Germs don't fare well in moist air, so using a humidifier can reduce the risk of spreading viruses like the flu, which thrive in dry winter air. It's important to take every precaution against spreading this dangerous illness, especially if you have young children or an elderly person living in your home.
Related: 11 Ways to Flu-Proof Your Home
When your humidifier adds moisture back into the air, it actually makes your house feel warmer. This means you can turn the thermostat down a few notches and save some cash on your utility bills.
Related: 10 Things to Buy if You're Always Cold
Dry, cracked hands and lips are a common problem in the winter. A humidifier can help to alleviate these conditions and soften skin, so those mittens can slide on without chafing.
Related: 8 Quick Tips for Solving Winter Woes
Dry air can make wood furniture split and crack, or cause gaps in hardwood floors. Using an automatic humidifier to maintain a stable level of moisture in the air can protect your floors from damage and keep wood furniture looking its best.
Related: 7 Ways You May Be Ruining Your Wood Floors
Walking around the house in cozy socks is a winter tradition—but nobody likes the static shock this creates! Bumping up the humidity level can reduce the charge that causes these shocks and makes your hair stand on end.
Related: 11 Mistakes Homeowners Make Every Winter
Among the many health benefits of a humidifier, increased moisture in the air can soothe sinus tissue, alleviate allergy symptoms, and reduce the risk of asthma attacks. But check your machine's settings to make sure you aren't overdoing it—too much humidity can promote the growth of mold, which can actually make these conditions worse.
Related: Allergy-Proof Your Home in 7 Steps
It may be cold outside, but keeping a few hardy houseplants can make it feel like spring all year round. While the ideal conditions for each will vary, most indoor plants thrive in moist conditions that a humidifier can create during those difficult winter months.
Related: 9 Bright and Colorful Houseplants You Can't Kill
In addition to a humidifier, there are a few other items to gather for your house to help make it through the winter. From the bitter cold to the nasty flu, find out what you need to survive the season.
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