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Best Personal Humidifiers of 2023

Updated
Personal humidifiers for personal spaces.

Do you feel like congestion and dry skin follow you no matter where you go? You might need a personal humidifier at hand to create a comfortable environment everywhere you go.

Personal humidifiers are compact and light, making them easy to carry in a bag or even in your hand. In addition, smart features such as USB charging allow you to quickly plug the humidifier in the car, office, or any other location.

If you’re in the market for one of these handy devices, we’ve got 10 terrific options for you to check out. We rounded up our list of the best personal humidifiers after researching real customer reviews, expert advice, and dozens of products.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Portable Mini Humidifier, 500ml Small Cool Mist Humidifier, USB Personal Desktop Humidifier for Baby Bedroom Travel Office Home, Auto Shut-Off, 2 Mist Modes, Super Quiet, White
Best Personal Humidifier for Desks
Movtip Cool Mist Mini Humidifier
  • Large 17-ounce capacity
  • 12-hour running time
  • Auto-shutoff
Product Image of the OVPPH Portable Humidifier, Mini USB Personal Humidifier Ultrasonic  Cool Mist Humidifier with 7 Colors Light for Home Travel Office Car, Auto Timer Shut-Off, Quiet Operation (White#1)
Best Portable Humidifier
OVPPH Ultrasonic Humidifier
  • Compact size
  • Auto shutoff prevents dry burns
  • Works for up to eight hours
Product Image of the LtYioe Colorful Cool Mini Humidifier, USB Personal Desktop Humidifier for Car, Office Room, Bedroom,etc. Auto Shut-Off, 2 Mist Modes, Super Quiet. (Navy)(Black)
Most Quiet
LtYioe Mini Cool Mist Humidifier
  • Acts as a night light
  • Quiet at 26 decibels
  • Easy to clean
Product Image of the Pure Enrichment MistAire Travel - Ultrasonic Cool Mist Water Bottle Humidifier with Auto Shut-Off, Mood Light, Fold-Out Leg, and Storage Bag for Portable Use at Home, Office, Hotel, and More
Best Mist Output
Pure Enrichment MistAire
  • Whisper quiet operation
  • Works with most standard bottles
  • Soft glow night light
Product Image of the Fanximan Mini Battery Powered Cordless Humidifier - Portable Wireless Plant Humidifier,USB Rechargeable Small Humidifier for Baby,Bedroom,Travel,Office
Best Wireless Humidifier
Fanximan Portable Humidifier
  • Lasts up to 10 hours
  • Five mist modes
  • Weighs less than 12 ounces
Product Image of the Vicks Mini Filter Free Cool Mist Humidifier Small Humidifier for Bedrooms, Baby, Kids Rooms, Auto-Shut Off, 0.5 Gallon Tank for 20 Hours of Moisturized Air, Use with Vicks VapoPads, Green
Best for Colds and Illness
Vicks Mini Humidifier
  • Reliable brand
  • Variable mist output options
  • Easy to use, fill and clean
Product Image of the LEMBO DIRECT Small Humidifier, Mini Humidifier, Aromatherapy USB Air Cool Mist Humidifier Quiet Personal Diffuser with Night Light & Waterless Auto Shut-Off for Home Car Office Bedroom Baby (Purple)
Best Humidifier Diffuser Combo
Lembo Direct Humidifier Diffuser
  • Diffuser feature
  • Large 11.8-ounce tank
  • Ultra-quiet
Product Image of the GENIANI Portable Small Cool Mist Humidifiers 250ML - USB Desktop Humidifier for Plants, Office, Car, Baby Room with Auto Shut Off & Night Light - Quiet Mini Humidifier (Black)
Most Cost-Efficient
Geniani Portable Cool Mist Humidifier
  • Easy to refill in seconds
  • Adjustable spray modes
  • Optional night light
Product Image of the Portable Mini Humidifier, Small Cool Mist Humidifier with Night Light, USB Personal Desktop Humidifier for Baby Bedroom Travel Office Home, Auto Shut-Off, 2 Mist Modes, Super Quiet, with Adapter
Best Mini Personal Humidifier
AFrog Mini Humidifier
  • Compact design
  • Auto-shutoff protects the. unit
  • Ultra-quiet for nights
Product Image of the raydrop Cool Mist Humidifiers for Babies, Quiet and Small Ultrasonic Humidifier for Bedroom Nightstand, Space Saving, Auto Shut Off - (0.45 Gallon, US 110 V) (White, 1.7L)
Best for Office
Raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier
  • Easy to operate with dial
  • Lasts for up to 17 hours
  • 1.7 liter water tank


Product Reviews

Finding a personal humidifier is easy. However, finding the best personal humidifier can be challenging. As we searched through the top-rated devices, we considered how well each humidifier would perform in different locations.

