It’s every parent’s worry: your child wakes up coughing, struggling with congestion, or battling frequent colds. You might clean the house, change the sheets, and try everything you can think of—but have you ever considered the air they’re breathing at home?
The truth is, indoor humidity levels play a big role in children’s respiratory health. And because kids’ lungs are still developing, they’re more vulnerable to both dry and damp air.
Why children are more sensitive to humidity
Children breathe faster and take in more air per kilo than adults. Their immune and respiratory systems are also less mature, making them more prone to irritation and illness.
This means that fluctuations in indoor humidity—whether too dry or too damp—can have a bigger impact on their breathing.
Low humidity: Dry air and its effects on kids’ breathing
When the air in your home is too dry, it can:
- Irritate airways and throats.
- Trigger asthma or croup-like symptoms.
- Increase the risk of colds and flu.
Signs to watch for in kids: frequent sore throats, cracked lips, and nighttime coughing that doesn’t seem to go away.
Solution: A humidifier like the Ionmax ION90 adds safe, controlled moisture to indoor air, keeping your child’s airways comfortable.
High humidity: Dampness, mould, and hidden risks
On the other hand, excess humidity can be just as harmful. Moist air encourages:
- Mould growth, a known asthma and allergy trigger.
- Dust mites and allergens to thrive.
- Congestion and restless sleep.
If you notice musty smells, condensation, or patches of mould on walls and furniture, humidity could be the culprit.
Solution: A dehumidifier like the Ionmax Vienne or Ionmax Rhine reduces indoor moisture, helping to prevent mould growth and make breathing easier.
👉 Read more about why mould is more dangerous for kids than adults.
The ideal range: 40–60% humidity
Studies show that keeping indoor humidity between 40–60% is optimal for respiratory health. This range:
- Reduces survival of airborne viruses.
- Keeps airways moist without encouraging mould.
- Creates a healthier sleep environment for kids and adults alike.
Practical tips for Aussie households
- Ventilate daily by opening windows, even for short periods.
- Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans.
- Clean and maintain humidifiers and dehumidifiers regularly.
- Tackle spills and damp spots immediately.
- Place humidity control appliances in children’s bedrooms and playrooms.
Conclusion
Your child’s breathing comfort might depend more on humidity than you realise. Too dry, and their airways become irritated. Too damp, and they risk exposure to mould and allergens.
The good news? With the right tools—humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air quality monitors—you can create a healthier indoor environment and give your kids the best chance at breathing easy.
Explore Ionmax’s full range of humidifiers and dehumidifiers to protect your family’s respiratory wellness.
Looking to get free advice on the best tools for clean air in your home? Reach out to Ionmax below and we'll be in touch!
