The Best Humidifier for Plants: Top 10 Picks of 2024

If you’ve ever tried to create your own mini botanical garden at home, you might have noticed that keeping tropical plants happy can be a bit of a challenge. I remember seeing the lush, vibrant greenery in professional conservatories and wondering why my own plants didn’t look nearly as gorgeous. That’s when I learned one simple truth: humidity is key. Dry air can lead to brown tips, crispy leaves, and even pest infestations. That’s why I invested in a humidifier for my green friends.

The 10 best humidifiers for your plants

With so many models on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your indoor plants. After researching and testing various options, I’ve narrowed down the best humidifier for plants to the top 10 models that meet my stringent criteria: effective humidification, ease of use, low noise level, and value for money.

In my opinion, the Levoit LV600S stands out as the best overall solution. Its impressive 6-liter tank, whisper-quiet operation, and adjustable mist output make it an ideal choice for most houseplants. But, I didn’t stop there. I’ve compiled a comprehensive roundup of the top 10 humidifiers for house plants, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re new to the world of plants or you’ve been nurturing them for years, there’s something here for everyone — from budget-friendly picks to sophisticated smart controls.

1. Levoit LV600S warm and cool-mist humidifier – Best Overall

You can also set it to automatically or maintain humidity at specific levels. This humidifier has 5 fan speeds and 2 mist levels and features an essential oil diffuser. The plant mode feature is also a game-changer, providing a more comprehensive plant-care experience with scan recognition, advanced encyclopedias, and specialized custom plant management.

Any serious plant parent knows that a humidifier with a large water tank capacity is a must-have. The Levoit LV600S doesn’t disappoint, with a massive 6-liter tank that can run for up to 50 hours on a single fill. This means you can enjoy uninterrupted humidification for your plants without having to refill the tank constantly.

The warm mist mode is where this humidifier truly shines. It’s able to provide 4 times faster relief than cool mist, making it perfect for dry winter months or for indoor plants that need a warm environment. And with the Vesync App, you can monitor indoor humidity levels, set schedules, and timers, and even control the humidifier remotely.

One thing I don’t like about this product is that it can be a bit pricey compared to other models on the market. However, considering its advanced features and performance, I think it’s well worth the investment.

2. Honeywell HUL520W plant humidifier – Best Value For Small Room

One of the top picks for a budget-friendly yet effective best plant humidifier is the Honeywell HUL520W Mistmate. This compact ultrasonic cool mist humidifier is perfect for adding moisture to smaller indoor spaces. With an easy-to-use control knob and variable output settings, you can adjust the level of humidity to your liking. 

Honeywell HUL520W Mistmate offers a simple design that is easy to use and maintain, making it a great choice for those looking to increase moisture levels for their plants without investing in a high-end model. Its large tank opening makes filling and cleaning a breeze, while the auto shut-off feature activates when the tank is empty, promoting safety and energy efficiency. With a tank capacity of 0.5 gallons, this humidifier can run continuously for up to 20 hours.

3.  Levoit OasisMist Smart Ultrasonic Humidifier – Best Extra Features and Best for Large Room

I had no idea a humidifier could be so smart until I tried the Levoit OasisMist Smart Humidifier. This model blew me away with its ability to scan my houseplants and create ideal humidity settings for them through the VeSync app. The automation features are top-notch, allowing you to schedule routines and set the humidifier to turn off based on your preferences. You can monitor and adjust moisture levels remotely, ensuring your plants always receive the optimal environment they need to thrive.

The Levoit OasisMist Smart Humidifier is powerful, versatile, and easy to use. It has a 6L water tank, covers up to 430 ft2, and lasts for up to 60 hours. It ensures thorough coverage and customizable mist direction with its dual 360-rotating nozzles, providing optimal humidity distribution. You can choose from warm mist and cool mist. Overall, the Levoit OasisMist Smart Humidifier is a great humidifier for house plants and modern home use.

What I didn’t like about the Levoit OasisMist Humidifier was the lengthy cleaning process, taking about 30 minutes to descale with vinegar. However, the large top opening made it manageable. Regular maintenance is key for the warm mist option to prevent bacterial growth. Despite this, the Levoit OasisMist’s performance and smart features make it worth the effort.

4. Honeywell Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier – Most Stylish

The Honeywell Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier doesn’t require any filters, making it low-maintenance and cost-effective. It is ideal for medium-sized rooms and offers adjustable mist output settings for personalized comfort. The automatic shut-off feature ensures safety when the tank is empty. This humidifier is a total stunner! The modern design looks super chic in my living room, and it’s so compact that it doesn’t take up much space. 

