Best Small Dehumidifiers for Bathrooms - Top models reviewed

Choosing the Best Small Dehumidifier for Your Bathroom

Mold, mildew, and excess moisture can easily accumulate in warm, steamy bathrooms. This creates the perfect breeding ground for allergens and bacteria. Running a dehumidifier helps control humidity for a fresher, healthier bathroom environment.

But which small dehumidifier works best for the unique needs of bathrooms? With so many models advertised, it helps to know what features to compare when shopping.

This guide covers what to look for when buying a compact bathroom dehumidifier. Read on for top product recommendations and tips on proper placement and maintenance.

Bathroom Dehumidifier Buying Considerations

Small dehumidifiers made specifically for bathrooms have different specs than basement or whole home models. Here are key factors to evaluate:

Size and Portability

Look at both the unit's dimensions and tank capacity. More pint-sized dehumidifiers can fit on countertops or high shelves to keep out of the way. Similarly, pick a removable water tank thats easy to empty frequently.

Moisture Removal Rate

This measures how many pints of moisture the dehumidifier can extract from air daily. Bathrooms need at least 16 ounce removal capacity. Higher is better for spacious or damp bathrooms.

Operating Sound Level

Excess noise can ruin relaxation during a bath or shower. Seek low decibel models rated for quiet operation around 41 dB or less.

Automatic Shutoff

Handy for safety, units with auto shutoff turn off automatically when the tank fills, or when tipped over accidently.

Warranty

In the humid bathroom space, its wise to pick a small dehumidifier with at least a 1 year manufacturers warranty. This guarantees sufficient parts and assembly quality.

Price

Bathroom dehumidifiers cost anywhere from $40 up to $300. In general though, compact and effective models designed for bathrooms specifically start around $60+.

Top 5 Small Dehumidifiers For Bathrooms

After lots of testing and research, these petite dehumidifiers stand out for performance and suitability in bathrooms specifically:

1. Eva-Dry E-333 Renewable Dehumidifier

For a tiny dehumidifier you simply plug in and forget about, the Eva-Dry E-333 beats out most electric models. It requires no batteries or cords.

The eco-friendly, Peltier technology uses advanced ceramics to extract moisture silently. No compressor or refrigerant chemicals are involved.

Despite the mini size - 6 x 2.5 inches - its advanced ceramic core removes 6-8 oz of moisture per day. This makes it ideal for very small bathrooms.

Its renewable silica gel beads last up to 10 years with proper maintenance too. Plus the sleek, wall mountable design prevents tipping accidents.

2. hOmeLabs Small Dehumidifier

One of the top rated pint-sized electric dehumidifiers is this hOmeLabs model. At only 9 x 6x inches, it conveniently sits on counters without hogging space.

The 22-ounce tank capacity removes over 700 ml of moisture per day on average. This makes it suitable for larger bathrooms around 200 square feet.

It operates at a very quiet 38 decibels. The auto shut off saves energy once the tank fills up. You can also hook up an optional drain hose for continuous use.

3. Pro Breeze Electric Dehumidifier 1100

For more power extraction in bigger bathrooms, the Pro Breeze Electric Dehumidifier 1100 is a portable performer. It removes up to 1100 ml of excess humidity per day.

Despite strong moisture elimination, the 40 dB operating volume isn't distractingly loud. It also uses an advanced Peltier module without chemicals or gases.

Helpful for bathrooms short on outlets, the Pro Breeze Electric plugs into almost any standard wall socket. Auto shutoff keeps it safe to run all day.

4. Ivation 13-Pint Small-Area Dehumidifier

Ivation's compact 120V dehumidifier takes moisture removal up a notch with its 13-pint capacity. Yet it still fits nicely on shelves and counters without dominating space.

Touch controls with a built-in humidistat let you select between fan speeds as well as your desired humidity level from 35% to 80%.

The transparent 1.3 liter removable water tank means you can monitor when to empty it easily. Its low noise output and autostart option after power outages enhance convenience further.

5. SEAVON Mini Dehumidifier

SEAVON's highly affordable mini dehumidifier surprises with its decent 350 ml daily extraction power. It costs a fraction of more advanced models - great if you're on a budget.

Despite the lower price point, it still boasts pleasing features like adjustable humidity settings and auto shut off. The transparent tank also lets you see water fill levels.

