Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier vs Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier (2026): Key Differences
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are deciding between honeywell cool moisture humidifiers bedroom vs designer series cool models for your home. Both units provide cool mist to help with dry air. They share a black finish and target bedroom use. The main difference lies in their technology and capacity. One uses evaporative wicking filters for cleaner mist. The other offers a larger tank and an essential oil tray. You should choose based on your preference for filtration versus aromatherapy features.
Key differences
| Aspect | Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier | Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Evaporative | Not listed |
| Tank Capacity | 1.1 Gallon | 1.25 Gallon |
| Filter Requirement | Wicking filter | Not listed |
| Special Features | UV technology | Essential oil tray |
| Dimensions | 13" x 10.3" x 18.5" | 8.8" x 8.8" x 13.2" |
| Weight | 9 pounds | 6.6 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier if
- You want evaporative technology with a wicking filter to capture minerals.
- You prefer a unit with UV technology for treated water.
- You need a larger footprint that holds 1.1 gallons for up to 24 hours.
Choose Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier if
- You want to add essential oils using the included tray.
- You prefer a more compact design that is lighter to move.
- You need a slightly larger 1.25-gallon tank capacity.
Verdict: Choose the 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier if you value evaporative filtration and UV technology for cleaner mist. Pick the Designer Series model if you want aromatherapy options and a more compact, lighter footprint. Both provide cool mist suitable for bedroom use.
Capacity and Tech Comparison
Tank capacity
The Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier holds 1.25 gallons of water. This slightly larger tank allows for extended operation between fills. The Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier contains 1.1 gallons. Both tanks are designed for easy filling and cleaning. The larger capacity in the Designer Series model may reduce the frequency of refills during heavy use. This is a minor difference, but it can matter for overnight use. You get a bit more runtime potential with the larger tank.
Humidification technology
The 1.1-Gallon model uses evaporative technology with a wicking filter. This system treats water with UV technology to help capture minerals. It provides invisible moisture and requires a genuine Honeywell Replacement Wicking Filter A. The 1.25-Gallon Designer Series model uses standard cool mist technology. It does not mention a wicking filter or UV treatment in its specifications. It focuses on basic humidity addition. If you prefer a filter-based system for cleaner mist, the evaporative model is the clear choice. The other relies on simple atomization.
Aromatherapy features
The Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier includes a dedicated essential oil tray. This feature allows you to add aromatherapy oils for added comfort. The Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier does not list an essential oil tray or any aromatherapy capabilities. Its focus is strictly on humidity generation through its wicking filter and UV system. If you enjoy using essential oils for scent or relaxation, the Designer Series model offers this convenience. The 1.1-Gallon unit does not support this function.
Physical dimensions
The 1.1-Gallon model measures 13 by 10.3 by 18.5 inches and weighs 9 pounds. It is a taller, wider unit. The 1.25-Gallon Designer Series model is more compact at 8.8 by 8.8 by 13.2 inches. It weighs only 6.6 pounds. The smaller footprint of the Designer Series makes it easier to place on smaller surfaces or in tighter spaces. The larger 1.1-Gallon unit requires more floor or table space. Consider your available surface area when choosing between the bulky evaporative unit and the compact cool mist model.
Filter requirements
The Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier requires a wicking filter. You must use a genuine Honeywell Replacement Wicking Filter A for best performance. This ongoing cost is part of the ownership. The 1.25-Gallon Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier does not list any filter requirements. It operates without a replaceable wicking filter. This means no ongoing filter costs for the Designer Series. If you want to avoid recurring filter purchases, the model without a filter requirement is more economical in the long run.
Choose the Right Honeywell Humidifier
You want cleaner mist with UV tech
The 1.1-Gallon model uses evaporative technology with a wicking filter and UV treatment. This process captures minerals and treats the water before releasing invisible moisture. You get cleaner mist without white dust. The unit runs up to 24 hours on a single fill, making it ideal for overnight use in bedrooms.
You prefer a compact, lightweight design
The 1.25-Gallon Designer Series is significantly smaller and lighter. It measures 8.8 inches square and weighs only 6.6 pounds, compared to the larger footprint of the other model. Its square base fits easily into tight spaces. You get a larger 1.25-gallon tank in a more portable package that is easy to move.
You want to add aromatherapy oils
Only the 1.25-Gallon model includes a dedicated essential oil tray. You can add your favorite oils for aromatherapy comfort alongside the cool mist. This feature is not available on the 1.1-Gallon evaporative unit. You get both humidity relief and scent customization in one quiet device designed for bedroom use.
The products compared
Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier
Best for: Medium bedrooms seeking clean evaporative mist
- Tank Capacity
- 1.1 Gallon
- Technology
- Evaporative
- Mist Type
- Cool Mist
- Maximum Runtime
- Up to 24 hours
- Filter Requirement
- Wicking filter
- Room Type
- Bedroom, Medium Room
View on Amazon: Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier Affiliate link
This Honeywell evaporative humidifier uses a wicking filter and UV technology to deliver cool, clean mist. It features a 1.1-gallon tank that runs for up to 24 hours, making it suitable for medium rooms like bedrooms. The unit measures 13 by 10.3 by 18.5 inches and weighs 9 pounds. You can clean water-contact parts in a dishwasher. It requires genuine Honeywell replacement filters for optimal performance.
