Air humidifiers are becoming increasingly popular in homes and offices, and this should not surprise us. On the contrary, we should follow the example, as these small devices have a tremendous impact on our daily health and well-being.
Humidity is an important factor for maintaining a healthy environment. When the air is too dry, it can have negative effects on your health. An air humidifier can be a solution to restore moisture in your home. However, it may also have some drawbacks. Let’s explore the disadvantages of having an air humidifier at home.
Molds and Bad Odors
From 50-60% humidity onwards, mold can worsen the situation. It tends to grow in poorly insulated buildings, as water vapor condenses on cold windows and walls, wetting window frames, wallpapers, and woodwork, which promotes their decay. Mold emits spores (tiny “seeds”) that float in the air. These spores can cause respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma attacks in susceptible individuals.
Finally, it is important to know that humidity can intensify odors in general, and when we try to mask them with scented candles, synthetic fragrances, or incense sticks, we further fill the indoor atmosphere with pollutants…
Bacteria and Fungi
Although air humidifiers are not the only ones to harbor harmful organisms, they provide an ideal environment for certain varieties. Legionella pneumophila is a notable bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Regular replacement or cleaning of filters and the reservoir of your air humidifier should address any issues, but if you are experiencing an unexplained respiratory illness that does not go away, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Dust mites and cockroaches love humidity
Mold is one thing, but the ick factor increases when the invasion involves critters. Too much moisture, from a humidifier or another source, can lead to this kind of problem in a home. According to the American Lung Association, cockroach allergens can be released into the air when dust is disturbed during cleaning or vacuuming.
These allergens can trigger asthma and allergies, and studies show that they could even be responsible for asthma in preschool children. Looking forward to laying your head on the pillow after a long, hard day? Cockroach allergens can be inhaled from bedding, negating the typical healing powers of a restful night’s sleep.
Hot and humid environments are also perfect for dust mites. These tiny insects, closely related to spiders, live in dust and feed on dead skin cells. Although microscopic, dust mites can cause significant allergy problems and tend to flock to the most peaceful place of all, our bedroom.
An allergy to dust mites can go beyond occasional runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing to a severe asthma attack requiring emergency care. All of this certainly puts a new priority on warnings about humidifier maintenance.
