I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Air Purifier For Allergies And Asthma (2023)

Choosing the right air filter can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of marketing jargon and confusing specifications. However, with a little research and calculation, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs. In this guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting an air filter, debunk common misconceptions, and provide practical tips to ensure optimal performance.

Understanding CADR Ratings:

The CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating is a crucial metric that indicates an air filter's effectiveness in removing different sizes of particles from the air. The government assigns three levels – Dust, Pollen, and Smoke – to represent large, medium, and tiny particles, respectively. For those seeking a HEPA filter, it is essential to focus on the Smoke CADR rating, as it corresponds to the removal of small HEPA particles, including allergens.

Air Exchange Rate:

The government recommends that individuals with allergies require 4-5 air exchanges per hour, while non-allergy sufferers can benefit from 2 exchanges per hour. Anything lower may result in particles settling on surfaces or a lack of noticeable difference. It is worth noting that these calculations assume an open door to another room. Although closing the door improves results, it is important to maintain a small opening for fresh air circulation and to prevent carbon dioxide imbalance.

Consider Fan Speeds:

CADR ratings are typically calculated on the maximum fan speed setting. However, it is unrealistic to assume that the air filter will be continuously used at this level. Most users prefer running their air filters on low to minimize noise and energy consumption. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) output at different fan speeds. If only the maximum CFM is provided, you can estimate the CFM of other speeds by proportionally comparing power usage.

Calculating Air Cleaning Efficiency:

To determine the air cleaning efficiency of an air filter, divide the CFM output for Smoke particles (HEPA particles) by the cubic feet of your room. For example, if the low fan speed CFM output for Smoke particles is 75 and your room measures 12 x 12 x 8 feet, dividing 75 by 1152 results in approximately 15 minutes for a complete air exchange. This calculation ensures that you achieve the recommended number of air exchanges per hour without having to operate the air filter at higher fan speeds.

Filter Replacement:

Filter replacement intervals are often based on usage at maximum fan speed and 24/7 operation. However, it is important to consider your specific usage pattern. By calculating the proportion of CFM output at your preferred fan speed compared to the maximum, you can estimate the filter replacement interval accordingly. This approach can help extend the lifespan of your filter and save on replacement costs.

Personal Experience with Blue Air:

Based on personal experience, the Blue Air air filter has performed exceptionally well. It operates quietly and effectively cleans the air. However, it is worth mentioning that the app connectivity feature raises concerns about data privacy. Users should be cautious as some companies may collect and sell personal data. Additionally, for those dealing with toxic odors such as weed killer, opting for a smokestop filter may provide added protection.

Selecting the right air filter requires careful consideration of CADR ratings, air exchange rates, fan speeds, and filter replacement intervals. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific requirements. Remember to prioritize your health and well-being by investing in a high-quality air filter that provides optimal performance and improves the air quality in your living space.

After six months of use, I am even more impressed with this air purifier! Not only does it effectively filter out smelly gases, but it also performs exceptionally well in removing smoke from the air. I experienced this firsthand when my husband accidentally let smoke enter the house while burning leaves outside. The purifier quickly eliminated the smoke, providing visible proof of its effectiveness.

As someone with severe allergies, I purchased this purifier specifically to alleviate my symptoms. I am pleased to report that it has exceeded my expectations. The filtration system is top-notch, capturing a wide range of allergens and pollutants. However, I have noticed that the air quality monitor does not accurately detect certain particles such as pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold. It tends to fluctuate between 7 and 9, except when it detects VOCs (volatile organic compounds). In those instances, the monitor registers a significant increase.

Despite this minor flaw, I am satisfied with the purifier's overall performance. I prefer to keep it running on speed 4 continuously to ensure consistent air circulation and maximum allergy relief. Although it would be nice to have more detailed information about the air quality regarding dust, pollen, pets, and mold, I prioritize the fact that the purifier effectively cleans the air.

One aspect that truly impressed me is its ability to detect and eliminate VOCs. I was unaware of the high levels of VOCs emitted by ovens until using this purifier. It has been eye-opening to witness its effectiveness in reducing these compounds. Moreover, I appreciate that this unit cleans large areas instead of being limited to a small room.

Before purchasing this purifier, I conducted extensive research on various brands and models. Considering factors such as square footage coverage, CADR rating, air quality sensor accuracy, air circulation frequency, warranty, filter cost, filter replacement frequency, and the specific pollutants filtered, this unit stood out as the best overall choice. I compared it with popular brands like Germ Guardian, Levoit, Blue Air, Honeywell, Breath Smart, Nuwave, Sharp, Medify, AirMega, Winix, Austin Air, Oransi, Air Doctor, Renpho, Rabbit Air, and Alen. Ultimately, this purifier surpassed them all in terms of performance, value, and customer reviews.