1. Movtip Portable Cool Mist Mini Humidifier

Best Personal Humidifier for Desks

If you’re looking for a personal humidifier to get through a busy day at work, this is it.

This mini humidifier is fitted with an extra-large tank despite its compact size. It can hold up to 17 ounces of water and run continuously for 12 hours. If you don’t want continuous mist, press the button again to activate the intermittent spray.

The humidifier is equipped with an auto-shutoff feature to avoid damage or dry-burn. This automatically turns the device off when the water level is too low.

Taking this mini humidifier with you wherever you go is easy and safe, thanks to the tight seal. There’s no risk of it leaking everywhere when transporting it in a bag or the car.

Note that you can’t use essential oils, distilled water, or perfumes, as these items can damage the cotton core and clog the unit.

Pros

  • Large 17-ounce capacity.
  • Runs for up to 12 hours.
  • Easy to operate with just one button.
  • Tight seal that prevents leaks.
  • Auto-shutoff kicks in when water is low.

Cons

  • Will break if you use essential oils or distilled water.
  • Red light cannot be turned off.
  • The cord is short, so you must always be near a plug.
  • Makes high-pitched noise when empty.

Product Specs

Dimensions 4 by 4 by 5 inches
Tank Capacity 17 ounces
Mist Output Up to 7 ounces per hour
Running Time 12 to 18 hours
USB Cable Included Yes

2. OVPPH Portable Ultrasonic Humidifier

Best Portable Humidifier

If you’re looking for a personal humidifier that looks as smart as it is, this is for you. The OVPPH Mini Humidifier is compact as well as lightweight. This makes it an excellent choice for small spaces such as an office.

The OVPPH can hold up to 7.77 ounces of water and last between five and 10 hours.

You can choose between different modes to suit your needs. When in continuous mode, the humidifier will run for five hours. When set to intermittent, it can work up to eight hours straight.

It’s easy to change between settings using a single button. Simply press it once for continuous and twice for intermittent. Hold the button for 1.5 seconds to activate the LED light — choose between seven bright colors to suit your mood.

As a safety precaution, the humidifier will automatically turn off when the water runs low to avoid dry-burn or damage.

Pros

  • Compact size and lightweight.
  • Seven color light options.
  • Auto-shutoff prevents dry burns and damage.
  • Works for up to eight hours on intermittent spray mode.
  • Quiet operation is great for overnight use.
  • Fits in a car cup holder.

Cons

  • Has to be plugged in to work.
  • Not very durable; some customers said it only worked for a few days.
  • Only compatible with water-based oils, not essential oils.

Product Specs

Dimensions 3 by 3 by 5.5 inches
Tank Capacity 8.5 ounces
Mist Output 1.8 ounces per hour
Running Time Five to eight hours
USB Cable Included Yes

3. LtYioe Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

Most Quiet

The LtYioe mini humidifier is a favorite among many customers. It produces a powerful, fine, cool mist that’s quickly absorbed and inhaled.

Despite the small size, this humidifier can hold up to 10 ounces so that it can last you up to six hours. Additionally, it emits less than 26 decibels of noise, making it a great companion in your child’s nursery.

You can use the LtYioe humidifier anywhere you like. It’s easily plugged in using a regular USB cable. You can plug it into your PC or an outlet or simply attach a power bank and use it on the go.

If you feel like you need something extra, you can add water-soluble scented additives to the water. As the humidifier runs, the scent will be emitted into the air, creating a relaxing atmosphere. However, you shouldn’t add essential oils since these will damage the internal parts of the humidifier.

Pros

  • Ultra-quiet at 26 decibels.
  • Can act as a night light.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Affordable price point.
  • Available in navy, pink, or white.
  • Magnetically sealed door prevents leaks.

