Updated on
Getting a dehumidifier for the bathroom has become quite common in areas experiencing excess humidity.
Besides, bathroom dehumidifiers are excellent devices for promoting air circulation and preventing airborne bacteria, mold, and mildew. And since the primary function of a bathroom dehumidifier is to remove moisture from damp bathrooms, many wonder if it can help dry used towels.
Now, we know drying damp towels may not sound like a major dilemma, but it becomes a challenging task for those living in areas with high humidity levels. The problem becomes worse if you’re living in a small apartment with no open and airy space for drying wet towels.
That’s when a bathroom dehumidifier that won’t take up too much space can save the day by drying towels hanging in the bathroom within a few hours. Not only that, but your towels will be free from the unpleasant musty smell caused by bathroom humidity.
So, without further ado, let’s see how else can a bathroom dehumidifier help keep your bathroom dry and fresh!
What Is A Bathroom Dehumidifier And What Is Its Main Purpose?
A bathroom dehumidifier is nothing but a high-efficiency version of the good old dehumidifier you may use in any other room. The term “high-efficiency” means that the dehumidifier is small yet powerful enough to remove moisture from the bathroom and prevent excess condensation.
As such, most models for bathrooms are small dehumidifiers, and they get to work as soon as you plug them in.
Can You Use A Dehumidifier In The Bathroom?
Yes, a dehumidifier is a must-have to improve the overall air quality of your bathroom. In fact, it maintains a humidity level that is suitable for your health as well as the environment.
Plus, if your bathroom does not have any windows and you share it with multiple people, it becomes all the more important to invest in a good quality bathroom dehumidifier. With the help of a small dehumidifier, coupled with a bathroom fan, you can enjoy a fresh and clean bathroom even after a steaming hot shower.
However, you must be careful about the placement of the dehumidifier in the bathroom. Since it is an electronic device, you must ensure that it does not come in direct contact with water. So, do not keep it near the bathtub or under the shower.
Things To Keep In Mind Before Using A Bathroom Dehumidifier
1. Number Of Bathroom Users
A bathroom that is used by multiple members of the family is generally more humid than one that is used by a single person. This is because it is used more frequently, whether the users want to take a shower or relieve themselves. Regardless, the plumbing fixtures will be used, the bathroom floor will get wet, and the towels will get damp.
Hence, to prevent mildew issues and health problems among your loved ones, it is best to place a dehumidifier in the bathroom.
2. Number Of Bathroom Windows And Vents
If your bathroom lacks windows and vents, it is more prone to high humidity, which results in mold and mildew build-up. Additionally, if the bathroom does not have a ceiling fan or a vent fan, the lack of air circulation will worsen the humidity levels.
As a result, you may notice musty smells in the bathroom, and any damp clothing will not dry and instead emit the same musty odors.
In such a case, too, a bathroom dehumidifier can eliminate moisture from the air. You can even keep the bathroom door open to allow ventilation so that the clothes and towels can dry faster.
3. Location Of The Bathroom
The location of the bathroom also plays an important role in determining the bathroom humidity level. For instance, if the bathroom is located at the center of the entire house, with other rooms surrounding it, again, you will experience excess humidity and condensation.
To combat the issue, you must opt for a small-size dehumidifier in the bathroom and preferably in the surrounding rooms as well. Doing so may prevent mold growth and dry out any pools of excess water on the floor, bathroom counter, etc.
4. Cause Of Musty Odors In The Bathroom
A. Damp Towels
Towels in the bathroom are bound to be used by multiple people after showers, using the toilet, washing their faces, and more. And with high humidity levels in the bathroom, the towels may end up damp or wet for extended hours, resulting in musty smells. Not to forget, the excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
So, to safeguard the health of your loved ones and ensure the bathroom smells fresh all day, getting a high-efficiency dehumidifier is recommended.
B. Toilets
It is no surprise that toilets can smell nasty at times, and the odor is impossible to eliminate without bathroom vents, air fresheners, etc. However, if you live in a small house or apartment, it may not be possible to ensure good ventilation in the bathroom.
Things get worse if your bath and the toilet are located in the same room. This is because flushing the toilet expels bacteria-filled water droplets from the toilet bowl into the surrounding area. Needless to say, these tiny droplets contain bacteria, germs, and microbes.
