The bathroom is notorious for being high in moisture and humidity. This leads to mold and mildew, which grow in the dark spots of a bathroom, such as the corners and around the toilet. Here, mold has access to everything it needs to grow: bacteria, moisture, warmth, and darkness (1).
The best bathroom dehumidifiers can help to keep moisture to a minimum. But which one should you choose? This depends on a few things, such as the size of your bathroom and humidity levels.
We spent hours researching various dehumidifiers, real customer reviews, and expert advice. We’re confident in our top five choices.
- Ideal for humid bathrooms
- Energy-efficient
- Quiet at 48 decibels
- Easy to operate
- Auto-shutoff prevents leaks
- Automatic or manual drain
- Excellent control panel
- 6,000 square feet coverage
- Included humidity control
- Good for small bathrooms
- Auto-shutoff
- One-button operation
- Energy-efficient
- Removes and traps bacteria
- Continuous drain option
Product Reviews
After searching through some of the best-selling dehumidifiers, we found five units that are sure to perform well. This is based on real customer reviews and expert advice. Plus, we were sure to only choose dehumidifiers with high specs and fantastic ability. Here are the best bathroom dehumidifiers:
Tosot 30-Pint Dehumidifier
Best for High Moisture
For high-moisture rooms such as laundry and bathrooms, we highly recommend the Tosot. It’s a 30-pint dehumidifier that works very quietly and efficiently using minimum energy. The dehumidifier is easy to operate, and you can set your desired humidity levels.
You can choose to use the bucket as it operates. It’s simple to remove and is fitted with a handle. For continuous drainage, connect a standard garden hose and let the unit run without worrying about emptying the tank.
What We Like
Ideal for Humid Bathrooms
This dehumidifier was designed to cover a room of up to 1,500 square feet, making it ideal for bathrooms. It’s powerful and will remove up to 30 pints of moisture per day — excellent for rooms with higher moisture. You can use the reservoir or connect it using the hose for continuous drainage.
Energy-Efficient Construction
Maybe you want to help make the planet a little bit greener, or you simply want to save a few bucks. No matter your reason, this unit is sure to do both. It’s energy-efficient and even Energy Star-rated.
Quiet Noise Level at 48 Decibels
A noisy dehumidifier isn’t ideal no matter where in the house it’s being used. Happily, the Tosot dehumidifier works at a super quiet level of only 48 decibels on the low setting and 52 on the highest. Customers describe the sound like white noise, so it isn’t bothersome.
Automatic Restart With Memory Function
Having to reset your dehumidifier after a power outage isn’t convenient. Thankfully, this unit has a solution. If a power outage happens, the dehumidifier will automatically revert to your last selected settings.
Washable Filter
The air filter within the dehumidifier is easy to locate, and you can quickly slide it down to remove it. Use warm water and mild detergent to wash it clean. Make sure it’s fully dry before placing it back into the dehumidifier.
Tosot recommends that the filter is cleaned after 250 hours of usage. No need to bother counting; a light on the display will notify you when cleaning is needed.
What We Don't Like
Hard to Maneuver on Carpet
This dehumidifier has fitted wheels to increase maneuverability. However, the wheels are small and don’t work well on carpeted floors. If you’re pushing this from room to room, it’s easiest on hard floors.
Not the Most Durable
This unit comes with a one-year warranty. This is likely because, after a year, customers noticed that their unit started to break down. If you want something that will last a longer time, consider a different product.
Product Specs
| Room Coverage | 1,500 square feet |
| Tank Capacity | 1 gallon |
| Pints Per Day | 30 pints |
| Dimensions | 13.4 by 9.9 by 19.5 inches |
| Sound Level | 48 – 52 decibels |
Our Ratings
AirPlus 30-Pint Electric Dehumidifier
Best Portable Bathroom Dehumidifier
The AirPlus dehumidifier is a smart-looking, compact unit. It was designed to cover rooms of up to 1,500 square feet, extracting 30 pints of moisture per day.
The display is easy to figure out and simple to operate. It lets you know the current humidity as well.
This product has a few features, such as a universal caster for unrestricted mobility, auto-shutoff, and four modes in one switch. Best of all, you can also connect it to a hose for continuous drainage.
What We Like
Easy to Operate
We love the large control panel display you get on this dehumidifier. It’s easy to read and simple to use. It will show you the current humidity in the room and lets you control your desired humidity levels. Set your desired mode according to your need using the button and set the 24-hour timer.
Auto-Shutoff Prevents Leak
It can be easy to forget to empty the tank, but if it overflows, it can ruin the unit and the area around it.
