The Best Guitar Humidifiers & Case Hygrometers
Author & Contributors
Alexander Briones
I've written about and researched music gear for many years, while also serving as a music director at my local church, in addition to teaching guitar, bass and mentoring young musicians.
The Best Guitar Humidifiers
MusicNomad MN300 Humitar Acoustic Guitar Humidifier
Simply wet the sponge, squeeze out excess water, replace the sponge into its plastic housing, slide the housing through the strings, and you’re good to go.
However, there is a small quality-of-life feature that helps to increase the product’s ease of use. The top of the MusicNomad MN300 Humitar Acoustic Guitar Humidifier’s plastic casing pops open easily, allowing you to check the condition of the sponge while it’s still resting in the strings of your instrument.
The MN300 also uses sponges with anti-dripping properties, which while not a huge feature, does help to prevent the possibility of water leaking from your humidifier into your guitar.
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.9 oz
- Suspension: Held By Strings
- Longevity: Medium
Pros
Reliability is one of the major reasons why this humidifier is rated highly, it doesn't mess up and works as intended. Recent reviewers are pleased at how the sponge is able to absorb a lot more water than they expected. Being easy to open lid is another plus, allowing for quicker checks, which can save quite a lot of time checking multiple guitars. Those with humidity monitors report that with the MN300, hydration levels are within safe levels.
Cons
There are a few who report mold issues with the sponge, but this may be due to user neglect than an actual design problem. There are also a few who wish for a thinner version, so that it doesn't push the strings apart as much.
Overall
The MusicNomad MN300 is ideal for those who want to protect multiple acoustic guitars.
MusicNomad MN303 The Humitar Instrument Case Humidifier
At publication time this was the Equal Highest Rated Guitar Humidifier along with the Oasis OH-1.
The MusicNomad MN303 The Humitar Instrument Case Humidifier functions similarly to soundhole humidifiers, but there is a key difference, rather than being suspended by your guitar’s strings, this one discretely attaches to the inside of your guitar case.
Checking the sponge of the MN303 is a snap. Simply pop open the top and touch the sponge, if it’s soft leave it and if it’s hard change it out. As always, be sure to use distilled water with your humidifier.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.2 oz
- Suspension: Sits in Case
- Longevity: Medium
Pros
Since it sits in the case, it can be used with essentially any stringed instrument, making it a great tool for multi-instrumentalists. And since positioning is flexible, you don't have to worry about it damaging your guitar or strings, as long as you attach it where it doesn't come into direct contact with the guitar.
Cons
The downside of this design is that it may not be as efficient as soundhole humidifiers where it can easily humidify the body from within. So it may not be enough for use in locations with extreme humidity changes.
Overall
If you're a multi-instrumentalist and want a good in-case humidifier solution, then this is for you.
Oasis OH-1 Guitar Humidifier
At publication time this was the Equal Highest Rated Guitar Humidifier along with the MusicNomad MN303.
Instead of using a sponge, the Oasis OH-1 uses a special type of gel to humidify without leaking water on your instrument.
It has a profile that looks like a syringe, designed to sit on top of your instruments strings with a special cloth that prevents excess water from leaking out while allow evaporated moisture to pass through.
The compact design also makes it viable for acoustic guitars with smaller, or distinctly shaped soundholes, like those from Ovation guitars.
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.8 oz
- Suspension: Held By Strings
- Longevity: Long
Pros
Owners are pleased with how the Oasis OH-1 works, and it does so even in places like Colorado with excess temperature and humidity fluctuations. Ease of use and compatibility with different acoustic guitars are also much appreciated. More recent reviewers commend its ability to retain moisture, which they say is better than what they were previously using.
Cons
There are a few who note that this may not fit in tight guitar cases. While others caution that the humidifier gels inside the OH-1 are supposed to be replaced after a period of time. Speaking of time, time interval of refilling the media differs depending on humidity levels in your area, and this is reflected in reviews.
