Dehumidifiers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a range of purposes, even in cars.
Unfortunately, our vehicles are not exempt from being damaged by mould and damp, and this is where a dehumidifier can come in very handy.
Their function is to remove the excess moisture in the air, keeping it dry and preventing things like mould and mildew from forming.
As a result, those who suffer from allergies and asthma are able to avoid unnecessary attacks due to damp air and removing any dust from your car.
Pingi Reusable Car Dehumidifier
Seal Damp Eater Dehumidifier
There are many reasons as to why a car can end up damp, and with these best buy in-car dehumidifiers you are sure to find the solution to your problems.
If you are in need of something to get rid of the excess moisture in your car, then look no further than our pick of the best car dehumidifiers.
Types of Car Dehumidifiers
If we’re looking at things broadly, there are only two main types of car dehumidifier. These are the moisture-absorbing and 12 volt models. However, there are also some that are battery-powered and work almost like a combination of the two.
Moisture Absorbing.
This is the cheapest option you’re going to find, and they are commonly used in cars because they work well even when driving. They are a passive form of dehumidifier, and sit there absorbing liquid from the air until they are full.
Usually, there is an indicator to let you know when it is full, and many of them are reusable - just pop them in the microwave and they will reset. They tend to cost between £5 and £20, which makes them affordable, and you can expect the reusable ones to last a good few years.Â
12 Volt.
These are fast-acting and can take more moisture than their non-electric counterparts, but they also take power in order to run. They do have larger capacities as well as their own little water tanks that need to be emptied regularly. This is why it is not advised to drive with them plugged in as the water can spill over.
The average price for a 12v car dehumidifier tends to be around £30, which is quite an investment, but their larger size and capacity is ideal if you have a very damp car that is in need of some serious treatment. They need to be plugged in (usually to the USB port or cigarette lighter,Â
Battery Powered.
These usually need to be emptied just like the 12v models, but they rely on batteries instead of being plugged into the car. This saves you needing to keep the engine running, and many of the battery-powered models tend to be flat so you can usually drive while they are running.
Considerations
They are pretty affordable as well, coming in at an average price of £15, which makes them a nice middle ground between the two main types of dehumidifier above. The only downside is that you usually need to replace the batteries, but rechargeable options are available.
Which is right for you?
Which type of car dehumidifier is the best one? If we’re going with personal preference, we would say that the moisture-absorbing models are the best way to go in most cases. They are compact, cheap, and do a fantastic job of keeping that all-important moisture balance inside your vehicle.
Of course, if you have a really severe mould and damp problem then you need to use something with more power, and this is when the electronic 12v version comes in handy, but if it’s nothing too major then definitely go for the passive dehumidification option.Â
Best Car Dehumidifier in Order
1. Pingi PD-A300P6-UK Reusable Car Dehumidifier
The in car dehumidifier reviews for this model have been particularly praising of its speed and effectiveness.
Frost, steam, and condensation stand no chance against this nifty and perfectly portable Pingi dehumidifier.
It simply sits on the dashboard and absorbs the excess moisture, without needing power or becoming wet.
When the dehumidifier is full, a light will flash at the centre, letting you know that it needs to be recharged.
Six minutes in the microwave will completely empty it as the moisture is removed while it is being microwaved.
 It will also remove musty odours and unwanted smells from your car.Â
On top of this, it’s completely safe to be around children and pets. Cheap and practical, it’s one to buy.
This nifty dehumidifier is great for removing the excess moisture in your car during cold winter days, or even if it has just been sat outside for a while and has collected damp.
 It requires no power, and the bag is leak proof so you don’t need to worry about the water spilling out.
With a quick recharge time of six minutes, your car will be damp free so that you can enjoy your drives a little more. Plus, the cheap price is more than a little tempting.
Pros
Cons
FAQ's
Q: Can you leave this product in your car overnight?
A: Yes you can simply leave it in your car at all times, all you need to do is microwave it when the middle becomes pink to dry it out and start the process over again.Â
Q: Will this product contaminate the microwave when heating up food afterwards?
A: Absolutely not this is totally safe to use in the microwave and to continue using to heat up your food, If your that concerned you can always dry out the pingi on the radiator.Â
Design
Features
Price
2. Seal Damp Eater Dehumidifier
This in-car dehumidifier is the best-selling product when it comes to winter car kits.