Luckily, the auto-shutoff function is here to help. It will automatically turn the dehumidifier off when the tank is full. You’ll then get notified via a light on the display that it’s time to empty the tank.
Automatic or Manual Drain
This dehumidifier comes with a 2.85-pint reservoir to hold all the moisture it draws from the air. It’s easy to locate and remove when it requires emptying. You can connect a hose if you want to use the unit around the clock without worrying about the tank.
Washable Filter
The air filter must be clean for the dehumidifier to operate optimally. You can clean it once a month or as needed. Simply remove it from the back of the unit and either wash with warm water or use a vacuum — make sure it’s dry before replacing it.
What We Don't Like
Flimsy Button
Although this dehumidifier works effectively, a few customers noted that the control panel buttons look flimsy and may need some support.
Small Tank Capacity
With a tank capacity of 2.85 pints, you’ll need to empty this up to 10 times per day. If your dehumidifier brings in 30 pints, the tank will fill up quickly. Of course, with the auto shutoff, the unit will turn off if you’re not home. Then it will stop pulling moisture out of the air.
Loud Beeping Alarm
When the tank is full, you’ll get a persistent and loud alarm to let you know it’s time to empty it. This is super annoying if you’re in another room trying to get your baby to sleep.
Product Specs
| Room Coverage | 1,500 square feet |
| Tank Capacity | 2.85 pints |
| Pints Per Day | 30 pints |
| Dimensions | 19.61 by 6.69 by 11.3 inches |
| Sound Level | 45 decibels |
Our Ratings
Colzer 140-Pints Dehumidifier
Best for Large Bathroom Dehumidifier
If you’re looking for something compact and easily portable, the Colzer is perfect. Due to its 140-pint capacity, it’s not cumbersome. This smart-looking dehumidifier works efficiently and effectively, bringing you correct humidity readings and results.
It can cover rooms of up to 6,000 square feet and has a large reservoir, so you don’t have to empty it as frequently. Maintenance is also easy as you can quickly remove the air filter to clean it. The unit will notify you when the tank is full.
What We Like
Compact Size Fits Nicely
The Colzer 140-pint dehumidifier is an excellent addition to a large-sized bathroom. It’s compact and slim and won’t take up too much space. The design is also easy on the eye, which is a plus in our book.
Thanks to the four caster wheels, you can move it from room to room with little effort. It’s also quite light despite the large tank, weighing only 50 pounds.
6,000 Square Feet Coverage
Despite its compact size, this dehumidifier can cover a room of up to 6,000 square feet. It will effectively remove up to 140 pints per day and can hold up to 17 pints in the tank.
Included Humidity Control
Some dehumidifiers seem to be living in a world where the humidity levels are all wrong. However, the Colzer is intelligent and monitors the humidity to give precise numbers. This will help to give you a more controlled environment.
Excellent Control Panel
The control panel is easy to figure out and has several innovative features and functions. The LED display lights up for you to check the humidistat and set your ideal levels and speed. You can also set the 24-hour timer and check the tank — it will notify you when it’s full.
Included Hose
If you don’t want to worry about emptying the tank, you can quickly hook up the included 17-foot hose. Connect it to a nearby drain; the unit will automatically drain as it extracts moisture from the air.
What We Don't Like
Loud Noise Level
Despite the compact size, the Colzer can be pretty loud. At high speed, it tends to create some vibrations that cause noise.
Struggles to Meet Desired Levels
Many customers found that this unit didn’t perform as effectively as they had hoped. It struggles to reach your desired humidity levels, which are usually under 50 percent.
Product Specs
| Room Coverage | 6,000 square feet |
| Tank Capacity | 16.9 pints |
| Pints Per Day | 140 pints |
| Dimensions | 15.7 by 16.5 by 29.5 inches |
| Sound Level | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Madetec Small Dehumidifier
Best for Small Bathrooms
For smaller bathrooms, we highly recommend the Madetec dehumidifier. It’s compact and works effectively in compromised spaces. It operates without a compressor and is, therefore, very quiet — even at night.
There’s a one-button operation, so it’s easy to figure out. It will also help you save energy by consuming only 1.1 kilowatts of electricity for the entire 24 hours operation, not to mention its price point is below a hundred dollars.
What We Like
Good for Small Bathrooms
This dehumidifier is excellent for smaller bathrooms or half baths. It has a reasonably sized tank of 4.23 pints and will remove between 1.48 and 2.11 pints of moisture per day.
Auto-Shutoff Feature Included
To avoid accidental overflow, the unit will turn off automatically when the tank becomes full. The full tank indicator will light up to notify you that it needs to be emptied. Once the tank is empty and back in place, the indicator will turn off.
