Understanding humidity
The hygrometry is a concept derived from meteorology. In fact, it is a branch of this science which aims to measure the humidity in the air in three forms: specific humidity, absolute humidity and relative humidity. In the context of housing, it is the relative humidity of the air, or hygrometric degree, which is measured, i.e. the quantity of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum quantity it could contain at the same temperature. This value is expressed as a percentage and is measured using a hygrometer. You should know that the temperature has a major influence on the degree of hygrometry.
Why be interested in the degree of hygrometry in the baby’s room?
As a parent, your main concern is to provide a comfortable and safe environment to your baby. In his room, you have probably paid particular attention to every detail, such as the temperature, the comfort of his bed, the lighting, etc. But have you thought about the humidity level? To convince you of the usefulness of doing so, it is important to keep two things in mind: the first is that the humidity level has a definite impact on the air quality in your child’s room and the second is that the respiratory tracts very young children are more fragile than those of adults, as long as their respiratory system is not mature. In short, whether it is too high or too low, the degree of humidity can have consequences on sleep and overall health of your baby.
What is the ideal humidity level for the baby’s room?
As we have said, newborns are more fragile than adults and have an even greater need for healthy air. This is why it is important to check the air quality in your room. According to ADEME, the French Environment and Energy Management Agency, the humidity level in a house must be between 40 and 60% and in a child’s room, a humidity level ofabout 50/55% is ideal. This percentage provides a balance between a room that looks too humid or too dry. In case of deviation from this recommendation, it is necessary to act.
The risks of too high a degree of humidity
If the humidity level is too high in the baby’s room, i.e. if it exceeds 55%, then it can lead to health problemswhether it is allergy problems or respiratory or lung problems, such as asthma or repeated infections of his respiratory tract which are more sensitive.
Indeed, an environment that is too humid is more conducive not only to the development of bacteria, viruses, mites, but also to their propagation. And that’s not all, because too high a degree of humidity is also fertile ground for mold growth which also constitutes a health hazard. Beyond the sanitary problem, a damp room is uncomfortable, which can affect baby’s sleep. You therefore understand the importance of ensuring an acceptable humidity level.
The risks of too low a degree of humidity
Conversely, too low humidity results in too dry air which is also harmful. Indeed, the sensitive airways of the baby can then be irritated. Again, the quality of sleep is not there. Whether the air in your child’s room is too dryhe can also suffer from recurring problems of nosebleeds, sore throats, dry skin, etc. Whether the humidity level is too high or too low, you therefore understand the importance of ensuring an acceptable humidity level.
Getting the right humidity in baby’s room
We have seen that it is important to obtain a degree of humidity between 50 and 55% in the baby’s room. In function, it will be necessary to humidify the baby’s room or, conversely, to dehumidify it. But to know the humidity level in your home, you may need to equip yourself with a hygrometer. In the trade, some are also associated with a thermometer, which allows you to have all the information at a glance.
Humidify baby’s room
If you notice that the air in your child’s room is too dry, i.e. the humidity level is lower than desired, then it will be necessary to bring humidity to the room to make it comfortable and healthy. To do this, several solutions:
- In winter, it is common that when the heating is on, the air dries out. To fix this, you can put a glass of water on the radiator or install radiator humidifiers, some are very aesthetic and cute. Thus, by evaporating, the water will create humidity which will sanitize the room.
- You can also dry clothes in this roomwhich will bring moisture.
- You can alsoi leave the bathroom door open to let the condensation created by showers or baths spread to other rooms.
- Finally, it is possible to invest in a air humidifier. There is a wide choice.
Dehumidify baby’s room
If the humidity level is too high, then it means that the room is too humid. In this case, you must do the opposite of what is described above and protect the room as much as possible from humidity:
- Make sure that the humidity of the bathroom does not spread there.
- Never leave any wet laundry in this piece.
- Air it out as often as possible.
- Check the air vents in your home and particularly the ventilation grid present on the window of your child’s room. It must not be clogged and must be maintained regularly.
- You can invest in a air dehumidifier.
- Finally, if the problem is found throughout the home, consider installing a controlled mechanical ventilation, also called VMC.