You might be wondering what is the ideal humidity for home. Many factors are involved, including mould spores, dust mites, and respiratory disorders. Here are some tips to make your home healthier:
Ideal Humidity For Home
The ideal humidity level for a home is 30 to 60 percent. A home with too much or too little humidity can lead to skin problems and eye irritations. It can also cause various viruses and bacteria to thrive. Low humidity contributes to the growth of mould and dust mites, which can be unpleasant. A home with proper humidity is more comfortable and healthy, and it’s easier to fight off illness.
Indoor relative humidity levels play an essential role in the health and comfort of a home. Ideally, a home should be between 30 and 50 percent humidity, but many people find that a range of 30 to 60 percent is more comfortable. Relative humidity refers to how much water vapour is in the air, and warm air has more moisture than cold air. Keeping a home between these two levels is a smart move, and you’ll be able to breathe easier and breathe more deeply.
Mould spores
Mould spores can grow in any room in your home. They prefer warm temperatures and areas with a temperature gradient. Water vapour in these areas can condense and add humidity to the air. Most fungi grow well in a temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While moulds do not grow well in temperatures below 60 degrees or above 80 degrees, they will survive under the right conditions.
To thrive, mould spores need a food source. Mould colonies feed on organic matter such as wood, fabric, and dust. If you don’t remove these items, mould can spread and multiply. It may even grow on your furniture, carpets, and drywall. Mould can cause extensive property damage and compromise your health. To avoid this situation, you should try to maintain the proper humidity level in your home.
Dust mites
The ideal humidity for dust mites is 50%. If your home is humid, dust mites are more likely to be present since they like moist, dark places. Humans and their pets shed small skin scales, which creates a rich source of dust. Because we are constantly breathing in the air, these scales are inhaled by the dust mites and end up in the indoor air, feeding on human and pet skin cells. Also, our soft furnishings easily trap dust and dander, which is perfect for mite development.
Although this is the ideal humidity for dust mites, there is no way to eliminate them. One way to limit the dust mite population in your home is to wash your sheets and blankets regularly and replace them with new ones. It would help if you also cleaned soft toys regularly. A dehumidifier can remove excess moisture without dampening your bedding. In addition, dehumidifier water works great in your iron to reduce the number of dust mites.
Respiratory disorders
Research shows that a lower relative humidity, or RH, can make it easier for airborne viruses to spread. Also, lower humidity can irritate the nose and throat, making it easier to contract respiratory diseases, such as the flu. Dry skin can worsen respiratory disorders, and high humidity can cause dust mites and mould to thrive. The goal is to create an environment close to the ideal humidity level as possible.
The ideal humidity for respiratory disorders is between 30 and 50 percent at home, as high moisture increases ozone levels. High humidity also increases temperature, which may aggravate symptoms of respiratory diseases. A good starting point for your home’s humidity is a hygrometer. You can also keep track of the relative humidity in the air through your thermostat. Suppose you know you suffer from a respiratory disorder. In that case, you should be aware of changes in temperature and humidity and adjust your home to keep your symptoms as low as possible.
Damage to possessions
Improper relative humidity can harm your belongings. When the air contains 60 percent or more water vapour, it can lead to mould and rot growth. Mould and mildew are microscopic fungi found everywhere. High humidity can cause mould and mildew to grow, harming your furniture, electrical appliances, and other valuables. Mould can also lead to various health conditions, including respiratory problems and allergies in children.
Comfort
The ideal humidity level for home comfort varies depending on the person and the season. A range of 30 to 60% is considered the perfect humidity level. Humidity levels below this percentage are too dry, and above this range can support the growth of bacteria. The ideal humidity level will vary based on the family’s needs, the clothing worn, and the climate in the area. In general, you should aim for a humidity level between 40 and 50 percent, but this depends on your region’s preferences and weather.
During hot months, interior humidity tends to rise. Despite lowering the thermostat, this moisture remains trapped inside, causing a sticky feeling and health problems. In addition to uncomfortable symptoms, it can also breed mould and mildew. Furthermore, it can increase energy bills. Consequently, it’s a good idea to make sure the humidity in your home is between 30 and 50 percent. Moreover, a high humidity level can trigger allergic reactions, resulting in higher energy bills.