The tank is easy to locate and remove — simply slide it out of the back and open the plug to empty it. Slide it right back into place once you’re done. There is also an option for you to attach a hose to the drain pipe for continuous drainage of water.
Quiet Around 50 Decibels
Annoyingly loud dehumidifiers can be frustrating to use within the home, especially in an echoing bathroom. Luckily, this dehumidifier will only produce about 50 decibels when working. It doesn’t have a compressor, which enables it to be whisper-quiet and vibration-free.
One-Button Operation
A simple press on the on/off button is all it takes to start the dehumidifier. There’s no need to spend hours reading a manual. It’s simple yet highly effective in a small bathroom.
What We Don't Like
Only for Small Rooms
Although this dehumidifier works very effectively, it won’t be as effective in larger or open rooms. It also won’t work for high levels of humidity. This is best for rooms with a healthy humidity level; you just need to remove that extra moisture.
Product Specs
| Room Coverage | 550 square feet |
| Tank Capacity | 4.23 pints |
| Pints Per Day | 2.11 pints |
| Dimensions | 7.87 by 5.31 by 19.89 inches |
| Sound Level | 50 decibels |
Our Ratings
Frigidaire 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Best 50-Pint Bathroom Dehumidifier
If you want a little extra out of your dehumidifier, this is for you.
The Frigidaire dehumidifier will not only lower the humidity but will also clean the air.
It works effectively to remove 50 pints daily and is also very energy-efficient.
You get a one-year warranty to cover any defects or malfunctions caused by manufacturing.
What We Like
Energy-Efficient Using 115 Volts
Despite the big size, the Frigidaire dehumidifier is extremely energy-efficient, using only 115 volts. It’s Energy Star rated and won’t raise your energy bills by much.
Removes and Traps Bacteria
This dehumidifier will keep the relative humidity to a minimum. But better yet, it will also help eliminate bacteria in the air. It’s fitted with an antibacterial mesh filter that captures airborne particles and neutralizes odors.
Portable Unit With Wheels
Thanks to the four caster wheels, you can easily move the unit from room to room. It also includes a top handle and two side handles for improved mobility.
Continuous Drain Option
The tank will hold up to 16.3 pints of water extracted from the air. However, you can also use the continuous drain option.
Attach a garden hose to the unit and find a nearby drain. The dehumidifier will work without stopping, and you don’t have to worry about overflow.
What We Don't Like
Won’t Last for Long
Unfortunately, this dehumidifier won’t last for long. Many customers report a failure within three years of usage.
Louder Than Necessary
If you want something super quiet, this one might bother you. While it’s not the loudest, customers indeed find it noticeable.
The Drain Pump Is Disappointing
The drain pump doesn’t always work. Some customers had luck with it, but many others didn’t. It either didn’t work, leaked, or stopped functioning after a few months. If you want something with continuous draining (which is undoubtedly helpful for 50 pints), this might disappoint.
Product Specs
| Room Coverage | 1,000 square feet |
| Tank Capacity | 16.3 pints |
| Pints Per Day | 50 pints |
| Dimensions | 24.65 by 11.32 by 16.08 inches |
| Sound Level | Not specified |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Room Coverage | Tank Capacity | Pints Per Day | Dimensions | Sound Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tosot 30-Pint | For High Moisture | 1,500 sq ft | 8 pints | 30 | 13.4 x 9.9 x 19.5″ | 48 – 52 dec |
| AirPlus 30-Pint | Portable Bathroom Dehumidifier | 1,500 sq ft | 2.85 pints | 30 | 19.61 x 6.69 x 11.3″ | 45 dec |
| Colzer Commercial | For Large Bathroom Dehumidifier | 6,000 sq ft | 16.9 pints | 140 | 15.7 x 16.5 x 29.5″ | N/A |
| Madetec Small Dehumidifier | For Small Bathrooms | 550 sq ft | 4.23 pints | 2.11 | 7.87 by 5.31 by 19.89″ | 50 dec |
| Frigidaire 50-Pint | 50-Pint Dehumidifier | 1,000 sq ft | 16.3 pints | 50 | 24.65 x 11.32 x 16.08″ | N/A |
Do Dehumidifiers Work in Bathrooms?
The bathroom is a generally humid and moist room since it’s where we shower. Smaller homes or apartments might even use the bathroom as a laundry room as well.
Mold and mildew will likely grow in an unkempt bathroom with high humidity. It’s therefore recommended to install a fan and a dehumidifier.
Will A Fan Work?
What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for a Bathroom?
