As relaxing white noise plays in the background, your sleep mask is on, and you’re surrounded by super soft linens. However, having one of the finest humidifiers for bedrooms might help you fall asleep even faster. Mastering a good night’s sleep isn’t easy, what with sticking to your skin-care routine and actually getting enough shut-eye, but putting a nice humidifier into your room has the potential to improve your sleep quality significantly. A humidifier might help if you have dry skin, wish to clean your sinuses, or are a millennial plant parent who wants to keep her green kids alive and well. We’ve compiled a list of the finest humidifiers for bedrooms, as well as answers to the most often asked questions regarding multifunctional devices.

What is the purpose of a humidifier?

Humidifiers emit cool mist, water vapor, or ultrasonic frequencies that signal water droplets into an area to raise humidity levels. They may help “reduce dry throats, dry mouths, and have been found to relieve congestion,” according to Michael Breus, Ph.D., a.k.a. The Sleep Doctor. The first humidifier was introduced in the early 1960s, but in this technological era, they’ve gone a long way in terms of utility and style.

When is it OK to use a humidifier?

Humidifiers are often used throughout the winter months to alleviate dry, chapped lips, scratchy throats, and parched skin. However, some people use them in the spring and summer to alleviate the pain caused by pollen and mold, so it’s not unheard of to keep them running all year, particularly if you have allergies. The most common time to use a humidifier is during sleeping. However, there are portable (and adorable!) humidifiers intended specifically for use at a desk.

Does using a humidifier help with allergies or a cough?

In a word, yeah. Adding moisture to dry air may help relieve coughs and congestion, but too much humidity can aggravate allergies and asthma, as well as increase the development of mold, germs, dust mites, and mildew, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Following your machine’s maintenance guidelines can help keep it clean, preventing it from discharging hazardous germs into the air and exacerbating your health issues.

How far away from your bed should a humidifier be?

When it comes to cool-mist humidifiers, this isn’t a big concern, but warm-mist humidifiers (i.e., steam vaporizers) should be placed farther away from your bed for safety reasons, particularly when you’re sleeping. If you’re using it in a child’s room, make sure it’s far enough away from the cord and the water container so the youngster can’t reach it.

What is the best way to clean a humidifier?

Consumer Reports recommends cleaning your humidifier on a regular basis. Bacteria flourish in damp settings, so “remove, clean, and dry the base tray or reservoir before refilling,” according to the manufacturer. If you want to go any farther, clean your gadget with a bleach solution once a week, but be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions first. Using distilled water, although not the most environmentally or financially friendly alternative, may also assist.

Is it possible to use essential oils in a humidifier?

Unless it’s particularly intended for essential oils, if the device’s maker doesn’t identify this as a function, don’t use anything except water. Most humidifiers are composed of plastic, which cannot handle the chemicals included in essential oils, so go for an aromatherapy diffuser instead.

So you’ve decided to add a humidifier to your sleep haven? Look no further than the top humidifiers on the market right now.

Humidify+Cool Dyson Pure

When it comes to tech-powered home goods, Dyson is at the top of the list. Everything Dyson creates is next-level, from cutting-edge hair dryers to game-changing vacuums and the greatest air purifiers—and its humidifier is no exception. The Pure Humidify+Cool is a humidifier, air purifier, and fan all in one, with a HEPA filtration technology that removes allergens, pollutants, gas, and germs. Even better, the machine features a built-in deep-clean cycle that prevents mineral and bacteria accumulation within the machine. Furthermore, the LED panel displays real-time pollution and humidity levels in your room, and the machine can be controlled through the Dyson app. Bonus: The Dyson Pure Humidify+Cool’s understated appearance, which comes in black or white (as seen), makes it easy to integrate into any bedroom. We could go on and on.

Warm & Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier by HoMedics

For a variety of reasons, this slimline humidifier is a great multitasker: It offers cold and warm mist settings, transitions effortlessly from floor to table usage, is remote-controlled, and comes with an essential oil tray to diffuse your favorite scents at home. This portable humidifier is simple to move from your bedroom to your home office—or pack it in luggage to use while you’re not at home.

Humidifier for Large Bedrooms by Levoit

This ultrasonic bedroom humidifier operates for up to 36 hours, which is longer than other alternatives on the market, thanks to its ultra-quiet operations and remote control, as well as the built-in humidistat (a.k.a.

humidity sensor) that adjusts on its own. It can also cover larger rooms because of its 1.5-gallon tank (about 753 square feet).

Humidifier Object W4 Hybrid

The nicest part about this photogenic humidifier is that it doesn’t compromise functionality for looks. This cool-mist humidifier has a whisper-quiet operation, an easy-to-fill water tank, scent trays, and automatic shutdown for empty tanks, in addition to its decor-like quality and elegant appearance. Kill two birds with one stone, improve the air quality in your bedroom, and add a stylish touch to your credenza.

Humidifier Vornado Evap40 4-Gallon

This evaporative humidifier isn’t the most stylish of the bunch, but it contains a huge four gallons of water for maximum effect. It has three settings and built-in humidity control, and it can cover up to 1,000 square feet on high. This one is for you if you have a lot of room to fill.

Bedroom Humidifier by TaoTronics

This top-fill humidifier features a six-liter tank capacity and a 60-hour lifespan. Automatic shutdown, sleep mode, and an aroma tray add to its appeal, and the TaoTronics humidifier also comes with a 12month guarantee in case you’re not satisfied with your purchase.

MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier by Pure Enrichment

Another wonderful air humidifier for bedrooms that will make it easier to breathe, sleep deeply, and prevent irritating skin. Pure Enrichment’s air purifier gives 16 hours of continuous humidification, improves air quality, and has a night light, which is a good addition for bedrooms.

Asakuki Essential Oil Diffuser

This two-in-one humidifier and oil diffuser saves room on your nightstand. It includes an auto shutdown, a 500-milliliter tank, and emits a consistent mist for up to 16 hours, making it ideal for a small area with little space. It also offers a relaxing LED light with seven distinct color options (here in blue). A white, black, or brown foundation is offered for this humidifier (pictured).