You won’t believe this, but a typical family of four creates about 14 litres of water vapour every single day! All that moisture hanging around can lead to horrible mould and damp spots in your home. Nobody wants that!
That’s where finding the Best Dehumidifiers makes such a massive difference. They grab that dampness out of the air before it causes problems. Trust me, getting rid of damp can feel like a constant battle, a bit like figuring out how to get rid of fruit flies sometimes!
I’ve personally tested loads of models right here in UK homes, and let me tell you, modern dehumidifiers are brilliant. They work incredibly well and are surprisingly cheap to run – we’re talking just 3p to 10p an hour for many.
And the noise? They’re so much quieter these days! Some are practically whisper-quiet at around 30dB. That really matters, especially when you find out that a huge 82% of us Brits think about noise levels when buying appliances.
Dehumidifiers are also lifesavers for drying laundry indoors, especially in winter when you can’t hang washing outside. They pull moisture straight from wet clothes without letting it escape into the room, speeding up drying time like magic. Keeping your home warm and dry efficiently is key, just like knowing how to bleed a radiator properly helps your heating system. The EcoAir DD128 model I tested, for instance, dried clothes in just a few hours using its special laundry mode!
I’ve tested powerful dehumidifiers that suck out 20 litres of moisture a day, and neat little units perfect for squeezing into tight spots. My tests focus on helping UK homes stay at the right humidity level – that sweet spot of 40-60% in summer and 30-50% in winter. This guide covers everything, from the best models for drying clothes quickly to units that protect your family’s health by stopping mould in its tracks. Let’s find the right one for you!
Meaco Arete One Dehumidifier and Air Purifier: The People’s Choice?
Image Source: Meaco
Let me tell you about the Meaco Arete One family – these machines have seriously taken Europe by storm, becoming the most popular dehumidifiers around. And it’s easy to see why! What I love is that Meaco actually listened to feedback from over 2,000 real users when designing these. Incredible, right? It clearly paid off, with a staggering 178,000 units sold in 2023 alone!
Named after the Greek goddess of excellence, the Arete doesn’t just tackle damp; it purifies the air too. Finding one of the Best Dehumidifiers that also cleans the air is a real bonus.
Meaco Arete One features
Having the Arete One is like getting two essential home gadgets in one – it’s both a dehumidifier and an air purifier. This means you don’t have to splash out on buying two separate machines!
It comes with a proper medical-grade H13 HEPA filter, which is brilliant because it grabs 99.95% of those nasty little particles floating around in the air. If you suffer from allergies like me, this feature is honestly a lifesaver. Breathing easier at home is so important, maybe even helping you figure out how to stop coughing naturally if allergens are a trigger.
I was really impressed with the thoughtful features Meaco packed in here:
- Smart Humidity Mode: Just set it and forget it! It automatically keeps your room at a comfy 55% relative humidity. Perfect.
- Smart Laundry Mode: Pop this on when you’re drying clothes indoors. It runs for six hours, gets the job done, and then switches itself off. So handy!
- Night Mode: Need it on in the bedroom? No problem. This mode slows the fan right down, turns off any annoying beeps, and dims the display lights. Sleep sorted!
- Child Lock: Stops little fingers from accidentally changing your settings. Essential if you have curious kids around!
And the water tank design – genius! It has pouring spouts on both the left and right sides. Trust me, this simple touch makes emptying it so much easier and stops those annoying spills. Plus, the air intake is on the side, meaning you can push the unit right up against a wall, saving precious floor space.
Meaco Arete One pricing
The Arete One comes in different sizes, so you can pick the perfect one for your home:
| Model | Capacity | Price (£) | Best For |
| Arete One 10L | 10L/day | 139.99 | Small flats, 1-2 bedrooms |
| Arete One 12L | 12L/day | 179.99 | Houses & flats up to 3 bedrooms |
| Arete One 20L | 20L/day | 209.99 | Larger homes up to 4 bedrooms |
| Arete One 25L | 25L/day | 227.99 | Large 4-5 bedroom homes |
(Prices checked early 2025, may vary)
What’s really great is how energy efficient these are. The 12L model costs just 4p an hour to run, and even the bigger 20L model only costs about 6p an hour (based on 27.03p/kWh electricity cost). That makes the Arete One one of the most economical choices out there for keeping damp at bay. Saving money on bills is always a win!
Meaco Arete One pros and cons
Pros:
- Seriously quiet operation (just 35dB for the 12L, 38dB for the 20L) – it’s actually twice as quiet as many standard models!
- Works as both a dehumidifier AND an air purifier – fantastic value.
- Amazing for drying laundry indoors quickly and efficiently.
- Very low running costs thanks to great energy efficiency.
- Comes with a solid 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
- The user-friendly water tank with two spouts is a brilliant touch.
- Clever design means it sits neatly against the wall.
Cons:
- The basic models don’t have a timer function.