I highly recommend conducting thorough research when considering an air purifier, rather than solely relying on the claims made by the manufacturers. By paying attention to the aforementioned factors, you can make an informed decision. Additionally, ensure that the purifier's square footage coverage matches your specific needs.

I recently purchased this air purifier for my desk at work and I must say, I am quite impressed with its performance. One of my co-workers accidentally burned some popcorn, which resulted in a rather unpleasant smell lingering around my desk. However, as soon as I turned on the high setting of the unit, it effectively cleared the funky odor from the air. Additionally, another co-worker brought in a smelly lunch, and the air purifier worked wonders in eliminating the unpleasant odor as well.

One of the standout features of this product is its affordability. Despite its low cost, the air purifier works excellently in improving the air quality in my workspace.

I would like to address some misconceptions mentioned in a few negative reviews. Firstly, it is important to note that the purifiers I received were brand new, so it is essential to thoroughly read the product description before making assumptions about the condition of the item. Secondly, on the "medium" setting, there is a slight white noise, similar to that of a refrigerator, which I personally find quite tolerable. On the "low" setting, the purifier operates silently. It is unrealistic to expect complete silence from a machine that moves air through a filter using a rotary fan.

Furthermore, replacement filter packs are easily accessible and reasonably priced on Amazon. They can be purchased in 4 packs for approximately $45 or in 2 packs for around $24, some of which also include additional oil pads.

Regarding the use of oils in a purification machine, it is important to note that this product is primarily designed to remove odors and improve air quality. While some may expect oils to work in conjunction with the purifier, I anticipated that it would not be effective in this regard. However, this did not deduct from my overall satisfaction with the product.

In fact, I was so pleased with the performance of this air purifier that I purchased three identical units and I am considering buying another one to cover additional areas. I have noticed a significant improvement in the air quality in my home, as I wake up with less congestion and breathing feels easier.

While I cannot comment on its dust reduction capabilities just yet, as it has only been a week since I started using the purifier on a constant medium setting, I am hopeful that it will contribute to a decrease in the need for frequent cleaning and dusting. I will provide an update on this aspect in the future.

I recently decided it was time to upgrade my old room filter/purifier, and after some research, I chose the VEWIOR Air Purifier with Air Quality Display. I have been extremely pleased with my choice so far.

The packaging of the air purifier was top-notch, with the product securely packed in a high-quality box. Inside the box, I found the purifier and a small manual that provided clear instructions on how to unpack and use the purifier. The setup process was straightforward and hassle-free.

One of the standout features of this air purifier is its compact size and lightweight design. Weighing only 2.82 pounds and measuring 6.30×6.3×9.96 inches, it can fit almost anywhere in your home. The power supply comes with a long cord, allowing you to position the purifier away from the wall outlet.

The control panel on the front of the purifier is user-friendly, with a display and flat-panel buttons. The manual fan speed button allows you to choose from three fan speeds, while the timer button lets you set specific periods for the purifier to shut off. The power button turns on the purifier, which automatically sets it to auto mode. The automatic option adjusts the fan speed and filtering performance based on the pollutant conditions in your room.

I was impressed with how quickly the purifier analyzed the air quality in my room and adjusted the fan speed accordingly. The display is bright and easy to read, showing the particulate level, fan speed, and timer status. The purifier effectively filters out pollutants, including pet hair, pollen, smoke, and odors, thanks to its three-stage filtering system.

The VEWIOR Air Purifier is designed for normal-sized rooms of around 600 square feet. It efficiently cleans the air in the room, with the lowest fan speed producing a gentle white noise of about 18 dB. This makes it suitable for use while working or sleeping, and it can even be used as a white noise generator.

Additionally, the purifier features a little door on the top that can be opened to add a drop of essential oil for aromatherapy or a pleasant scent in the room. However, it's important to check which fragrances and oils are safe for pets before using them.

According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the filter should be replaced every 3-6 months. The price of replacement filters is comparable to other similar air filtration systems on the market.

I recently purchased the Blueair 311 Auto air purifier for my living room, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its performance. This is actually my second Blueair purifier, as I initially bought the smaller Blue 411+ for my bedroom and was amazed at how it improved my allergies. I used to wake up every morning with a stuffed nose, but after using the Blueair 411+, my sinuses are clear and the room smells fresh.

Considering the positive experience with the smaller unit, I decided to get a larger one for my living room, where my two dogs spend most of their time. As someone with allergies and pets, keeping the air clean can be a challenge, but the Blueair 311 Auto has made a noticeable difference. Even when my dogs shed their fur, the purifier effectively removes the pet dander from the air.

The setup of the Blueair 311 Auto was simple and hassle-free. It comes with four mode settings and indicator lights that show the air quality and when the filter needs to be replaced. I have noticed that the air quality sensor light briefly turned from blue to orange once, but it quickly returned to blue. The main filter change sensor is said to switch on after six months of use, but I haven't had the purifier long enough to confirm this feature.

