Humidifier Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Heated Humidifier, Passover Humidifier, Bubble Humidifier), By End-use (Hospitals, Outpatient Facilities, Homecare), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Humidifier Market Size & Trends

The global humidifier market size was estimated at USD 4.43 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.73% from 2024 to 2030. Increasing awareness about the health benefits of maintaining optimal humidity levels, such as reducing the incidence of respiratory issues, virus infection, dry skin, and sinus problems, is driving demand for humidifier. This is particularly evident in regions with dry and arid climates or significant seasonal variations, where dry indoor air is a common issue. The increasing incidence of respiratory diseases such as asthma and allergies has led to a greater emphasis on maintaining optimal humidity levels, thereby driving the market for humidifier. According to the American Lung Association, Asthma affects around 24.8 million population in the U.S., including over 5.5 million children, causing millions of emergency department visits and tens of billions in healthcare costs annually.

 The humidity level in the air can affect the survival and transmission of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. When the air is too dry, some pathogens can remain viable for longer periods, making it easier for them to spread. Maintaining humidity within the recommended range, typically between 40% and 60%, reduces the viability and transmission of infectious agents. This is because, in air with relative humidity (RH) above 40%, airborne viruses within droplets become less stable and are more likely to deactivate quickly, making them less infectious. Thus, the ability of humidifier to play a vital role in infection control in hospitals by helping to maintain the appropriate levels of humidity in healthcare environments drives the overall market growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the humidifier market, affecting both demand and supply dynamics. As awareness of the importance of indoor air quality and optimal humidity levels for respiratory health grew, demand for humidifier surged across various settings, including homes, healthcare facilities, and offices. This heightened demand accelerated the adoption of humidification systems, driving market growth as consumers sought solutions to enhance indoor air quality and create healthier environments.

Initially, the pandemic disrupted the market due to supply chain interruptions and increased manufacturing costs. However, manufacturers swiftly adapted by focusing on innovation and efficiency, which facilitated market recovery and growth. Advances in humidification technology have resulted in more efficient and user-friendly humidifier. Modern, easy-to-maintain systems are being increasingly adopted in healthcare facilities, contributing to improved patient care.

Market players are enhancing their product portfolios to gain a competitive edge by tailoring products to meet evolving consumer demands. Significant investments are being made in developing new humidifier with advanced technology. For example, in March 2023, Levoit Company launched the Levoit OasisMist 1000S humidifier, the first-ever smart tower humidifier, reflecting the trend towards innovative and sophisticated humidification solutions.

The high cost of humidifier and health issues from poor maintenance or technical problems are the two notable factors which are restraining the market growth. Inadequate maintenance can lead to the accumulation of dirt in filters and water, promoting the growth of bacteria and mold. This poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals with asthma and allergies, and can also affect healthy individuals, causing flu-like symptoms or lung illnesses. In addition, technical problems can exacerbate these health risks. For instance, in July 2023, Research Products Corporation recalled several steam humidifier models due to potential fire hazards. These models featured an electrode wire with a D-shaped connector that was prone to loosening and overheating. By June 2023, there had been 103 reports of overheating, including 10 incidents that resulted in smoke or residential fires, causing damages exceeding USD 10 million.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The market is experiencing medium growth, driven by accelerating market demand. Key factors include increasing product innovation by market players, a growing geriatric population, a rising prevalence of respiratory diseases and technological advancements.

The market is characterized by high innovation, with companies developing advanced products to expand their offerings and stay competitive. Innovations in humidifier technology, including the development of smart humidifier that can be controlled via mobile apps, improved energy efficiency, and quieter operation, are attracting consumers. For instance, in September 2023, Dreo introduced the Dreo humidifier Series, featuring three models with proprietary Mistwave technology. These humidifier offer real-time, 24-hour, and 30-day humidity reports, allowing users to control their home's humidity. They also emit 2.4MHz ultrasonic waves for high-frequency water atomization, reducing mold growth risk. The humidifier can be set up to 10 schedules and remain functional without an internet connection.

The market players are using various strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, collaborations, new software developments, and geographical expansion, which has significantly contributed to the level of M&A activities in the market. For instance, in June 2021, Teleflex Incorporated completed the divestiture of its respiratory business to Medline Industries, Inc. The transaction, valued at USD 286 million in cash, took into account a reduction of USD 12 million related to working capital that would not be transferred to Medline. Teleflex's divested respiratory product lines encompass Hudson RCI offerings for oxygen & active humidification, noninvasive ventilation, aerosol therapy, and incentive spirometers.