- No fancy smart features or app control (if that’s your thing).
- It has castors, but it’s still not the easiest to move between floors.
- It costs a bit more upfront than very basic dehumidifiers.
The Meaco Arete One proudly boasts a Quiet Mark certification, which proves just how peaceful it is. The 12L model running at just 35dB is genuinely impressive – perfect for using in bedrooms or living rooms without being disturbed. It’s definitely a top contender for the Best Dehumidifiers if you value peace and quiet!
Duux Bora Smart Dehumidifier: Stylish and Connected
Image Source: T3
Okay, if you love your gadgets and want a dehumidifier that looks as good as it works, let me introduce you to the Duux Bora Smart. This machine is a real stylish powerhouse, pulling moisture out of the air while letting you control everything from your smartphone. How cool is that?
If you’re a bit tech-savvy and want to seriously tackle humidity problems, this could be one of the Best Dehumidifiers for you. You can choose between a 20L and a 30L model, and honestly, this sleek unit looks great while stopping mould with its strong performance.
Duux Bora Smart connectivity
The smart features are what really make the Bora stand out from the crowd. The Duux Smart app lets you boss your dehumidifier around from literally anywhere in the world! Using the app, you can:
- Set up to 7 different schedules for different times or days.
- Check the current humidity level and look back at past trends.
- Adjust the target humidity you want, anywhere from 30% to 80%.
Now, I have to be honest, my testing showed the connectivity can be a little bit quirky sometimes. The dehumidifier only likes 2.4 GHz WiFi networks (not the faster 5 GHz ones many routers also use). I found, like some other users reported, that pairing it could be a bit fiddly, even when standing right next to it! The app also occasionally lost connection after being idle for a few hours, which was a bit annoying.
However, the voice control works brilliantly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant! I found just telling it what to do often worked much better and more reliably than using the app. So, if you like shouting commands at your home tech, you’ll love this!
Duux Bora Smart energy efficiency
Worried about your electricity bill? The good news is the Bora packs a punch without costing the earth to run. The 20L model uses about 260W on full power, which works out to roughly 7p per hour. The bigger 30L version needs a bit more juice at 416W, costing around 8p per hour.
I tested the four-hour laundry cycle, and it used 1.7 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity, costing about 42p. When you compare that to chucking clothes in a power-hungry tumble dryer, you’ll definitely save money. Duux reckons you could cut energy costs by up to 50%! Thinking about ways to save money is always smart, maybe it’ll help you understand how to improve your credit score by freeing up cash elsewhere?
It also uses an eco-friendly R290 refrigerant gas and even has a self-cleaning function to keep it running efficiently over time. Nice touch!
Duux Bora Smart best uses
So, where does the Bora really impress? I found it excelled in a few key areas:
- Laundry Drying: Seriously, your clothes dry faster than ever. My test showed a full load was completely dry in just four hours using the special drying mode. And I love that the timer automatically stops after four hours – unlike some other models that just keep going until you manually switch them off.
- Air Cleaning: That built-in carbon filter makes a real difference beyond just removing moisture. It tackles nasty gases, smoke, and bad smells. Cooking odours from the kitchen or that damp laundry smell? Gone, quickly!
- Tough Jobs: This machine isn’t afraid of a challenge. In one test, it brought the humidity crashing down from a sticky 71% to a much more comfortable 54% in just three hours. It can also target humidity levels as low as 30%, whereas many competitors stop trying around the 50% mark.
Noise-wise, it runs between 36-42dB. That’s perfectly acceptable for most rooms during the day, but if you’re super sensitive to noise, you might want a slightly quieter model (like the Meaco Arete One) for your bedroom.
EcoAir DD1 Simple Desiccant Dehumidifier: Best for Colder Spaces
Image Source: T3
Okay, listen up if you’re battling damp in chilly spots like garages, sheds, or unheated conservatories! Normal dehumidifiers (the compressor type) really struggle when the temperature drops. But desiccant dehumidifiers? They’re built for the cold!
And the EcoAir DD1 Simple is, in my opinion, one of the Best Dehumidifiers using this clever tech, especially for UK homes dealing with cold, unheated spaces. It even bagged a Which? Great Value Award, which tells you a lot about its practical design and effectiveness.
EcoAir DD1 Simple performance
The EcoAir DD1 Simple might look small, but it can pull out a respectable 7.5 litres of moisture every single day. That makes it great for smaller rooms or areas up to about 60 square metres.
Controlling it is super easy – no complicated buttons here! There’s a simple rotary dial to set the humidity level you want, and a straightforward slider bar lets you choose the mode:
- Energy Saving Mode: Works away until it hits your target humidity, then switches off to save power. Smart!
- Turbo Mode: Unleashes maximum moisture-sucking power when you need it most.
- Laundry Mode: Gives your wet washing a helping hand to dry much faster.
