Ah, humidity… This insidious scourge that seeps into every corner of the house. You wake up one morning and bam, your windows are fogged up, there’s a faint musty smell in the air, and your walls also seem to be breathing a little too much. Fortunately, there are natural solutions to get rid of humidity without blowing your budget. Come on, I’ll explain to you how to make your own natural dehumidifier with simple, effective tips, and of course, a touch of eco-friendliness.

Why Use a Natural Dehumidifier?
First of all, why bother with a homemade dehumidifier when you could buy a chemical version in stores? Well, it’s simple. Not only are natural solutions much cheaper, but they are also safe for your health and the planet. Say goodbye to aggressive chemicals that add even more toxins to your indoor air. Plus, there’s a personal satisfaction in making your own solutions, right?
The Dangers of Excess Humidity
Humidity is not just a visual nuisance. In the long run, it can cause serious problems in your home:
- Mold that attacks your walls, carpets, and curtains
- Respiratory problems for you and your family
- Deterioration of your wooden furniture and objects
Using a natural dehumidifier is a simple way to prevent these inconveniences without resorting to expensive devices.
The Best Methods to Make a Dehumidifier
You don’t need a chemistry degree to make your own dehumidifier. With a few ingredients you probably already have at home, you can work wonders. Here are some methods you can try right now.
1. Coarse Salt: an Effective and Inexpensive Dehumidifier
Coarse salt is a must when it comes to absorbing humidity. Plus, you can find it in any supermarket at a minimal price.
How to make it?
- Take a plastic water bottle, cut it one-third of the way up the neck.
- Place a piece of gauze or compress on the neck and secure it with a rubber band.
- Turn the neck over onto the base of the bottle and fill it with coarse salt.
- Place it in a corner of the humid room.
Change the salt when it becomes humid and turns black. With this method, you will not only purify the air, but also reduce odors associated with humidity.

2. Use Charcoal to Reduce Humidity
Yes, charcoal is not only reserved for your Sunday barbecues! It is also an excellent natural dehumidifier.
Materials needed:
- Charcoal
- Airtight container
- A few holes (yes, you’ll have to do some drilling)
Place your charcoal in the container and drill holes for air circulation. Replace the charcoal every two weeks, and you will see, your air will be drier and healthier.
3. Create a Dehumidifier with Crushed Clay
Clay is another natural option for absorbing humidity. It’s a little more unusual, but just as effective.
How to make it?
- Take a large plastic container (like a water fountain) and cut it in half.
- Crush a large piece of clay and place it in a clean cloth.
- Place everything in the upper part of the container and let it work.
Clay is perfect for rooms like the bathroom or the basement, where humidity tends to accumulate.
Practical Tips to Reduce Humidity at Home
In addition to these homemade dehumidifiers, there are a few simple gestures you can adopt daily to limit humidity at home. Here’s a little list that could help you:
- Air out each room for at least an hour a day, especially wet rooms like the bathroom and kitchen.
- Avoid drying your laundry inside. Use a dryer or hang it outside if possible.
- Install an extractor hood in your kitchen and use it every time you cook, especially if you boil water.
Bonus Tip: Plants that Absorb Humidity
Did you know that some indoor plants can also help you absorb humidity? Yes, just like they purify the air, they can also act as small natural dehumidifiers.
Here are some plants to adopt if you want to kill two birds with one stone:
- Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily): It’s an air purifier that loves humidity.
- Ivy: Besides being easy to care for, it is formidable against excess humidity.
- Boston Fern: A great choice for your bathroom, this plant naturally regulates humidity.
Comparative Table of Different Natural Dehumidifiers
Ingredient | Effectiveness | Duration of Action | Ease of Setup |
---|---|---|---|
Coarse salt | Very effective | 1 to 2 weeks | Very simple |
Charcoal | Effective | 2 weeks | Simple |
Crushed clay | Effective | 3 weeks | Moderately simple |
Quicklime | Very effective | 1 month | Protective measures required |
FAQ: Most Frequently Asked Questions about Dehumidifiers
Finally, here are some answers to the questions you’re probably asking yourself:
Can a Homemade Dehumidifier be Reused? No, most of the ingredients used, like salt or charcoal, need to be replaced once they are saturated with moisture. But their cost is so low that it won’t really be a problem.
What Are the Best Plants for Absorbing Humidity? As mentioned earlier, plants like spathiphyllum, ivy, and Boston fern are ideal. They add a touch of greenery while purifying the air.
There you go, you now know everything about natural dehumidifiers. All that’s left for you is to choose your favorite method and get started. Whether you opt for coarse salt, clay, or even plants, you’ll see, you’ll regain healthier air in no time.