Just note the SEAVON mini has shorter longevity than pricier brands. But overall it works well for infrequent use or in occasional dampness circumstances.

Where To Place a Bathroom Dehumidifier

Proper dehumidifier placement plays a key role how effectively it fights excess moisture issues:

On Shelves or High Countertops

Keeping small bathroom dehumidifiers up high prevents them from getting splashed or knocked over as people move around.

Elevated spots also allow better air circulation so humidity gets drawn into the unit efficiently. Just don't block air intake grilles.

Near Moisture Problem Areas

Focus on potential dampness hot spots like around the tub, shower, or sink. This ensures the dehumidifier tackles excess moisture directly at the source before it spreads.

Away From Windows and Drafts

Avoid positioning small dehumidifiers right next to drafty windows and vents. The air blowing onto the unit can limit how well it pulls in humid room air to remove dampness.

Allow Good Airflow

Leave adequate clearance - usually a few inches - around all sides of a running dehumidifier. This spacing allows air to circulate through the unit for ideal moisture removal.

How To Care For a Bathroom Dehumidifier

Like all appliances, dehumidifiers last longer with the right regular maintenance. Heres how to keep your bathroom unit performing its best:

Empty Water Tank Frequently

Never let the tank overfill past its marked line before dumping it out. Overflowing water can damage the dehumidifier or leak onto floors.

Clean Surface and Filters

Dust the exterior and wipe out the tank to inhibits mold, bacteria, and fungi growth. Change air filters as needed too for peak operation.

Use Drain Hose Option

Hooking up an optional drain hose to discharge bucket eliminates having to empty tanks manually. Just make sure the hose slopes downward.

Give Proper Airflow Space

Dont crowd bathrooms dehumidifiers or tuck them tightly into corners. Let air move easily through ventilation grilles.

Turn Off When Not Home

Running dehumidifiers constantly while away merely wastes energy. Power them off if leaving home for long periods.

With regular cleaning, occasional filter replacements, and following safety precautions, your bathroom dehumidifier can run effectively for years before needed replacing.

Essential Tips For Running a Bathroom Dehumidifier

Realize that unlike standalone air purifiers, most dehumidifiers dont remove odors, allergens, or bacteria floating in air. They strictly tackle relative humidity levels.

But controlling excess moisture alone helps deter mold growth and airborne allergens in bathrooms. Here are other key operation tips:

- Set Humidity Level Correctly

Ideally maintain bathroom humidity around 50% to deter mold and bacteria overgrowth. Some models have adjustable humidistats to set your target percentage.

- Combine With a Bath Fan

Run your bath fan and dehumidifier simultaneously after showering or bathing to remove steam most effectively. The combo clears moisture better than using either device solo.

- Consider an Air Purifier Too

For combating odors, VOCs, allergens or asthmatic conditions, add a small HEPA air purifier to your bathroom as well. This tackles fine particles the dehumidifier misses.

- Empty Tank Before Storing

Never stash a dehumidifier away while water remains pooled inside its tank. This breeds hazardous mold and bacteria over time.

Keep these operation pointers in mind and your dehumidifier lowers bathroom moisture efficiently for healthier air quality all year long.

Frequently Asked Bathroom Dehumidifier Questions

For further insight choosing and using dehumidifiers in high humidity bathrooms, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

How Long Should You Run a Bathroom Dehumidifier?

Plan to operate small bathroom dehumidifiers daily, around the clock. They work most effectively when removing humidity constantly from damp environments like bathrooms.

Where Should You Not Put a Dehumidifier?

Avoid setting dehumidifiers directly on bathroom floors where they may get wet or tipped over easily. Also don't position them inside closets or tight corners with poor ventilation.

Can You Use Desiccant Dehumidifiers in Bathrooms?

Yes, compact desiccant units work well for bathroom humidity control because they don't require frost protection. Many consume less energy than compressor types too.

What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need For My Bathroom?

Size your bathroom dehumidifier's pint capacity to remove at least 4-5 pints of moisture per 100 square feet of space. Bigger bathrooms or those with more dampness need larger capacities.

Investing in a quality dehumidifier tailored for bathrooms makes all the difference for health and comfort. Check specifications carefully and compare top rated models to find your best fit. Within days youll enjoy less humid, fresher bathroom air daily.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.