In terms of maintenance, I regularly clean the outer filter cover with a vacuum brush to remove dust, which is a clear indication that the purifier is doing its job. I also wipe the plastic exterior with a damp cloth to keep it clean and in optimal working condition.

In terms of noise level, the Blueair 311 Auto has four modes. The auto mode adjusts the fan speed depending on the air quality and is very quiet. The night mode is whisper quiet, while the everyday mode is slightly louder, comparable to a fan on medium speed. The boost mode, however, is quite loud and not suitable for everyday use. I only use the boost mode for a short period of time when there is a specific odor issue that needs to be resolved quickly.

I have been running the Blueair 311 Auto 24/7 for about two months now, and I am extremely satisfied with its performance. It effectively eliminates any lingering odors, such as the wet dog smell after it rains. I am confident that both the Blueair 311 Auto and the Blueair 411+ will continue to keep the air in my home clean and fresh, even during the upcoming fire season.

(Note: This review is based on my personal experience and I was not paid or asked to leave this review. I have no affiliation with the Blueair company, except as a satisfied customer.)

After extensive research, I decided to purchase the Luftrum model for Large Rooms to address the dust and air purification needs in my High Desert, California home. I have three large indoor/outdoor dogs, so it was important for me to find a reliable solution. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this air purifier as it has significantly improved the air quality in my house and reduced the dust level.

One of the standout features of this Luftrum model is its powerful performance. The machine effectively cleans the air and collects a substantial amount of dust, regardless of the fan speed level. Even though the high setting can be a bit noisy, the medium and low levels are nearly silent, making it suitable for use in any room without causing disruption.

In terms of construction, the Luftrum air purifier is well-built, utilizing durable metal instead of flimsy plastic. This not only adds to its longevity but also enhances its portability. The inclusion of wheels allows for easy movement from room to room, ensuring that every area of your home can benefit from clean air.

Additionally, I was impressed with the Luftrum's ability to eliminate unwanted odors. For instance, it effectively removed a mothball smell in my attic that had permeated my home. Other air purifiers I had tried in the past did not produce the same level of effectiveness. This Luftrum model surpassed my expectations and left me thoroughly impressed.

Furthermore, this air purifier has proven to be a valuable solution for addressing cooking smells. In my apartment, where a range hood is absent, the Luftrum efficiently resolved the issue of food odors wafting into the hallway. The product's performance exceeded my wife's expectations.

I also want to mention that the delivery of the Luftrum air purifier was prompt and the packaging was secure, ensuring that the product arrived in perfect condition. Setting it up and using it in my family room was a breeze, and the unit operated quietly, allowing us to enjoy our time without any disturbance.

Choosing an air filter can be a daunting task, especially when faced with marketing jargon and confusing specifications. However, with a little research and calculation, you can make an informed decision. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Government CADR Ratings: The CADR rating, which stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate, is divided into three levels: Dust, Pollen, and Smoke. The Smoke CADR represents the smallest HEPA particles, including many allergens. If you are specifically looking for a HEPA filter, focus on the Smoke CADR results.

2. Air Exchange Rate: The government recommends that people with allergies need air exchanged in the room 4-5 times per hour, while non-allergy sufferers require 2 times per hour. Anything lower may not effectively filter particles or make a noticeable difference. It is important to note that these calculations assume an open door to another room. However, for fresh air circulation and carbon dioxide balance, it is advisable to keep the door slightly open.

3. CADR Calculation: CADR is usually calculated at maximum fan speed, which is rarely used in real-life scenarios. It is more practical to run the air filter on low settings for noise reduction and energy efficiency. To estimate the CADR at different fan speeds, you can calculate the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) proportionately based on the power use of the fan.

4. Room Size Calculation: To determine the effectiveness of an air filter, divide the CFM output (specifically for Smoke particles) listed in the manual by the cubic feet of your room. For example, if the low fan speed outputs 75 CFM and your room measures 12 x 12 x 8', you would divide 75 CFM into 1152 cubic feet. This calculation reveals that it takes approximately 15 minutes to clean the air, resulting in 4 air exchanges per hour. If this meets your requirements, you may not need to use higher fan speeds.

5. Filter Replacement: Filter replacement intervals are typically based on maximum fan speed and 24/7 use. However, if you run the air filter on low settings for a specific duration, you can calculate the proportion and adjust the replacement time accordingly. It is worth noting that HEPA filters generally require replacement every 3-5 years, depending on usage.

Based on these considerations, the Blue Air air filter seems to be working well for the reviewer. It provides effective air purification, operates quietly, and offers a convenient filter replacement schedule. However, the reviewer does mention concerns about the app's connectivity to the internet and potential data privacy issues. Additionally, they express regret over not purchasing the smokestop filter for better odor filtration.

