I’ve been toying with the idea of getting an air purifier for my home for quite some time now. Life always seemed to get in the way, and I never quite got around to doing proper research—until recently. You see, I suffer from asthma, which is thankfully quite mild, but it does bring along the occasional cough. On top of that, I’ve had allergies for years.
After a recent allergy test, I discovered I’m allergic to grass (yes, grass!). It wasn’t a huge surprise given how I feel during hay fever season, but it was the nudge I needed to finally dig into the world of air purifiers. With asthma and allergies in mind, I wanted to find the best options available in the UK that could help improve my indoor air quality.
During my research, I didn’t just find some great air purifiers—I also uncovered some eye-opening information about common asthma triggers at home and why not all air purifiers are suitable for asthma sufferers.
In this post, I’ll share what I’ve learned, from the top air purifiers you can buy to tips on choosing the right one for your needs. I’ll also include practical advice on reducing asthma triggers in your home, so you can breathe easier. Let’s dive in!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means I may get a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on a link. This does not cost you anything. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Can Air Purifiers Really Help with Asthma?
First of all, let’s clarify something—yes, air purifiers can help with asthma, but they’re not a magic solution. The key is choosing the right one. Not all air purifiers are created equal, and some can even make asthma worse (looking at you, ozone-emitting models).
The best air purifiers for asthma are those with a True HEPA filter, which captures tiny particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander—common asthma triggers. Adding an activated carbon filter is even better because it tackles odors and harmful gases.
On the flip side, air purifiers that emit ozone, use ionizers, or rely only on UV-C light should be avoided. These can irritate your lungs and make asthma symptoms worse.
Also, keep in mind that an air purifier works best as part of a bigger approach. Regular cleaning, avoiding scented products, and tackling mould are just as important in creating an asthma-friendly home. So, while an air purifier can certainly help, think of it as one piece of the puzzle!
Best Air Purifiers You Can Buy in the UK (My Top Picks)
After diving into the world of air purifiers, I’ve handpicked some top models available in the UK that are particularly beneficial for asthma sufferers. These selections are based on their filtration efficiency, user reviews, and suitability for reducing common asthma triggers.
Levoit Core 600S Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 147 m²
CADR: 697 m³/h
What I like:
Levoit has built a strong reputation in the UK as a reliable and high-performing brand, and the Core 600S lives up to the hype. It’s the most powerful model in their lineup, designed for large, open-plan spaces, and perfect for tackling asthma triggers like dust, pollen, and odours.
What I particularly like about this purifier is its combination of power and quietness. It’s even been awarded the Quiet Mark certification by the British Noise Society, ensuring it won’t disrupt your home environment. Plus, it doubles as a high-speed fan, making it useful during warmer months.
Another key feature is the advanced VortexAir 3.0 technology, which ensures rapid air purification. It can clean spaces as large as 147 m² twice per hour or even up to 274 m² once per hour, making it one of the quickest purifiers on the market.
While it comes with app control for remote use, I love that it’s simple to operate without relying on smart features.
For those who value performance over unnecessary frills, this purifier is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
The Levoit Core 600S delivers outstanding air purification with the following:
- Triple Filtration System:
- Pre-filter: Captures larger particles like dust, lint, and pet hair.
- True HEPA Filter: Removes 99.97% of allergens and tiny particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen and mould spores.
- Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs odours from pets, cooking, and smoke, as well as harmful gases like VOCs.
- VortexAir 3.0 Technology: Ensures rapid and efficient air purification, perfect for large areas or open-plan spaces.
- Super Quiet Operation: Awarded the Quiet Mark certification, it’s exceptionally quiet, even on high settings.
- Auto Mode: Monitors air quality in real time and automatically adjusts fan speed, keeping energy consumption low while maintaining clean air.
- Smart Features: Remotely control it using the VeSync app, though you don’t have to use the app to operate it.
- High-Speed Fan Functionality: Works as a cooling fan in the summer, making it versatile year-round.
What to Consider:
- Noise at High Speeds: While quiet at lower settings, the purifier can get a bit noisy when running on full power.
