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It can be frustrating and uncomfortable when your living space experiences a decrease in the humidity level. But, a filterless humidifier releases warm and/or cool mist into the air through ultrasonic vibration to achieve comfortable indoor humidity levels. This warm or cool mist adds moisture to indoor air to protect against dry skin, allergies, congestion, and even to keep plants healthy.
The best filterless humidifier can infuse a dry environment with much-needed moisture, providing mist and even aromatherapy. This guide will explain the important features to consider and then review our selections for some of the top products on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier
- RUNNER-UP: Pure Enrichment MistAire XL Ultrasonic Cool Mist
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier
- BEST FOR SMALL ROOMS: Vicks Mini Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier
- BEST FOR LARGE ROOMS: LEVOIT Humidifier for Large Room
- HIGH-TECH PICK: TaoTronics Humidifier for Bedroom
- MOST QUIET: Homech Cool Mist Humidifier, 26dB Quiet Ultrasonic
- BEST FOR AROMATHERAPY: GENIANI Top Fill Cool Mist Humidifier
- BEST FOR NURSERIES: Crane Adorables Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
- BEST FOR TRAVEL: MOVTIP Portable Mini Humidifier
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Filterless Humidifier
Choosing the best filterless humidifier for your home depends on a variety of important factors. Think about the type of mist you want the humidifier to emit, the amount of water the humidifier will hold, the size of room the humidifier is intended to service, how long the humidifier can run before you’ll need to refill it, and more. Keep reading to learn about these and other unique features.
Mist Type
The three main types of mist for a filterless humidifier are warm, cool, and a combination.
- Warm mist units provide a subtle warming effect, and the heated water can also eliminate some bacteria.
- Cool mist units operate around room temperature while releasing unheated water into the air.
- Warm/cool combination units feature different settings for warm mist and cool mist.
Tank Capacity
Tank capacity refers to the volume of water a filterless humidifier can hold before requiring a refill. Most filter-free humidifiers have a capacity between 1.5 to 6 liters of water. Small-capacity tanks are suitable for a few hours of use in smaller spaces, whereas large-capacity tanks are a better option for extended—including overnight—use in larger spaces.
Coverage Area
Coverage area is an important consideration when choosing the best filterless humidifier. Some manufacturers indicate the maximum square footage for which a humidifier is designed. Other manufacturers simply indicate if the humidifier is more suited for small or large spaces.
Make sure the coverage area of the humidifier aligns with the space. Using too large of a humidifier can add excess moisture to a room and create mold, whereas a humidifier that is too small for the space will not have the desired effect of reducing dryness in the air.
Runtime
Runtime measures how long a filterless humidifier can operate before the tank needs to be refilled with water; it varies based on tank capacity and how quickly the unit dispenses mist. Some humidifiers feature adjustable settings, such as the mist level, that can impact the runtime. Using a humidifier on a high setting usually requires more water, which then reduces the runtime.
Humidistat & Timer
A humidistat is an essential component of a filterless humidifier. It prevents the moisture created by the humidifier from exceeding a certain level. Units without humidistats sometimes produce too much humidity, which can cause negative health effects and increase the likelihood of mold growth. Some humidifiers have built-in timers that are programmable, allowing you to turn them on and off based on the humidity level.
Noise Level
A filterless humidifier is typically quieter than a filtered or evaporative humidifier because it uses ultrasonic technology instead of fans to add and circulate humidity. As a result, this type of humidifier can be a good option for bedrooms and nurseries. When using a humidifier in an area with more activity, such as a kitchen or a game room, noise level might not be an important factor.
Additional Features
Some filterless humidifiers include extra features, such as smart technology, adjustable spray, LED displays, and added safety options.
- Humidifiers with adjustable and rotating spray nozzles allow for varying mist levels.
- Some humidifiers provide built-in sensors that automatically adjust the unit to an ideal humidity level based on the surrounding environment.
- Some models have LED screens that show the humidity level in your room.
- Most filterless humidifiers include an automatic shut-off function, which means they will turn off when the water level is low or the water tank is removed.
