Meaco MeacoDry ABC 10L
A practical dehumidifier (10 litres/day) for keeping humidity down and preventing mould and condensation.
Dehumidifier vs Humidifier: What's the Difference?
The names are almost identical but they do opposite jobs, and choosing the wrong one makes the problem worse. Here's a clear explanation of the difference and when to use each.
Quick answer
A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air (for damp, condensation and mould); a humidifier adds moisture to the air (for dry air, dry skin and coughs in winter). If your windows stream with condensation, you want a dehumidifier. If the air feels dry and your throat and skin suffer, you want a humidifier.
When to use a dehumidifier
Use a dehumidifier when there's too much moisture: condensation on windows, damp patches, a musty smell, mould, or when drying laundry indoors. UK homes, especially in winter and in bathrooms and bedrooms, tend to have excess humidity, so this is the more common need here.
When to use a humidifier
Use a humidifier when the air is too dry - often in heated rooms in winter, which can cause dry skin, chapped lips, a dry throat, static and cracking in wooden furniture. A humidifier adds a fine mist of moisture to bring humidity back to a comfortable level.
Can you need both?
At different times, yes - some homes are damp in winter but dry when the heating runs hard, or vary room by room. The comfort target is roughly 40-60% relative humidity; a cheap hygrometer tells you which way you need to go. Don't run both at once in the same room.
Our top picks
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Meaco MeacoDry ABC Range 12L
A practical dehumidifier (12 litres/day) for keeping humidity down and preventing mould and condensation.
#3 
Meaco MeacoDry ABC
A practical dehumidifier (compressor) for keeping humidity down and preventing mould and condensation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a dehumidifier or humidifier for damp?
A dehumidifier. Damp, condensation and mould are caused by too much moisture, which a dehumidifier removes. A humidifier would make damp worse.
Which is better for a cough or cold?
It depends on the air. A humidifier eases a dry cough and dry airways caused by dry, heated air. If the room is damp, a dehumidifier and better ventilation help more.
What humidity should a room be?
Around 40-60% relative humidity is comfortable and healthy. Below that feels dry (use a humidifier); above it risks damp and mould (use a dehumidifier).
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Meaco MeacoDry ABC 10L (our score 9.6/10) - A practical dehumidifier (10 litres/day) for keeping humidity down and preventing mould and condensation..