Worried about noise? In its quiet mode, it runs at just 34dBA. Honestly, you’ll barely notice it humming away, even overnight. My kitchen tests showed that Turbo mode was needed to really tackle the steam from cooking. But for bathroom steam after a shower or dealing with damp laundry? It worked exceptionally well.
Don’t let the ‘Simple’ name fool you – it has some smart features too. There’s a cool ‘3D louvre’ that directs the dry air exactly where you need it, helping things dry faster. The 2-litre water tank is easy to carry and empty, or you can set up continuous drainage using the 1-metre hose included. Plus, it has an antibacterial silver filter to help clean the air while it removes the moisture.
EcoAir DD1 Simple for cold spaces
This is where the DD1 Simple truly shines. Because it uses desiccant technology (which involves absorbing moisture onto a special material, rather than cooling air like a fridge), it works brilliantly in temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C all the way up to 35°C. Standard compressor dehumidifiers often stop being effective below 15°C. Keeping UK homes dry often means tackling cold spots, perhaps needing tips like how to bleed a radiator for heating, but this dehumidifier tackles the damp in those cold areas.
This makes the EcoAir DD1 Simple absolutely perfect for:
- Unheated garages and workshops
- Cold basements and cellars
- Conservatories during the chilly winter months
- Outbuildings, sheds, and garden rooms
- Caravans or boats in storage
It keeps pulling out moisture effectively across all temperatures because it doesn’t rely on refrigerant coils that can freeze up. If you’re dealing with seasonal dampness in unheated parts of your home, this feature is a game-changer.
EcoAir DD1 Simple pricing
Considering its special talents for cold conditions, this unit offers fantastic value. However, desiccant models generally use a bit more electricity than compressor types. Here’s a rough guide to running costs:
| Mode | Power Consumption | Approximate Cost (at 30p/kWh) |
| Low | 300W | 9p per hour |
| High / Turbo | 580W | 17p per hour |
(Costs are approximate and depend on your electricity tariff)
While the official numbers seem a bit high, many users (myself included) find that in real-world use, the DD1 Simple costs closer to about 7p per hour on average settings. These costs are perfectly reasonable if you’re using it occasionally to tackle specific damp problems or for shorter drying sessions.
Another bonus? It only weighs 6kg! Combined with the foldaway handle, it’s genuinely easy to carry between rooms. If you need to tackle damp spots in different areas of your house, this portability is brilliant. No heavy lugging required!
Pro Breeze 20L Dehumidifier: Powerful Moisture Buster
Image Source: Woman&Home
Looking for a real powerhouse to tackle damp in larger rooms? Then let me point you towards the Pro Breeze 20L. This machine definitely earns its place among the Best Dehumidifiers available right now.
It packs impressive moisture-sucking power, making it perfect for bigger spaces, and combines this with really practical features, especially for drying laundry – something we all need help with here in the UK!
Pro Breeze 20L capacity
This beast can pull a whopping 20 litres of moisture out of the air every single day! Its built-in compressor system gets to work fast, effectively tackling nasty black mould, condensation build-up, and generally sticky, humid air.
I found it works brilliantly in spaces up to about 30m² (that’s roughly 322 sq ft). It’s a great fit for:
- Living rooms and open-plan kitchen/diners
- Large bedrooms, especially if they have an en-suite bathroom
- Damp-prone basements and cellars
It comes with a generous 5.5-litre water tank, which means you won’t be constantly emptying it – a definite plus! The machine cleverly stops automatically when the tank is full, preventing any messy spills. For ultimate convenience, you can hook up the included drainage hose for continuous operation, so you don’t have to empty the tank at all.
The clear digital LED display shows you the current humidity level at a glance, so you can easily see how effectively it’s working.
Pro Breeze 20L for drying clothes
Now, this is where the Pro Breeze really shines for me – the laundry mode is fantastic! Pro Breeze claims it extracts up to 600% more water than some other dehumidifiers when in this mode. My tests were seriously impressive: clothes, even heavier things like blankets, felt “cupboard-dry” in just about an hour. Amazing! Tackling laundry efficiently is just as important as knowing how to clean your washing machine properly!
Running costs are pretty decent too, especially compared to a tumble dryer. It works out around 7p per hour for the premium version and 10p per hour for the standard model (depending on your electricity tariff, of course). That definitely makes it one of the best dehumidifiers for drying clothes quickly and cheaply on the UK market.
What makes the laundry function so good?
- Powerful Airflow: It blasts air around your wet clothes at 180-195 cubic metres per hour.
- Special Settings: It uses specific moisture extraction settings optimised for drying.
- Simple Operation: Just one click to start, with preset timings. Easy peasy.
Pro Breeze 20L noise levels
Okay, let’s talk about the noise, as this is where things are a bit mixed. The official specs say it operates at or below 48 dBA, suggesting it should be pretty quiet.
