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The comforts of modern life seem pretty straightforward, but some aspects can be maddeningly difficult to control. Given that we mastered the ability to keep our food fresh for extended periods and maintain a consistent climate, it might seem like we have all of our creature comforts covered.
However, one of the more difficult aspects to control is the relative humidity of a space with the inability to do so leading to stuffy air and sticky bodies. Dehumidifiers are a great solution to this potential problem, but finding one that is effective while also quiet can be trickier than you might think.
That is why we put together a list of the 5 best quiet dehumidifier reviews of this year, highlighting what each one does best. We also answer some of the more pressing questions surrounding dehumidifiers and provide a helpful buyer’s guide, so you can figure out which dehumidifier will leave you peacefully comfortable.
Best Quiet Dehumidifier Reviews
Best Seller: Vacplus 50 Pints Dehumidifier with WiFi Remote for Large Rooms, Large Capacity for Basements Bedroom & Home, Dehumidifier Removes Moisture Efficiently, Two Continuous Drainage Mode with Dehumidifier
- 100% RISK-FREE SATISFACTION: Vacplus always pays 120% attention to our customers - each Vacplus dehumidifier will be meticulously tested by...
- FULL-FEATURED WIFI REMOTE & 4 OPERATION MODES: Vacplus dehumidifier provides the WIFI remote via the Tuyasmart APP that expands the limits...
- CONSTANT HUMIDITY & WELL-LIT LED CONTROL PANEL: Vacplus basement dehumidifiers for home, featured with intelligent constant humidity can...
Vacplus is an odd company for our list given that it initially started by selling vacuums and sewing machines of all things. On top of that, the company has a bit of a spotty online presence with most of its content still struggling to catch up to the new direction taken with the introduction of dehumidifiers.
That said, Vacplus seems to have skirted the line between performance and noise generation better than most as it not only maintains the quietest operation on our list at 36 dB but maintains that at its highest setting at only 45 dB. Keep in mind, 45 dB may not be quieter than some of the competition, but it is the quietest “high” setting we encountered.
In terms of its performance, the Vacplus 1901 dehumidifier also boasts the second-best coverage we found, able to dehumidify a room up to 2000 sq ft in size. As if that were not enough, this dehumidifier also has one of the broadest relative humidity ranges we saw too ranging from 90% to 40%.
Outside of raw performance, the Vacplus 1901 dehumidifier has plenty of settings with 4 different modes and a timer that can be set for up to 24 hours– tied for the longest on our list. Granted, balancing noise generation with volume is not the easiest task, and you have to pay a bit for this dehumidifier.
However, that might be a cost worth paying as the Vacplus 1901 dehumidifier is also the only model we reviewed that connects to WiFi, so you can control it from your smart device with an app. Unfortunately, this uncommon feature can be a bit tricky as its connectivity is a bit spotty, so you may need WiFi extenders.
Features
- Works quietly, only generating between 36 to 45 dB of noise
- Can cover a room of up to 2000 square feet, not counting height
- Can draw out water from relative humidity ranges of 90% to 40%
- Holds a fair amount of water before needing to be emptied with a 3.1 L tank
- Can be controlled remotely with a WiFi connection and smart app
Verdict
The Vacplus 1901 dehumidifier is one of the more powerful models on our list that also manages to maintain some of the lowest volumes, making it easy to see why it is a best seller. On top of that, this is also the only dehumidifier that we encountered that allows you to change its settings from the comfort of your smart device.
Pros
- Only generates 36 to 45 dB of noise
- Covers a large 2000 sq ft
- Holds an impressive 3.1 L
- Has wireless connectivity
Cons
- Is more expensive
- Iffy wireless connection
Top Pick: TOSOT 3,000 Sq Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier – for Home, Basement, Bedroom or Bathroom – Super Quiet, 35 Pint-2019 DOE (Previous 50 Pint)
- 3,000 SQ FT: Removes up to 35 pints (50 pints 2012 DOE) of water every 24 hours. This model is perfect for bedrooms or other mid-size rooms...
