Placement makes a big difference to how well a dehumidifier works. Even the best models can struggle if they are pushed into a corner or blocked by furniture.
The ideal location in most homes
The best place to put a dehumidifier is close to the main source of moisture. For most households this means the hallway, landing, or living area where humidity builds up from cooking, showers and laundry.
- Keep at least twenty to thirty centimetres clearance around all sides.
- Raise it slightly off the floor if the room is very cold.
- Place it near open doorways so air can circulate between rooms.
Best placement for drying clothes
Put the dehumidifier a short distance from the airer, not directly underneath. This allows warm dry air to flow across the clothes and speed up drying.
Where not to put a dehumidifier
- Avoid pushing it tight against a wall.
- Do not hide it behind a sofa.
- Avoid very uneven floors which affect performance.
Room by room guidance
Bedrooms: Place it near the door, not right next to the bed.
Bathrooms: Only use if safe and keep well away from splashes.
Garages or cold rooms: A desiccant model works best and can be placed more centrally.
Correct placement can increase extraction by more than thirty percent, even with the same machine.