Why You Should Leave A Bucket Of Water In Your Air-Conditioned Room At Night

If you've ever woken up during the night feeling parched, stuffy, or like your face spent eight hours in a wind tunnel, your air conditioner might be the culprit. It's a necessary luxury that keeps things cool and comfy, but it also sucks the moisture right out of the air. Dry air can quietly sabotage your sleep, leaving you with a scratchy throat, itchy eyes, dry skin, and sinuses that feel like the Sahara. But a fuss-free option lets you stay cool during warmer months and a bit more hydrated while you sleep. With a bucket of water left in a ventilated corner of your air-conditioned room at night, you'll bring natural hydration and a more balanced environment.

The science behind this hack is simple. Water naturally evaporates into the air, and even without heat or a machine to help it along, that slow, steady release of moisture can be just enough to take the edge off an overly dry environment. Although humidifiers are great and there are plenty of valid reasons to consider a whole-house humidifier, it's not always affordable. Humidifiers can be pricey, noisy, or a hassle to maintain. But a bucket of water is pretty much effortless.

For anyone looking for a more restful, balanced sleep, find out how adding a bucket of water is a budget-friendly, whole-body game-changing alternative to a humidifier. Not sure what the humidity is like in your home? You can use an ice cube to measure your home's humidity level this summer.

Dry air can cause sinus irritation, dry out your skin and lips, and even disrupt your ability to breathe comfortably through the night. So, how does a bucket of water make a difference in an air-conditioned room? It all comes down to a natural process working behind the scenes. When you leave a container of water in a room, the water evaporates, turning from liquid into water vapor. That vapor mixes with the air, gradually increasing the humidity level. After several hours, like while you sleep, it can add enough moisture to ease dry conditions without making the room feel damp.

To make this hack work, put the water bucket in an open spot with good air circulation. The more air moving over the water's surface, the more moisture will evaporate into the room. You can set the bucket near a fan, vent, or open area, not tucked away in a corner where it can't breathe (just make sure it's not kept too close to any electronics). You want the water to do its thing all night, releasing a subtle wave of humidity.

If you don't have a bucket handy, fill up an empty vase or planter. Toss in some lemon or orange peels or drizzle essential oils for a fragrance boost. Make sure to toss the water frequently and refill it with fresh water. If your humidity levels become higher than you'd like, there are plenty of tips for naturally dehumidifying your home.