Regulations significantly impact the market. Health organizations and regulatory bodies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), set standards for indoor air quality and safety, driving the demand for compliant humidifier. In June 2022, the U.S. EPA launched a revised guidelines for the use and care of home humidifier on their website. According to the CFR-Code of Federal Regulation, therapeutic humidifier for home use are classified as Class I (general controls) and are exempt from premarket notification procedures subject to the limitations in § 868.9. Maintaining indoor relative humidity within the range of 30% to 60% is suggested by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to promote health and ensure comfort.

The threat of substitution in the market is expected to remain low over the forecast period. humidifier play a crucial role in healthcare settings, such as clinics and hospitals, as well as in homes, by maintaining optimal humidity levels that support the health of patients and medical professionals. While medications for conditions like COPD can offer external relief and serve as partial substitutes for therapeutic respiratory devices, the range of effective alternatives remains limited. Vaporizers, or steam humidifier, offer another method by boiling water to release steam, and houseplants like peace lilies and ferns can naturally enhance humidity through transpiration. Despite these options, the comprehensive benefits provided by humidifier in managing indoor air quality and supporting respiratory health are not easily matched by substitutes.

The market exhibits regional concentration, with significant demand and growth observed in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. North America leads the market, driven by high awareness of indoor air quality, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and a robust consumer base. Europe follows closely, with stringent regulations on indoor air standards and a growing emphasis on respiratory health driving the adoption of humidifier. In the Asia-Pacific region, rapid urbanization, increasing pollution levels, and rising health consciousness are fueling market expansion. In addition, the presence of key manufacturers and technological advancements in these regions further contribute to their dominant positions in the global humidifier market.

Case Study Insights

Dr. Jennifer Reiman, Ph.D., from the Mayo Clinic, conducted a study monitoring the presence of influenza virus particles in the air and on surfaces within four nursery school classrooms. Among these classrooms, two were equipped with humidifier while the other two were not.

Outcome & Results

• The research highlighted a significant reduction of over one-third in the concentration of influenza virus particles in the air of classrooms equipped with humidifier compared to those without.

• When considering both air and surfaces, there was an approximate 25% decrease in the presence of the virus in the humidified classrooms.

• Among the samples that tested positive for the flu virus, only 17% in the humidified classrooms were identified as capable of causing an infection, contrasting with 48% in the non-humidified classrooms.

Product Insights

Based on product, the heated humidifier segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of over 30.0% in 2023. Technological advancements have led to more efficient and user-friendly devices that enhance patient comfort and compliance. The development of smart humidifier with adaptive algorithms ensures optimal humidity levels tailored to individual needs, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes. For instance, in November 2019, Transcend Information, Inc. launched the Transcend 365 miniCPAP, a compact CPAP device with an integrated heated humidifier that operates on a small, travel-friendly battery. This device features the patented Capillary Force Vaporizer (CFV) Technology, which offers a more efficient alternative to traditional pass-over humidifier. Unlike conventional models that heat water in a reservoir, the Transcend 365 instantly vaporizes water with an internal element, delivering humidified air during inhalation and conserving water and power by "resting" during exhalation. This approach ensures immediate humidification from the first breath and prevents "rainout," or condensation buildup in the mask and hose.

“This technology is unlike anything seen in CPAPs before. It will be a game changer for sleep apnea patients with active lives and who have been unable to rely on their CPAP and humidifier in travel situations when mains power is not available or during power outages. The small size, complete feature set, and compatibility with any CPAP mask and hose makes the Transcend 365 a great option for both use at home and when traveling.”

- Clarence Johnson, Somnetics CEO

The increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions such as sleep apnea, coupled with a growing awareness of the benefits of humidification in CPAP therapy, has spurred demand. The trend toward portable and travel-friendly humidifier caters to the modern, mobile lifestyle, further expanding the market. Moreover, heightened healthcare spending and the rise in home healthcare services are contributing to the adoption of advanced humidifier technologies. Such factors collectively drive the expansion of the heated humidifier segment.

The adiabatic segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Adiabatic humidification methods, including high-pressure atomizing, air/water atomizing, ultrasonic, and wetted media evaporative systems, offer efficient moisture addition. Among these, ultrasonic humidifier have gained significant popularity due to their effectiveness in enhancing home wellness. Recent technological advancements have further bolstered this segment, leading to the development of ultrasonic humidifier with enhanced features.

