High humidity isn’t just uncomfortable — it can also lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage in homes. Not to mention, it can affect the quality of the air your family breathes. Wondering how to decrease the humidity in your home? We’re sharing 11 tips.
- Use a dehumidifier. Whether it’s a portable unit or a whole-house dehumidifier, this is one of the most efficient tools for reducing indoor humidity. Place the dehumidifier in areas prone to dampness, like basements, laundry rooms, or bathrooms.
- Ventilate high-moisture areas. Ensure your bathrooms and laundry room have proper ventilation. Use the exhaust fan when showering and leave it running for 15-20 minutes afterward to remove lingering moisture. Another helpful tip? Take cooler, shorter showers during humid months.
- Control humidity in the kitchen. Boiling, steaming, roasting, and other kitchen activities can lead to excess kitchen moisture. Cut down on humidity by using a ventilation fan while cooking and covering pots with lids to keep steam from escaping into the air.
- Fix leaks. Leaky faucets, pipes, or roofs may seem inconsequential, but they can contribute to excess indoor moisture. Regularly check under sinks, around toilets, and in basements or attics for signs of leaks. Address any issues quickly to prevent water damage and mold growth.
- Improve air circulation. Using a ceiling fan and opening the windows when conditions are dry can help air circulate and carry moisture away. Keep interior doors open to allow airflow between rooms, especially in more humid seasons.
- Run the air conditioning. Air conditioners naturally remove moisture from the air as they cool your home. Even a few hours of running the air conditioning can help pull humidity from the air.
- Keep gutters clean. Blocked gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation, increasing indoor moisture. Clean and inspect them regularly to keep water flowing away from your home.
- Seal cracks and openings. Humidity can enter through small gaps in windows, doors, and walls. Weatherstripping and caulking are inexpensive ways to seal your home and reduce the amount of moisture that sneaks in.
- Dry your clothes outdoors. Hang your damp clothing on a clothesline or the backs of your outdoor furniture when the weather is nice. Using this natural method over the dryer can reduce the amount of moisture released indoors.
- Monitor indoor plants. Too many indoor plants can contribute to excess humidity in your home, especially when they’re varieties that release more moisture into the air. To reduce humidity, place plants near a window or use a moisture-absorbing material like charcoal in the pots to help control water levels and improve drainage.
- Use baking soda. Did you know? Baking soda is an effective way to reduce humidity in your home. Simply place a small bowl of it in the areas where you want to reduce humidity. The baking soda will become harder to the touch as it absorbs moisture from the air. Replace and repeat as needed.
Knowing how to decrease the humidity in your home can help prevent costly issues like mold, mildew, and structural damage and can boost your family’s health. For even more guidance and peace of mind, talk to a local, independent agent about homeowners insurance.
This content was developed for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information relevant and up to date, we make no guarantees or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information, products, services, or graphics contained within the blog. The blog content is not intended to serve as professional or expert advice for your insurance needs. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy services.
