Hygrometers: A Simple Tool to Help Prevent Mold Before It Starts
At MoldPro LLC, we’re passionate about helping people live and work in healthier environments. While our specialty is mold remediation, our mission goes beyond removal — we’re committed to mold prevention. One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of mold is by controlling indoor humidity. That’s where tools like hygrometers and dehumidifiers come into play.
Hygrometers allow you to monitor humidity levels in real time, while dehumidifiers help bring those levels down when they get too high. Used together, they can be a powerful defense against mold growth.
What Is a Hygrometer?
A hygrometer is a device that measures relative humidity — the amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum the air can hold at a given temperature.
Think of it like a thermometer for moisture. Just as a thermometer can tell you if it’s too hot or cold, a hygrometer tells you if the air is holding too much moisture. And just like extreme temperatures can affect your comfort and health, high humidity can quietly create the perfect environment for mold to grow —often before you see or smell anything unusual.
Understanding and controlling humidity is one of the most effective ways to prevent mold before it starts. With a hygrometer, you get that information instantly, helping you make better decisions about ventilation, dehumidification, or professional intervention when needed.
Why Moisture Monitoring Matters
Mold can damage your home, but more importantly, it can affect your health — especially for those with allergies, asthma, or mold-related sensitivities. By monitoring humidity levels regularly, you gain the insight needed to take action before mold becomes a visible or costly problem.
Who Should Use a Hygrometer?
Hygrometers are a smart investment for anyone looking to maintain a healthier indoor environment, but they’re especially useful for:
- Homeowners — where seasonal humidity and older home construction can increase mold risks.
- People with mold sensitivities or chronic health issues — especially in homes where moisture control is challenging, like basements and historic properties.
- Landlords and property managers — preventing mold protects both tenants and your investment.
- Business owners — especially those managing healthcare clinics, wellness spaces, or food service operations, where indoor air quality matters.
- Anyone in coastal or humid climates — including shoreline towns where excess moisture is common year-round.
Managing indoor humidity with a hygrometer is one of the simplest, most effective ways to stay ahead of mold and protect your environment.
Where to Use a Hygrometer
Some areas are naturally more prone to moisture buildup, like basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. These spaces benefit the most from regular monitoring. In basements especially, we recommend using two hygrometers placed in different locations. This helps ensure accuracy in environments where mold tends to grow unnoticed.
How to Place and Use a Hygrometer
For the most accurate readings, place your hygrometer about three to four feet off the ground — roughly at chest height. Avoid putting it too close to a dehumidifier or air vent, as this can distort the reading. Your goal is to keep relative humidity at or below 50%. Any higher, and the risk of mold increases.
If your readings are frequently above that threshold, it may be time to adjust your ventilation or increase your use of a dehumidifier.
Where to Buy a Hygrometer
Hygrometers are more accessible than many people realize. While they sound technical, they’re available in the same aisles as thermostats and weather monitors at most home improvement stores — or just a few clicks away online.
To make your search easier, we’ve gathered a few well-reviewed options across a range of needs and budgets:
💸 Budget-Friendly & Reliable
Perfect for everyday homeowners who need a basic, accurate reading.
- ThermoPro TP49 Digital Hygrometer – Compact, easy to read, and usually under $10. Great for small rooms or starter monitoring.
- ThermoPro TP50 Digital Hygrometer – Slightly larger display with temperature and humidity tracking; ideal for multiple rooms.
- AcuRite 00613 Digital Hygrometer – Pre-calibrated and highly accurate with a simple, functional design.
📱 Smart Features & Remote Monitoring
Best for tech-savvy users who want real-time alerts or app control.
- Govee Bluetooth Hygrometer Thermometer – Connects via app to your smartphone, logs data over time, and alerts you to humidity changes.
- SensorPush HT.w Smart Sensor – Made in the USA and ideal for precise, professional-grade monitoring with customizable smart alerts.
🛠 Professional & Comprehensive Monitoring
Suited for serious moisture control, large properties, or business use.
- Extech Instruments 445815 Humidity Alert – Designed for pros, with large displays and audible alerts for high humidity.
- AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 Weather Station – Tracks humidity along with wind, rainfall, and temperature—a great fit for full-property environmental monitoring.
- Ambient Weather WS-5000 Professional Station – A top-of-the-line solution for facilities or large estates where detailed weather and humidity data is essential.
These options are available through Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other major retailers. Whether you need a simple home unit or a high-end sensor, you’ll find the right fit without having to overthink it.
Final Thoughts
At MoldPro LLC, we believe a proactive approach to indoor air quality can save you time, money, and stress. Investing in a hygrometer is a small but powerful way to stay ahead of mold, especially when paired with tools like dehumidifiers and routine air testing.
If you’re noticing high humidity or suspect hidden moisture problems, get in touch with our team. We’re here to help you maintain a safe, dry, and mold-free environment—using safe, chemical-free solutions you can trust.