Innovations such as smart home integration, mobile app control, and sensors that automatically monitor and adjust humidity levels have made these devices more user-friendly and efficient. In addition, the incorporation of antimicrobial technology to prevent bacterial growth and the production of finer water particles for improved respiratory health are notable advancements. These features not only enhance the health benefits of ultrasonic humidifier but also make them more attractive to health-conscious consumers. The combination of efficiency, technological sophistication, and health benefits is expected to drive the robust growth of the adiabatic humidifier segment, positioning it as a leading choice for consumers seeking advanced humidification solutions.Bottom of Form

End-use Insights

Based on end-use, the hospitals segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2023. Factors such as increasing awareness of the benefits of humidification in patient care and the adoption of advanced humidifier technologies are driving the segment. Hospitals are increasingly recognizing the importance of maintaining optimal humidity levels to improve patient comfort, prevent complications such as dry skin and respiratory issues, and support faster recovery times.

The integration of sophisticated humidifier technologies allows for efficient and precise humidification. Moreover, the growing prevalence of respiratory conditions and the need for supportive care in hospital environments further propel the demand for high-quality humidifier. As a result, the hospital segment is expected to experience robust growth, contributing significantly to the overall expansion of the humidifier market.

The outpatient facilities segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The demand for outpatient facilities, including ambulatory surgical centers, clinics, and diagnostic centers, is increasing due to rising expenditure, healthcare accessibility, and a focus on preventive care. Moreover, the growing prevalence of respiratory conditions and the emphasis on infection control further fuel the demand for high-performance humidifier in these settings. In addition, the shift toward outpatient care due to its cost-effectiveness and convenience is propelling the need for reliable humidification solutions to maintain air quality and prevent complications associated with dry air. These factors collectively contribute to the expansion of the humidifier market within the outpatient facilities segment.

Regional Insights

North America dominated the humidifier market with a 45.1% revenue share in 2023, driven by several key factors. Heightened awareness of indoor air quality and a rising incidence of respiratory diseases have significantly contributed to market growth. In addition, the region's expanding aging demographic has amplified the demand for humidification solutions to support respiratory health. Concurrently, the American Lung Association's establishment of its Research Institute, with a commitment to increase annual lung disease research funding to USD 25 million, underscores this focus. Their efforts to protect public health from air pollution include advocating for the Clean Air Act and urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ensure universal access to safe and healthy air. These initiatives highlight the region's inclination towards cutting-edge technology, reflected in the growing adoption of smart home devices and the integration of humidifier into HVAC systems, further propelling market expansion in North America.

U.S. Humidifier Market Trends

The humidifier market in the U.S. held the largest market share of the North America region. The growth is propelled by the country's robust healthcare infrastructure, stringent regulatory standards, and a high prevalence of respiratory conditions. According to the article published by the American Lung Association in April 2024, Over 34 million U.S. residents suffer from chronic lung diseases such as COPD and asthma.

Europe Humidifier Market Trends

The humidifier market of Europe is the second largest market worldwide, driven by factors such as cold weather conditions, stringent regulations, and a growing emphasis on health and wellness. The European Environment Agency's recent air quality health assessment, released in November 2023, indicated that meeting WHO guidelines for fine particulate matter concentrations could have prevented 253,000 deaths in the Europe. Updated estimates reveal that air pollution exposure can exacerbate conditions like asthma and lung cancer. The country's robust healthcare infrastructure and the implementation of energy efficiency standards for appliances and the rising adoption of hybrid humidification systems demonstrate the region's commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. For instance, in 2023, CAREL implemented adiabatic humidification systems at the newly established Paideia International Hospital, a private hospital in Italy.

The UK Humidifier market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Factors such as variable climate, combined with concerns about indoor air quality, contributes to the demand for humidifier. In addition, the emphasis on home wellness and comfort drives consumer interest in humidification solutions, particularly during colder seasons.

The humidifier market of Germany held the largest market share in 2023. This can be attributed to factors such as the country's strong emphasis on environmental regulations and sustainability, as well as its high standards of living. The demand for humidifier in Germany is also driven by concerns about respiratory health, particularly among the aging population. The German Centers for Health Research reports that one person dies every four minutes due to lung or respiratory diseases in Germany. Technological advancements and the presence of innovation contribute to manufacturing industries further market growth.

Asia Pacific Humidifier Market Trends

The humidifier market in Asia Pacific is expected to grow significantly over the coming years. Rapid urbanization and industrialization in countries like China and India have led to increased pollution levels, exacerbating respiratory problems and driving demand for air quality improvement solutions such as humidifier. Moreover, the growing awareness of the health benefits of maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels, especially in combating respiratory ailments and enhancing comfort, further fuels this demand. Advancements in technology and the availability of innovative humidifier models tailored to the needs of the Asia Pacific market, along with the increasing prevalence of smart home trends, contribute to the robust growth prospects in this segment.