- Size and Bulkiness: It’s larger than other models, so you’ll need a good spot for it in your home.
- Price: This is one of Levoit’s premium models, so it comes with a higher price tag. However, there are far more expensive purifiers on the market, making this one reasonably priced for its performance.
- Filter Costs: The replacement filters aren’t cheap and need to be replaced every 6-12 months depending on usage. Additionally, the filters are non-recyclable, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
The Final Verdict:
The Levoit Core 600S is an excellent option for those who need powerful air purification in large spaces. It’s designed to handle tough asthma triggers like allergens, odours, and pollutants quickly and efficiently. While it’s on the pricier and bulkier side, its performance, quiet operation, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for anyone prioritizing clean air in their home.
If you have a smaller home or are working within a tighter budget, consider the Levoit Core 300S, a more compact and affordable alternative that still delivers excellent air purification for smaller rooms.
Coway Airmega 150 Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 73 m²
CADR: 281 m³/h
Why I Like It:
Coway is a globally recognized brand with over 30 years of experience in air purification, selling award-winning devices in more than 40 countries. The Airmega 150 stood out to me because of its simplicity. It doesn’t rely on unnecessary tech (in my opinion) like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth but still delivers excellent performance.
The purifier’s Certified Allergy-Friendly label from ECARF (European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation) is a big plus. It’s proven to reduce allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander—an important feature for asthma and allergy sufferers. I also appreciate the Quiet Mark certification, which ensures the purifier runs smoothly and quietly, especially at night.
Its compact and stylish design is another bonus—it doesn’t take up too much space and is available in attractive colours like sage green.
Key Features:
The Airmega 150 combines practicality with powerful air purification:
- Triple Filtration System:
- Washable Pre-Filter: Captures larger particles like dust, pet hair, and lint, protecting the main filters and extending their lifespan.
- Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs odours from cooking, pets, and smoke, while reducing harmful gases like VOCs.
- GreenHEPA™ Filter: Eliminates 99.99% of fine particles, including allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mould spores, making it ideal for asthma sufferers.
- Auto Mode: The device monitors air quality in real-time and automatically adjusts the fan speed to maintain clean air, all while keeping energy use low.
- Quiet Operation: At just 24 dB in silent mode, it’s quiet enough for bedrooms or workspaces.
- Easy Maintenance: The washable pre-filter cuts down on recurring costs, while the other two filters last up to one year and are simple to replace.
What to Consider:
While the Airmega 150 is a fantastic purifier, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Auto Mode Quirk: After 30 minutes of clean air detection, the purifier stops actively monitoring the air until manually reset, which may be inconvenient for homes with fluctuating air quality.
- No Handles: The lack of handles makes it less convenient to move between rooms.
- Potential Motor Vibration: Some users have reported a slight buzzing noise from the motor, especially on certain surfaces. Adding rubber feet might help dampen the sound.
- Limited Coverage: With coverage of up to 73 m², it’s ideal for medium-sized rooms but won’t suffice for larger spaces.
The Final Verdict:
The Coway Airmega 150 is an excellent choice for medium-sized spaces, particularly for those looking to reduce allergens and asthma triggers effectively. Its certified allergy-friendly design, quiet operation, and ease of maintenance make it a reliable option, even if it has a few quirks.
If you want a simple, stylish purifier that gets the job done, this is worth considering but if you need to cover a bigger space, consider other Coway models like the Airmega 300.
Philips 3000i Series AC3033/30 Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 135 m²
CADR: 520 m³/h
What I Like:
Philips is a trusted global brand with a strong reputation for delivering reliable home appliances, and the 3000i Series AC3033/30 is no exception. It’s designed for large spaces and boasts a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 520 m³/h, making it one of the quickest purifiers on this list.
This one is also Certified Allergy-Friendly from ECARF (European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation), guaranteeing it effectively removes 99.99% of common allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. For asthma and allergy sufferers, this adds an extra layer of trust.