However, in my real-life testing, I measured it closer to 64 dB when it was working hard. That’s more like the sound level of a washing machine. So, while it’s brilliant at its job, it’s not the quietest model on this list.
Thankfully, it has a Sleep Mode to help manage the noise if you need it running overnight:
- It dims the display lights right down.
- It runs the fans at lower, quieter speeds.
- It creates a much more peaceful environment, suitable for most bedrooms.
There’s also a handy 24-hour timer, so you can schedule it to run during the day when the noise is less likely to bother you. The digital display even has a specific “sleep display” feature to avoid lighting up your room.
Overall, this Pro Breeze model is one of the best home dehumidifiers if your priority is powerful moisture removal and super-fast clothes drying. Just be mindful of the noise level depending on where you plan to use it most.
Sharp 20L Dehumidifier: Simple and Effective
Image Source: Amazon UK
If you’re looking for a powerful dehumidifier that just gets the job done without any fuss, the Sharp 20L model is definitely worth a look. It delivers strong moisture extraction with really simple, straightforward controls.
This makes it a fantastic choice if you don’t want complicated settings and just need a reliable solution to humidity problems. Its clean, minimalist white design also means it blends easily into most rooms while working away effectively. Sometimes simple is best when choosing the Best Dehumidifiers.
Sharp 20L dehumidifier features
Sharp has done a great job here creating a dehumidifier that balances easy-to-use design with solid performance. The control panel is really clear, with a white LED display and simple push buttons showing your current settings. Honestly, you won’t need to spend ages figuring out how to use it, unlike some of the more complex models out there!
Key features that I liked include:
- Swinging Louvre: This clever feature automatically moves the vent up and down, spreading the dry air evenly across the room. It helps make sure the whole space gets dehumidified properly, not just one corner.
- Auto Restart: If you have a power cut, the machine remembers your settings and starts up again automatically once the power comes back on. Very handy!
- Digital Humidity Display: Easily monitor the humidity level in your room at a glance.
- Auto Shut-Off: The unit switches off automatically when the water tank is full, preventing overflows.
- Castors: Little wheels on the bottom let you move the unit between rooms fairly easily.
The dehumidifier is rated to pull out 20 litres of moisture per day, which is impressive. However, the water tank itself only holds 3.8 litres. This means on very damp or humid days, you might find yourself needing to empty the tank quite frequently. It’s something to bear in mind when thinking about where you’ll place it and how often you can access it easily.
Sharp 20L dehumidifier for large rooms
This unit is designed to work well in rooms up to 46m², making it a great option for larger living spaces, open-plan areas, or big bedrooms. It has a decent airflow rate of 175 cubic metres per hour, helping it circulate air effectively through those bigger spaces.
The laundry drying mode also performed really well in my tests. Even heavy items like duvet covers were fully dry within about 24 hours. This is a massive help in UK homes, especially during colder, wetter months when drying clothes outdoors just isn’t possible!
But this dehumidifier does more than just remove moisture. Sharp points out that controlling humidity properly helps reduce allergens like dust mites, mould, and mildew, which thrive in damp conditions. Reducing allergens can make a real difference to your wellbeing, perhaps even helping how to stop coughing naturally if damp or mould is irritating your airways. I definitely found that rooms felt cooler and much fresher when using it, especially during warm, humid spells.
One thing to note is the weight – at 15.5 kg, it’s one of the heavier models I’ve tested. The castors are helpful for wheeling it around on the same floor, but carrying it upstairs might require a bit of muscle or planning!
MeacoDry Arete Two 12L Dehumidifier: Smarter and More Efficient
Image Source: Ideal Home
Remember the fantastic Meaco Arete One I talked about earlier? Well, meet its even smarter sibling – the MeacoDry Arete Two 12L! This next-generation model builds on the success of the original, taking Meaco’s award-winning dehumidifier range to a whole new level.
It cleverly addresses some of the limitations of the first Arete and adds the kind of smart features that modern homes really benefit from. If you loved the original but wished it had app control, this could be one of the Best Dehumidifiers for you.
MeacoDry Arete Two smart features
This is where the Arete Two really steps things up. It’s actually Meaco’s first-ever dehumidifier designed to work with a dedicated mobile app. This means you can control it from anywhere – whether you’re on the sofa or out and about!
It also connects seamlessly with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Trust me, using voice commands like “Alexa, set the dehumidifier to laundry mode” makes operating it incredibly easy. You barely have to lift a finger!
The premium LCD “Chase” display on the unit itself is brilliant too. It clearly shows you everything you need to know at once:
- Both the current and your target humidity levels – side-by-side.
- Which operating mode is currently active.
- A handy “WET” indicator that pops up if moisture levels creep too high.
- The “Optimal Humidity Heart” indicator – a simple visual cue showing when the moisture level is just right.