- Some high-tech models include a remote control to easily adjust the settings from across the room.
- Other filterless humidifiers provide a well or a tray to add essential oils that create a pleasant aroma and provide health benefits, such as improving relaxation.
Our Top Picks
Our top picks offer a selection of filterless humidifiers that include many of the above-mentioned features, such as adjustable mist levels, auto shut-off functions, and built-in timers, in addition to considering overall quality and affordability. Read on to discover some of the best filterless humidifiers for the home.
Best Overall
Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier
This filterless humidifier from Everlasting Comfort boasts a large 6-liter tank capacity and a runtime of 50 hours, making it well-suited for spaces as large as 500 square feet. It features a high cool mist output to ensure plenty of moisture for a space, and the humidifier doubles as a diffuser with the essential oil tray.
The humidifier includes an auto shut-off function and operates at less than 30 decibels, so it’s a safe and quiet choice for use near babies and young children. It also provides a convenient blue LED night light for overnight use. Choose from a black or white plastic finish.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 6 liters
- Coverage: 500 square feet
- Runtime: 50 hours
Pros
- Tray for diffuser setting
- Auto shut-off
- 30-decibel noise level
- LED night light
- Comes in multiple finishes
Cons
- Some condensation may collect outside the unit
- Pricey compared to similar options
Get the Everlasting Comfort humidifier at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Runner-Up
Pure Enrichment MistAire XL Ultrasonic Cool Mist
Featuring a 3.7-liter tank capacity, this filterless humidifier from Pure Enrichment is suitable for use in rooms as large as 500 square feet. This ultrasonic cool mist humidifier can continuously operate between 10 and 24 hours, depending on the mist setting. A rotating mist control knob adjusts the moisture level for optimal comfort. The humidifier features single- and dual-mist nozzles that can be rotated 360 degrees to control the direction of the mist.
An optional night light can be switched from blue to green to red, providing muted color to a room during the overnight hours. Equipped with an automatic shut-off function, the humidifier powers down when low water levels are detected or the water tank is removed. This ultrasonic cool mist humidifier also includes a cleaning brush for easy maintenance.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 3.7 liters
- Coverage: 500 square feet
- Runtime: 10 to 24 hours
Pros
- Single- and dual-mist nozzles; 360-degree spray
- Rotating mist control knob
- Automatic shut-off
- Optional multi-color night light
- Comes with a cleaning brush
Cons
- Some users report leaking or poor mist distribution
Get the Pure Enrichment humidifier at Amazon, The Home Depot, and Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier
This filterless humidifier has a vertical oval design and a compact 1.7-liter tank capacity, so it’s suitable for small spaces. With a runtime of 17 hours, it features a dial knob control for adjusting the cool mist output based on the desired moisture level. Additional features include whisper-quiet operation under 32 decibels, an LED indicator, and an auto shut-off function, making this humidifier a significant value.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 1.7 liters
- Coverage: Unlisted
- Runtime: 17 hours
Pros
- Dial knob control
- LED indicator
- Auto shut-off function
- 32-decibel noise level
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Shorter runtime than comparable options
- Suitable for small spaces
Get the raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier on Amazon and at Walmart.
Best for Small Rooms
Vicks Mini Filter-Free Cool Mist Humidifier
With a 0.5-gallon (1.89-liter) tank capacity and weighing just 3 pounds, this mini filterless humidifier from Vicks is ideal for small spaces like nurseries and home offices. It features an adjustable cool mist output control, an auto shut-off function, and 20 hours of runtime.