Cons

  • It’s not compatible with smart plugs.
  • The unit is not compatible with essential oils.
  • The lights don’t always work.
  • Automatically shuts off before water is empty.

Product Specs

Dimensions 3.07 x 3.07 x 4.72 inches
Tank Capacity 10 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time Four to six hours
USB Cable Included Yes

4. Pure Enrichment MistAire Travel Humidifier

Best Mist Output

This tiny but mighty humidifier is sure to become your new travel mate. Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for bringing with you if you enjoy moisturized air away from home.

The tank can hold up to 16.9 ounces and can work for up to six hours at a time. The humidifier will automatically turn off after running for six hours continuously to avoid damage.

Users love how quiet this mini humidifier is. It operates using Whisper-Quiet technology and features an optional night light so that you can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. You can even convert your mineral water into a humidifier as it fits most distilled bottle containers.

Pros

  • Whisper quiet operation, suitable for nurseries.
  • Strong mist output of 2.7 ounces per hour.
  • Works with most standard bottles.
  • Soft glow night light.
  • Five-year warranty included.
  • Mist control knob gives you output options.

Cons

  • Limited to six hours of use per bottle.
  • Blue light cannot be switched off.
  • Many customers experienced leaking issues.

Product Specs

Dimensions 5.5 by 2.5 by 5.5 inches
Tank Capacity 16.9 ounces
Mist Output 2.7 ounces per hour
Running Time Up to six hours
USB Cable Included Yes

5. Fanximan Portable Humidifier

Best Wireless Humidifier

This mini humidifier from Fanximan is an excellent choice for travel use. It takes up little space when transported in a bag or the car. It’s designed to humidify your air as you go. Just place sufficient water in the device, and it will humidify.

It’s virtually silent and won’t be disturbing you while driving or sleeping.

You can enjoy ten hours of humidified air wirelessly, thanks to the 2,000 mAh lithium battery — enough to get you through the day. Plug the mini device into an outlet using the USB cable for efficient humidification.

Pros

  • Powerful battery lasts for 10 hours.
  • Easy to clean the unit.
  • Five mist modes to match your desired humidity levels.
  • Lightweight at 11.7 ounces.
  • Compact enough to fit in a handbag.
  • Available in green, white, and pink.

Cons

  • Whistles loudly when the water level is low.
  • Battery life doesn’t always last the promised 10 hours.
  • Mist doesn’t travel that high and creates a puddle around the unit.

Product Specs

Dimensions 4 by 4 by 5.4 inches
Tank Capacity 27.05 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time 10 hours (or unlimited if plugged in with plenty of water)
USB Cable Included Yes

6. Vicks Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

Best for Colds and Illness

This mini humidifier from Vicks is an excellent choice for anyone suffering from cold and flu-like symptoms. The tank can hold 64 ounces of water, which allows the device to run continuously for up to 20 hours.

Operating the humidifier is very straightforward by pressing the on/off button. Although it has no LED lights, unlike other devices, this stands out from the crowd. This is due to the built-in nebulizer and scent pad warmer, which will help alleviate nasal congestion and reduce viral load.

The auto-shutoff function will automatically turn the humidifier off when the water is empty. This will prevent damage to the humidifier and help it last longer.

Pros

  • Reliable brand with over 120 years of experience.
  • Variable mist output options.
  • Easy to use, fill, and clean.
  • Integrated VapoPads, which add soothing vapors and scents.
  • Filter-free means easier maintenance.
  • Long runtime of up to 20 hours.

Cons

  • Pricier than other personal humidifierrs.
  • You will need to descale it monthly.
  • Hard to clean all corners of the tank.

Product Specs

Dimensions 9.57 by 9.63 by 10.63 inches
Tank Capacity 64 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time 20 hours
USB Cable Included No

7. Lembo Direct Mini Humidifier Diffuser

Best Humidifier Diffuser Combo

If you enjoy the health benefits of aromatherapy, we highly recommend this little device. This mini humidifier is also a diffuser — you can add your favorite essential oils directly to the filter wick. As the device runs, the water and oil mix and create an enjoyable aromatic atmosphere.

The tank can hold up to 12 ounces of water and has two settings. When set to continuous mode, it can run up to eight hours. Set it to intermittent spray to enjoy humidified air for up to 12 hours. Furthermore, it has a powerful mist output of 1.2 ounces an hour.