- AUTO DRAIN: This dehumidifier will stop running if the water bucket fills up. Save time with automatic drainage by hooking up a 3/4 inch...
- REAL-TIME MONITORING: After choosing a target humidity level the control panel will display the current humidity level. The dehumidifier...
TOSOT may not be all that old or experienced a company, but it is definitely one of the better prepared that we came across. Aside from the fact that TOSOT has a large online presence with plenty of documentation, it is also one of the few companies we encountered that specializes exclusively in climate control products.
This focus leads the TOSOT GDN35BB-A3EBA2A dehumidifier to easily perform better than any other option that we reviewed, though it is not the quietest. Granted, at its lowest setting, this dehumidifier boasts a respectable volume of 46 dB, but its highest setting is on the louder side at 50 dB– though that is only about as loud as the rain or a floor fan.
Of course, it makes sense that the TOSOT dehumidifier would be about as loud as a floor fan given it also offers the best airflow that we came across at an impressive 206 CFM. As if that were not enough, this dehumidifier also blows the rest out of the water when it comes to coverage, able to handle a space of up to 3000 sq ft– 50% more then the next closest competitor.
Granted, you have to pay for that kind of quality, and the TOSOT dehumidifier is an expensive option. Still, this dehumidifier tops our list in so many performance respects, it is only icing on the cake that it can also hold more water than any other model before needing to be emptied with a 5 ⅞ L tank.
Outside of the standard performance measures, the TOSOT dehumidifier also boasts a slightly larger than average humidity range that goes down to 35% instead of the more common 40%. One thing that is a bit disappointing is the modest number of settings which only includes 3 modes and a 4-hour timer.
Features
- Works quietly, only generating between 46 to 50 dB of noise
- Can cover a room of up to 3000 square feet, not counting height
- Can draw out water from relative humidity ranges of 80% to 35%
- Holds a fair amount of water before needing to be emptied with a 5 ⅞ L tank
- Helps circulate the air with an airflow of 206 CFM
Verdict
The TOSOT GDN35BB-A3EBA2A dehumidifier is easily the most capable model we reviewed, but it is also a bit louder than some of the others. Granted, given its performance, this dehumidifier is still surprisingly quiet which makes it a great option for those who have a large or exceptionally humid space.
Pros
- Generate as little as 46 dB of noise
- Covers a massive 3000 sq ft
- Holds an impressive 5 ⅞ L
- Circulates air at 206 CFM
Cons
- Not the quietest
- Is more expensive
Best Value: AIRPLUS 30 Pints Dehumidifier – Efficient Dehumidifiers for Basements/Medium Rooms with Auto Shut Off & Continuous Drainage, Silent Moisture Removal
- High-Efficiency Dehumidification: Airplus dehumidifiers - (1907) for home remove up to 30 pints (under 90% RH @ 86°F condition) of moisture...
- Convenient Drainage & Sufficient Capacity: Using a dehumidifier hose to drain continuously and automatically frees you from the hassle of...
- Easy Operation & Multipurpose Modes: The portable dehumidifier is easy to use. There are four modes-STANDARD, DRYING, SLEEP and RAINING to...
AIRPLUS is a relatively obscure company that does not seem to have its own online presence, though there are plenty of other companies that share its moniker. That said, being new is not necessarily the worst trait as this company specializes in dehumidifiers and only has 3 total products to worry about.
As it relates to our list specifically, the AIRPLUS dehumidifier is one of the quietest models that we encountered, generating on 40 dB of noise. Unfortunately, this dehumidifier’s low volume is not a result of a special design or other features as it does not perform nearly as well as some of the other models.
In fairness, the AIRPLUS dehumidifier is an inexpensive model, so you expect some kind of decrease in its overall performance. However, when you compare this dehumidifier to other budget options, it is still a bit more expensive than you would expect– though it has some bells and whistles to account for the cost.