Simply leave one on the dashboard and another at the rear window and by the time you return to the car in the morning it will be completely clear from moisture and condensation.
They work quickly and efficiently to keep your car as dry as possible.
When the dehumidifier is in need of charging the colour of the window in the bag will change to let you know – all you need to do is place it in the microwave for three minutes and it is ready to use again.
Plus, the bags that the dehumidifiers are kept in are incredibly strong as they are made from the same material deep sea divers use to carry items in. They’re effective and virtually indestructible.
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
- No power required
- Only 3 minutes to recharge
- Bag full indicator light
- Work quickly
- Made from strong material
- Best seller
Cons
- Some have found the bag sheds silica gel crystals
- Have been a couple of occasions where the bag has split
This dehumidifier for the car interior does a generally excellent job, despite the occasional review that says otherwise.
The overall consensus is that this is a fantastic model that will keep your car free from frost and general condensation when left overnight.
 It has a super-fast recharge time and will work fast on your car for the best results. With two dehumidifiers included in this great package, it’s an unbeatable price.
Design
Features
Price
3. Thomar AirDry 604100 Car Dehumidifier Set
This in-car dehumidifier is ideal for preventing mould, mildew, and even rust from forming in your car.
By leaving this fantastic dehumidifier in your vehicle overnight, you can completely remove damp and excess moisture from the air.
Just place one on the dashboard and the other by the rear window.
Inside the bags are moisture activated pellets that will absorb the damp in your car.
The squares can be separated as well, so while two are in use, the others can recharge and reactive themselves.
 In order to start the regeneration process, simply place them on top of a radiator for a few days and wait for them to dry out.
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Resuable and rechargeable
- Absorbs damp efficiently
- Prevents mould, rust, and mildew
- Low price
- Can be used in a range of locations
Cons
- There have been a few people who noticed no effect
- Takes several days to dry out
This in-car dehumidifier has generally excellent reviews, and the fact that you can separate them in order to have some active at all times is a definite plus.
It certainly makes up for the length of time it takes to recharge this dehumidifier. If you are looking for something affordable and easy to use, then this might just be the one for you.
Design
Features
Price
4. Wexwox - Reusable & Odourless Dehumidifier
With a car dehumidifier, you want something that you will barely notice and that doesn’t take up any room. This is exactly what this little model does, and it’s the perfect way to keep humidity out of your car.
The Good
It can be placed anywhere in your car, fitting perfectly in the palm of your hand so that you can keep it tucked away. The best part is that it is completely reusable, It can also be used inside your home as well as your car. After all, it is the perfect size for slipping into a wardrobe or chest of drawers.
You’ll know when it needs to be recharged (via the microwave) when the blue indicator on the front turns pink. This shows that it is full of moisture. Despite its small size, it is able to prevent mould from growing in your car and also tackles foul odours. It can keep going for a good two years at the very least, and it will ensure that your once humid car is now comfortable to sit in.
The Not So Good
There have been no negative reviews from users of this model.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17x3x12cm
- Weight: 0.25kg
- Capacity: 0.1L
- Wattage: 650w
- Claimed Extraction Rate: n/a
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Resuable and rechargeable
- Absorbs damp efficiently
- Prevents mould, rust, and mildew
- Low price
- Can be used in a range of locations
Cons
- There have been a few people who noticed no effect
- Takes several days to dry out
Our View
This is definitely up there as one of the best car dehumidifiers, and it comes at an irresistibly low price. There haven’t been any negative reviews for this compact device, which shows you that it does an excellent job of getting rid of that excess moisture.
It’s the perfect way to prevent mould growth, and also makes the air in your car more comfortable to breathe.
Design
Features
Price
To Conclude
A dehumidifier for your car might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you have damp air or mould growing.
After all, you generally associate a dehumidifier with your home, and as large machines that certainly would not fit in your car.
However, there are a wide range of dehumidifiers, both that plug into your car but also some that simply sit on your dashboard or rear window parcel shelf.
With these fantastic models you are sure to find the best card dehumidifier for you.
What did you think of our car dehumidifier selection? Are there ones that you would have added to the list? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!
Last Updated on February 25, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
