No one wants to step into a bathroom filled with a moldy smell. However, due to our daily activities, like taking showers, the bathroom is one of the most common places where mold likes to thrive. Luckily, you can solve this problem by running a dehumidifier.
In this post, we will share with you the 5 best bathroom dehumidifiers based on our test results. Regardless of how damp or what size your bathroom may be, you are likely to find a suitable option from our list.
The hOmeLabs 35-pint dehumidifier offers excellent dehumidifying performance and user-friendliness, making it an ideal choice for middle to large-sized bathrooms. For small bathrooms, the AirPlus 30-pint model is a suitable option. It is both quiet and affordable. Meanwhile, it also has sleep mode and cloth drying modes.
Please note that we’ve purchased several small models that claim to be suitable for bathrooms but ultimately proved to be ineffective. To truly combat moisture issues, you need a more powerful dehumidifier!
Why you can trust this review: We purchased these dehumidifiers with our own money, took pictures, and spent two weeks testing them.
Best Dehumidifiers for Bathroom – Our Top Picks
1. hOmeLabs 22/35/50 Pint Dehumidifier – Best Overall
You will receive an additional one-year warranty!
While you may not have heard of hOmeLabs, it is actually a popular brand in the dehumidifier market. Given its impressive dehumidifying performance and a relatively lower price compared to some competitors, we decided to place it at the top of our list.
In our testing, we evaluated the 50-pint version and discovered that it can reduce relative humidity(RH) levels from 58.3% to 41.7% within just one hour in a 300 sq. ft. room at a temperature of 83°F. This level of performance is quite impressive, especially when we take into account its affordable price tag.
While a 22-pint version may suffice for a small bathroom, for a typical-sized bathroom, I strongly recommend opting for at least a 35-pint version, especially if you’re dealing with significant dampness issues.
This is an Energy Star certified product and you can have peace of mind knowing that the dehumidifier will automatically shut off once the indoor humidity reaches its target level. This means it won’t consume excessive electricity, and in fact, it will contribute to long-term energy savings.
In terms of functionalities, we particularly appreciate its comfort mode feature. This mode automatically adjusts the settings based on the ambient temperature, simplifying the process of maintaining a comfortable humidity level in your bathroom.
Additionally, you have the flexibility to manually set the humidistat from 35% to 85% and configure the timer from 0.5 to 24 hours according to your preferences.
Beyond that, this dehumidifier comes equipped with a filter indicator, which serves as a reminder to clean the filter after approximately 250 hours of operation. The auto defrost function is also included. Based on our experience, we found that the filter is easy to remove and reinsert.
Since it will be placed in the bathroom, you can utilize its gravity drain function, which allows for automatic drainage, eliminating the need for manual water disposal.
But I have to say, it is not a perfect product. Due to its side exit exhaust design, it can produce a humming noise from the compressor that isn’t effectively masked by the fan noise. But I think it may not be a big issue if you don’t tend to spend too much time in a bathroom.
The dehumidifier comes with a standard 1-year warranty, which is consistent with many models in the market. However, you do have the option to obtain an additional 1-year warranty by making your purchase through hOmeLabs’ official website, homelabs.com.
Water tank capacity: 12.8 pints. Size: 15.4 x 11 x 24.3 inches (50-pint and 35-pint version) Moisture removed by the hour (50-pint version): 683 ml (our test result at 58.3%RH, 83°F) Noise level: 60.5 dB (50-pint version, our test result) Wattage: 508 (our test result) Warranty: 1-year/2-year if you buy it on homelabs.com
What we like
- Affordable price.
- Great dehumidifying performance.
- Comfort mode to adjust the settings automatically.
- Auto defrost function and timer included.
What we don’t like
- It is definitely not the quietest model we have tested.
- No APP control function.
2. Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier – Best for Large-Sized Bathrooms
This dehumidifier is a solid choice for larger bathrooms or bathrooms that have a strong moldy smell. If you have a bathroom without a window, it is also a good option because you need a powerful machine to remove a large amount of moisture after a shower.
Using it is straightforward. By pressing the button on the control panel, you will be able to set the humidistat, and timer, or reset the filter. Different from the hOmeLabs dehumidifier we mentioned above, it doesn’t have an auto mode. However, it offers a 3-speed fan option, which is an improvement over the 2-speed option in hOmeLabs.
Based on our firsthand experience, it is capable of reducing the relative humidity (RH) from 55.8% to 42.1% within just 60 minutes in a 300 sq. ft. room at a temperature of 83°F. This performance is just as impressive as the hOmeLabs one and it is also Energy Star certified.
Even better, we find that it is made with strong high-quality material, evident in numerous details. For example, it has a thick cover for its water tank. While it only has a 1-year warranty, it should be a long-lasting item.
This dehumidifier can produce a louder noise than the hOmeLabs unit, but surprisingly, we notice that the noise is more agreeable. This is because it exhausts the noise from the top, and the predominant sound is from the fan rather than the compressor, resulting in a less intrusive and more pleasing noise output profile.
Note that it also has a 22-pint and 35-pint version.