Overall
With its versatility and ease of use, the Oasis OH-1 will make a great tool for any acoustic guitar owner.
Oasis OH-6 Case Humidifier
The Oasis OH-6 is a compact humidifier meant for use in a guitar case, it comes with a metal strip that secures it to a spot near the edge of your case.
Instead of the using conventional sponges, the OH-6 features "Humigel" crystals that are packed inside a compact tube. This gels serve the same function as sponges but are more compact and can work properly for around a year before they need to be replaced. You can see the humidifier shrivel as it dries, giving you visual cues to when they need to be replaced.
Oasis offers a replacement kit that has more than enough humigel crystals for multiple replacements.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.6 oz
- Suspension: Hangs on the Edge of the Case/Magnet
- Longevity: Long
Pros
Many users are impressed with how the OH-6 gets the job done without having to be placed on the sound hole, it doesn't even need to touch the guitar. This convenience continues to get kudos from musicians of different locations, even those who deal with regular humidity changes. They continue to swear by the OH-6's longevity and ability to protect their instruments.
Cons
Some users complain that the OH-6 may quickly shrivel if you don't regularly check its water levels, especially in places of extreme weather. Because it hangs on to the guitar case, it may be difficult to position it into cases that are snug fit for your guitar.
Overall
If you're looking for a good quality and long lasting humidifier that hangs inside the case, then this is for you.
Oasis OH-5 Plus+ Guitar Humidifier
The OH-5 Plus+ is designed for use in area’s with very dry climates, with a fabric that outputs roughly 50% more humidity than the ones used in Oasis’s other models.
Most musicians really aren’t going to need this humidifier, and in areas that are already relatively humid in the winter this humidifier may actually do more harm than good. This is why Oasis only uses this fabric on one model, rather than every model in their line.
Another thing to note about this humidifier is that it will also require more regular refilling than other Oasis humidifiers. This is because the OH-5 Plus+ outputs more humidity than the other humidifiers in their line.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.6 oz
- Suspension: Held By Strings
- Longevity: Medium
Pros
Reviews of the Oasis OH-5 Plus+ are replete of stories of how it saved many guitars from damage in extreme weather conditions, be it cold dry winters or hot and dry desert summers. And more stories about how it protects guitars are being added as time passes. Many users point to ease of use as its main strength, there are many reports of it working well with different types of guitars without any issue.
Cons
There are a few who caution to regularly check the humidifier, and to not let it be over damped or dry, as it may cause damage and leak in the future.
Overall
If you live in a desert (this includes high plains deserts, like parts of Wyoming, Colorado, Oregon, and Nevada) this humidifier is definitely worth a look.
Dampit Super Size Guitar Humidifier
Dampit Super Size is a guitar humidifier with a distinct tubular shape.
The length of the tube is 11' and it can be bent to the proper shape needed to slip into the sound hole of your guitar.
Its longer length means more surface area, which means better spread of its function. It also makes it easier to fit into guitars with non-round soundhole shapes.
It comes with a string that makes it easy to pull out, and it also comes with a plastic cover for better fitting into acoustics with regular round soundholes.
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.1 lb
- Suspension: Held By Strings
- Longevity: Medium
Pros
Owners are pleased at how good this humidifier is, some stating that it has been working well for them for years. Positive reviews even come from those who live in desert / mountain areas with big humidity swings. Many credit its length for its ability to hold more water, which in turn raises its effectiveness.
Cons
There are some who are not too fond of its tubular shape while a few caution that it will require maintenance (water refilling) more often in extreme humidity conditions.
Overall
All in all, most users are in agreement that the Dampit Super Size Guitar Humidifier gets the job done, and does so reliably well.
The Best Guitar Case Hygrometers
At their simplest, hygrometers provide a measurement of humidity, but most come combined with a thermometer to give you a temperature measurement as well.
MusicNomad MN305 HumiReader Hygrometer, Humidity & Temperature Monitor
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Guitar Hygrometer.
