We all experience it one way or another—winter dehydration. When furnaces kick on for the season indoors and temperatures drop outdoors, our bodies bear the brunt of the transition. Dry eyes, irritated sinuses, nose bleeds, cracking dry skin, the static shock effect: it’s all par for the course each winter, but it doesn’t have to be. All of these issues are related to the moisture (or lack of moisture) in the air. When the air dries out each winter, using a humidifier is one of our best defenses against winter dehydration. Not only does using a humidifier offer comfort from these winter annoyances, it actually can make you less susceptible to viruses, too.
Step one. Maintain your water intake this winter to avoid winter dehydration.
While much of the drying effects of the winter season come at us from the outside, it is still essential to keep yourself hydrated through adequate water intake. Of course, in the winter this may take the form of hot beverages like herbal tea rather than ice-cold water, but that’s ok! Find comfort in sipping warm drinks all winter long, just make sure you’re using fresh, clean water thanks to your water filter.
Use a humidifier to protect your winter skin.
We all know the feeling. Our skin starts to feel tight as the weather cools down and the furnace kicks on, and our lips will become chapped. The dry furnace air begins to dry out our skin, especially our hands if you pair it with frequent hand washing. Is it just the typical struggle of winter, or can something be done to counter it? A humidifier can help! Running a humidifier in your office or living room is a good way to give your skin a break from the persistent drying effects of indoor heating and bitter outdoor temperatures.
Beat winter dehydration: run a humidifier to soothe sinuses.
Winter is a difficult time for sinus issues, between the many viruses that circulate and the dry indoor-heating air. Give your sinuses a break by using a humidifier when you can. Whether you run it through the night as you sleep, or during the day at your WFH desk, the added moisture in the air will soothe your sinuses this winter. Remember to keep your humidifier working properly by cleaning it regularly and replacing the humidifier filters.
Using a humidifier makes your heated air feel warmer.
Did you know that air with a bit of humidity actually feels warmer? You’ve probably experienced this on the flip side, on a humid summer evening that just feels too hot. But in the winter, moisture in your home’s air makes it feel warmer and cozier! Maybe you have a humidifier in the attic from when your kids were younger. Give it a good cleaning, get a fresh humidifier filter, and start adding helpful and healthful moisture to the air in your home.
Reduce the static shock effect with humidified air.
Lower the chances of the dreaded winter static shock effect with a humidifier. No one likes to get zinged after walking across the carpet to turn on the light switch or touch something metal. It’s a terrible feeling! Interestingly, moisture in the air via a humidifier cuts down on this bane of winter life.
Be less susceptible to viruses this winter with a humidifier.
The humidity level in your house even plays a vital role in your overall health. Believe it or not, catching a cold or the flu could be connected to the dry air in your house. If you or someone in your household seem to catch every bug that’s out there during the winter, dry air could be a part of the issue. Having a humidifier in your house and keeping the humidifier filters replaced frequently is an inexpensive way to support everyone’s health this winter season.
Keep your humidity level in check this winter.
The recommended humidity level for indoor space is between 30% and 50%. Humidity levels higher than 50% provide an environment that is an ideal breeding ground for mold to grow as well as dust mites, bacteria, and other pests. Not what you’re going for! But, if the humidity level is below 30%, cold and flu viruses are more likely to spread along with other respiratory symptoms. Air that is too dry can also cause damage to your home’s foundations as well as wood furnishings. Also, not the goal.
With these seven steps, you can stay hydrated throughout the winter months. The benefits speak for themselves. Less sickness, more supple skin, sinuses that aren’t under assault by dry furnace air—it’s worth the effort.
