During winter in Australia, it’s common to shut the windows, turn on the heater, and settle in — but this combination often leads to a drop in indoor humidity. Dry indoor air is more than just a nuisance; it can affect your health, your comfort, and even your belongings.
If you’ve ever woken up with a dry throat or noticed static shocks around the house, dry air could be the culprit. Here’s how to spot it and what to do.
Common signs of dry air in your home
Not sure if your air is too dry? Here’s a checklist of common symptoms to look for:
✅ Dry or itchy skin
Low humidity draws moisture from your skin, leaving it tight, itchy, or flaky — especially noticeable after a shower or overnight.
✅ Irritated throat, nose, or eyes
Dry mucous membranes can lead to scratchy throats, red eyes, and even an increased risk of illness.
✅ Increased static electricity
Getting zapped when you touch a doorknob or fold a blanket? Static buildup thrives in dry environments.
✅ Cracking wood and warped furniture
Wooden items like flooring, furniture, or instruments may shrink or crack when moisture is too low.
✅ Houseplants looking unhealthy
Dry, brittle leaves or brown tips on your indoor plants are another indicator of dry air.
✅ Frequent nosebleeds or dry coughs
Dry air irritates the nose and throat, leading to nosebleeds or a persistent cough — especially during the night.
✅ Feeling cold even with the heater on
Oddly enough, dry air can make it harder for your body to retain warmth, making you feel colder than the room temperature suggests.
What causes indoor air to become dry?
There are a few common culprits behind dry air, especially in winter:
- Poor ventilation: Sealed windows and doors trap dry air inside.
- Air conditioning: Like heating, AC units also lower humidity.
- Natural climate: Some regions in Australia (like inland or southern areas) naturally experience lower humidity during winter.
- Indoor heating: Traditional heaters work by warming the air — but in doing so, they often strip out moisture, leaving the air dry and uncomfortable.
What’s the alternative? Far Infrared (FIR) heaters, like the Ionmax Ray, provide gentle radiant warmth that doesn’t dry out the air. It heats objects and people directly, helping you stay warm without compromising indoor humidity
How to fix dry air in your home
The good news is — you can do something about it. Here are a few effective solutions:
🌀 Use a humidifier
The simplest and most effective way to restore moisture.
Try this: The Ionmax ION90 (for larger spaces) or the Ionmax Serene (for smaller rooms) are excellent options to keep your air comfortably humid.
🌿 Add houseplants
Plants like peace lilies and ferns naturally release moisture into the air.
🧺 Dry laundry indoors — strategically
In dry rooms, laundry can release humidity naturally. Just avoid overcrowding or using rooms prone to mould.
🚪 Seal gaps and draughts
Minimising air leaks helps retain warmth and moisture, especially in older homes.
🪟 Ventilate properly
Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, but don’t overdo it. Balancing fresh air and humidity is key.
Bonus tip: Monitor your air
You don’t need to guess whether your air is too dry — just measure it.
The Ionmax Q10 air quality monitor gives you real-time data on humidity, temperature, and particle levels. It’s a great tool to help you respond quickly before dry air leads to discomfort or damage.
Breathe easy this winter
Dry indoor air may be invisible, but its effects aren’t. From skin irritation to damage around your home, low humidity can creep up fast in cooler months.
By investing in a good humidifier, sealing your home properly, and using tools like the Ionmax Q10 to stay informed, you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment — no matter how cold it gets outside.