The MusicNomad MN305 HumiReader Hygrometer, Humidity & Temperature Monitor is a great, no frills in-case thermometer and hygrometer.
Its main selling point is that it can actually rest in your guitar strings, giving you an incredibly accurate reading of the humidity your guitar is experiencing. However, while this does help to increase the unit’s accuracy it does mean that you may have to use an in-case humidifier as opposed to one that rests on your strings (since that spot will be occupied by the hygrometer).
However, you don’t have to rest the hygrometer on your strings. The unit comes with a clip, allowing it to be stored in the case. Otherwise, you can also leave it sitting out in your room if you happen to have a room humidifier.
While this isn’t a must-have feature, the MN305 also comes with a reminder of the proper humidity level and temperature for a guitar. It’s a huge help if you’re not used to having to humidify your instruments, because the unit itself will always remind you what the proper temperature and humidity ranges are for your instrument.
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.3 oz
- Features: Humidity Readout, Temperature Readout
Pros
Users are quite satisfied with its fit and practicality, ideal for accurately measuring acoustic guitar humidity at the soundhole. But since it can be attached to a case with the included clip, there are also owners who are pleased with its performance as an in-case hygrometer. Reviews have been consistent for the past year, with more satisfied users chiming in with their recommendations.
Cons
There are a few who report minor reading inaccuracy, while others note that with a proper humidifier, you won't even need this hygrometer.
Overall
If you're looking for a good hygrometer that can rest on the soundhole or in-case, then this one is for you.
The Best Humidifier + Guitar Case Hygrometer Bundles
These are packages that have a Humidifier paired with a Hygrometer and can be cheaper and more convenient than buying them separately.
MusicNomad MN306 Humidity Care System
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Guitar Humidifier & Hygrometer Bundle.
The MusicNomad MN306 combines their best selling products, the Humitar and Humireader, in an affordable bundle.
Both of them made it to this list as standalone units, but getting them in a single package allows you to save some more money, and get what you need to protect your guitar from humidity in one go. The Humitar and Humireader sit on the strings on the sound hole, making them ideal for acoustic guitars.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.2 oz
- Suspension: Sits in Case
- Longevity: Medium
Pros
Since they both sit on the strings on the sound hole area, they both can do their job much more efficiently, getting accurate measurements and hydrating the body. Reliability and ease of use also come up often in reviews. Market feedback remains good, and it continues to get thumbs up for being easy to use.
Cons
Some nitpick that extra string tension is caused by the humidifier's position.
Overall
If you're looking for an affordable way to measure and maintain your acoustic guitar's humidity levels, then check out the MN306 package.
Oasis HH Combo OH-30
The Oasis HH Combo OH-30 is a digital hygrometer and humidifier packed in a compact profile that hangs in between the strings on the soundhole.
It provides humidity and temperature readings right on its built-in display, so you get immediate visual feedback which removes any guesswork in keeping your guitar within safe humidity levels.
Inside the unit is a polyvinyl acetate sponge that holds water as much as 10 times its weight, and can do so for up to 15 days before needing maintenance via moistening with distilled water. It also features multiple openings for water vapor to escape in dry climates.
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.32 oz
- Suspension: Held By Strings
- Longevity: Long
Pros
The sponge's water holding ability gets a lot of praise, resulting in reliable and mess-free operation. Many also appreciate its digital screen, which makes checking for humidity and temperature a breeze. Many guitarists also commend it for being reliable, some even report that it works great even through long winter weather.
Cons
Speaking of working well, owners caution that to make the most of the OH-30, you have to be diligent in checking and doing regular maintenance. Some suggest checking it more often on the first few weeks to get the feel of when you need to do maintenance, take note and follow the schedule accordingly. Note that there are some snug-fit cases that may push the unit too far into the soundhole, some users decided to reduce the foam padding right above the humidifier to make it better fit the case.
Overall
This is a great all-in-one solution for keeping your guitar safe from humidity problems.