The China humidifier market held the largest market share in 2023. This can be attributed to the factors such as severe air pollution, a growing middle class with increased purchasing power, and rising awareness of the importance of indoor air quality. According to a survey report published by Advances in Social Science, Education and Humanities Research (ASSEHR) in 2019, indicates a notable contrast in demand for household humidifier between northern and southern regions of China. While 72.92% of consumers in the north expressed interest in humidifier, only 25% of those in the south demonstrated demand for such products. The demand for humidifier in China is also driven by concerns about respiratory health, particularly in urban areas with high pollution levels.

The humidifier market in Japan projected to grow significantly over the forecast period. There is a rising awareness and prioritization of indoor air quality and health among Japanese consumers. As more people become conscious of the benefits of humidified air in alleviating respiratory discomfort, preventing dryness-related issues, and enhancing overall well-being, the demand for humidifier is expected to rise. Manufacturers are introducing smart and connected humidifier that offer features such as adjustable humidity levels, automated operation based on room conditions, and integration with smart home systems. These innovations appeal to tech-savvy consumers and contribute to the growing adoption of humidifier across households and hospitals in Japan.

Key Humidifier Company Insights

Market players such as Condair Group, Teleflex Incorporated, Medtronic, CAREL and TruSens are utilizing various strategies such as product launches, expansions, and acquisitions to enhance their market presence and remain competitive. For instance, in August 2022, TruSens launched a new series of high-performance Humidifier, which includes two models - N-300 and N-200. These models feature an improved and long-lasting water softening & demineralizing filter, resulting in reduced mineral accumulation and white dust formation. Both models come equipped with TruSens' exclusive SensorPod technology, which acts as a remote control & humidity monitor.

“Since launching in 2019, TruSens has rapidly attracted a loyal following based on our award-winning design, performance and simplicity. The new line of TruSens Humidifier continues our pursuit of better air and is ideal for those seeking an exceptional humidifier with advanced features, long-lasting performance and a cleaner mist.”

- Amy Dixon, Senior Director, Marketing

Recent Developments

• In April 2024, Condair announced that Konvekta, an energy recovery specialist, is utilizing the Condair ME evaporative humidifier as a standard adiabatic cooling solution in its exhaust air cooling systems. The company aims to achieve up to 92% annual energy recovery for its clients' buildings.

• In February 2024, Canopy, a beauty and wellness brand, launched its Canopy Portable humidifier, a dermatologist-approved hybrid cool mist humidifier. The humidifier's 500-milliliter tank can run for up to 24 hours without needing a refill. It has three adjustable settings, and Canopy's proprietary dry-out mode technology prevents mold growth by keeping air flowing until there's no water left, ensuring hydration.

• In September 2023, Smartmi introduced its High-Capacity Evaporative humidifier 3, designed to improve air quality and convenience. This product offers mist-free natural humidification, a 350ml/h humidity output, and a large 5L tank. It features smart controls and ultra-quiet operation, making it ideal for individuals with respiratory issues, the elderly, infants, vocal performers, and those in homes with dry climates and forced air heating.

• In October 2022, Medtronic separated its Patient Monitoring and Respiratory Interventions businesses into a new entity, NewCo. This strategic move aimed to enhance value for Medtronic and its shareholders by allowing the company to concentrate on long-term strategies for innovation-driven growth. The separation was expected to optimize focus and capital allocation, positioning NewCo to unlock its value.

• In March 2022, Hamilton Medical announced the production of a HAMILTON-H900 humidifier at its facility in Reno, Nevada, catering to the U.S. market. The facility would expand its manufacturing capabilities to include heated breathing circuit sets and chambers. This strategic initiative was expected to enhance efficiency in delivering products to customers in the U.S.

• In June 2021, Teleflex Incorporated completed the divestiture of its respiratory business to Medline Industries, Inc. The transaction, valued at USD 286 million in cash, considered a reduction of USD 12 million related to working capital that would not be transferred to Medline. Teleflex's divested respiratory product lines encompass Hudson RCI offerings for oxygen & active humidification, noninvasive ventilation, aerosol therapy, and incentive spirometers.

Humidifier Market Report Scope

Global Humidifier Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global humidifier market report based on product, end-use, and region.

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Heated Humidifier

    • Integrated or Built in

    • Standalone

  • Adiabatic (High-pressure & ultrasonic)

  • Bubble Humidifier

  • Passover Humidifier

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospitals

  • Outpatient Facilities

  • Home Care

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • Thailand

    • South Korea

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Mexico

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait