The ideal humidity level in a house generally falls within the range of 40% to 60% relative humidity. This range is recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers as it promotes comfort, health, and good indoor air quality
. More specifically:
- In summer, maintaining indoor humidity between 40% and 60% is ideal
- In winter, a slightly lower range of 30% to 50% is recommended to keep the home warm and comfortable without excess moisture
- Different rooms may have slightly different optimal humidity levels:
- Living rooms and bedrooms: 40-60%
- Kitchens and bathrooms: 50-70% due to higher moisture from activities like cooking and showering
Humidity levels below 30% can cause dryness and respiratory discomfort, while levels above 60% increase the risk of mold, mildew, dust mites, and other allergens
. Adjusting humidity according to outdoor temperature is also advised to prevent condensation and mold growth, especially in colder climates
. In summary, keeping your home's relative humidity between 40% and 60% year- round is ideal for health, comfort, and preservation of your home environment, with slight seasonal and room-specific adjustments as needed. Monitoring with a hygrometer can help maintain these levels effectively