Things to Consider When Buying a Guitar Humidifier or Guitar Case Hygrometer
If you’re not sure why you need a humidifier, or you just want to brush up on your knowledge before you throw any money down, check out the sections below.
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The first thing you need to know about your guitar is that, like any other piece of wood, it swells and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. An excess of humidity causes your guitar to swell (as do hot temperatures) and too little humidity causes it to contract (cold causes the same thing). This can cause cracks in your guitar, potentially destroying your instrument.
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As a general rule, when it comes to temperature if you wouldn’t want to sleep where you're keeping your guitar you probably shouldn’t keep it there. There isn’t a definite temperature range, but your guitar should be kept at a temperature that would be comfortable for you.
When it comes to humidity, your guitar should be kept in an environment with somewhere in the neighborhood of 30% to 40%. You can measure the amount of humidity in a room (or your guitar case) with a hygrometer.
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All solid woods are susceptible to humidity, because they’re a solid piece of wood flexing. If they flex too much, or too often, cracks occur. While solid wood instruments generally sound better, guitars made with laminate woods are more resistant to humidity because the instrument is made up of layers of wood. Because it’s made up of layers as opposed to being one solid piece, a laminate instrument will flex in situations where a solid wood instrument would break.
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The best way, by far, to humidify your guitar is to use an in-case humidifier alongside a digital hygrometer. The smaller the volume the easier it is to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity. If you leave the door open to your room, or if the heater kicks on in the middle of the night, your guitar can begin the process of drying out. If this happens consistently you can still end up with cracks in your instrument even if you’re using an in-room humidifier.
To humidify a guitar in your case, all you have to do is buy an in-case humidifier, supply it with water, and stick it in your case. The only thing you need to be aware of is that, for humidifiers that use a sponge, you want to dampen the humidifier (not flood it). Water can wreak havoc on your instrument, so take care when using a humidifier.
Why Do I Need To Humidify My Guitar?
Climate and Humidity
Which Guitars Are Most Susceptible to Humidity?
The Best Way To Humidify Your Guitar (And How to do It)
Best Guitar Humidifier Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2017 and the latest edition was published on January 11, 2022.
We looked through all the Guitar Humidifiers and Guitar Case Hygrometers available from major online American music gear retailers and selected the most promising to put on our short-list for closer examination - you can see many of them in our Music Gear Database. We then gathered and analyzed relevant reviews and ratings, including the most recent user feedback up to January of 2022. All the data we gathered added up to over 12,300 sources, all of which were then processed via the Gearank Algorithm to produce ratings out of 100 for each of them. Finally, we selected the highest rated options to recommend above. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Alexander Briones
I've written about and researched music gear for many years, while also serving as a music director at my local church, in addition to teaching guitar, bass and mentoring young musicians.
Drawing from his experience in performing and recording, he teaches guitar and bass and mentors young artists to be better musicians. And when he is not busy playing or tinkering with musical gear, he puts on his entrepreneurial hat, which helps fund his passion for collecting guitars, mecha figures and Gunpla kits.
Contributors
Alden Acosta: Product research.
Mason Hoberg: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: By Gearank.com incorporating photographs of the D'Addario GH, Oasis OH-1, Oasis OH-2C and a photograph by Wicker Paradise which was used and modified under a CC BY 2.0 license.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
Comments
Publication of our January
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Publication of our January 2022 Edition resulted in the following products coming off the recommended list above:
The following products were
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The following products were removed from our recommended list above when we published our February 2021 edition, but you can still see our analysis of them:
As a result of the February
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of the February 2020 Update the Oasis OH-6 Case Humidifier came off the recommended list above.
Does my acoustic humidifier
Submitted by Gary (not verified) on
Does my acoustic humidifier have to be in the case, or can the guitar be left hanging on the wall?
These types of humidifiers
Submitted by Jason Horton on
These types of humidifiers have to be with the guitar in the case.
To hang a guitar on the wall you would need to get a room humidifier instead.