It’s also impressively quiet, operating at just 15 dB in sleep mode, which is barely a whisper and better than other air purifiers on this list. While it has smart features like app control and voice assistant compatibility, I love that you can still use it manually without relying on these.
Key Features:
The Philips 3000i Series offers a three-stage filtration system, similar to other top purifiers but with a few notable highlights:
- Pre-Filter: Captures larger particles like dust, lint, and pet hair to protect the other filters and enhance durability.
- NanoProtect HEPA Filter: This advanced HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne particles, including fine dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens.
- Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs household odors, smoke, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for fresher, cleaner air.
Other Features:
- Smart Auto Mode: Monitors air quality in real time and automatically adjusts the fan speed for efficient purification with minimal energy use.
- Air Quality Feedback: Displays the air quality in your home with a color-coded indicator and real-time numerical data.
- Sleep Mode: Ultra-quiet operation at just 15 dB, perfect for undisturbed rest.
- Smart Connectivity: Can be controlled remotely via the Philips Air+ app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant (though not essential to operate it).
What to Consider:
- Price: This is a premium air purifier, so it comes with a higher price tag. However, its performance and certifications make it worth considering if you want fast, reliable results.
- Size and Coverage: Designed for large spaces (up to 135 m²), it may be overkill for smaller rooms or apartments.
- Very noisy at high speeds (but this is common with air purifiers)
- The app is not easy to use and lacks features. Wi-fi is sometimes not reliable.
The Final Verdict:
The Philips 3000i Series AC3033/30 is a reliable, high-performing air purifier that delivers excellent results in large spaces. It’s quiet, allergy-friendly, and highly effective at improving air quality, making it ideal for asthma sufferers.
While it is quite expensive, Philips is a trustworthy brand with a strong reputation for quality and durability. If you value performance and reliability, this purifier is worth the investment, even if the app and Wi-Fi connectivity aren’t its strongest features.
Bosch Air 6000 Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 125 m²
CADR: 600 m³/h
Why I Like It:
Bosch is a brand known for reliability and high-quality appliances, so it’s no surprise that the Air 6000 Air Purifier lives up to its reputation. Designed for larger spaces, it offers excellent performance with its 4-in-1 filtration system, which includes a pre-filter, activated carbon filter, anti-bacterial filter layer, and a HEPA filter. This combination ensures it captures at least 99.95% of pollutants, making it ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers.
Another standout feature is its ECARF certification, which guarantees its effectiveness in reducing allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The CADR of 600 m³/h is one of the highest on my list, meaning it works quickly to clean the air in larger spaces.
The design is modern and simple, so it can blend into any room without being intrusive. It’s also very easy to use, with straightforward controls. While it’s not the quietest purifier—registering 25 dB in night mode—it’s still reasonably quiet for most settings.
Key Features:
The Bosch Air 6000 is packed with features to deliver clean air efficiently:
- 4-in-1 Filtration System:
- Pre-Filter: Captures larger particles like dust and pet hair.
- Activated Carbon Filter: Removes odors and harmful gases like VOCs.
- Anti-Bacterial Filter Layer: Kills bacteria to improve hygiene.
- HEPA Filter: Traps 99.95% of fine particles, including allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mold spores.
- Easy-to-Use Design: Simple, intuitive controls ensure it’s user-friendly, and its modern appearance fits seamlessly into any space.
- Quiet Operation: At 25 dB in night mode, it’s quiet enough for most bedrooms, although not the quietest on my list.
What to Consider:
- Noise Levels at High Speeds: Like most air purifiers, it can get noisy when running on higher settings.
- No Handles: The lack of carry handles makes it a little inconvenient to move between rooms.
- Filter Costs: The 4-in-1 replacement filter is on the pricier side and needs replacing every 6-12 months, depending on usage. However, it’s easily available on Amazon.
- No Wireless Connectivity: Unlike some purifiers, it doesn’t have Wi-Fi or app control, which might be a downside if you prefer smart features.
The Final Verdict:
The Bosch Air 6000 Air Purifier is a great option if you’re looking for a high-performing device for larger spaces. It’s particularly well-suited for allergy and asthma sufferers, thanks to its 4-in-1 filtration system and ECARF certification.
