The Best Dehumidifiers (2026)
Condensation on bedroom windows, damp walls and mould are common in UK homes, especially in winter. A good dehumidifier pulls moisture out of the air, helps prevent mould and makes rooms feel warmer. These are the models worth buying for bedrooms and small homes.
Our picks at a glance
| Product | Award | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaco Arete One 20L Dehumidifier | Best Overall | 9.0/10 | Amazon → |
| Meaco DD8L Zambezi Desiccant Dehumidifier | Best for Cold Rooms | 8.7/10 | Amazon → |
| Pro Breeze 12L Dehumidifier | Best Value | 8.3/10 | Amazon → |
| EcoAir DD1 Simple MK5 Desiccant Dehumidifier | Quiet Desiccant | 8.0/10 | Amazon → |
| Pro Breeze 500ml Mini Dehumidifier | Best Mini | 7.0/10 | Amazon → |
1. Meaco Arete One 20L Dehumidifier
Best for: Whole homes and damp bedrooms · Price: Mid-range
The Meaco Arete One combines a big capacity with very low noise and running costs. It's also an air purifier with a HEPA filter, and it's a long-time favourite in the UK.
| Type | Compressor |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Up to 20 litres/day |
| Tank | 4.8 litres |
| Extras | HEPA filter, laundry mode, low-energy mode, app (on Wi-Fi models) |
Pros
- Quiet for its capacity
- Low running costs
- HEPA air purification
- Made by a UK specialist
Cons
- Large unit
- Wi-Fi only on some versions
2. Meaco DD8L Zambezi Desiccant Dehumidifier
Best for: Cold bedrooms and unheated rooms · Price: Mid-range
Desiccant dehumidifiers keep working in cold rooms where compressor models struggle, and Meaco's DD8L Zambezi is the best-known example.
| Type | Desiccant |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Up to 8 litres/day |
| Features | Laundry mode, ioniser, low-noise setting |
Pros
- Works well in cold rooms
- Light and compact
- Warm air output helps dry laundry
Cons
- Uses more power than compressor models
- Lower extraction
3. Pro Breeze 12L Dehumidifier
Best for: Flats and small houses · Price: Budget
Pro Breeze's 12-litre dehumidifier is a popular budget pick that tackles condensation in smaller homes without costing much.
| Type | Compressor |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Up to 12 litres/day |
| Features | Laundry mode, continuous drainage, auto shut-off |
Pros
- Affordable
- Effective in small homes
- Continuous drainage option
Cons
- Noisier than premium models
- Basic build
4. EcoAir DD1 Simple MK5 Desiccant Dehumidifier
Best for: Light sleepers · Price: Budget
The EcoAir DD1 Simple is a small, quiet desiccant dehumidifier that's easy to move from room to room.
| Type | Desiccant |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Up to 7 litres/day |
| Features | Laundry mode, quiet operation |
Pros
- Quiet
- Light and portable
- Works in cold rooms
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- Higher running costs than compressor models
5. Pro Breeze 500ml Mini Dehumidifier
Best for: Small rooms and wardrobes · Price: Budget
A small thermoelectric dehumidifier for minor condensation in small rooms, wardrobes and bathrooms.
| Type | Thermoelectric (Peltier) |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Up to around 250ml/day |
| Tank | 500ml |
Pros
- Very cheap to buy and run
- Small and quiet
- Fine for small spaces
Cons
- Far less powerful than full-size dehumidifiers
- Not suitable for real damp problems
How to choose dehumidifiers
Compressor or desiccant?
Compressor dehumidifiers are cheaper to run in heated rooms. Desiccant models work better in cold spaces such as unheated rooms, garages and conservatories, and are often quieter.
Choose the right capacity
Capacity is quoted in litres per day under test conditions. 10 to 12 litres suits a flat or small house; 20 litres suits larger homes or serious damp.
Check the noise level
For bedrooms, look for a low-noise or night mode and a display that switches off.
Laundry mode
Many dehumidifiers have a laundry mode that helps dry washing indoors quickly and cheaply.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dehumidifier cost to run?
It depends on the wattage and how long it runs. Most compressor models use 150 to 300W; desiccant models use more but often run for shorter periods. Many use far less energy than a tumble dryer for drying washing.
Where should I put a dehumidifier?
In the dampest room, away from walls and curtains, with doors and windows closed. Move it between rooms as needed.
What humidity should I aim for?
Around 40 to 60% relative humidity is comfortable and helps prevent mould and dust mites.
Our scores are editorial ratings based on specifications, pricing and published performance data. Rankings reflect popularity among UK buyers and our assessment of value. How we choose and score products.