A great example of this comes from the AIRPLUS dehumidifier’s settings which tie for the most on our list while also sporting a timer that extends a full 24 hours. Still, it is kind of difficult to get around the fact that this dehumidifier can only cover around 200 sq ft which puts it at the bottom of our list.
As if that were not bad enough, this is also one of the few dehumidifiers that we encountered that sees most of its complaints come in the form of reliability and durability. On the other hand, the AIRPLUS dehumidifier comes with a 2-year warranty, so you do not have to worry too much should you see those issues.
Features
- Works quietly, only generating around 40 dB of noise
- Can cover a room of up to 200 square feet, not counting height
- Can draw out water from relative humidity ranges of 80% to 40%
- Holds a fair amount of water before needing to be emptied with a 1 ½ L tank
- Is extremely versatile with numerous modes, settings, and timings
Verdict
Given that it is an inexpensive option, the AIRPLUS dehumidifier is surprisingly quiet at only 40 dB with a performance that is a bit hit or miss. For starters, it covers a surprisingly small square footage and is one of the few entries we encountered where one of the main issues was reliability, though it has a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Only generates 40 dB of noise
- Has numerous options
- Comes with a 2 yr warranty
- Is less expensive
Cons
- Not the best coverage
- Not the most durable
Runner Up: Midea MAD20C1ZWS Dehumidifier for up to 1500 Sq Ft with Reusable Air Filter, Ideal for Basement, Bedroom, Bathroom, 20 Pint-2019 DOE (Previous 30 Pint), White
- 1,500 SQ. FT. DEHUMIDIFIER – This Midea dehumidifier is able to remove 22 pints (30 pint 2012 DOE standard) of moisture a day and adjust...
- QUIET & ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED – With a low dBA output, this dehumidifier is quieter than a household refrigerator. Meanwhile, with Energy...
- INNOVATIVE FEATURES & WARRANTY - Features include auto restart function limiting disruption due to power outages, "Turbo" mode to increase...
Midea is easily the most reputable and experienced company that we reviewed with a history that stretches back over 6 decades. That said, this company does not specialize in climate control products, instead it focusing more on a broader range of general consumer appliances.
It is worth noting that while Midea may make well-performing products, they do not attempt to challenge more niche markets as much. This is clearly demonstrated with the Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier as it is one of the loudest models we reviewed, making upwards of 51 dB of noise.
Thankfully, the Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier comes through in other capacities by offering solid, all-around performance like a solid coverage that is good enough for a 1500 sq ft space. On top of that, this is only the second dehumidifier on our list that can assist with air circulation with an airflow rate of 137 ⅘ CFM.
Continuing its solid performance, the Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier also gooses its relative humidity a bit more than most with a high of 85% and a low of 35%. Of course, as with all of the dehumidifiers on our list with superior performance, this entry is an expensive option and does not even boast the most modes.
However, you do not have to worry about emptying the Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier’s tank as often as some of the others with its 3 L capacity. One of the odder aspects of this dehumidifier is that its rating starts at 80° F instead of the more common 85° F, though it should impact performance too much.
Features
- Works quietly, only generating around 51 dB of noise
- Can cover a room of up to 1500 square feet, not counting height
- Can draw out water from relative humidity ranges of 85% to 35%
- Holds a fair amount of water before needing to be emptied with a 3 L tank
- Helps circulate the air with an airflow of 137 ⅘ CFM
Verdict
The Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier may not be the quietest option on our list, but it is one of the few that performs well in all air quality considerations. Whether you need a broad humidity range, a large room covered, or even some air circulation, this dehumidifier works without issue thanks to a decent-sized tank.
Pros
- Covers a solid 1500 sq ft
- Holds an impressive 3 L
- Circulates air at 137 ⅘ CFM
- Has a broad humidity range
Cons
- Not the quietest
- Is more expensive
Also Consider: Honati Home Dehumidifier, 2000ml Ultra Quiet Small Portable Dehumidifiers with Auto Shut Off for Basement, Bedroom, Bathroom, Baby Room, RV and Office (Up To 269 Sq.Ft)
Honati is another brand that has not been around all that long as its website remains unfinished with placeholder text in some sections. Thankfully, this company specializes exclusively in climate control products which means they should only get better with time.
