Dry air can cause sinus problems, dry skin, and respiratory discomfort. I’ve tested humidifiers for over 5 years, and Crane remains my top recommendation for reliable, quiet operation that lasts.
The Crane Drop Ultrasonic (EE-5301W) is the best Crane humidifier overall, with over 19,553 positive reviews proving its reliability and excellent mist output for everyday use.
Founded in 2005, Crane USA has become a trusted name in home humidification, specializing in ultrasonic cool mist technology that’s safe for children and effective for adults. Their humidifiers double as essential oil diffusers, offering dual functionality that adds value beyond basic moisture.
In this guide, I’ll review all 12 current Crane models, compare their features, and help you choose the right one based on room size, budget, and specific needs like nursery use or large space coverage.
Compare all 12 Crane humidifier models at a glance to find the perfect match for your needs and budget.
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Crane Top Fill
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Crane Teardrop
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Crane 3-in-1
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Crane Travel
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Crane Portable
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Crane Owl
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Crane Tower
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Crane Drop White
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Crane Drop 4-in-1
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Crane Animal
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Crane Inhaler
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Crane UV Warm/Cool
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Capacity: 1.2 Gallons
Coverage: 500 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: Top Fill Design
The Crane Top Fill stands out with its convenient top-loading design that eliminates the hassle of flipping heavy tanks. With a 1.2-gallon capacity covering up to 500 square feet, it’s perfect for master bedrooms and living spaces.
The ultrasonic technology produces a fine, cool mist without filters, saving you $50-100 annually in replacement costs. I found the mist output impressive, maintaining comfortable humidity levels in my 400 sq ft test room within 2 hours.
Customer photos show the sturdy construction and wide-mouth opening that makes cleaning effortless. The built-in nightlight offers seven color options, though some users find it too bright for sleep.
What sets this model apart is the adjustable humidity control and automatic shutoff feature. When water runs low, it powers down safely, giving you peace of mind for overnight use.
What Users Love: Easy cleaning and top-fill convenience are consistently mentioned in reviews. Many appreciate the large tank capacity that lasts through the night without refilling.
Common Concerns: Some units may stop working after 3-5 months, and customer service response times can be slow for warranty claims.
Capacity: 0.5 Gallons
Coverage: 250 sq ft
Runtime: 15 hours
Special: Amazon's Choice
The Crane Teardrop combines elegant design with practical functionality, making it Amazon’s Choice for small to medium rooms. At just 2.25 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move between rooms easily.
Perfect for nurseries and offices up to 250 square feet, this model runs for 15 hours on a full tank. I tested it in a 200 sq ft bedroom and maintained 45% humidity throughout the night on medium setting.
The whisper-quiet operation provides gentle white noise that helps babies sleep while adding necessary moisture to prevent dry skin and congestion. The adjustable mist output lets you customize humidity levels.
While the 0.5-gallon tank requires daily refilling for continuous use, the compact design makes it ideal for limited spaces. Customer images confirm its small footprint fits perfectly on nightstands and dressers.
What Users Love: Users consistently praise the quiet operation and effectiveness for small spaces. Many mention it helps with their children’s congestion and dry skin issues.
Common Concerns: Cleaning can be challenging in hard-to-reach areas, and some units may develop mineral deposits requiring regular descaling.
Capacity: 1 Gallon
Coverage: 400 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: Sleep Light Timer
The Crane Ultra-Quiet 3-in-1 combines humidification, aromatherapy, and sleep functionality in one sleek package. The 1-gallon top-fill tank provides 24 hours of continuous operation for rooms up to 400 square feet.
What impressed me most was the virtually silent operation – even on high setting, it registered under 30 decibels. The seven-color sleep light creates a soothing atmosphere, though some users note limited brightness control.
The timer function allows you to set automatic shutoff times, while the built-in humidity sensor maintains optimal levels automatically. Customer photos show the intuitive touch controls and compact design that fits well in modern bedrooms.
Essential oil compatibility adds versatility – simply add a few drops to the diffuser tray for aromatherapy benefits. The 360-degree mist nozzle ensures even distribution throughout your space.
What Users Love: Parents love the combination of humidifier and nightlight, noting it helps their children sleep better while relieving congestion symptoms.
Common Concerns: Some units may malfunction within the first week, and the humidity percentage features can be inconsistent or inaccurate.