Due to the often compact space of a bathroom, you won’t need a large dehumidifier. However, it’s important to consider the tank size. Since it will extract significant moisture, a small tank must be emptied often.
We’ve found that a 30-pint dehumidifier is an excellent size for most bathrooms. They have a reasonably-sized tank, and many have a continuous drain option.
What to Look For
There are many dehumidifiers available on the market, but not all will be suitable for the bathroom. Here are a few points you should consider before purchasing a unit.
Area Coverage
Area coverage is an important thing to look for when searching for a dehumidifier. It’s usually measured in square feet, but some manufacturers use cubic feet instead. The area coverage refers to how big of an area the unit can dehumidify in one go.
If you know how many square feet your bathroom is, it would be an excellent starting point. You must also consider if the dehumidifier will be used in other rooms as well. Choosing one that can cover an area slightly larger than your bathroom is ideal.
You’ll find that most of the dehumidifiers on our list cover up to 1,000 square feet or more. We found that this was a good size for a bathroom. It’s important not to misjudge a dehumidifier’s abilities — not all units will perform equally.
Performance
Performance is crucial; bathrooms are generally more humid than other rooms. So it’s important to have a dehumidifier that can handle the amount of moisture it has to extract to prevent mold and mildew.
We found that a minimum of 30-pint dehumidifiers performed best in moist bathrooms. Smaller, more portable units didn’t lower the humidity levels as much. Again, this depends on your personal needs. If your bathroom is small and you need a dehumidifier that can stand on a small table, portable is the way to go.
Tank Capacity
The tank capacity refers to how much water the dehumidifier can hold. Now, because bathrooms are usually more humid, a small tank can become inconvenient as you have to empty it often. It’s also important to note that pints per day and tank capacity are very different.
Merely because a unit can extract 30 or even 50 pints per day, it doesn’t mean it can hold that much. You might be surprised at how small some reservoirs are compared to how much moisture the unit can extract.
We recommend choosing one that has around one gallon, or more, in terms of tank size.
Continuous Drainage
Some dehumidifiers have the option of continuous drainage, which is handy in a bathroom.
You simply attach a hose to the unit — a standard garden hose or an included hose — and put the other end into a drain or sink. The dehumidifier will then work continuously without the need to be emptied.
It’s essential, however, that the drain point is below the drain outlet. Most dehumidifiers use gravity to get the water from the unit to the drain. Larger units (50 pints, 70 pints, and more) might have a built-in pump that forces the water out.
As convenient as continuous drainage is, it can be tricky to find a good position. It must be close to a drain, sink, or shower.
How Do I Keep Moisture out of My Bathroom?
Here are a few tips to help you keep moisture to a minimum in the bathroom:
- Fix leaks: If there are any leaks within the bathroom, there’ll be excess moisture. Before installing a dehumidifier, you’ll have to fix any leak.
- Ventilate: After showering, don’t walk out and shut the door — this will trap heat and moisture inside. Let the door stay open, turn on the dehumidifier, and allow the room to dry.
- Remove excess water: After a shower or cleaning, wipe down any wet surface. This will limit excess water and help to keep humidity levels down.
- Take wet clothes outside: If you live in a confined space, the bathroom might be the place where all the laundry goes. However, drying your laundry in the bathroom isn’t ideal as it will raise the humidity. If possible, try to find a different area to dry your clothes.
FAQs
What are the Disadvantages of a Dehumidifier?
There are several disadvantages of a dehumidifier. They are expensive to buy, use electricity, can be noisy, and need frequent emptying. They are breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, so they need constant maintenance and cleaning.
Where Do You Put a Dehumidifier In the Bathroom?
The best place to put a dehumidifier in a bathroom is near the source of humidity, like the bath or shower. Avoid placing the dehumidifier near electrical appliances because this could cause humidity build-up.
Should a Dehumidifier Run Constantly?
A dehumidifier should run for between eight and ten hours or as and when you need it in individual rooms. Consider running it while using the bathroom and for a few hours after you have finished.
Does a Dehumidifier Suck Water From the Toilet?
A dehumidifier doesn’t suck water from a toilet. It extracts microscopic moisture particles in the atmosphere rather than actual water in the toilet bowl. However, when you flush the toilet with the lid open, water enters the atmosphere and gets sucked into your dehumidifier.
Should You Have a Window Open With a Dehumidifier?
You should have the windows shut with a dehumidifier. Opening windows might encourage moisture from the outside, which makes the dehumidifier’s task more challenging.
Keeping them shut, allows the air to be conditioned more rapidly, making the dehumidifier more efficient.
