Humidity Control Checklist

Use this checklist to systematically assess and address humidity in your apartment. Work through each section in order for the best results.

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

• Get a hygrometer to measure actual humidity levels
• Check humidity in different rooms at different times of day
• Note the morning humidity level in your bedroom
• Identify which rooms have the highest humidity
• Look for visible signs: window condensation, musty odors, damp spots
• Check corners and behind furniture for moisture
• Inspect closets for dampness or musty smells
• Check under sinks for leaks or condensation

Step 2: Check Your Ventilation

• Test bathroom exhaust fan—does it pull air toward the vent?
• Test kitchen exhaust/range hood—is it effective?
• Identify which windows can be opened for ventilation
• Check if cross-ventilation is possible (windows on opposite sides)
• Note any ventilation limitations (noise, security, single-side windows)
• Report non-working exhaust fans to your landlord

Step 3: Adjust Daily Habits

Bathroom

• Run exhaust fan during showers
• Keep fan running 15-20 minutes after showering
• Close bathroom door while showering (to contain moisture)
• Spread towels out to dry after use
• Squeegee shower walls after bathing
• Consider shorter, slightly cooler showers

Kitchen

• Use range hood while cooking
• Keep lids on pots when boiling
• Run exhaust for 5-10 minutes after cooking
• Wipe down wet surfaces after cooking
• Let dishwasher cool before opening, or vent steam carefully

Bedroom

• Air out bedding in the morning before making the bed
• Leave bedroom door slightly open overnight if possible
• Ventilate the room in the morning
• Keep closet doors open when practical

General

• Don't dry clothes indoors without ventilation
• Open windows when outdoor humidity is lower than indoor
• Keep furniture slightly away from exterior walls
• Reduce number of houseplants if humidity is high

Step 4: Add Passive Solutions (If Needed)

• Place moisture absorbers in closets
• Add moisture absorber under bathroom sink
• Use desiccant packs in drawers and storage containers
• Consider portable fan for air circulation in stagnant areas
• Check and replace moisture absorbers when full

Step 5: Consider Active Solutions (If Needed)

• Evaluate whether behavioral changes and passive methods are sufficient
• If humidity stays above 60%, consider a portable dehumidifier
• Choose appropriate dehumidifier size for your space
• Set dehumidifier to maintain 40-50% humidity
• Position dehumidifier in the most problematic area
• Establish routine for emptying water reservoir (or set up continuous drain)

Step 6: Address Problem Areas

• Move items away from damp corners
• Improve air circulation in closets (declutter, leave doors open)
• Check for and report any water leaks to landlord
• Document persistent problems with photos and humidity readings
• Communicate with landlord about building-level issues

Step 7: Maintain and Monitor

• Check humidity weekly to track patterns
• Adjust practices seasonally (summer vs. winter challenges differ)
• Replace moisture absorbers on schedule
• Clean exhaust fan covers periodically
• Clean or replace dehumidifier filters as needed
• Re-assess if conditions change (new season, new roommate, etc.)

Quick Reference: Humidity Targets

• Below 30%: Too dry—may cause discomfort
• 30-50%: Ideal comfort range
• 50-60%: Acceptable but watch for issues
• Above 60%: Too high—take action
• Above 70%: Problems likely—urgent action needed