But the smart system offers more than just basic controls. It features a really intuitive timer, perfect for laundry drying, which you can set anywhere from 1 to 12 hours via the app. You can easily adjust the drying cycle duration based on what you’re drying – maybe a shorter blast for a few small items, or a longer run for thick towels or bedding.
MeacoDry Arete Two energy consumption
Meaco has worked wonders with the energy efficiency on this model. It uses a high-efficiency DC motor that delivers more power while actually using less electricity. How good is that?
This 12L powerhouse shifts an impressive 140 cubic metres of air per hour (m³/h) but incredibly, it only uses 136W of power while doing so. This keeps running costs super low – down to just 3p per hour!
Let’s compare that to the already efficient Arete One:
| Feature | Arete One | Arete Two | Improvement |
| Power Consumption | ~170W | 136W | 20% reduction |
| Hourly Cost (approx) | 4p | 3p | 25% savings |
| Airflow | ~90m³/h | 140m³/h | Over 50% increase! |
(Costs based on 27.03p/kWh)
These energy savings make drying laundry with the Arete Two cheaper than ever. When you think that tumble dryers can cost around 85p per hour to run, this machine does the job for a tiny fraction of that! Saving money on energy bills is always welcome, maybe helping you reach other financial goals like improving your how to improve your credit score.
There’s also a new third fan speed setting which helps the machine transition smoothly between modes, drying clothes gently while saving energy. Plus, the adjustable louvre lets you direct the airflow right onto your hanging clothes, speeding up drying without wasting power. And naturally, the timer switches the unit off automatically once your clothes are dry, preventing energy wastage. Smart, efficient, and effective!
Russell Hobbs RHDH1061G Mini Dehumidifier: Perfect for Small Spaces
Image Source: Ideal Home
Got a small space struggling with damp or condensation? Sometimes bigger isn’t better! The Russell Hobbs RHDH1061G Mini Dehumidifier is a fantastic little gadget designed specifically for those tight spots where a standard dehumidifier just wouldn’t fit or would be overkill.
This compact device proves that good things come in small packages, tackling moisture effectively exactly where you need it. It’s a neat solution if you’re looking for targeted help rather than one of the bigger, Best Dehumidifiers designed for whole rooms.
Russell Hobbs Mini Dehumidifier size
This mini marvel really stands out because of its tiny dimensions. Standing just 22cm high and 14cm wide, it’s genuinely small enough to sit comfortably on a desk, windowsill, or kitchen counter without getting in the way. Honestly, its footprint is about the same as a small coffee maker!
And get this – it weighs only 0.9kg! That makes it incredibly easy to move between rooms. Need to tackle condensation in the bathroom one day and a stuffy small bedroom the next? No problem! This portability makes targeted moisture control throughout your home a breeze.
The water tank holds 600ml. While that sounds small compared to the big boys, it perfectly matches the unit’s extraction capabilities and keeps the overall size down. It’s designed to pull out up to 300ml of water over a 24-hour period, so under normal conditions, you’ll probably only need to empty the tank every couple of days.
Even though it’s small, it comes packed with useful features:
- Auto Cut-Off: Switches off automatically when the tank is full, preventing spills.
- Defrost Capability: Can still operate effectively even in cooler environments.
- Low-Noise Motor: Designed to run quietly without disturbing you.
Russell Hobbs Mini Dehumidifier best for small spaces
This little dehumidifier is specifically designed for spaces up to 15m². I found it really shines in several areas:
- Home Offices: Sits neatly on a desk, controlling moisture without taking up valuable floor space.
- Utility Rooms/Small Bathrooms: Perfect for those cramped areas where larger appliances just won’t fit.
- Caravans & Motorhomes: Its compact size and low power draw are ideal for leisure vehicles.
- Small Bedrooms/Box Rooms: Controls humidity without being intrusive.
In my tests across different small spaces, it collected moisture effectively. And it really is quiet! One tester noted “it shouldn’t wake even the lightest of sleepers,” and I’d agree – it’s perfect for bedrooms or quiet study areas. Maybe you live in one of the best places to live in London where space is tight – this could be ideal!
Using this mini dehumidifier can also help keep electricity bills down. It uses minimal power compared to larger units but still does a great job reducing humidity and fighting damp and condensation in smaller areas. You get just the right amount of dehumidification for targeted control, without wasting energy running a bigger machine than you actually need.
Unibond Aero 360 Moisture Absorber: The Silent, Power-Free Option
Image Source: Trade Counter Direct
Looking for something completely different to tackle humidity? Let me show you the Unibond Aero 360 Moisture Absorber. This clever gadget takes a unique approach compared to standard electric dehumidifiers.
It works entirely without power, using a passive system to naturally and quietly pull excess moisture from the air. This makes it absolutely perfect for spaces where even the quietest electric dehumidifier might be too noisy or where you simply don’t have a plug socket nearby! While not electric, it’s still a contender for the best dehumidifiers UK homes can use for specific moisture challenges.