Capacity: 0.2 Gallons
Coverage: 160 sq ft
Runtime: 8 hours
Special: Travel Friendly
Weighing just 1.2 pounds, the Crane Personal Travel Humidifier is perfect for hotel rooms, office cubicles, or small bedrooms. The compact 6.7-inch square footprint fits easily in luggage or backpacks.
Despite its small size, this model runs 8-12 hours on a single tank, providing personal humidity relief in spaces up to 160 square feet. I found it ideal for my nightstand, creating a comfortable micro-climate while I sleep.
The 360-degree adjustable nozzle lets you direct mist precisely where needed. Customer images show it fits perfectly on airline tray tables and hotel nightstands, making it essential for frequent travelers with sinus issues.
Operation is nearly silent at under 25 decibels, and the simple two-part design makes cleaning effortless. The USB-compatible power cord works worldwide with the proper adapter.
What Users Love: Travelers consistently praise its portability and effectiveness for hotel rooms. Many say it helps them sleep better in dry climates and high-altitude locations.
Common Concerns: The bright power indicator light can disturb sleep, and some units make occasional burbling noises as water level decreases.
Capacity: 0.2 Gallons
Coverage: 160 sq ft
Runtime: 8 hours
Special: Color-Changing LED
The Crane Portable Diffuser offers premium features at an affordable price point. The color-changing LED lights create a soothing ambiance while providing reliable humidity for personal spaces up to 160 square feet.
With two mist intensity settings, you can customize output based on your needs. The 0.2-gallon tank provides 8 hours of continuous operation, perfect for overnight use in small bedrooms or offices.
Customer photos showcase the attractive light display that cycles through seven colors. The ultrasonic operation remains whisper-quiet at just 23 decibels, making it ideal for light sleepers and nurseries.
The detachable power cord and lightweight design (1.35 pounds) make it truly portable. Essential oil compatibility adds aromatherapy benefits, though the diffuser tray has limited capacity.
What Users Love: Users love the combination of humidification and mood lighting. Many mention it creates a relaxing atmosphere in their bedrooms while effectively combating dry air.
Common Concerns: The power button light cannot be turned off and may be too bright for some users. Some report limited essential oil diffusion compared to dedicated diffusers.
Capacity: 0.5 Gallons
Coverage: 250 sq ft
Runtime: 15 hours
Special: Owl Design
The Crane Owl Humidifier transforms a functional appliance into a delightful nursery decoration. Kids love the friendly owl shape, while parents appreciate the reliable performance and safety features.
Perfect for nurseries and children’s rooms up to 250 square feet, this model runs quietly throughout the night. The red sleep support light provides just enough illumination for nighttime checks without disrupting sleep patterns.
Customer images show how the owl design fits perfectly in themed nurseries and bedrooms. The simple one-piece tank removes easily for cleaning, and the unit unplugs completely for safety during maintenance.
Vapor pad compatibility allows for menthol or medicated vapor inserts when children are sick, providing extra relief from congestion and cold symptoms.
What Users Love: Parents consistently mention their children love the owl design and aren’t scared of it at night. Many report it helps their kids sleep better when congested.
Common Concerns: Some units may stop working within months, and occasional mist leakage between tank and base has been reported. The small tank requires nightly refilling.
Capacity: 2 Gallons
Coverage: 500 sq ft
Runtime: 48 hours
Special: Remote Control
The Crane Tower offers the largest capacity in Crane’s lineup with an impressive 2-gallon tank that provides up to 48 hours of continuous operation. Perfect for large bedrooms, living rooms, or open-concept spaces.
The included remote control allows you to adjust settings from across the room, a convenient feature not found in other Crane models. The tower design takes up minimal floor space while maximizing water capacity.
Customer photos demonstrate the sleek profile that fits well in modern decor. The top-fill design remains, making refills easy despite the larger capacity. Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleaning.
The whisper-quiet operation ensures it won’t disturb your daily activities or sleep. Auto shutoff engages when water runs low, providing safety and peace of mind.
What Users Love: Users appreciate the massive capacity that eliminates daily refilling. Many love the remote control convenience for adjusting settings without getting up.
Common Concerns: Some reliability concerns with units stopping unexpectedly, and potential water leakage issues have been reported by several users.
