By Martha B.
As the winter season has begun, with its drastically dropping temperatures, our heating systems are now running full tilt. While that makes us feel “warm and cozy,” the downside is that our houses may have become significantly drier.
While the ideal humidity level is said to be about 45%, experts tell us that if it goes below 30%, it is much too dry. I noticed from our last utility bill that, before we had turned on the heat this year, our humidity level was at 44%. However, when I checked our smart thermostat today, I found that the humidity in our living room had dropped to 33%. Quite a reduction!
Maintaining adequate humidity is important. It hydrates our skin, eyes, carpets, and furniture. Since flu and cold viruses are said to transmit more easily in dry air, having adequate humidity may also be the key to reducing the spread of common illnesses.
Some of the tips I currently follow to maintain adequate humidity:
Water houseplants generously;
Hang-dry laundry (except towels);
Allow steam from cooking and bathing to permeate the house.
You can find other simple tips on how to increase the humidity in your home at:
(1) Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/dimhou-5987327/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=3841448">Dim Hou</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=3841448">Pixabay</a>