Setting up and operating Honeywell Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier is a breeze. Just fill the tank with water, plug it in, and adjust the mist output to your liking. Easy-peasy! The wide tank opening makes it simple to clean and refill the humidifier, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and keeping your air clean. This humidifier is a stylish, effective, and easy-to-use addition to your plant care arsenal. While it’s not perfect, the pros definitely outweigh the cons. If you’re looking for a reliable humidifier to keep your plants happy and healthy, I’d recommend giving this one a try.

5. Pure Enrichment MistAire – Best Budget and Easiest to Carry

If you’re looking to add some much-needed humidity to your indoor jungle without breaking the bank, then the Pure Enrichment MistAire should be right up your alley. It’s the perfect blend of affordability and efficiency, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned plant parents and newbies alike.

Don’t be fooled by its budget-friendly price tag; this little device can work wonders in maintaining just the right atmosphere for your green companions, covering up to 250 square feet, and can run continuously for 25 hours. 

Assuming you want to create a peaceful ambiance in your plant room, the Pure Enrichment humidifier’s optional night light feature is a lovely touch. This soft, gentle glow adds a soothing atmosphere to your space, making it perfect for bedrooms or meditation rooms. 

While most humidifiers only mist in one direction, the Pure Enrichment MistAire takes it to the next level with its 360-degree mist nozzle. This feature allows for even distribution of mist throughout the room, ensuring that all your plants receive the perfect amount of moisture.

6. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier – Best for Congestion Relief

Despite its simple design, the Vicks stands out for its unique ability to produce a warm mist that is comfortable for both plants and people. It’s super easy to use, quiet and has an auto shut-off feature, which is perfect for busy plant enthusiasts like us. I love that it’s filter-free, making it easy to use and clean. The one-gallon tank provides warm mist for up to 24 hours, ensuring that your plants stay hydrated and healthy throughout the day.

Plus, it’s great for relieving dry air discomfort and congestion. Just add Vicks VapoSteam into the Medical Cup of Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier and let the soothing mist work its magic. The VapoSteam formula helps to loosen and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and providing fast relief from cough and congestion symptoms.

7. Dyson AM10 Humidifier – Most Hygienic

Known for its innovative design and cutting-edge technology, the Dyson AM10 combines functionality with style, making it a standout option. Not only does it provide perfect humidification for our beloved plants, but it also doubles as a fan to keep us cool during those sweltering summer months. I love how its patented Air Multiplier technology quickly and quietly disperses a fine, even mist throughout the room, ensuring plants receive the right amount of moisture. 

Dyson AM10 comes equipped with intelligent sensor technology. This feature allows the humidifier to automatically adjust the moisture levels based on the temperature and humidity of the room. This means that you can trust that your plants are receiving the perfect amount of moisture, without having to constantly monitor the moisture level yourself. 

Another unique feature of the Dyson AM10 is its UV light technology, which helps to sanitize the water before it is dispersed into the air. This UV light effectively eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, ensuring that the mist produced is clean and safe for you and your plants to absorb. The UV Cleanse feature is just one of the many reasons why the Dyson AM10 Humidifier stands out from the competition. 

8. Crane 4-in-1 Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier – Most Versatile and Best for Large Room

Crane 4-in-1 Drop is like a sculptural art piece that fits right into any modern living space. Available in multiple colors, its sleek, teardrop shape doesn’t just humidify your room effectively; it effortlessly enhances your interior aesthetics. This versatile device boasts a generous 1-gallon tank, perfect for maintaining optimal humidity levels in spaces up to 500 square feet for 24 hours. I love that it’s easy to clean. The adjustable settings allow you to customize the air moisture to your plants’ needs, and the optional filter slot is a great feature.

The Crane also comes with some amazing extras, like a color-changing night light, a sound machine with three “sleep sounds” options, and a bottom tray for essential oil pads or vapor pads. It’s an HSA FSA-eligible item, making it a great investment for your family’s health and wellness. The Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier features a 360-degree mist lid that allows you to direct moisture output in any direction. This versatile design ensures even distribution of humidity throughout your space, making it easy to target specific plants or areas that need extra moisture.

9. Govee Smart Humidifier for Bedroom – Best Smart Features

Before investing in a humidifier for your plants, you want to make sure it’s going to provide the right amount of moisture and comfort for them. That’s where the Govee Smart Humidifiers for Bedroom comes in – a top-notch option that has impressed us with its performance and features.