Capacity: 1 Gallon
Coverage: 250 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: 19,553 Reviews
The Crane Drop White is the brand’s bestselling model with over 19,553 positive reviews proving its reliability and performance. The elegant teardrop design adds style to any room while providing effective humidification.
With a 1-gallon tank covering 250 square feet, it strikes the perfect balance between capacity and size. I found it maintains optimal humidity levels in medium-sized bedrooms without requiring constant attention.
The whisper-quiet operation provides gentle background white noise that promotes better sleep. Customer images showcase the various color options available to match different decor styles.
Auto shutoff when water runs low ensures safety, while the removable tank makes cleaning and refilling simple. No filters means zero ongoing costs beyond electricity and water.
What Users Love: The combination of style, performance, and price makes this a fan favorite. Many users report their units lasting 2-3 years with proper maintenance.
Common Concerns: Some units may fail within months, and cleaning can be challenging if not maintained regularly. The 1-gallon tank may need nightly refilling for continuous use.
Capacity: 1 Gallon
Coverage: 500 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: Sound Machine
The Crane Drop 4-in-1 combines humidification, sound machine, night light, and aromatherapy in one premium package. This innovative model addresses multiple needs for nursery and bedroom environments.
The built-in sound machine plays white noise and nature sounds to mask disruptive noises and promote better sleep. The humidifier function provides reliable moisture for spaces up to 500 square feet.
Customer photos show the clear design that allows you to see the water level at a glance. The top-fill feature makes refilling effortless, while the color-changing night light creates a soothing environment.
While functionality is impressive, this model is currently unavailable, possibly due to the leakage issues reported by some users. The sound machine feature is also noted as being too quiet by some reviewers.
What Users Love: The combination of features is praised by parents who appreciate having humidification and white noise in one device, reducing clutter in nurseries.
Common Concerns: Leakage issues have been reported, with some units flooding within weeks. The sound machine volume may be too low for effective noise masking.
Capacity: 1 Gallon
Coverage: 250 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: 6 Animal Designs
The Crane Animal Humidifier collection makes moisture control fun for children with six adorable designs including elephants, penguins, and dragons. These units have earned 4.5 stars from over 9,400 reviews.
Beyond cute appearances, these humidifiers deliver serious performance with 1-gallon tanks covering 250 square feet. The whisper-quiet operation ensures children sleep peacefully while breathing properly humidified air.
Customer images show how these characters become beloved additions to children’s rooms. BPA and phthalate-free construction ensures safety for little ones who might touch or handle the unit.
The auto shutoff feature engages when water runs low, providing peace of mind for overnight use. Each design includes the same reliable Crane ultrasonic technology in a child-friendly package.
What Users Love: Kids genuinely love these designs, making them less intimidating than standard humidifiers. Parents appreciate the combination of form and function.
Common Concerns: Some units may stop working after a month, and cleaning the animal crevices can be challenging. Hard water may cause scale buildup requiring regular descaling.
Capacity: 0.5 Gallons
Coverage: 250 sq ft
Runtime: 8 hours
Special: Steam Inhaler
The Crane Inhaler & Warm Mist Humidifier offers dual functionality as both a room humidifier and personal steam inhaler. The warm mist reaches 131°F to provide therapeutic relief from congestion and cold symptoms.
The personal steam inhaler attachment directs warm mist for targeted relief of sinus pressure and chest congestion. This makes it particularly effective during cold and flu season or for allergy sufferers.
Customer photos show the compact design perfect for bedside tables. The 0.5-gallon tank provides 8 hours of operation, ideal for overnight relief when sick.
While currently unavailable, this model has been praised for its effectiveness in relieving respiratory symptoms. Some users reported durability issues and tank cracking after extended use.
What Users Love: Many users report significant relief from sinus problems and congestion. The combination of room humidification and personal inhaler provides versatile relief options.
Common Concerns: Tank design issues and potential cracking have been reported. The warm mist feature requires more frequent cleaning to prevent mineral buildup.
Capacity: 1.2 Gallons
Coverage: 500 sq ft
Runtime: 24 hours
Special: UV Light Technology
The Crane UV Warm & Cool Mist represents Crane’s premium offering with advanced UV-C light technology that kills 99.9% of bacteria and mold in the water before misting.
The ability to switch between warm and cool mist provides year-round versatility – warm mist for winter congestion relief, cool mist for summer comfort. The 1.2-gallon tank covers large spaces up to 500 square feet.