The translucent tank makes it easy to monitor water levels and is available in three colors, while the large opening provides easy access for cleaning. This humidifier provides extra comfort and relief during cold and flu season when used with Vicks VapoPads.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 1.89 liters
- Coverage: Unlisted
- Runtime: 20 hours
Pros
- Suitable for small spaces and nurseries
- Auto shut-off function
- Compatible with Vicks VapoPads
- Comes in 3 colorways
- Lightweight
Cons
- No coverage area listed
- Some users report mold and leaking
Get the Vicks Mini Humidifier at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
Best for Large Rooms
LEVOIT Humidifier for Large Room
Designed for use in large spaces, this filterless humidifier from LEVOIT boasts a 6-liter tank capacity and a dual cool/warm mist output of up to 500 mL/hr. Ideal for spaces up to 753 square feet, it features a 60-hour runtime at the low level. The humidifier provides an auto shut-off function and a sensor that automatically adjusts the warm or cool mist level to maintain optimal humidity.
It also offers an aroma box for essential oils, a remote control, and a 1- to 12-hour timer for added convenience. Additional features include ultra-quiet operation and a wide tank opening for efficient cleaning.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Warm/cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 6 liters
- Coverage: 753 square feet
- Runtime: 60 hours
Pros
- 500 mL/hr mist output
- Auto shut-off function
- Automatic-adjustment humidity sensor
- Essential oil tray
- Remote control and timer function
Cons
- Pricey compared to similar options
- Should not be used with tap water
- Not recommended for placement on wooden surface
Get the LEVOIT Humidifier at Amazon, The Home Depot, and Walmart.
High-tech Pick
TaoTronics Humidifier for Bedroom
This filterless humidifier from TaoTronics will satisfy the techie in the household. It offers customized humidity levels with a maximum mist output of 550 mL/hr. The dual cool/warm mist humidifier also boasts automatic humidity monitoring, which automatically powers the unit on and off to maintain an optimal indoor humidity level. The remote control adjusts all features from afar, such as the cool and warm mist level and temperature, the humidity level, and timer functions.
Additional features include whisper-quiet operation, sleep mode, a 9-hour timer, an LED display, and a wide, top-fill opening. The humidifier also provides an essential oil diffuser for aromatherapy. It boasts a 6-liter tank capacity and 60-hour cool mist runtime to easily accommodate rooms as large as 753 square feet.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Warm/cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 6 liters
- Coverage: 753 square feet
- Runtime: 60 hours
Pros
- Customized humidity levels
- 550 mL/hr mist output
- Automatic humidity monitoring
- Remote control
- Doubles as an essential oil diffuser
Cons
- Heavier than comparable options
Get the TaoTronics Humidifier at Walmart.
Most Quiet
Homech Cool Mist Humidifier, 26dB Quiet Ultrasonic
This filterless humidifier from Homech operates at just 26 decibels, ensuring quiet operation in rooms like nurseries, bedrooms, and home offices. It relies on ultrasonic technology and has a 4-liter tank capacity and 12 to 50 hours of runtime, depending on the selected mist level. The humidifier is intended for rooms ranging from 215 to 430 square feet. A 360-degree rotating nozzle can distribute mist up to 2 feet high for maximum coverage.
A low-water warning function will automatically shut off this ultrasonic cool mist humidifier when the water level is low. With a convenient carrying handle and a wide opening for efficient cleaning and filling, this humidifier is also easy to operate and transport.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 4 liters
- Coverage: 215 to 430 square feet
- Runtime: 12 to 50 hours
Pros
- Distributes mist up to 2 feet high
- 360-degree rotating nozzle
- Very quiet operation; 26 decibels
- Low-water warning function
- Automatic shut-off feature
Cons
- Heavier than comparable options
Get the Homech Humidifier at Walmart.
Best for Aromatherapy
GENIANI Top Fill Cool Mist Humidifier
This filterless humidifier from GENIANI serves a dual purpose; it not only emits cool mist but is also an essential oil diffuser for aromatherapy. It features a built-in sensor that maintains an optimal humidity level while delivering cool mist via low, medium, and high settings.
The humidifier boasts a 4-liter tank capacity and 18 hours of runtime on the highest mist setting, making it ideal for rooms as large as 220 square feet. Additional features include an automatic shut-off function, a water gauge, a night light, and quiet operation at 38 decibels. Choose from a white or black plastic finish.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 4 liters
- Coverage: 220 square feet
- Runtime: 18 hours
Pros
- Built-in sensor
- Low, medium, and high mist levels
- Automatic shut-off
- Quiet operation volume; 38 decibels
- Doubles as an essential oil diffuser
Cons
- Some users have reported mold
- Pricey compared to similar options
Get the GENIANI humidifier at Amazon, Wayfair, and Walmart.
