I was looking for a humidifier to help our dry skin (and nasal passages!) during the winter, when the heater tends to dry everything out. Based on good reviews, I purchased the Honeywell HCM-350 Germ Free Cool Moisture Humidifier, and it did not disappoint!

This was not my first humidifier. Several years ago I tried a different one (can't remember the make/model), but hated it because it created a wet mist that dampened everything in the room. I'd wake up to find my face, sheets, and pillow (along with everything else in the room) coated with tiny droplets of water. Turns out my previous humidifier was an ultrasonic humidifier, while the HCM-350 is an evaporative humidifier. What this means is that the HCM-350 blows moisture off a wicking filter, helping it evaporative into the air quickly. It's not possible to over-humidify with evaporative technology because you can't add more moisture to the air than it can hold. The mist is totally invisible. At first you might think it's not doing anything, but after several hours you'll notice a significant drop in the water level, letting you know it was effectively moisturizing the air.

Another plus is that it's quiet. On the lowest setting, it's nearly inaudible. On the medium or high settings, there's a gentle and somewhat pleasant whir that makes for some nice white noise.

The HCM-350 is also easy to use. The tank pulls out easily with one hand, and can be filled from most bathroom faucets. It has a convenient carry handle and a wide, easy to open tank opening. Finally, there's no bright light on the unit to keep you up at night, which is a huge plus if using in the bedroom.

I highly recommend the Honeywell HCM-350 Germ Free Cool Moisture Humidifier for anyone looking for a home humidifier.

Benefits of using a humidifier

Here's a list of benefits, taken from Honeywell's website:

Helps Temporarily Relieve Dry Air Discomforts

Provides an efficient solution for counteracting the effects of dry harsh winter air by adding essential moisture to any room. Soothe dry skin with added moisture so hands and lips are no longer dry.

Helps temporarily Relieve Congestion and Cough

Maintaining an indoor humidity level between 40-60% can reduce the survival of flu viruses on surfaces and in the air.^*

Studies have shown that keeping indoor air at an RH level of 40-60% reduces survival of flu viruses on surfaces and in the air compared to lower RH levels.*

Helps You Breathe Better and Sleep More Comfortably

Comfortable humidity helps purify the air and keep throat and nasal passages hydrated. This can help you breathe better and sleep more comfortably.

Helps Protect Wooden Furniture, Floors and Musical Instruments

Low humidity causes wood to lose moisture and shrink. Extreme changes can causes warping and cracking.

Helps Keep Indoor Plants Healthy

Symptoms of dry air include curled leaves and dry leaf tips. Flower buds may even turn brown and fall off. Using a humidifier can help return moisture to the air promoting improved plant growth.

Helps Reduce Static Electricity

Static electricity is even more active when the air is dry, especially in the cold months when people turn on their heat. Returning moisture to dry air assists in reducing static shocks and static cling.