Water tank capacity: 16.88 pints. Size: 15.97 x 12.19 x 24.25 inches Moisture removed by the hour: 673 ml (our test result at 55.3%RH, 83°F) Noise level: 61.3 dB (our test result) Wattage: 510 (our test result) Warranty: 1-year
What we like
- Made with solid material.
- Easy to use and clean.
- Great performance.
- Energy-efficient.
- Large water tank which is convenient for manual draining.
What we don’t like
- It doesn’t have an auto mode.
- The noise level is a bit high.
3. Ninesky H2 Dehumidifier – Best for Small Bathrooms (Budget Option)
There are many mini dehumidifiers that claim to be a good fit for bathrooms. However, after testing a few models, we discovered that most of them can only collect 1 or 2 grams of water per hour, which is definitely insufficient to address the humidity problem.
This Ninesky H2 model has a much better performance, which can collect 16g of water per hour, but we still only recommend using it in a really small bathroom. In addition, it is an affordable option, which costs considerably less than other models on our list.
This Ninesky H2 model is a thermo-electric dehumidifier, utilizing a simpler mechanism. Because it lacks a built-in compressor, it operates much more quietly. In fact, its operation is so subtle that I can hardly notice it.
It is also extremely easy to use. The power button is the sole button this dehumidifier comes with. All you have to do is press the power button, and it will spring into action.
When the water tank reaches capacity, the third light will illuminate in red, serving as an alert. Additionally, for added ambiance, you can adjust the ambient light color by holding the button for 5 seconds. You can use it as a nightlight for your bathroom.
Another feature we find convenient is the cord storage design. It includes a groove for neatly coiling the cord and a box to store the plug, ensuring that everything stays organized and tidy.
Again, this dehumidifier is only for use in very small spaces. Attempting to run it in a large bathroom would not be a wise use of your money.
Water tank capacity: 6.1 pints. Size: 6.1 x 10 x 14.2 inches Moisture removed by the hour: 16 ml (our test result at 55.3%RH, 83°F) Noise level: 45.5 dB (our test result) Wattage: 59 (our test result) Warranty: 1-year
What we like
- Affordable pricing.
- User-friendly and easy to clean.
- Operates silently.
- Comes with adjustable ambient lighting, doubling as a nightlight.
What we don’t like
- It can only be used in a small bathroom due to its low dehumidifying performance.
- It doesn’t have a gravity drain option.
4. Airplus 30 Pint Dehumidifier – Best for Middle-Sized Bathrooms
If your bathroom is of standard size or the moisture issue isn’t too severe, the Airplus model is the ideal choice for you.
During our testing, conducted under consistent conditions, we observed that it was capable of reducing the relative humidity (RH) from 58.6% to 53.1% within a 60-minute timeframe.
While it can’t remove as much moisture as the 50-pint units we mentioned above, it is much more powerful than the mini dehumidifiers on the market. Besides, it generates less compressor noise compared to the 50-pint units we discussed earlier.
A standout feature of this model is its availability of four different modes, which is relatively uncommon even if we have tested dozens of dehumidifiers.
You can activate the quick drying mode to dry the clothes quickly on winter days or use the sleep mode at night. Even if you use the standard mode, the noise level is still pretty low.
Despite its compact size, you still have the option to drain it via the hose. What’s more, unlike the Frigidaire and hOmeLabs models, this one comes with the hose included in the package.
This is an affordable dehumidifier. Nevertheless, the water tank is very small. If you choose to use the manual drain method, be prepared to empty the tank every few hours.
Water tank capacity: 3.2 pints. Size: 7 x 11.7 x 19.6 inches Moisture removed by the hour: 159 ml (our test result at 55.3%RH, 83°F) Noise level: 53.2 dB (our test result) Wattage: 149 (our test result) Warranty: 1-year
What we like
- Specific modes for drying cloth and sleep are included.
- Affordable price.
- Low noise level.
- Compact size but it supports continuous drain.
What we don’t like
- The water tank capacity is low.
5. Vellgoo Drytank 52 Pint Dehumidifier – Best Quiet Compressor Bathroom Dehumidifier
For those who are sensitive to noise but looking for a unit with relatively great performance for their bathrooms, this Drytank dehumidifier is a good fit.
The reason we haven’t ranked it at the top of our list is that, when compared to the two 50-pint models we mentioned earlier, its dehumidification performance is not as impressive. For instance, the hOmeLabs 50-pint version can collect 683ml of water per hour, whereas this model can only collect 353ml of water per hour (our test result).
But it is still much more powerful than most 35-pint dehumidifiers and quieter than almost all the 50-pint models we have tested.
It comes with all the standard functions. Even better, it also has a similar comfort mode that can adjust the humidistat automatically.
Additionally, it boasts a slim profile, making it a space-saving choice for your bathroom. However, it also means that the water tank is small. Again, it is not an issue if you plan to use the continuous drain mode.
Water tank capacity: 11.2 pints. Size: 14.38 x 8.64 x 24.09 inches Moisture removed by the hour: 353 ml (our test result at 55.3%RH, 83°F) Noise level: 53.8 dB (our test result) Wattage: 252 (our test result) Warranty: 1-year (2-year if you register it at www.vellgoo.com)
What we like
- Quiet operation.
