AquaOasis Cool Mist Review

To get a clear understanding of the AquaOasis Cool Mist's performance, we submitted it to a series of standardized tests that let us compare it to other humidifiers in the most unbiased way possible. In our analysis, we considered metrics like humidifying performance, overall convenience, ease of cleaning, run time, and operating costs.

Performance Comparison

Effectiveness

The AquaOasis Cool Mist had lackluster results in this metric, as its overall output was not great. In our testing, we found that over the course of an hour, it could only change the relative humidity in a 150 sq. ft. room from 32.10% to 37.40%, which is one of the lowest outputs we've seen among humidifiers tested. While it may be able to effectively humidify the room given enough time, we aren't interested in a humidifier that takes several hours to make a meaningful difference. This is a major downside for anyone looking for pure humidity performance.

Ease of Cleaning

Humidifiers are the perfect breeding ground for mold. Being able to clean them properly is essential. Like a few other models we tested in our review of humidifiers, the base features an open, rounded design that is easy to clean. The vapor tube cap is removable, and the tube itself is large and easy to clean due to its spacious opening. Additionally, the tank fill port measures 3.25 inches, making it very easy to fit your hand inside and wipe down the interior of the tank. The included instructions call for a water change and thorough cleaning every two to three weeks, which feels appropriate.

Convenience

One of our favorite features about the AquaOasis Cool Mist is the easy-to-operate control dial. Turning it clockwise slowly ramps up the humidity levels. Many machines have specific modes, i.e., low, medium, and high, but this dial lets you fine-tune your humidity levels to where you want them. It's not fancy, and it doesn't need to be. Simplicity is key for this type of appliance. Speaking of simplicity, this particular model is as barebones as it gets, lacking smart features, a sleep mode, or a humidistat. If you prefer straightforward operation, this model is ideal for you. While it is affordable, it's not the most inexpensive option out there, and we would have liked to see a little more included for the price.

Run Time

To calculate the overall runtime, we emptied the tank and added 50mL of water to the base of each humidifier. This allowed us to determine how long each device would operate before shutting off. It's important to note that different humidifiers have varying thresholds for when they shut off. In the case of the AquaOasis Cool Mist, it needs to drain down to about 75mL of water before it powers down. The actual runtime will depend on the mode you consistently run, but the AquaOasis should last an estimated 18 hours with a full tank, which is half a gallon. This is more than adequate for this appliance.

Operating Cost

When tacked on to its fairly low MSRP, the overall lifespan cost of this model is quite reasonable at an estimated $1.71 a month to operate. We were able to calculate this by plugging the humidifier in using the Kilowatt meter and recording the power consumption using the national average for cost/kwh.

Should You Buy the AquaOasis Cool Mist?

The AquaOasis Cool Mist falls squarely into the budget category. We appreciated its ease of operation and maintenance, as well as its cost-effective operation. However, its overall output is lacking, requiring hours of runtime, even in a small room, to achieve a noticeable change in relative humidity. We can't fully recommend this model above the many other capable devices on the market today.

What Other Humidifiers Should You Consider?

While the MSRP and average operating costs are low, we didn't find the AquaOasis Cool Mist to offer a particularly good value compared to other humidifiers we tested. Relative to other small humidifiers, the Dreo HM311S is much more effective at humidifying and is more convenient to run. If you're not overly concerned with budget, the Levoit OasisMist 450S Smart is one of the best humidifiers you can buy, outclassing the AquaOasis at every turn except run time.