Which Is Better, a Cool Mist or a Warm Mist Humidifier?

If you are suffering from a cold or allergies, your doctor may recommend you use a humidifier to help ease congestion and coughing. However, there are both warm and cool mist varieties available.

Types

• According to the Mayo Clinic, both warm and cool mist humidifiers are effective when it comes to adding moisture to the air. By the time you inhale the mist, it will have cooled down or warmed up based on the ambient temperature.

Benefits

• Cool mist humidifiers cost less than warm mist humidifiers, according to the Mayo Clinic. The impact on your electric bill is also less because you are not paying to heat up the water.

Warning

• Safety is another advantage to cool mist humidifiers. If you have children, they could potentially burn themselves on the steam or water in the device.