Whether it appears as a gas, solid or liquid, moisture is usually an unwelcome guest in our homes or workplaces

Indoor humidity

How to create a healthy indoor climate.

Indoor humidity plays a crucial role in both comfort and health

Plays a crucial role

Indoor humidity plays a crucial role in both comfort and health. Relative humidity (RH) describes how much water vapour the air contains compared to the maximum amount it can hold at a given temperature.

For a healthy and comfortable indoor climate, relative humidity should generally stay between 30% and 60%. Both excessively high and very low humidity levels can cause problems for your health as well as for building materials and furnishings.

Signs of indoor humidity that is too high or too low

Being able to recognise whether indoor humidity is too high or too low makes it easier to take the right action. Common signs include:

Signs of high indoor humidity:

  • Condensation on windows or mirrors
  • Damp walls and ceilings
  • Black mould on grout lines or behind bathroom furniture
  • A musty or stale smell in the room

Signs of low indoor humidity:

  • Dry skin, dry eyes or cracked lips
  • Coughing, throat irritation or a runny nose
  • Static electricity or “flyaway” hair
  • Cracks in wooden surfaces and furniture

Monitoring indoor humidity is essential to prevent discomfort, material damage and long-term moisture problems.

A hygrometer measures relative humidity and gives a clear indication of how much moisture is present in the air

How do you measure indoor humidity?

The easiest way to keep track of indoor humidity is to use hygrometers and moisture meters. A hygrometer measures relative humidity and gives a clear indication of how much moisture is present in the air.

By using tools that measure humidity and temperature, you gain a more accurate understanding of your indoor climate and can react quickly if humidity levels move outside the recommended range.

What happens if indoor humidity is too high?

High indoor humidity (above 60%) can cause serious problems, including:

  • Mould and moisture damage: Mould typically requires around 70% humidity to grow. When moisture levels remain high, mould can quickly develop on walls, ceilings, grout and other surfaces.
  • Poor air quality: Excess moisture leads to heavy, stuffy air that negatively affects comfort and wellbeing.
  • Damage to building materials: Wood can swell, wallpaper may bubble, and paint can begin to peel.

To reduce excessive moisture, solutions such as dehumidifiers and improved ventilation can help avoid too much moisture and restore a healthy indoor environment.

Dry air allows static electricity to build up, which can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful to electronics

What happens if indoor humidity is too low?

Low indoor humidity (below 30%) can also cause problems, such as:

  • Dry skin and irritated airways: Dry air causes mucous membranes to dry out, increasing the risk of colds and infections.
  • Damage to wood and furniture: When wood dries out, it can crack, warp or deform.
  • Increased static electricity: Dry air allows static electricity to build up, which can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful to electronics.

In these cases, humidifiers can help restore balance by releasing water vapour into the air.

How to regulate indoor humidity

There are several effective ways to keep indoor humidity at an optimal level:

  1. Use a dehumidifier: Effective when humidity is too high, especially in areas such as basements or bathrooms.
  2. Improve ventilation: Make sure moist air is removed efficiently, particularly after cooking or showering.
  3. Use a humidifier: Useful during winter months when indoor air tends to become very dry.
  4. Monitor humidity levels: Using a hygrometer that can monitor moisture in the air helps ensure humidity stays within the recommended 30–60% range.

To keep indoor humidity stable over time ventilate thoroughly by opening windows and doors regularly

Preventive measures to maintain the right humidity

To keep indoor humidity stable over time, consider these preventive steps:

  • Wipe down wet surfaces after bathing or showering
  • Use moisture-resistant materials such as tiles and silicone sealants
  • Ventilate thoroughly by opening windows and doors regularly
  • Pay extra attention to moisture in the basement, where ventilation is often limited

Preventive action helps reduce the risk of long-term moisture damage and creates a healthier indoor climate.

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