This humidifier is an excellent choice for small spaces such as an office or even a yoga studio, thanks to the diffuser. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport wherever you go. In addition, you get an extra filter wick to change when needed.

Pros

  • Doubles as a diffuser.
  • Large 11.8-ounce tank.
  • Pretty design available in pink or purple.
  • Ultra-quiet, almost silent, great for nights.
  • Optional night light.
  • Operates between eight and 12 hours.

Cons

  • Oils can’t be added to the water, only the filter wick.
  • Cheap design that isn’t very long-lasting.

Product Specs

Dimensions 5.8 by 3.9 inches
Tank Capacity 11.8 ounces
Mist Output 1.2 ounces per hour
Running Time Eight to 12 hours
USB Cable Included Yes

8. Geniani Portable Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

Most Cost-Efficient

This isn’t your ordinary cool mist humidifier; it provides the best convenience with little maintenance. It features an optional bright night light.

In addition to the night light, you can also add water-soluble scented additives to the water. That way, you can enjoy aroma- and chromotherapy together.

The humidifier is super straightforward to operate. All you have to do is unscrew the tank, fill it, and put it back in place. Start the humidifier using the one button — you can adjust it to two different spray modes, including continuous and intermittent spray.

The tank can hold a little under 250 mL, which isn’t as grand as other devices on our list. However, it can last up to eight hours, depending on the setting. Furthermore, its mist output is quite impressive despite the small size.

Pros

  • Easy to refill in seconds.
  • Adjustable spray modes.
  • Easy to operate with just one button.
  • Ultra quiet under 30 decibels.
  • Optional night light is great for nurseries.
  • Fits in a cup holder.

Cons

  • Essential oils don’t last long in the unit.
  • The lowest setting is still quite high.
  • You can’t turn off the power indicator light.
  • You can’t control the direction of the steam.

Product Specs

Dimensions 6.6 by 12.5 by 9.4 inches
Tank Capacity 8.45 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time Eight hours
USB Cable Included Yes

9. AFrog Cool Mist Mini Humidifier

Best Mini Personal Humidifier

If you’re struggling with dry air in your office, this humidifier is for you. The AFrog humidifier looks similar to a water bottle and won’t take up much space. It can hold almost 8.45 ounces of water in the tank and features two mist modes.

You can set it to continuous mist mode, and the humidifier will work for up to five hours. On the other hand, if set to intermittent mode, it can last up to eight hours. However, as a safety precaution, the device will automatically turn off after running for eight hours straight. Simply turn it back on if there’s still water left.

Using the included USB cable, you can plug the humidifier into your computer or wall. If needed, you can also conveniently use it on the go by connecting it to a power bank. Furthermore, the compact design makes it super easy to transport in a bag or a car.

Pros

  • Compact design is great for tight areas.
  • Auto-shutoff protects the unit when water is finished.
  • Ultra-quiet and suitable for nighttime use.
  • Easy to use with one button operation.
  • Seven light color options.
  • Top fill design allows for easy refilling and cleaning.

Cons

  • Small mist range.
  • Not the best for large rooms.
  • The cord is quite short, so you need to be near a plug.
  • Stops working after a few uses.

Product Specs

Dimensions 3.5 by 3.1 by 7 inches
Tank Capacity 8.45 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time Five to eight hours
USB Cable Included Yes

10. Raydrop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Best for Office

If you need a humidifier that fits perfectly on a desk, this ultrasonic mini humidifier is for you. It has a compact design that resembles a regular water flask, making it a good fit for any tabletop or desk.

The tank can hold slightly under 57.5 ounces of water. This gives you up to 17 hours of intermittent spray. Additionally, it can last up to nine hours in continuous mode.

When it begins to run low on water, the device will automatically turn off to avoid any damage. All you have to do is refill it with clean water and restart it to continue enjoying humidified air.

Furthermore, getting the humidifier started is super simple, thanks to the one-dial adjustment. Simply adjust the knob according to the mist output you want to achieve. It also operates quietly at less than 32 decibels which won’t disturb your work.

Pros

  • Compact design fits nicely on desks.
  • Auto-shutoff protects the device.
  • Easy to operate with a dial knob.
  • 1.7-liter water tank lasts up to 17 hours.
  • Noise level under 36 decibels.