Consequently, your bathroom turns into an unclean and unsafe environment for those suffering from asthma, allergies, low immunity, etc. That’s when a small bathroom dehumidifier helps dry the bathroom floor and walls and removes odor trapped in the moisture-filled air.
C. Drains
Last but not least, the drain system of your house can collect dirt and debris, thereby emitting foul odors. Now, in this case, a dehumidifier can get rid of the odor but not the root cause of the problem.
So, we recommend cleaning the drain pipes regularly or getting them inspected by a professional plumber. You could also make a quick DIY drain cleaner by mixing a quarter cup of baking soda or a cup of white vinegar with hot water. Simply pour this mixture down the drain to clear any foul-smelling blockages.
How To Prevent Problems Caused By Bathroom Dehumidifiers?
1. Electrocution
Some dehumidifiers, mostly larger units, are equipped with a power cord that needs to be plugged into a nearby electric outlet. Such models increase the risk of electrocution since the bathroom is a place that is prone to being wet. And all of us know that water and electricity together can cause fatal mishaps.
Hence, if you use a dehumidifier in the bathroom, ensure that it is placed farthest from the wettest spots. Also, make it a point to wipe the electric outlet with a dry towel every time you notice some condensation around it.
Other than that, we always recommend opting for rechargeable dehumidifiers for the bathroom. Notably, these non-electric dehumidifiers work for about 20-30 days on a single charge. So, you neither have to worry about charging it frequently nor about electrocution.
2. Disorganized Cords
Since the bathroom floors are usually wet and slippery, disorganized cords will only make the conditions more dangerous. However, placing the dehumidifier on the bathroom counter can solve the issue to a great extent. Do check that the unit is not placed too close to the edge to prevent it from dropping on the floor and getting damaged.
3. Lack Of Bathroom Space
Usually, bathrooms aren’t very spacious, making them more prone to humidity and mold growth. Consequently, adding a dehumidifier will cramp up the area even more.
Hence, we recommend opting for smaller units or mini dehumidifiers. You can place them in any corner of the bathroom and enjoy some much-needed ventilation without compromising on space.
Alternatively, you could get your hands on a dehumidifier with a hook. The appliance can be hung anywhere, making it a space-optimizing option.
Does A Dehumidifier Help Dry Towels In Bathroom Frequently Asked Questions ?
Dehumidifier vs bathroom vents - which one is better?
Dehumidifiers, bathroom vents, exhaust fans - all of these can help eliminate moisture from the air. But when it comes to a dehumidifier vs bathroom vents, it is best to invest in the former. This is because even with a bathroom vent or window, your bathroom is prone to staying humid during monsoon or winter months.
But a bathroom dehumidifier can significantly speed up the process of drying and freshening up damp bathrooms. And if your main aim is to make towels dry faster, a dehumidifier is your best bet!
For how long should you leave the bathroom dehumidifier on?
You can leave the bathroom dehumidifier running for 24 hours to do away with the hassle of repeatedly turning it on and off. However, in most cases, letting it run for 15-20 minutes after each shower will improve the air quality in the room.
Can you use a dehumidifier while taking showers?
You must have noticed how the bathroom mirror ends misty after a hot shower, and you can hardly see a thing. To avoid such cases, you can use a dehumidifier in the bathroom while taking a shower.
But keep in mind that while showering with a dehumidifier on will help prevent excess condensation, it may not lower the humidity levels effectively. This is because when you take a hot bath, the rate at which your body releases moisture is higher than the speed of the dehumidifier while drying the area.
You can, however, increase the fan speed of the bathroom dehumidifier and place it strategically to prevent mold and other repercussions of high humidity.
Does A Dehumidifier Help Dry Towels In Bathroom Final Words
So, all this time, if you’ve been thinking about whether a bathroom dehumidifier is worth it or not, we hope this guide has helped you make a wise decision!
Dehumidifiers work to keep your space dry and fresh, thereby keeping mold, mildew, and bacteria away. And by ensuring clean air within the room, you’ll also be investing in your family’s health and well-being.
However, while buying a dehumidifier, make sure you check the size of its water tank and opt for one according to the level of humidity in your bathroom.
That said, we’ll be signing off now. See you next time!