- Easy to move.
- Slime profile.
- Comfort mode included.
What we don’t like
- Its dehumidifying performance is not as great as other 50-pint models in this list.
- Small water tank.
Who should buy a dehumidifier for a bathroom?
Typically, you can effectively reduce moisture generated by showers by either opening a window or using an exhaust fan. This approach is often sufficient for preventing mold and musty odors, especially in relatively dry areas.
However, if you reside in an area with elevated humidity levels, or if your apartment lacks the option to install an exhaust fan or lacks windows, utilizing a dehumidifier becomes a practical and effective solution to address the issue of excessive moisture.
See also: Bathroom Dehumidifier vs. Exhaust Fan: Which One Is Better For You?
Is a mini dehumidifier sufficient for a bathroom?
When you search online, you may come across many small dehumidifiers that claim to be a perfect fit for the bathroom. However, I advise you not to go for these mini units unless your bathroom is extremely tiny.
These units usually have poor dehumidifying performance and don’t have a continuous drain mode. Many of them can only collect a few ounces of water per day.
While they are cheaper, there is a high likelihood that they can’t help with remedying the issue.
We highly recommend you spend a bit more and get a compressor dehumidifier instead. If you insist on buying this type of dehumidifier, you can try the NineSky H2 , which has a relatively better performance.
What to consider when buying a bathroom dehumidifier?
Usually, the bathroom is the smallest and the most humid place at home. When picking a dehumidifier for it, you need to take many factors into account.
Condition of your bathroom
Take a look at your bathroom and measure the size of your bathroom. Keep in mind that the larger the bathroom, the greater the dehumidifier capacity required to effectively manage moisture levels.
Note that a dehumidifier that claims to cover 4500 sq. ft. can also work well in a 100 sq. ft. bathroom. What you should aim to avoid is purchasing a dehumidifier that is too small for the space. If your bathroom is larger than 40 sq. ft., don’t go for a mini dehumidifier.
Additionally, consider using a humidistat to measure the relative humidity (RH) levels in your bathroom. If the RH has already exceeded 70% or you’ve noticed a strong musty smell, we strongly recommend opting for a 50-pint dehumidifier model. Both the hOmeLabs 50-pint and Frigidaire 50-pint models are excellent choices in this regard.
Meanwhile, you should also consider the available space for the dehumidifier. Compare the dimensions of each model to ensure it fits comfortably in your chosen location.
Dehumidifier’s performance
Not all dehumidifiers are created equal, even if they claim to have the same capacity. We have conducted the research in a very similar condition so as to know which one is better. You can read our reviews carefully to make your own judgment.
If you’re unsure whether to choose a 35-pint or a 50-pint version, it’s generally advisable to opt for the 50-pint one.
The reason is that a 35-pint version may need to exert more strain on the compressor to reach the desired humidity level, potentially shortening its lifespan. Additionally, there is typically not a significant price difference between these two versions.
Noise level of the dehumidifier
In our experience, lower-capacity dehumidifiers tend to be quieter. However, it’s important to prioritize the capacity of the dehumidifier.
Once you’ve determined the capacity you need, you can then consult reviews to identify models within or over that capacity range that are also known for their quiet operation.
For example, our test shows that the Drytank 52-pint dehumidifier is quieter than most 50-pint models and much more powerful than most 35-pint models.
Draining options
Bathrooms typically have floor drains, and compressor dehumidifiers often include a continuous drain option, eliminating the need to manually empty the water tank.
If you want to drain the water to a sink, you have two options: choose a dehumidifier with a built-in pump or install an external pump. We recommend the latter solution because built-in pumps can be prone to failure, based on our findings.
If neither of these methods is suitable for your bathroom, consider selecting a dehumidifier with a larger water tank capacity. This will help reduce the frequency of manual draining, which can be especially convenient for you. For example, the Frigidaire unit has a larger tank than the hOmeLabs unit.
Additional features
Generally, dehumidifiers don’t come with complicated functions. However, it’s nice to have features like a timer or a comfort mode, as they allow for automated operation.
Some modern models even offer smartphone app control, which can be a nice touch as well.
Where to place your dehumidifier in a bathroom?
We already wrote a detailed guide to discuss the proper dehumidifier placement.
Typically, you can place it on the floor, but avoid positioning it on walkways. If you’re using a mini dehumidifier, it can be placed on a shelf, but ensure there’s a minimum of 25cm of space between it and the wall for effective operation.
Sum up
Even though bathrooms are typically small spaces, it doesn’t mean you can get away with using a mini dehumidifier.
Through extensive research and testing, we have found that mini dehumidifiers are better suited for bathrooms that are smaller than 40 square feet. For larger bathrooms, a compressor dehumidifier is a more effective choice.
For a tiny bathroom, the NineSky H2 is a good fit because it is easy to use and powerful than most counterparts we have tested. For a relatively large bathroom, we think homeLabs 35-Pint dehumidifier could be a good fit. It is cost-effective, has great performance, and features a comfort mode to adjust the humidistat according to the ambient temperature.
Last update on 2023-12-04 at 06:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