While it has a few minor drawbacks, like the lack of handles and wireless connectivity, its overall performance and medium price make it a solid, reliable choice for cleaner air.
Blueair Blue Max 3250i Smart WiFi Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 48 m²
CADR: 239 m³/h
Why I Like It:
Blueair is a reputable brand known for its effective and stylish air purifiers, and the Blue Max 3250i is no exception. Designed for medium-sized rooms, it combines a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design with efficient air purification. The HEPASilent™ technology is particularly impressive, as it removes at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.1 microns, including allergens and pollutants.
The smart WiFi connectivity allows for convenient control via the Blueair app, enabling features like scheduling and real-time air quality monitoring. This makes it easy to manage your indoor air quality from your smartphone.
Key Features:
- HEPASilent™ Technology: Combines mechanical and electrostatic filtration to effectively remove airborne particles, ensuring cleaner air.
- Smart WiFi Connectivity: Connects to the Blueair app for remote control, scheduling, and real-time air quality updates.
- Quiet Operation: Operates at noise levels as low as 18 dB on the lowest setting, making it suitable for bedrooms and living areas without causing disturbances.
- Energy Efficient: Consumes less energy than a typical light bulb, ranging from 2.5W to 20W, making it cost-effective to run continuously.
- Washable Pre-Filter: The fabric pre-filter not only captures larger particles but also comes in different colours to match your décor and is machine washable for easy maintenance.
What to Consider:
- LED Light Issue: Some users have noted that while the LEDs can be dimmed or turned off in auto mode, the mode LED remains illuminated in night mode and cannot be adjusted, which may be distracting in dark rooms.
- Lack of Carry Handle: The absence of a handle makes it slightly less convenient to move the unit between rooms.
- Filter Availability: Replacement filters are available, but stock levels can vary, so it’s advisable to check availability when purchasing.
The Final Verdict:
The Blueair Blue Max 3250i is one of my favourite air purifiers for medium-sized spaces. It combines sleek design, efficient filtration, and handy smart features, all at a reasonable price. The HEPASilent™ technology and quiet operation make it a great choice for bedrooms or living rooms, and while it has a couple of minor flaws they’re not deal-breakers for me.
Personally, I’d consider upgrading to the 3350i model if I needed a purifier for a larger space (up to 86 m²), especially for an open-plan living area. For a single room or a smaller space, though, the 3250i is more than enough. And honestly, if you’re not planning to move it around often, the lack of handles isn’t that big of a deal—it’s the performance and air quality improvement that matter most.
WINIX 5500-2 Air Purifier
Coverage Area: Up to 99 m²
CADR: 390 m³/h
Why I Like It:
The WINIX 5500-2 is a solid performer, offering great value for larger spaces up to 99 m². Its 4-stage filtration system is impressive, featuring a washable pre-filter, an active pellet carbon filter, a HEPA filter (removing 99.999% of particles as small as 0.1 microns), and PlasmaWave Technology. While the PlasmaWave feature divides opinions—some see it as unnecessary—the core filtration system does an excellent job of tackling allergens, dust, pollen, pet hair, and VOCs.
I also appreciate the Auto Mode, which uses intelligent particle sensors to adjust the fan speed based on air quality, making it user-friendly. It’s tested and certified by Allergy UK and AHAM, so it’s reassuring to know it’s backed by trusted organizations.
Key Features:
- 4-Stage Filtration System:
- Washable Pre-Filter: Captures larger particles like dust and pet hair, protecting the main filters.
- Active Pellet Carbon Filter: Reduces odors from cooking, pets, and smoke, as well as harmful VOCs.
- True HEPA Filter: Captures 99.999% of particles as small as 0.1 microns, including allergens, mold spores, and fine dust.
- PlasmaWave Technology: Offers additional purification at the molecular level, though some consider it unnecessary.
- Auto Mode with Sensors: Automatically detects air quality and adjusts fan speeds accordingly, making operation hassle-free.
