What to look for
- Compressor dehumidifiers are cheapest to run in heated homes; desiccant models work better in cold rooms.
- A 10 to 12 litre model suits most flats and houses; larger homes or serious damp need 20 litres.
- A laundry mode and a humidistat make a big difference to running costs.
- Check noise levels if it will run in a bedroom.
How much to spend
Typical prices run from £29 to £219. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys quiet, efficient compressor dehumidifier with a laundry mode. Only pay for features you will use.
Who should skip what
- Skip the MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier if you your home is unheated in winter; a desiccant model works better in cold rooms
- Skip the Pro Breeze 12L Dehumidifier if you want the quietest model for a bedroom
- Skip the EcoAir DD1 Simple Desiccant Dehumidifier if you want the lowest running cost in a heated home
- Skip the Pro Breeze 500ml Mini Dehumidifier if you have condensation or mould in a room; it removes far too little water to help
Buying tips
Dehumidifiers sell out every autumn when condensation starts, so buy early. Prices dip on Prime Day and Black Friday; register for the warranty, which is two years or more from Meaco.
Our picks
See all our best dehumidifiers in the uk for more options.
Recommended products
Best overallMeaco · Dehumidifiers
MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier
Quiet, efficient and great for laundry.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Most homes
- Typical price
- £179–£219
Pros
- Quiet enough for bedrooms
- Low running cost
Cons
- Less effective below about 10°C
Best budgetPro Breeze · Dehumidifiers
Pro Breeze 12L Dehumidifier
Capable compressor model for less.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Budget
- Typical price
- £139–£169
Pros
- Good value
- Continuous drainage option
Cons
- Louder than Meaco
Best for cold roomsEcoAir · Dehumidifiers
EcoAir DD1 Simple Desiccant Dehumidifier
Works where compressors struggle.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Cold rooms and garages
- Typical price
- £139–£169
Pros
- Works well in the cold
- Light and quiet
Cons
- Uses more electricity than compressor models
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dehumidifier cost to run?
A 12-litre compressor model uses about 160 W, so roughly 4 to 5p an hour at current UK electricity prices. Desiccant models use more, often 300 to 650 W.
Can a dehumidifier dry clothes?
Yes. In a closed room with a laundry mode, a dehumidifier dries clothes faster than a radiator and for less money than a tumble dryer.
Will a dehumidifier stop mould?
It keeps humidity below about 60 percent, which stops mould growing. You still need to clean existing mould and ventilate kitchens and bathrooms.