Cons

  • USB adapter not included.
  • Despite a dial knob, it only has one setting.
  • After a few months, it makes strange gurgling sounds.
  • It’s easy to knock over and spill since it’s lightweight and flimsy.

Product Specs

Dimensions 11.42 by 6.3 by 5.55 inches
Tank Capacity 57.5 ounces
Mist Output Not specified
Running Time Nine to 17 hours
USB Cable Included No

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Dimensions Tank Capacity Mist Output Running Time USB Cable
Movtip Cool Mist Mini Personal Humidifier for Desks 4 x 4 x 5″ 17 oz Up to 7 oz/hr 12-18 hours Yes
OVPPH Portable Ultrasonic Portable Humidifier 3 x 3 x 5.5″ 8.5 oz 1.18 oz/hr 5-10 hours Yes
LtYioe Mini Cool Mist Most Quiet 3.07 x 3.07 x 4.72″ 10 oz Not specified 4-6 hours Yes
Pure Enrichment MistAire Travel Mist Output 5.5 x 2.5 x 5.5″ 16.9 oz 2.7 oz/hr 6 hours Yes
Fanximan Portable Wireless Humidifier 4 x 4 x 5.4″ 27.05 oz Not specified 10 hours Yes
Vicks Mini For Colds and Illness 9.57 x 9.63 x 10.63″ 64 oz Not specified 20 hours No
Lembo Direct Mini Humidifier Diffuser Combo 5.8 x 3.9″ 11.8 oz 1.2 oz/hr 8- 12 hours Yes
Geniani Portable Ultrasonic Cool Mist Cost-Efficient 6.6 x 12.5 x 9.4″ 8.45 oz Not specified 8 hours Yes
AFrog Mini Humidifier Mini Personal Humidifier 3.5 x 3.1 x 7″ 8.45 oz Not specified 5-8 hours Yes
Raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier For Office 11.42 x 6.3 x 5.55″ 57.5 oz Not specified 9-17 hours No

Things to Consider (Buying Guide)

A personal humidifier is meant to humidify the air around you, not to cover large areas. But with so many mini humidifiers available on the market, how do you choose the best one for you? We’ve listed a few things to consider before buying a personal humidifier.

Tank Capacity

Personal humidifiers aren’t big, nor do they hold as much water as regular units. But tank size is still important.

If you use it at work or overnight, you will require a larger capacity to give you more time between refills.

On the other hand, if you need a humidifier in the car during short drives, for instance, a smaller tank will do.

Safety

Most regular humidifiers are fitted with an auto-shutoff feature to protect the device from damage when the water runs out. However, mini humidifiers are simpler in design; therefore, many don’t feature this safety precaution. But we do recommend it since these will run out of water relatively quickly.

Portability

The best personal humidifier has to be easy to operate wherever you go. We aren’t always near a wall outlet, so consider how the humidifier is charged. Fortunately, most mini humidifiers include a USB cable that you can attach to an adapter, PC, laptop, phone, or power bank.


FAQs

Are Portable Humidifiers Worth It?

Portable humidifiers are worth it if you want a small unit and only have a tiny space that needs to be humidified. Placing individual humidifiers in each room helps to regulate the air more effectively.

How Long Do Portable Humidifiers Last?

A portable humidifier will last between eleven and sixteen hours, provided that the reservoir is full and you have it on the lowest humidity setting.

Can You Use Tap Water In a Humidifier?

You can’t use tap water in a humidifier because it contains impurities like minerals and chlorine that get thrown into the atmosphere, polluting the air. The best water to use is distilled because the impurities have been removed.

How Often Should I Clean a Humidifier?

You should clean your humidifier at least once per week, although it depends on the amount of use the humidifier gets. Cleaning it removes mold spores that breed inside the heated and damp environment.

How Can I Humidify a Room Without a Humidifier?

You can humidify a room without a humidifier by boiling water, cooking on your stovetop, drying clothes inside, and buying more houseplants.


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Headshot of Matthew Sullivan

About the Author

Matthew Sullivan

Matthew is a freelance writer with several years of experience in DIY and HVAC. For as long as he can remember, Matthew has always found great pleasure in taking things apart and learning how to put them back together.