Updated November 2, 2026 · By Diego Gómez
What humidity should your house be in winter?
Dry skin, static shocks and a scratchy throat, or water on the windows? The indoor humidity range to aim for in winter and how to get there.
Cold outdoor air holds little moisture. Once it's heated indoors its relative humidity drops, which is why so many homes feel dry from December to February.
The range to aim for
The EPA recommends keeping indoor relative humidity below 60%, ideally between 30% and 50%. In very cold weather, stay toward the lower end so moisture doesn't condense on cold windows and walls.
How to get there
- Measure it with an inexpensive hygrometer.
- Below 30%? A humidifier with a built-in humidity sensor, set to about 35–40%.
- Fog or frost on the windows? Humidity is too high for the outdoor temperature: turn the humidifier down and run bathroom and kitchen fans.
- Musty basement? That's the opposite problem: see damp basements and mold.
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FAQs
Should I run a humidifier all winter?
Only if your home stays below about 30%. Choose one with a humidity sensor, clean it as the manual says, and turn it down if windows start to fog.
Can a humidifier cause mold?
Yes, if you run it too high for too long. The EPA advises keeping humidity below 60%; around 35–40% is comfortable in winter without feeding mold.