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Humidifiers: Ease skin, breathing symptoms

Ideal humidity levels

Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. Humidity varies depending on the season, the weather and your home's location. Generally, humidity levels are higher in the summer and lower in the winter. Ideally, humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%. Humidity that's too low or too high can cause problems.

  • Low humidity can cause dry skin, irritate your nasal passages and throat, and make your eyes itchy.
  • High humidity can make your home feel stuffy and can cause condensation on walls, floors and other surfaces. Condensation can trigger the growth of harmful bacteria, dust mites and molds. These allergens can cause respiratory problems and trigger allergy and asthma flare-ups.