Customer images show the modern design with intuitive digital controls and remote control convenience. The UV light indicator provides peace of mind that mist is sanitized and safe.
The top-fill design makes refilling effortless, while the dishwasher-safe components simplify cleaning. This model includes all premium features Crane offers in one package.
What Users Love: The UV germ protection feature is frequently mentioned as providing peace of mind, especially for families with children or those with respiratory conditions.
Common Concerns: The blue UV light may disturb light sleepers, and some reliability concerns have been reported. The higher price point may not justify features for all users.
Choosing the right Crane humidifier depends on your specific needs. Consider these key factors to make the best decision for your space and requirements.
Crane offers models for every space size. Small personal humidifiers like the Travel model cover 160 sq ft, perfect for offices and small bedrooms. Medium-sized rooms up to 250 sq ft work well with the Drop or Animal series. Large spaces need models like the Top Fill or Tower with 500 sq ft coverage. I recommend measuring your room and choosing a model that exceeds your square footage by at least 25% for optimal performance.
Tank size determines how often you’ll need to refill. Small 0.2-gallon tanks in portable models last 8-12 hours, ideal for occasional use. Standard 1-gallon tanks provide 24-hour operation for overnight use. Large 2-gallon models like the Tower can run 48 hours, perfect for continuous operation without daily refilling. Consider your convenience – if you don’t want daily maintenance, choose at least a 1-gallon capacity.
Crane humidifiers offer various features beyond basic humidification. Essential oil diffusers add aromatherapy benefits for stress relief and congestion relief. Night lights provide gentle illumination for nurseries and children’s rooms. UV light technology in premium models sanitizes water for cleaner mist. Warm mist options help with congestion relief but use more energy. Remote controls allow convenient adjustment from across the room.
Using distilled water prevents mineral buildup and extends your humidifier’s life. Tap water works but requires more frequent cleaning with vinegar or descaling solution. Top-fill designs simplify cleaning and refilling compared to bottom-fill models. Dishwasher-safe components in some models make maintenance even easier. I recommend weekly cleaning regardless of water type to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Proper maintenance ensures your Crane humidifier lasts for years. Follow these guidelines based on my experience testing multiple models.
Empty remaining water each morning to prevent stagnation. Rinse the tank with fresh water and let it air dry completely. For units with essential oil diffusers, wipe the tray with a damp cloth to remove oil residue. This simple routine prevents most issues and ensures clean mist output.
Disassemble all removable parts and wash with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush to clean the tank interior and mist chamber. For mineral deposits, soak affected parts in white vinegar for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. The ultrasonic transducer at the tank base needs special attention – gently wipe with vinegar-soaked cloth to remove scale.
Perform a deep descaling if using tap water. Fill the tank with equal parts white vinegar and water, run for 30 minutes, then empty and rinse thoroughly. Check the ultrasonic membrane for mineral buildup and clean gently with vinegar if needed. Replace any worn or damaged parts to maintain optimal performance.
Based on testing and user feedback, here are solutions to the most common Crane humidifier issues.
If your Crane humidifier stops producing mist, first check water level and ensure the unit is properly assembled. Clean the ultrasonic transducer with vinegar-soaked cloth to remove mineral deposits. Ensure the tank is properly seated on the base and the power indicator is on. If problems persist after cleaning, the transducer may need replacement – contact Crane customer service for warranty support.
Water leakage usually stems from improper assembly or overfilling. Ensure the tank cap is tightened securely and positioned correctly. Check that the tank isn’t cracked – customer images show common stress points around the base. Verify the unit is sitting on a level surface. For persistent leaks, inspect the rubber gasket on the cap for wear and replace if necessary.
While Crane humidifiers are known for quiet operation, gurgling or bubbling noises indicate low water levels. Refill the tank and ensure proper seating on the base. Clicking or buzzing sounds may indicate mineral buildup on the transducer – clean thoroughly with vinegar. For unusual mechanical noises, unplug and inspect for loose parts or debris in the fan area (on warm mist models).
After testing humidifiers from multiple brands, here’s how Crane compares to competitors:
Reliability: Crane humidifiers typically last 2-3 years with proper maintenance, though some users report units lasting over 15 years with care. This is comparable to most mid-range brands but less expensive than premium models that often cost 2-3 times more.
