The Independent’s IndyBest guide reviews the best dehumidifiers for UK homes in 2025, based on extensive hands-on testing across rooms of different sizes and damp conditions. The focus is on reducing excess moisture, tackling condensation and mould, and improving indoor air quality—problems that typically worsen during colder months when ventilation is limited. The reviewer tested each model for real-world effectiveness rather than relying on manufacturer claims.
Key performance measures included how quickly units reduced humidity, how noisy they were in everyday use, and how much electricity they consumed per hour. Additional checks covered specialist modes such as laundry drying, night operation and automatic humidity control, plus ease of use for controls, apps and maintenance. Models that failed to demonstrate clear moisture removal or air-quality improvement were excluded from the final list.
The guide highlights a clear overall winner: a large-capacity smart dehumidifier with quiet operation, strong extraction and advanced app control, best suited to bigger or open-plan spaces. At the other end of the scale, compact and budget-friendly units are recommended for cupboards, small rooms or light condensation issues, where low running costs and minimal noise matter most.
Specialist recommendations are also made for drying laundry indoors, garages and cellars, and for combined air purifier–dehumidifier models that help people with allergies. Throughout, energy efficiency is treated as essential, with most recommended machines costing well under 10p per hour to run. Overall, the article positions dehumidifiers as a practical, cost-effective alternative to tumble dryers and a valuable tool for maintaining healthier homes.
Key points
- Over 20 dehumidifiers were tested in real homes using humidity, noise and air-quality meters.
- Most recommended models cost less than 10p per hour to run under typical conditions.
- The top-rated overall model offers smart app control, quiet operation and high daily extraction.
- Compact budget models are recommended for small spaces such as cupboards and bathrooms.
- Laundry modes significantly reduced indoor clothes-drying times compared with air drying.