I have been using these air purifier units for quite some time now, and I must say that they are absolutely amazing. They have exceeded my expectations and are still working perfectly. In fact, I am considering purchasing another one because of how well they perform.

One of the things I love about these units is that they effectively minimize the dust in my house and keep it smelling fresh all the time. They continuously circulate the air, pulling in the air and blowing out filtered air, which has made a significant difference in the air quality of my home. I highly recommend these units to anyone looking for an efficient air purifier.

Additionally, I have set up auto-delivery for the filters, which arrive every three months. This ensures that I always have clean and functioning filters in place, contributing to the overall performance of the units.

In terms of maintenance, there was a minor issue I encountered initially. After changing the filter, I had to reset the machine by holding down the button on top for 10 seconds. Once I did that, the unit functioned perfectly again.

Speaking of filters, I have noticed that the gray stretchy filter on the outside of the units collects a significant amount of dust and needs to be washed regularly. However, I have not observed any dirt or debris being drawn into the main filter. I will continue to monitor this and provide an update in the future.

Before purchasing these units, I did thorough research and found that this model was ranked among the top three air purifiers in 2018. The positive reviews I read further convinced me to give it a try. I ordered two units, which arrived promptly, and I immediately put them to work. The units are easy to operate, with a touch button on top for adjusting the speed (low, medium, and high). The low and medium settings are quiet, while the high setting is slightly noticeable but still tolerable during the day.

One noticeable benefit of using these units is the clean smell in my house. There are no lingering odors, and the air feels fresh and pure. I am even considering getting a third unit for our garage. The compact size of the units makes them lightweight and easy to move from room to room.

Another interesting observation is that after running one of the units in my office area, I noticed a significant reduction in dust on the top portion of my desk shelving. This further demonstrates the effectiveness of these air purifiers in filtering out dust particles.

I recently purchased this air purifier for my bedroom, hoping to improve the air quality after a thorough cleaning session. However, I have mixed feelings about its performance.

Firstly, the setup guide mentioned that the purifier should be placed at least 15 inches away from any obstruction. I placed it near my laundry hamper and bedroom door, but unfortunately, I did not notice a significant improvement in air quality. In fact, it seemed like the dust was floating around more than ever. Even my cup of water would accumulate dust floaters within a few hours.

After reading a review where someone placed the filter on top of a tall piece of furniture, I decided to give it a try. To my dismay, this worsened the situation. I experienced difficulty breathing, coughing, and choking due to the increased amount of dust in the air. It was quite frustrating to see that the filter, which had initially eliminated the smell, was now causing more dust to circulate.

After some investigation, I discovered that the dust was coming from the supply air duct. Upon removing the vent, I found a pile of dirt and grime at the bottom. I cleaned the vent as best as I could and moved the filter closer to the vent. Since then, I have noticed a significant reduction in dust floaters in my water cup, and the air feels easier to breathe.

Although this air purifier has been a learning experience for me, I must admit that it has its merits. The sleek and compact design adds a touch of elegance to my room. I particularly appreciate the blue nightlight settings, which come in two levels, creating a pleasant ambiance. The three-speed options provide flexibility, with speed 1 being super quiet, speed 2 comparable to the noise level of a fridge, and speed 3 slightly louder, similar to a normal fan.

Furthermore, the air quality has improved since I started using the purifier. I wake up feeling refreshed and free from any discomfort. The sensitivity of the buttons is worth mentioning, as they respond accurately to touch. Additionally, the filter only needs to be changed every 6-12 months, which is convenient.

On the downside, clicking a button on the purifier produces a high-pitched noise that cannot be muted. This can be quite bothersome for some individuals. Additionally, speed 3 may be too loud for those who prefer a quieter environment. Lastly, the sensitive buttons can be accidentally pressed, leading to the unit turning off unintentionally.

I recently purchased this air purifier to tackle the persistent dust problem in my home office. Being a black-colored desk owner, I noticed that dust accumulated more visibly compared to lighter-colored furniture. It was quite a hassle having to clean frequently, so I decided to invest in a purifier. After extensive research, I stumbled upon this particular model and bought it at a discounted price during Prime day.

Having used it for over two weeks now, I can confidently say that it has successfully reduced the amount of dust in my office. Although it doesn't completely eliminate dust, it has significantly extended the cleaning intervals. I used to clean every few days, but now I can wait up to a week before the dust becomes noticeable again, saving me the headache of constant cleaning.

One of the best features of this purifier is its size and affordability. I specifically wanted something compact and budget-friendly, particularly when it came time to change the filter. This model met both requirements, making it a perfect fit for my needs. I leave the purifier running 24/7, even during sleep, and the sleep mode is so quiet that I had to double-check if it was actually on.