The first thing that caught my attention was its smart capabilities. You can control this humidifier using the Govee Home app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to customize the cleaning experience to your preferences. I loved how seamlessly it connected to my Wi-Fi network and responded to voice commands. 

A added bonus is the auto mode feature, which allows the humidifier to turn off when it reaches your target room humidity level and turn back on when it drops below 3% of that level. This feature requires a Govee Thermometer Hygrometer (not included), but it’s a game-changer for plant owners who want to maintain a consistent moisture level. The 30-hour non-stop operation and quiet design (reduced to 24dB) make it perfect for bedrooms or nurseries. The top-fill design and easy-to-clean bottom also make maintenance a breeze.

One thing I didn’t like about this product is that it doesn’t come with a built-in thermometer hygrometer, which is required for the auto mode feature. Additionally, the aromatherapy tray, while a nice touch, can be a bit tricky to clean.

10. Aprilaire 500 Whole House Evaporative Humidifier – Best for Large Spaces

By maintaining proper humidity, the Aprilaire 500 minimizes the risk of respiratory infections, alleviates allergy symptoms, and promotes overall well-being. Designed for efficiency and reliability, it seamlessly integrates into your HVAC system, delivering consistent moisture to every room and enhancing your comfort all year round.

If you’re looking for convenience and precision in regulating the moisture levels for your plants, the Aprilaire 500 comes equipped with automatic humidistat control. The onboard control sensor automatically turns on the humidifier when the humidity drops below the set point.

You can set your desired moisture level, and the humidifier will work autonomously to maintain the ideal moisture content in the air. This feature takes the guesswork out of managing moisture levels, providing you with peace of mind that your plants are well taken care of. 

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Humidifier for Plants

In this buyer’s guide, I’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting the best humidifying device for your house plants. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and give your plants the humid haven they deserve.

1. Type of Humidifier

Humidifiers for house plants come in two main types: ultrasonic and evaporative. They vary by the technology used to convert water into vapor. Both types can be effective at increasing the humidity around plants, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Ultrasonic

These use ultrasonic vibrations to create a fine mist, which is then released into the air. They are energy-efficient, and generally quieter than evaporative models, but they can be more expensive to purchase. The ultrasonic humidifier doesn’t have a filter, so any minerals found in the water used to fill their tank will also be released into the air.

Good to know before buying: If you’re considering using an ultrasonic humidifier in your home, it’s important to be aware of the type of water you should use to fill the device. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using distilled or filtered water in your ultrasonic humidifier. This water is free of minerals and other contaminants that can build up in the device and lead to problems like bacterial growth or “white dust” buildup.

Evaporative

These use a fan to blow air through a wet wick or filter, evaporating the water and releasing it into the air as mist. They tend to be more effective in larger spaces and do not produce white dust, but they can be noisier.

Good to know before buying: If you’re considering an evaporative humidifier for your house plants, it’s important to know that these types contain filters. They need to be changed regularly – typically every 1-3 months – to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. But you can use tap water in an evaporative model, so you don’t have to worry about buying distilled water. Furthermore, this type is often less expensive than ultrasonic models.

2. Mist Temperature: Cool Mist vs. Warm Mist

Humidifiers can produce cool or warm mist. Both have their pros and cons, so it really depends on your needs as to which one is better for you. Some humidifier models have both cool and warm mist settings. It’s important to know that most houseplants are not highly sensitive to the temperature of the mist itself. They mainly care about getting enough humidity. 

Cool Mist

Ideal for all plants, as it does not alter room temperature. Safe for homes with children and pets as they do not involve heating elements. Cool-mist humidifiers do not require a heating element, so they are less expensive.

Warm Mist

It can be beneficial for plants that require a bit more warmth to thrive, but they should be used with caution to prevent any potential burns if you have small children or pets. They can purify the water vapor they generate through evaporation. This is because, as the water is heated before being turned into mist, any impurities or bacteria present in the water are killed off. However, it may increase room temperature and use more energy. The best option for use during cold winter months. 

In summary, if you have a variety of houseplants and a room temperature within the normal range between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), a cold mist humidifier is a great choice. However, if you have plants that thrive in tropical environments or prefer a warmer mist for personal comfort, a warm mist humidifier might be the better option.