Best for Nurseries
Crane Adorables Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
Monkeys and hippos and frogs, oh my! Featuring 14 fun animal designs, this cool-mist ultrasonic humidifier fits well into a baby’s nursery. With its ultrasonic technology, the Crane model operates more quietly than the sound of a whisper. A soft white light can function as a night-light or be turned off if it’s a distraction. A large dial allows the user to adjust the output, and an optional filter removes impurities before vaporizing the water.
The auto-shutoff feature turns the humidifier off when it detects low water levels. With a 1-gallon capacity, this humidifier will run for up to 24 hours before needing a refill. It features two output nozzles, which allow it to handle spaces up to 500 square feet.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 1 gallon
- Coverage: 500 square feet
- Runtime: 24 hours
Pros
- 14 farm animal designs
- Very quiet operation volume
- Soft white night light
- Large adjustment dial
- Auto shut-off
Cons
- Not ideal for adults
Get the Crane Adorables humidifier at Amazon, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best for Travel
MOVTIP Portable Mini Humidifier
For those who travel frequently and are looking to breathe easier, consider this Movtip model. At 5 inches tall, 3 inches wide, and just 10 ounces in weight, this humidifier is small enough to carry easily in a suitcase or backpack. It’s powered through a USB connection and features a 500-ml tank, allowing it to continuously spray for up to 12 hours or intermittently for up to 18 hours.
With an output of 30 to 50 ml/hour, it can humidify about 200 square feet. The auto shutoff will power down the humidifier when the tank is empty. The entire top of the unit opens to expose the reservoir, making it easy to clean.
Product Specs
- Mist Type: Cool
- Water Tank Capacity: 500 milliliters
- Coverage: 200 square feet
- Runtime: 12 to 18 hours
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- USB power connection
- 30 to 50 mL/hour mist output
- Auto shut-off
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not suitable for use with essential oils
Get the MOVTIP humidifier at Amazon, Walmart, and Sears.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a filterless humidifier that has a long runtime, diffuser setting, and quiet operating volume, we recommend the Everlasting Comfort humidifier. This cool mist option covers over 500 square feet of space, has auto shut-off, and even comes with an LED night light. Alternatively, for a budget-friendly option, the raydrop humidifier employs cool mist to cover small spaces with dial knob control and an LED indicator.
How We Chose the Best Filterless Humidifiers
We researched the most sought-after filterless humidifiers in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their mist type, tank capacity, coverage area, runtime, and other special features included by top brands.
While searching for the best options on the market, we included cool and cool/warm mist humidifiers to satisfy a range of preferences with tank capacities of 1.7 to 6 liters that cover 220 to 753 square feet of space. To ensure your space is constantly receiving humidity control, our picks also have long runtimes of 10 to 60 hours.
For added convenience, many options are available with automatic shut-offs, quiet operation volumes, remote controls, LED screens, and essential oil trays for aromatherapy. Finally, the select high-tech options on our list have 360-degree mist dispersion and humidity sensors for automatic adjustment.
FAQs
Before selecting the best filterless humidifier for your home, review these frequently asked questions and answers about various aspects of filterless humidifiers.
Q: Should I run my filterless humidifier all night?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to run a filterless humidifier at night as long as the current humidity level is not too low. Humidifiers can help eliminate dry air and prevent congestion during the night.
Q: How do I maintain my filterless humidifier?
A filterless humidifier is easier to maintain than a filtered humidifier, but it still requires regular cleaning to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria in the tank or tube. Clean it with a sponge or brush, unless it is a model with a self-cleaning feature.
Q: How long do filterless humidifiers work between refills?
Filterless humidifiers can provide mist for between 10 to 50 hours at a time, depending on the mist level and tank capacity.