern feel, and outstanding performance makes it a perfect choice for freshening the air surrounding your plants.
Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier
Another reasonably priced model that offers a variety of smart features is the Levoit Classic 300S. Moreover, its app-control facility steals the show! It’s almost like a remote control that allows you to turn your humidifier on and off from any room inside your house, as well as reminds you to clean and refill it. What’s more, you can even operate your device via voice commands, too. Its humongous 1.5 gallons (6 liters) tank can humidify rooms with an area as large as 505 square feet. That, too, for up to 60 hours without a refill!
This device is easy to assemble, easy to clean, and easy to operate. Its huge tank, aromatherapy option, and built-in humidity sensors, together make it an excellent product for humidifying indoor plants.
Magictec Cool Mist Humidifier
The Magictec Cool Mist Humidifier is a budget-friendly, compact humidifier that can effectively humidify small to medium-sized rooms. It is made with ABS materials that offer long-lasting durability and comes with an automatic power-off function, as well. Its 2.5-liter tank, once full, can safely moisturize the air surrounding your plants for up to 24 hours. Also, it can maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which is perfect for nurturing tropical houseplants.
And of course, this device produces mist immediately and allows you to change the mist’s direction with its 360-degree nozzle spray. Although it may not have all sorts of high-tech features, this humidifier performs brilliantly as per its reasonable pricing.
Vicks Mini Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier
Looking for a small humidifier for plants that is equally effective for other purposes? The Vicks Mini Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier has a simple, compact design that might work for you. While it features a single-turn dial that indicates the level of mist output, its key highlights include a feasible price range, simple settings, and no-fuss nature. Its lightweight design makes it incredibly portable and allows you to carry it anywhere you want. One drawback, however, is that there is no indicator light to alert you that a refill is required. All you can do is see through the transparent window of the reservoir and keep a check if the tank is running low.
We recommend using this model for spaces up to 250 square feet, especially for plant parents looking for a simple, straightforward product. With the ability to convert one liter of water into mist in an hour, it brings forth one of the highest outputs amongst all the humidifiers we enlisted.
What to look for before buying a humidifier for plants?
Choosing the right humidifier can be a daunting task, especially when you are to select one for your plant babies.
Below, we mention some of the most important things to consider before making your decision:
Grow room size
Different humidifiers have different room volume capacities, which is why it is extremely important to take note of the size of the room you’re planning to introduce your humidifier into. For instance, if you only have a small shelf of tropical plants, a small humidifier may work well. On the other hand, for a larger room full of plants, a big, powerful humidifier shall come to your rescue.
You will probably find the humidifier’s capacity mentioned on the box along with other particularities. So, make sure you check whether it is meant for small rooms, medium rooms, or multiple rooms before bringing it home.
Run time
You certainly do not want a device that runs out of water now and then. So, when looking for the best humidifier for your plants, make sure you pick the one with a longer run time. What that means, of course, is that you are supposed to look for a humidifier that comes with a larger water reservoir.
Warm mist vs cool mist
Sometimes, you might also want to consider the mist temperature of the humidifier you purchase. If it’s getting too warm in your grow area, a cool-mist humidifier will be your best bet. Vice-versa applies to warm-mist humidifiers.
Also, remember that maintenance-wise, warm-mist humidifiers outweigh their cold-mist competitors. The reason is simple – warm-mist humidifiers operate by heating water to its boiling point, which, in turn, eliminates any bacteria and prevents mold growth.
Noise level
Unsurprisingly, a lot of people do not like to go for something that constantly keeps buzzing. So, if the noise does matter to you, we advise you to go for an ultrasonic humidifier. As the name suggests, these are ultra-quiet devices that won’t bother you much in terms of their noise levels. On the contrary, evaporative cool mist humidifiers are somewhat louder owing to the fans they use to distribute the water vapor.
Design and maintenance
As far as their maintenance is concerned, humidifiers need special attention and have to be cleaned every so often. It is, therefore, recommended to opt for the one that is easy to take apart and clean. A complicated structure with intricate parts is difficult to clean, which is why most people prefer buying a simple design.
Similarly, humidifiers with a top-fill design are easier to refill – Simply take off the top cover and add water directly. Lastly, you shouldn’t be purchasing something that you do not even want to see! Try opting for a device that is aesthetically pleasing and becomes the center of attraction in your room.
FAQs on humidifier for plants
Is a humidifier necessary for plants?
The answer probably depends upon the humidity conditions of the area you reside in, as well as the plants you want to grow. So, if your location is very dry, or you have decided to welcome some moisture-loving plants, you shouldn’t think twice before bringing a humidifier home. Tropical plants, in particular, grow better and have thicker foliage when exposed to increased humidity.
What type of humidifier is good for plants?
While buying a plant humidifier, the three parameters you must consider are:
- 12-24 hours run time – This ensures that you aren’t constantly refilling the water tank.
- Auto-shutoff switch – A feature that automatically turns off your device when it is running low on water. Not only does it make things convenient for you but also ensures safety!
- Simple controls – You do not want to scratch your head every time you operate your device. So, make sure you check for simple controls and an easy set-up.
Can you use a regular humidifier for plants?
Although you CAN use a regular humidifier at times, neither all “regular” humidifiers will do the job nor will all plants be happy about it. Humidifiers with large tank capacities that allow you to adjust the humidity between 30-50% are ideal for most plants. This is especially important if you own many large tropical plants.
How often should you use a humidifier on your plants?
It is recommended to use a humidifier daily on your plants, preferably for 4-5 hours from the morning until midday. You may also use a hygrometer to check the humidity levels before turning your humidifier on. For the most part, your plants won’t need a humidifier during the summer as often as during winter.
Where to place a humidifier?
While placing your humidifier, make sure it sits a few feet away from your plants, so too much water does not condense on their leaves and soil. This further ensures that your plants remain free from mold and fungus.
One more thing – try to keep your humidifier away from porous substances like wood and fabric curtains. Why? Well, because they are more prone to developing mold.
Do plants like cool mist humidifiers?
Honestly, the mist temperature does not have much of an effect on most plants. While a cool-mist humidifier is more energy-efficient, warm-mist humidifiers help to kill bacteria. That being said, the temperature itself is not a huge matter of concern, and the other differences between the two kinds of humidifiers might affect your decision.
What humidity levels do plants need?
The ideal humidity that most houseplants need is nearly 40-60% higher than the humidity levels under normal household conditions.
Humidifier maintenance
As with any other electrical device, proper cleaning is necessary for humidifiers too. In fact, one needs to be all the more careful with them. Periodic maintenance ensures that the humidifier’s mist is not contaminated with allergens, by any chance, and thereby keeps your plants safe.
How to raise humidity levels without a humidifier?
To raise the humidity levels without using a humidifier, one can try any of the below-mentioned methods:
- Mist your plants occasionally.
- Use a pebble tray – Simply place a layer of pebbles in a tray, add some water, and put the plants on top.
- Create a microclimate by grouping several plants.
Final thoughts: Humidifier for plants
The bottom line is that humidifiers are an excellent way to add moisture to the air and keep your plants hydrated. With that said, whether or not you need a humidifier will most likely depend upon the area you live in and the plants, you choose to grow.
In this guide, we have enlisted our top seven picks for the best humidifiers for plants. In addition, we’ve also outlined the key factors to consider before investing in a humidifier. We hope that our guide solves all your queries and helps you decide what’s best for you!