The Dangers of Too-Dry Air

In the summer, humidity is one of our biggest complaints. It's hot, it's sticky, it makes the temperature feel 10+ degrees warmer than it actually is. Then come winter, we have the absolute opposite problem: the air is dry as can be. It makes it colder, our skin flaky and unprotected, and when it's cold enough, it downright hurts to breathe. Of course, on either end there is an easy fix for the inside of your home. And in winter that means running a humidifier or boiling a pot of water on the stove – keep one simmering slowly all day long for maximum effects. (That is, when you're close enough to keep an eye out.)

But is adding humidity really necessary? What exactly are the dangers of a house that's too dry? And why do we need a humidifier – homemade or otherwise – anyway?

When Your Home is Too Dry:

There's an abundance of static electricity. This makes sweaters and long hair annoying, whether on a human or your fur-baby rolling on the carpet. However, it can also mean giving out shocks every time you touch a light switch or anything metal. Small ones won't do much harm, but the bigger the shock, the harsher it's felt. (And more dangerous they can become.) 

Other symptoms play their toll directly on the body, like dry and itchy skin, watery or burning eyes, sinuses and throats that are irritated or in pain, which in turn, can make you more susceptible to germs and colds. Flu viruses can also live longer in low humidity, increasing your chance at being exposed. Finally, the nose can feel congested simply from being too dry. All of these symptoms can make you achy and feeling sick all on their own, whether or not you're actually sick. 

To avoid some serious health side effects, consider running your humidifier all winter long, or whenever moisture levels are low. It's an easy, affordable, and natural way to help feel your best, even through the height of cold season. 

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(Even More) Tips for Beating the Summer Sleeping Heat

Scorching temperatures are just around the corner. Depending on where you live, they might already be upon you. Which means longer, sweatier days, and even warmer and damper nights. With all of the growing humidity it can be impossible to remove all of the moisture from your home, even with a new and efficient AC unit. But instead of fighting the inevitable, why not take a few tricks that will help cool your home on its own … without jacking up the electricity bill?

Start by getting a dehumidifier. These things can do wonders, especially in upper levels of your home, where ACs have a harder time to reach. And because heat rises, there’s even higher temps lurking in those upper corners. Pick up a few dehumidifiers at the local department store and let them give your electricity bill a break. 

You should also make sure your AC unit is clean and working as efficiently as possible. Hose off any debris from the outside of your model and clear out air vents so that your cool breeze can easily flow into the house. Fans, dehumidifiers, and more should also be dusted every few weeks as well to keep air flowing as freely as possible.

Another little-thought-of tip is to keep pets off the bed. Though you can be thankful for their added heat come winter, summer will have you kicking them to the floor. It might be nice to cuddle, but just think how much extra heat their bodies are bringing to the bed. Make them a spot on the floor instead to help cool down instantly. 

Finally, remember to cool yourself off as much as possible before bed. Take a cold shower or drink a glass of ice water for a quick, yet efficient, way to drop your body temperature and get it ready for a restful night. 

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