Concerning our list, the Honati dehumidifier is a good option if the noise is your primary factor as it generates the second-least amount of noise at only 39 dB. Granted, there is definitely a lack of performance to explain why, though that is not as bad as it might seem given this dehumidifier’s intended purpose.
Unlike most of the other options that we reviewed, the Honati dehumidifier is intended to be used for a single room as opposed to a larger space. This is most notable in its physical specs which are both the most compact at 9” x 6” x 14 ⅔” as well as its weight which is the lightest at only 5 ⅔ lbs.
To make this dehumidifier even more portable, the Honati’s frame is set on top of caster wheels that allow you to easily roll it from room to room. Still, this may not make up for the fact that this Honati dehumidifier sits near the bottom of our list in coverage, only able to handle a space of 269 sq ft at max.
On top of that, you will have to spend more time emptying out the Hontai dehumidifier’s tank which is the second-smallest on our list at only 2 L. It is also worth noting that this dehumidifier has the fewest number of setting options and no timer, but that at least makes it much easier to use than most.
Features
- Works quietly, only generating around 39 dB of noise
- Can cover a room of up to 269 square feet, not counting height
- Can draw out water from relative humidity ranges of 80% to 40%
- Holds a fair amount of water before needing to be emptied with a 2 L tank
- Can easily be placed anywhere with a small, compact profile
Verdict
The Honati dehumidifier is the quietest option on our list, but it also comes with the caveat of being one of the smallest and least powerful. While this entry is not ideal for dehumidifying a large, damp basement, it is easy to use and can be transferred from room to room without difficulty.
Pros
- Only generates 39 dB of noise
- Is easy to use
- Only weighs 5 ⅔ lbs
- Is less expensive
Cons
- Not the best coverage
- Not the largest tank
Best Quiet Dehumidifier Buying Guide
Volume
Given the topic of our review, this is easily one of the more important factors to consider, though most of the options on our list come within a reasonable volume level. That said, those who are looking for extremely quiet dehumidifiers will have to consider exactly how well the product performs.
This is because dehumidifiers generate noise through their motors which control both the fans that run the condenser which removes water from the air as well as the fans that suck in the air and push it out once dry. Essentially, you have to balance how powerful of a dehumidifier you need with exactly how quiet you want it to be.
Coverage
The coverage of a dehumidifier refers to the maximum size of the space that it can dehumidify and is rated in square feet which means you may need to consider the cubic feet of a space with a tall ceiling. This is arguably the best way to gauge how powerful a dehumidifier is since the wattage does not always tell you the full story.
While it might seem like coverage is one of the more important factors, it is important to remember that the more powerful the dehumidifier the more noise it makes. As such, if you only need a dehumidifier for a single room, it might be a better idea to get a less powerful dehumidifier that makes less noise.
CFM
While all dehumidifiers suck in air before condensing the moisture and then exhausting it back out, some do this better than others. Though it is not their primary purpose, some dehumidifiers are powerful enough that they can actually increase the general air circulation of a room with their fan.
More often than not, you are better off going with a fan than a dehumidifier for air circulation, but that will almost certainly increase the amount of noise generated. If you want to kill two birds with one stone, look for a dehumidifier that has a solid airflow measured in cupid feet per minute or CFM– just be aware they are liable to be louder than other models.
Relative Humidity
While all dehumidifiers work to reduce the amount of water moisture in the air, it is important to note that humidity is almost always measured at a given temperature. This is because as the temperature increases, the air expands which increases the amount of space for water molecules.
The ratio of water molecules to temperature is what is known as relative humidity, and this is the spec given for dehumidifies. As such, if your space is warmer than the rated temperature, the dehumidifier will draw more moisture out of the air while it will draw less moisture out of cooler air.