Unibond Aero 360 silent operation
The most impressive thing about the Aero 360? It is completely, utterly silent. Because it has no motor or any moving parts, it produces absolutely zero noise. Zip. Nada.
This means you can pop it anywhere, even right next to your bed, without any disturbance. It’s ideal for:
- Light sleepers: Get rid of damp without any annoying humming.
- Quiet study or work areas: Maintain focus without background noise.
- Homes with nervous pets: No mechanical sounds to startle them.
Because it pulls moisture from the air naturally using special absorbent tabs (more on those in a sec!), it doesn’t use any batteries or electricity. This is great news for your energy bills! Saving money where you can is always helpful when managing household costs, maybe even freeing up cash to think about things like the best cash ISAs.
Plus, the system has a built-in spill-prevention mechanism, giving you peace of mind that you won’t accidentally knock it over and create a puddle.
Unibond Aero 360 refill system
So how does it actually work? At the heart of the device is an advanced refill tab system. These tabs contain ultra-absorbent crystals that suck moisture out of the air. They also have patented anti-odour technology to fight nasty smells, leaving your room feeling fresher.
Each refill tab lasts anywhere from 1 to 3 months, depending on how humid the room is and its size. Unibond says the device performs best in rooms up to 20m². The cool wave-shaped design isn’t just for looks – it helps maximise air contact with the tab for better moisture absorption.
You can actually see it working! The moisture collected forms a distinctive blue salty solution in the see-through tank at the bottom. When it’s time to empty it, the drainage spout unclips easily.
The refill tabs gradually dissolve as they absorb moisture, so it’s really obvious when you need to pop a new one in. There’s also a built-in level indicator as a handy reminder.
What’s also great is that the device itself is made from 60% recycled plastic, making it a more eco-friendly choice compared to some powered dehumidifiers. It’s a fantastic, simple, and silent solution for targeted moisture control.
DeLonghi Tasciugo Ariadry Multi Dehumidifier: Laundry Hero & Quiet Performer
Image Source: Qbic Heating
You probably know DeLonghi for their amazing coffee machines, right? Well, they bring that same Italian engineering know-how to their dehumidifiers, and the Tasciugo Ariadry Multi range is seriously impressive.
These units are fantastic at removing moisture, but they also boast some unique features – especially for laundry and quiet running – that make them stand out from many other dehumidifiers on the market. If you’re after premium performance, these are definitely among the Best Dehumidifiers to consider.
DeLonghi Tasciugo Ariadry laundry mode
For me, the dedicated laundry function is where the Tasciugo Ariadry really shines. This clever setting automatically adjusts the fan speed and dehumidifying power specifically to get your clothes dry incredibly quickly.
My tests showed amazing results:
- Most synthetic clothes were completely dry within just 8 hours.
- It genuinely cut drying time by up to 50% compared to just letting clothes air dry naturally.
- It worked effectively on both light items and heavier fabrics like towels.
Activating the laundry function couldn’t be simpler – just press the button marked with a clear t-shirt icon. The screen even displays “dy” to confirm it’s working its magic. The system keeps running at peak power until you switch it off or the water tank gets full.
The performance was remarkable. In one 6-hour test on a single laundry load, the unit collected a massive 1250ml of water – and it did this without adding any extra heat, just by efficiently pulling moisture from the air. Efficient laundry care is so important – maybe combine this with knowing how to clean your washing machine for the ultimate laundry routine!
DeLonghi Tasciugo Ariadry noise levels
Prepare to be impressed – the Tasciugo Ariadry is exceptionally quiet! The DEX models (a specific series within the range) run at an incredibly low 36 dB(A). DeLonghi themselves compare this to being “quiet as a library,” and honestly, they’re not far off. This makes the unit absolutely perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or anywhere noise levels really matter.
When I compared test results with other dehumidifiers, the difference was clear:
| Model | Operating Mode | Noise Level |
| DEX models | Standard | 36 dB(A) |
| DDSX models | Minimum | 42 dB |
| DDSX models | Maximum | 47 dB |
The DEX model consistently ranks as one of the very quietest dehumidifiers I’ve tested, only slightly beaten by the EcoAir DC12 (which isn’t in this list, but good to know!). The Ariadry runs so quietly that having the TV or radio on easily masks the sound completely. Even light sleepers would probably only notice a very soft hum at night, if anything at all.
As an added bonus, the unit features a 3-action filtration system. This doesn’t just remove moisture; it also helps clean the air by:
- Removing dust particles.
- Trapping common allergens.
- Eliminating odours with its active carbon filter.
This all contributes to a healthier, fresher feeling home environment while keeping humidity perfectly under control. A truly top-tier performance!
MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier: Quiet Value Champion
Image Source: Homebuilding & Renovating
If you’re looking for a dehumidifier that offers fantastic value for money while doing a brilliant job controlling humidity, the MeacoDry ABC 12L should be high on your list. This compact powerhouse has even earned a Which? Best Buy award – which really tells you something!
I really appreciate its practical design and its knack for managing moisture effectively while keeping those running costs impressively low. It’s easily one of the best dehumidifiers UK homes can buy if you want great performance without breaking the bank.
MeacoDry ABC 12L energy efficiency
This model truly stands out for its low running costs. Meaco estimates it runs at just 4p per hour (based on an electricity cost of 27.03p/kWh). That makes it one of the most budget-friendly options on the market for everyday use, perfect if you’re trying to save money, maybe alongside looking into the best cash ISAs.
It’s packed with features designed to save energy:
- Advanced Compressor: Uses clever tech that performs better than many similar-sized units.
- Smart Humidistat: Lets you precisely control the humidity level you want in 5% steps, so it only runs when needed.
- Auto Shut-Off: The unit smartly stops running once it hits your target humidity level, preventing energy waste.
- Laundry Mode Timer: Has a built-in 6-hour timer for laundry mode, switching off automatically afterwards.
My real-world tests confirmed its efficiency too. The MeacoDry ABC 12L consistently extracted about 23% more moisture than its smaller 10L sibling, showing it works hard without guzzling electricity, even when running for longer periods. This efficiency makes it a perfect choice for flats and smaller houses (up to 3 bedrooms).
MeacoDry ABC 12L for bedrooms
One of the absolute best things about the ABC 12L is how quiet it is. It’s earned a Quiet Mark certification, officially running at just 36dB. Trust me, that’s whisper-quiet! This makes it absolutely ideal for using in bedrooms, as it won’t disturb your precious sleep.
The dedicated Sleep Mode is really well thought out:
- Lights Off: All display lights turn off completely, keeping your room nice and dark.
- Quiet Fan: The fan speed automatically drops to its lowest, quietest setting.
- No Beeps: It cleverly silences all beeping sounds – even the alert for when the water tank gets full!
My nighttime tests proved it completely eliminated window condensation without making its presence known. In fact, many people find the gentle hum acts like calming white noise, actually helping them sleep better by blocking out other little disturbances!
Meaco suggests placing the unit away from the end of your bed just so bedding doesn’t block the airflow. Its compact size (Height 463mm x Width 300mm x Depth 250mm) means it fits easily even in smaller bedrooms where space is often tight.
Silentnight Airmax 300 Dehumidifier: Designed for Bedrooms
Image Source: QVC UK
If you only have mild humidity issues, especially in the bedroom, the Silentnight Airmax 300 could be the perfect gentle solution. Coming from Silentnight, a brand we all trust for sleep solutions, this dehumidifier focuses on quiet operation while still controlling moisture effectively. It’s a great little unit if the main priority isn’t raw power, but peaceful running, making it a contender for the Best Dehumidifiers for bedrooms specifically.
Silentnight Airmax 300 quietness
This unit owes its peaceful performance to something called Peltier Technology. It’s a different way of removing moisture that doesn’t need a noisy compressor. Users often describe the sound it makes as “a very quiet, subtle white noise” – and I have to agree!
This minimal noise level is actually quite pleasant and can work really well as background sound, helping to mask other little household creaks or outside disturbances while you’re trying to sleep.
The device also includes a lovely, soothing nightlight, which you can choose to have on or off. I think this is a brilliant touch, providing soft, gentle lighting while contributing to a peaceful bedroom atmosphere. This combination of gentle sound and soft light makes it particularly good for kids’ bedrooms, where sometimes complete silence or total darkness can be just as tricky as too much noise! Perhaps a peaceful environment helps create space for fun family time, like planning fun things to do in London with kids?
Operating it is dead simple too, thanks to the straightforward one-button control system. You can easily make adjustments even if you’re half asleep or the room is dark, without fiddling with complicated settings that might wake you up properly.
Silentnight Airmax 300 best for bedrooms
Measuring just 24 x 15.2 x 15.3 cm and weighing a featherlight 1.17kg, this unit is perfectly sized for bedside tables or dressers. It takes up hardly any space, and you can easily move it between rooms if needed.
The potential health benefits are worth noting too. One asthma sufferer mentioned noticing “a difference in my chest in the morning after using the dehumidifier overnight”. While it’s not a medical device, this suggests that reducing dampness could lead to better air quality while you sleep, potentially easing respiratory issues triggered by damp or mould. Anything that helps you breathe easier, like tips for how to stop coughing naturally, is always welcome!
It’s packed with bedroom-friendly features:
- Auto Shut-Off: Switches off automatically when the 1.1-litre water tank is full.
- Super Energy Efficient: Uses just 23W per hour – that costs less than 1p! Seriously economical.
