The Guardian has tested 14 dehumidifiers to help consumers choose the right model for reducing household humidity, preventing mould and allergies, and providing a cost-effective alternative to tumble dryers for laundry. Dehumidifiers are particularly useful because indoor humidity naturally increases through breathing, cooking and showering, and excess moisture can trigger asthma and allergies whilst promoting mould and dust mites.

The tester, an award-winning consumer technology journalist with nearly 30 years' experience, selected 14 dehumidifiers from leading brands and tested each for several days, measuring electricity consumption, noise levels at 1 metre distance, water extraction, and size. Categories reviewed include best budget option (VonHaus Smart with laundry mode), best combined dehumidifier and air purifier (Devola Platinum hybrid DVHA20L), best for laundry (Duux Bora Smart), and best for quiet operation (MeacoDry Arete Two), with tested units subsequently donated to a domestic abuse charity.