Settings
While dehumidifiers always draw moisture out of the air, you may want it to do so in a different manner depending on the situation. To accommodate this need, many manufacturers include multiple settings to allow you to use your dehumidifier in specialized ways to suit the situation.
One of the more common extra settings included with a dehumidifier is a clothes drying setting which works at a higher rate than normal to help dry damp clothing. Other common settings allow you to either select the relative humidity you want or to go with whatever the manufacturer identifies as the “ideal” setting.
Drainage
As a dehumidifier works, all of that water has to go somewhere, but thankfully, most manufacturers proved a couple of options. The first and most commonly used method is a tank included with the dehumidifier that holds the condensed water until you are ready to dump it.
Most dehumidifiers also have a floating weight built-in to measure the height of the water and automatically shut off of the dehumidifier when it gets full. The other drainage method generally included with dehumidifiers is a ¾” hose connection, though this requires somewhere else for the water to go.
FAQ’s
What Makes a Dehumidifier Quiet?
Despite how it may seem, dehumidifiers are deceptively simple machines with few moving parts which can make reducing their volume a bit tricky. One advantage that pretty much all dehumidifiers possess is a closed chassis which helps block out some of the noise generated by the motor.
However, not all chassis are created equally as all of them require some opening to draw in the humid air with the size, number, and design of the openings all contributing to the noise that escapes. How the dehumidifier draws in air and collects the water also plays an important part with models using strong fans to pull in the air making more noise than those that rely on more passive flows.
It is also worth noting that the size of the motor also plays an important role, though this is a bit of a double-edged sword as that also determines the quality of dehumidification. Basically, the larger the motor the stronger the dehumidification but that also generates more noise, so you have to balance the two.
How to Use a Dehumidifier
This might seem a bit obvious, but humidity is not inherently a terrible thing– to a point, and knowing where that point is will ultimately determine how you should use the dehumidifier. A great example of this is how many of the options on our list come with a specific setting for drying wet or damp clothes that is not ideal for dehumidifying an entire room.
With the clothes drying mode, you need the dehumidifier positioned close to the clothing and in a confined space to get the best results as opposed to in a larger, open room. That said, even when dehumidifying an entire room you need to consider what level of humidity is not only comfortable but healthiest.
While the feeling of sticky skin and increased heat is intolerable, constant exposure to exceedingly dry air can carry with it its own issues. Granted, all of the dehumidifiers we reviewed have a maximum and minimum relative humidity gauge, but figuring out what the proper level of humidity for you is will likely take some degree of experimentation.
Other Things to Look For
Beyond the volume and the humidifier’s effectiveness, another quality to consider is the square footage of the room that can be handled. However, much like with the general performance of the dehumidifier, those models that can handle larger rooms also tend to generate more noise which needs to be balanced for the best results.
It is also worth considering that while you may get the dehumidifier for one room, there could come a time when you need to use it for an altogether separate room. Being able to easily transport the dehumidifier from room to room comes down to not only the dimensions and weight of the model but whether or not it can be rolled as well.
While not appropriate for every situation, the ability to run a dehumidifier perpetually without having to constantly check and change out a full tank can only be accomplished with a drain hose hook-up. That said, there are more instances where you likely cannot hook up a drain hose, so having a large tank that can hold plenty of water and the ability to time the dehumidifier are also excellent features to look for.
Conclusion
As we can see, the best quiet dehumidifier will heavily depend on how powerful of a dehumidifier you need given the size of the room contrasted with how quiet you want it. If you have a larger space and also want a quieter dehumidifier, the Vacplus 1901 dehumidifier is one of the few options to check both boxes.
On the other hand, if you have a larger or more humid space and can sacrifice a bit of noise, the TOSOT GDN35BB-A3EBA2A dehumidifier can handle more than any other option we found. If you need a dehumidifier that performs well at a lower price, the Airplus offers a solid option.
While the Midea MAD20C1ZWS dehumidifier may not be the quietest model we encountered, it comes with solid specs that can handle more situations than most. Finally, the Honati dehumidifier is extremely inexpensive and easily the most portable model on our list for use in any room.