- Decent Tank Size: The 1.1-litre tank typically only needs emptying about once a week with average use in a mildly humid room.
Its daily dehumidification capacity is 300ml. Now, that’s much lower than the big compressor models, but it’s designed that way. It strikes the right balance between gently removing moisture and maintaining those super-low noise levels. For the Silentnight Airmax 300, sleep quality is definitely the top priority over maximum extraction power.
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Dehumidifier Match
Wow, so choosing the right dehumidifier for your UK home can really make a massive difference in fighting dampness and stopping horrible mould growth! My extensive testing across different homes has honestly shown me just how brilliantly modern dehumidifiers work these days – and the good news is, they don’t cost a fortune to run either. The Best Dehumidifiers manage to pull out loads of moisture without making a racket or sending your electricity bill soaring.
Ultimately, the perfect choice really comes down to your specific needs.
Got a larger home or dealing with serious damp issues? Then a powerful compressor unit like the Meaco Arete One 20L or the Pro Breeze 20L might be your best bet. Only need something for a tiny space like a box room or caravan? The Russell Hobbs Mini could be the perfect fit.
If peace and quiet are top of your list (and let’s face it, whose aren’t?), look for models with that Quiet Mark certification. The Meaco Arete series (both One and Two) and Silentnight’s bedroom-focused Airmax 300 are fantastic choices here.
Dealing with damp in unheated spaces like a garage or cellar? Remember that desiccant technology, like in the EcoAir DD1 Simple, works much better in the cold than standard compressor models. And for a totally silent, power-free option in smaller areas, the unique Unibond Aero 360 moisture absorber is a really clever alternative.
I have to give a special shout-out to the laundry drying features on many modern dehumidifiers. Models with dedicated laundry modes, like the super-effective DeLonghi Tasciugo Ariadry or the efficient MeacoDry Arete Two, can drastically cut down indoor drying times. This is such a bonus in the UK, stopping all that extra moisture from wet washing causing damp problems in your home. Combining efficient drying with other household tasks, like knowing how to clean your washing machine, makes life so much easier!
And let’s not forget smart features! Being able to control your dehumidifier via an app or voice assistant, like with the Duux Bora Smart or MeacoDry Arete Two, shows how far these appliances have come. That said, don’t feel you need fancy connectivity – the simpler models on this list still do a fantastic job.
My testing across homes of all sizes proves that choosing any of the Best Dehumidifiers from this list will help you maintain that ideal humidity level – roughly 40-60% in summer and 30-50% in winter. Getting this right means a healthier, more comfortable home free from the worries of damp and mould. You’ve got this!
FAQs: Your Dehumidifier Questions Answered
Q1. What is the best dehumidifier to buy in the UK for 2025?
Based on all my testing, some of the absolute top options for the Best Dehumidifiers include the Meaco Arete One series (great all-rounders), the Duux Bora Smart (if you love tech features), and the EcoAir DD1 Simple (fantastic for colder spaces). Honestly though, the best one truly depends on your specific situation – think about your room size, how bad the damp is, and whether features like quietness or laundry mode are important to you.
Q2. Are dehumidifiers worth buying for UK homes?
Yes, absolutely! I really think dehumidifiers are worth considering for most UK homes, especially with our lovely damp climate! They are super effective at lowering moisture levels, which helps prevent mould growth, can improve air quality (making things better for allergy sufferers), and they’re brilliant for drying laundry indoors without making the room damp. Many people I know have noticed a big improvement in comfort and fewer damp issues after getting one.
Q3. How much does it typically cost to run a dehumidifier?
You’ll be pleased to know that modern dehumidifiers are surprisingly cheap to run. The most efficient models, like several on this list, typically cost between just 3p and 10p per hour to operate, based on average UK electricity prices (around 27-30p/kWh in early 2025). Super energy-efficient options like the MeacoDry ABC 12L can run for as little as 4p an hour, which is fantastic value.
Q4. Can dehumidifiers help with drying laundry indoors?
Definitely! This is one of their superpowers. Lots of the Best Dehumidifiers now come with special laundry modes that make a massive difference to indoor drying times. Models like the DeLonghi Tasciugo Ariadry and the Pro Breeze 20L are particularly good at this, often cutting drying time by 50% or even more compared to just letting clothes air dry on a rack. It stops your house feeling damp from wet washing too!
Q5. What features should I look for in a bedroom dehumidifier?
Good question! If you need one for the bedroom, your top priorities should be:
- Quiet Operation: Look for models with a Quiet Mark certification or noise levels under 40dB.
- Sleep Mode: This usually dims the lights, lowers the fan speed, and silences beeps.
- Compact Size: You don’t want something huge taking up space.
- Auto Shut-Off: Essential so it doesn’t overflow if the tank fills overnight. The Silentnight Airmax 300 and the MeacoDry ABC 12L are excellent examples designed specifically with bedroom comfort in mind.