3. Tank Capacity and Run Time

Consider the run time and water tank capacity of your humidifier. If you have a large space or multiple plants, you’ll want a humidifier with a larger water tank (at least 4 liters) to minimize refills. Look for humidifiers with long run times (usually 24 hours or more) to ensure your plants receive consistent moisture. Long run times, especially those exceeding 12 hours, are particularly important for overnight use. 

4. Noise Level

It’s important to consider the level of noise you will be able to tolerate if you’re planning to place your humidifier in your workplace or bedroom. Ultrasonic humidifiers typically operate more quietly than evaporative models, making them suitable for use in bedrooms, offices, or nurseries. Since evaporative humidifiers use fans to circulate air and produce mist, they typically make more noise than ultrasonic models. For plants located in the bedroom, a humidifier with a noise level below 30 decibels would be the best option. Since noise in this range corresponds to a quiet rural night.

5. Additional Features

When shopping for a humidifier, look for features that cater specifically to plants. These may include adjustable mist output, multiple mist modes, and built-in humidistats (which monitor and maintain a set humidity level). Some humidifiers even come with plant-specific settings or timers, allowing you to customize the misting schedule to your plants’ needs. These features may seem like extras, but they can make a significant difference in your plants’ health and happiness.

Here are some features that I particularly liked:

Adjustable Mist Output: Allows you to control the moisture levels precisely.

Auto Shut-Off: Prevents the humidifier from running when the tank is empty, ensuring safety.

Humidity Sensor: Automatically adjusts output to maintain the desired air moisture.

Essential Oil Tray: Optional, but can add pleasant scents to the room.

UV filtration: Some humidifiers on the market are equipped with UV light, which helps to kill bacteria, mold, and pathogens. This is important because moist, humid conditions can quickly become a breeding ground for these harmful organisms. UV light is effective at killing these organisms, and it also helps to keep the humidifier clean.

6. Energy Efficiency

With environmental concerns and energy costs in mind, energy efficiency was a key criterion. Models with auto shut-off features, energy-saving modes, and lower power consumption were prioritized. Efficient humidifiers not only reduce electricity bills but also minimize their environmental footprint.

Additionally, consider humidifiers with an auto shut-off feature, which automatically turns off the device when the desired humidity level for your plants is reached or when the water tank is empty. This feature provides an added layer of energy efficiency, as it prevents the humidifier from wasting energy when it’s not needed. 

7. Room Size & Output

Make sure to choose a humidifier that’s suitable for the size of your room or growing space. 
Check the manufacturer’s recommended room size and output capacity (usually measured in gallons per day). For rooms between 100-250 square feet, you’ll need a humidifier that can output 1.5 – 2 gallons of moisture per day. A larger room will require a correspondingly larger capacity.

If the humidifier’s output is less than what the size of your room requires, it will not be effective in adding moisture to the air. In this case, your plants will not get the desired moisture levels. On the other hand, if the output is too high for the room size, it can make the air too moist, which can lead to problems such as mold and mildew growth.

8. Size of Humidifier

Don’t forget about the physical size of the humidifier! Choose a humidifier that fits the space where it will be used. If you have limited space or plan to place the humidifier on a shelf, look for compact or mini humidifiers. Larger humidifiers may be more suitable for floor-standing or corner placement. Smaller units are easier to move and store, but larger units often provide better performance for bigger rooms.

9. Price and Value

Determine your budget and find a humidifier that offers the best value for your money. More expensive models often come with additional features, but many affordable options perform well. This depends on what you need and your budget. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that more pricey and high-quality models can provide better performance, longer lifespan, and healthier plants.

Conclusion

So, we’ve journeyed through some of the most impressive humidifiers out there for our leafy friends. Whether you’re after smart controls like the Levoit LV600S cool and warm-mist humidifier or prefer an affordable yet efficient solution like the Pure Enrichment MistAire, there’s definitely something that caters to your needs. For those who appreciate style, the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier blends functionality and aesthetics seamlessly, while the Aprilaire 500  covers larger areas with ease. 

To wrap up, choosing the humidifying device for your plants can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Remember, investing in a good humidifier really can make a world of difference for your indoor jungle. It’s not just about keeping your tropical plants flourishing; a mist-filled environment helps them thrive by preventing dry leaf tips and promoting lush growth. Choose the right humidifier from my top 10 picks to create the perfect environment for your beloved greenery to thrive.

FAQ

Susan Green

Author

Susan is a plant lover with over 10 years of experience caring for houseplants. She enjoys watching her plants thrive and sharing her knowledge with others. As the writer for this website, Susan offers simple, practical tips to help readers grow happy and healthy plants.