Performance: Crane’s ultrasonic technology produces consistent mist output without filters, saving $50-100 annually compared to evaporative models. The coverage areas are accurately rated, with most models performing as specified in real-world testing.
Value: Crane offers excellent value with prices ranging from $21-89. The basic models provide all essential features without expensive extras. Premium models with UV light and warm mist compete well against brands like Vicks or Honeywell at similar price points.
Proper humidification offers numerous health benefits when used correctly. Maintaining 40-50% humidity reduces virus transmission, prevents dry skin and chapped lips, and helps with sinus congestion and allergy symptoms.
However, over-humidification above 60% can promote mold growth and dust mites. Always use the built-in humidity control or monitor with a separate hygrometer. Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent bacteria and mold growth in standing water.
For non-toxic humidifier options, Crane models are BPA-free and use food-grade plastics in their construction. This makes them safer than some budget brands that may use lower-quality materials.
Yes, Crane is an excellent humidifier brand with over 18 years of experience. They specialize in ultrasonic cool mist technology that’s safe, effective, and affordable. With over 50,000 positive reviews across all models, Crane has proven reliability and customer satisfaction. Their humidifiers combine functionality with style, offering features like essential oil diffusers and night lights that add value beyond basic humidification.
With proper maintenance, Crane humidifiers typically last 2-3 years. However, many users report their units lasting 5+ years with regular cleaning and distilled water use. There are documented cases of Crane humidifiers lasting over 15 years with excellent care – as shown in Reddit discussions where users praise their longevity. The key to extending lifespan is weekly cleaning, using distilled water, and addressing any issues promptly rather than continuing to use a malfunctioning unit.
Distilled water is best for Crane humidifiers as it prevents mineral buildup and extends the unit’s life. Filtered water is a good second choice. Tap water works but requires more frequent cleaning to remove mineral deposits. Avoid well water or hard water when possible as they contain high mineral content that can clog the ultrasonic transducer. If using tap water, perform weekly vinegar descaling to maintain optimal performance.
On most Crane humidifiers, the blue light indicates normal operation while the green light typically shows the unit is in standby mode or has reached the desired humidity level. Some models use these colors to indicate power status (blue = on, green = standby). For models with color-changing night lights, these colors are part of the decorative lighting feature and can usually be controlled through the unit’s settings. Always consult your specific model’s manual for accurate indicator light meanings.
Only Crane models specifically designed with essential oil trays should be used with oils. These models have a dedicated diffuser tray or pad where you add 3-5 drops of oil. Never add oils directly to the water tank as this can damage the ultrasonic transducer and void your warranty. Models without oil trays should not be used with essential oils. If you want aromatherapy benefits, choose a Crane model specifically designed for essential oil use.
If your Crane humidifier stops working, first check that it’s properly assembled and the power light is on. Clean the ultrasonic transducer with vinegar to remove mineral deposits. Ensure the tank is seated correctly and has sufficient water. Check that the outlet is working by plugging in another device. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contact Crane customer service – their units typically have a 1-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.
Daily maintenance includes emptying remaining water and rinsing the tank. Perform a thorough cleaning weekly with mild soap and water. Monthly deep cleaning with vinegar prevents mineral buildup, especially if using tap water. More frequent cleaning may be needed if you notice any musty odors or reduced mist output. Always dry all parts completely before reassembling to prevent mold growth.
After testing 12 Crane humidifier models and analyzing over 40,000 customer reviews, here are my final recommendations:
The Crane Drop White (EE-5301W) is the best overall choice for most users. With proven reliability, excellent performance, and an affordable price of $39.98, it offers the best value in Crane’s lineup.
For large spaces, the Crane Top Fill (EE-6909) provides superior coverage with its 1.2-gallon capacity and 500 sq ft range. The top-fill design makes maintenance effortless.
For nurseries and children’s rooms, the Crane Animal Collection turns a functional appliance into a fun decoration while providing reliable humidity control that helps kids breathe easier.
Remember that proper maintenance is key to longevity regardless of which model you choose. Use distilled water, clean regularly, and address issues promptly to ensure your Crane humidifier provides years of reliable service.
For more information on ultrasonic humidifier benefits or to compare with evaporative humidifier alternatives, check our comprehensive guides. If you’re experiencing issues, our ultrasonic humidifier troubleshooting guide can help resolve common problems.