Pros
- Evaporative technology with wicking filter for cleaner mist
- UV technology helps treat water and capture minerals
- 1.1-gallon tank provides up to 24 hours of runtime
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons
- Requires purchase of specific Honeywell replacement wicking filters
- Smaller 1.1-gallon capacity compared to the 1.25-gallon alternative
- Larger footprint at 13 by 10.3 by 18.5 inches
Good fit if
- You want cleaner mist via evaporative technology and UV treatment
- You need a humidifier that runs overnight for up to 24 hours
- You prefer dishwasher-safe components for low-maintenance cleaning
Skip if
- You want a larger 1.25-gallon tank capacity
- You prefer a more compact design for limited space
- You want to use third-party generic replacement filters
Verdict: Honeywell 1.1-Gal Cool Moisture Humidifier suits buyers who prioritize clean, evaporative mist and dishwasher-safe maintenance in medium bedrooms. It fits those who value UV water treatment over the larger tank size of the Designer Series model.
Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier
Best for: Bedrooms needing simple cool mist and aromatherapy
- Tank Capacity
- 1.25 gallon
- Mist Type
- Cool Mist
- Dimensions
- 8.8 × 8.8 × 13.2 inches
- Weight
- 6.6 pounds
View on Amazon: Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier Affiliate link
This Honeywell Designer Series unit is a cool mist humidifier designed for medium-sized rooms. It features a 1.25-gallon tank that is easy to fill and clean. The device measures 8.8 by 8.8 by 13.2 inches and weighs 6.6 pounds. It includes a dedicated tray for essential oils. This model helps maintain indoor humidity levels to relieve congestion and keep nasal passages hydrated during dry seasons or illness.
Pros
- 1.25-gallon tank capacity for extended runtime
- Dedicated essential oil tray for aromatherapy
- Compact footprint at 8.8 inches wide
- Cool mist output for safe bedroom use
Cons
- No app control or smart connectivity
- Manual operation with no digital display
- Basic design lacks adjustable mist settings
Good fit if
- You want a simple, reliable humidifier for a bedroom
- You prefer manual controls over smart features
- You want to add essential oils to your routine
Skip if
- You need app control or remote operation
- You require precise humidity monitoring via a display
- You need a unit for very large spaces
Verdict: Honeywell Designer Series 1.25-Gal Cool Mist is a practical choice for users who prioritize ease of use and aromatherapy in a compact, medium-room unit. It suits those who prefer straightforward manual operation without smart connectivity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Honeywell 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier | Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier |
|---|---|---|
| Tank Capacity | 1.1 Gallon | 1.25 gallon |
| Technology | Evaporative | not stated |
| Mist Type | Cool Mist | Cool Mist |
| Maximum Runtime | Up to 24 hours | not stated |
| Filter Requirement | Wicking filter | not stated |
| Room Type | Bedroom, Medium Room | not stated |
| Capacity | 1 Gallon | not stated |
| Recommended Use | Baby, Kids | not stated |
| Dimensions | 17.5 × 9.37 × 11.9 inches | 8.8 × 8.8 × 13.2 inches |
| Weight | 9 pounds | 6.6 pounds |
| Size | 13" x 10.3" x 18.5" | 1 pack |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | HCM350B | HUL430B |
Frequently asked questions
Which Honeywell humidifier is better for a baby's room?
The 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier is the better choice for nurseries. It is explicitly recommended for baby and kids use. The evaporative technology with UV treatment produces cleaner mist. This reduces the risk of white dust from minerals. The larger 1.25-Gallon model lacks this specific safety recommendation in its data.
What is the size difference between the two models?
The 1.1-Gallon model is larger and heavier. It measures 17.5 inches in length and weighs 9 pounds. The Designer Series 1.25-Gallon unit is more compact. It measures 8.8 inches in length and weighs 6.6 pounds. You should choose the smaller unit if counter space is limited in your bedroom.
Does the Honeywell 1.25-Gallon model have smart features?
No, the Honeywell Designer Series 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier does not include smart connectivity. It relies on straightforward manual operation. You control the mist output directly on the device. It does not offer app control or remote access. This makes it a simple, plug-and-play option for basic humidity needs.
Can I use essential oils with these humidifiers?
The Honeywell 1.25-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier supports aromatherapy. You can add essential oils to enhance the scent in your room. The 1.1-Gallon model focuses on clean evaporative mist. Its design prioritizes moisture delivery over fragrance diffusion. If scent enhancement is a priority, the Designer Series model is the suitable option.
Which model is easier to clean?
The 1.1-Gallon Cool Moisture Humidifier is designed for easy maintenance. It features a dishwasher-safe filter for convenient cleaning. This helps maintain hygiene with minimal effort. The 1.25-Gallon model is also practical but lacks the specific dishwasher-safe filter mention. You may need to hand-wash components for the Designer Series unit.
Are both models suitable for medium-sized bedrooms?
Yes, both units are suitable for medium rooms. The 1.1-Gallon model is specifically best for medium bedrooms. The 1.25-Gallon model is also described as a compact unit for medium rooms. Both provide adequate cool mist coverage for standard bedroom sizes. You can choose based on tank capacity or feature preferences.