The ideal humidity level for one’s home is between 30 and 50%. The main arch-nemesis to humidity control is mold. Mold grows in the wild to decompose dying plants and animals, and when it’s in one’s home, it’s in the wrong playing field. Mold grows where moisture flows, and according to the Environmental Protection Agency, mold can’t grow when humidity is below 55%.

 

According to a study on humidity by the National Library of Medicine, bacteria, viruses, fungi and mites all stop growing and thriving at 50-60% humidity. Bacteria and viruses are also present in the lower segment of this spectrum, multiplying at 40% humidity and waning off at 50%. So, what exactly is this humidity impacting?

 

Graphic from powellandturner.com

 

Allergies: ears, eyes, nose and throat

 

When humidity is too low— below 30-40% —the air becomes dry and viruses or allergen producers like pollen, dust or mites can easily cling to dry sinus passages or stick to dry eyes. According to an article by Penn Medicine, humidifiers, when maintaining optimum levels, relieve congestion by alleviating sinus inflammation and moisturizing nasal passages. In the colder months, heating systems create an even drier home environment on top of the existing lack of moisture from the outdoor environment. This can create a breeding ground for allergens and viruses. 

 

If you have a chronic condition such as asthma or frequent sinus infections, investing in a high-quality humidifier and ensuring regular cleaning can resolve or reduce a significant portion of seasonal discomfort. 

 

Surface level: skin, nails and hair

 

Dry air results in dry skin and dry hair. For those who suffer from frequent oily skin or greasy hair, dry air will make these problems worse. When the environment is dry or the hair and skin itself is, oil glands will work overtime to compensate, producing even more oils to protect one’s skin or scalp. Brittle nails may be another sign one’s home is not properly humidified. Optimizing humidity levels means hair, skin and nails will benefit and will be provided with much needed moisture and protection, especially during cold months. 

 

Pets get allergies too

 

All of the problems above also affect animals. Dry noses, ears, hair and nails in low humidity and mold and viruses spiking up  in high humidity. Fleas can also be avoided by maintaining humidity levels. Fleas thrive in warm, high-moisture climates, and will die when humidity is below 50%. 

 

Additionally, for your extra-furry friends, humidity levels alter the impact of dander that sits in the air, likely to get into lungs, ears and eyes. They can also affect how frequently or how much pets shed their fur. It’s important to talk to your vet for details on how your specific furry companion has its own need to be met within a home environment. The best environments are those that mimic their natural conditions, so further research on different breeds can specify humidity levels and home conditions to protect your pet.

 

Interior belongings

 

According to Consumer Reports, any home goods made of wood or leather are susceptible to deterioration with improper humidity levels. Low humidity creating dryness in wood causes it to shrink, crack and creak. Floorboards might grow gaps and doors on their hinges might lose function quicker than anticipated. The pores in leather can also shrink in dry climates. Wooden instruments like pianos or guitars can easily fall out of tune with high or low humidity and can even warp. 

 

Condair sells humidifiers for residential or commercial spaces and can be adjusted to any specification. They offer steam, electric and evaporative humidifiers and many, like the Electrode Steam Humidifier, are self-cleaning. In other words, the importance of regular cleaning to optimize humidity is no longer a concern, and the health of pets, loved ones and beloved belongings can be ensured without the stress of consistent monitoring through the fluctuation of seasons. 

 

For more information on residential or commercial humidifiers and how to find one to best-suit your needs, contact Northrich company at 216-581-4750 or go to www.northrich.com.