- Sleep Mode: Operates at 27.4 dB, which is relatively quiet but not as silent as some other purifiers (many run at 15–20 dB). If you’re not planning to use it in a bedroom, this won’t be an issue.
What to Consider:
- Noise Levels: At 27.4 dB in Sleep Mode, it’s not the quietest option, which could be a drawback if you’re sensitive to noise while sleeping.
- Interface Quirks: Some users find the controls slightly dated. For example, you can’t disable the sleep sensor permanently, and turbo mode has to be activated manually.
- PlasmaWave Feature: While some appreciate this technology, others see it as unnecessary, adding to the cost without significant benefits.
- Design: It’s not the sleekest purifier available, but its performance outweighs its appearance.
- Filter Replacement: While the pre-filter is washable, the other filters need replacing every 6–12 months, and availability may vary.
The Final Verdict:
The WINIX 5500-2 is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable air purifier for larger spaces without breaking the bank. Its filtration system is top-notch, making it ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers, and the high CADR ensures it works quickly and effectively.
While it’s not the quietest option for bedroom use, this is a minor drawback if you’re placing it in other areas of your home. Overall, it’s a great balance of performance, price, and ease of use, and it’s definitely worth considering for cleaner air in your home.
So, How Do I Choose the Best Air Purifier for Me?
There are so many air purifiers on the market today, and just like you, I found it tough to decide which one to go for. After all the research, I’ve narrowed it down to a few key factors that can help you make the best choice for your needs. Here are some personal tips:
- Budget: Let’s start with the obvious—how much are you willing to spend? Some purifiers are ridiculously expensive but may not even be worth the price, while others are much more affordable and perform just as well. Personally, I’m deciding between the Blueair 3350i and the WINIX 5500-2 (more affordable options), both of which are suitable for larger spaces (I need something for my open-plan living area). The WINIX is cheaper, but I’m also considering how easy it is to get replacement filters because that can be a common issue.
- Room Size: Think about where you’re going to use the purifier. Is it for a small bedroom or a large open-plan space like mine? Always check the coverage area and ensure the air purifier matches the size of your room. A device that’s too small won’t work effectively, and one that’s too big might just be overkill.
- CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate): If you want the air to be filtered quickly, especially in larger spaces, go for a purifier with a higher CADR. But remember, higher CADR usually comes with a higher price tag.
- Noise Levels: Planning to put the purifier in your bedroom? Then choose the quietest one you can find. For me, noise isn’t a huge issue since I’m placing it in the living area, but for bedrooms, look for purifiers that run below 20 dB in sleep mode. Some models, like the WINIX 5500-2, run at 27 dB, which might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to sound.
- Portability: Are you planning to move it around frequently? If so, look for models with handles for easier carrying. Not all purifiers come with them, and trust me, it can make a difference if you’re shifting it between rooms.
- Filter Availability and Costs: This is a big one for me. Replacement filters are something you’ll need every 6–12 months, so it’s worth checking how easy it is to buy them and how much they cost. Some brands have filters that are constantly out of stock, which could make the purifier a headache in the long run.
- Design and Size: Would a bulky device bother you? If you’re tight on space or prefer something sleek and minimalistic, keep this in mind. Personally, I care more about performance than looks, but for some, aesthetics are important, especially for devices sitting in the living room.
- Smart Features: If you love tech, go for a purifier with WiFi or app connectivity. For me, this isn’t a priority—I prefer something simple and functional, but it’s worth considering if you want remote control or real-time air quality updates.
- Air Purifiers to Avoid: Be cautious with air purifiers that emit ozone. These can aggravate asthma symptoms rather than help, as ozone is an irritant to the lungs. Many ionizing or ozone-producing purifiers are marketed as “air cleaners,” but they’re best avoided if you’re looking to improve air quality for asthma or allergies. Always look for models with True HEPA filters and avoid anything that relies solely on ionizing technology.
Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for your space, needs, and budget. Whether you’re looking for something powerful for a large area or a quieter option for the bedroom, weigh these factors carefully. A bit of research now will save you headaches (and allergens) later! 😊
