Best Air Purifier For Dorm Room [5 Recommendations]

Performance

While there are various air purifiers, they all function in the same fundamental yet efficient way. The best air purifier drives air through a succession of filters, which captures airborne pollutants permanently. 

These gadgets are effective and safe since they do not generate any by-products that may cause nausea, headaches, or lung discomfort. 

Furthermore, higher-quality air purifiers use many filters to collect the most excellent variety of pollutants known for causing health problems. So, choose the one with multiple filtration layers.

Types Of Purifiers

HEPA Filter

In any elevated purifier, this filtration is the most effective filter available. HEPA is an acronym for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. An air purifier with a “True HEPA” filter is the ideal option for a dormitory. 

If the term “True” appears on the filtration, it is certified to collect 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Most dust, allergies, mold spores, and germs will be trapped with a HEPA filter. 

If the filter system does not have “True” connected to it, the cleaner may not be as effective. A HEPA air filter, for instance, can only absorb particles as fine as 2-4 microns in diameter, resulting in a drop in effectiveness of 500-1500 percent.

That’s why a True Hepa Filtration filter usually comes with the top-rated purifier for allergies.

Activated Carbon Filter

It is the only filter that can collect smells, gases, and chemicals in the air. Those chemicals bypass a HEPA filter completely. 

Millions of microscopic holes in activated carbon filters absorb smells and VOCs, preventing them from recirculating into the atmosphere. This filter helps you breathe a cleaner atmosphere and reduce the number of hazardous pollutants in your dorm room. 

Bad atmosphere quality, linked to airborne pollutants and chemicals, has impacted memory and concentration problems, which is bad news for any student.

Ultraviolet (UV-C) Light

This ability appears on most of the finest dorm room purifiers. UV-C light is a system that kills germs and viruses in the air when they pass through it. 

It employs the UV-C wavelength, which is harmless for people who are exposed to it. However, because this light inside an air cleaner is behind the panel, you cannot see or touch it. 

This type of ultraviolet light may disinfect the atmosphere within a college dorm, reducing the number of bacteria, viruses, and germs that can cause illness.

Ionizer

An ionizer is a sort of purification technology that cleans the air by emitting negative ions. These negative ions cling to allergies, dust, and other positive ions, weighing them down. 

This connection causes clusters of particles to form in the airflow, which is too dense to stay in the atmosphere and are simpler to catch in the Filtration system. 

According to some studies, the negative ions created by ionizers might improve morale and make individuals feel more invigorated. 

On the other hand, negative ions might cause lung discomfort in particular people with asthma, so it is not the most significant characteristic if you still have asthma or acute respiratory disease.

Thermodynamic Sterilizing System

The manufacturers use extreme heat (roughly 400°F) to eliminate particles in this specific technology. Any molecule that goes through the device is effectively incinerated.

Size

Size Of The Unit 

Dorm cleaners come in many sizes and shapes, but since most dormitories are tiny areas with more students living in them, the size of the filtration system you buy should be considered. 

The ideal purifiers for tiny spaces are those with a width of under 12 inches. Because of its modest size, everyone can place the air purifier on a table or in the corner without taking up too much space. 

Purchasing an air cleaner that is bigger than this suggestion may cause it to interfere with your regular activities.

Square Footage Coverage

The “square footage coverage” of each air purifier model varies. Some units appear for tiny rooms of roughly 100 square feet, whereas others accommodate up to 700 square feet. 

When seeking an air purifier for a dorm room, make sure it is powerful enough to handle at minimum the size of the space you’ll be living within. You will never want to invest in a cleaner that is not powerful enough for the room. 

Having an overpowering unit will never have an atmosphere that is “too clean” to breathe. Whatever filtration system you pick from this article should be strong enough to fulfill your demands on any college or university campus.

Quiet Performance

Because most dorm rooms are communal places, finding an air purifier that operates quietly is a wise option. A loud air purifier will quickly grate on your roommates’ nerves, especially if it is not a shared purchase for you and them!

Build Quality

Let’s search for a balance of excellent build quality and a reasonable price tag. There are numerous hundred-dollar air cleaners ideal for a dorm room setup, but the tuition fee is costly enough without worrying about paying that much on filtration. 

When picking up an air purifier, ensure it does not squeak, bang, or rattle, mainly when its fans operate.

Maintenance

Buying a dorm room air purifier entails more than just buying one, turning it on, and then forgetting about it. Most of these systems need regular filter changes and the manual cleaning of pre-filters and other textile parts. 

You should seek air purifiers with easily replaceable, low-cost replacement filters, and even better if they have a filter replacement reminder!

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#1: LEVOIT Purifier - Best Overall

Key Features:

• Brand: LEVOIT
• Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.9 x 12.6 inches
• Item Weight: 6.5 pounds
• Battery Required: No
• Filtration: The Pre-Filter, True HEPA Filter (H13), and High-Efficiency Activated Carbon Filter 

The LEVOIT is appealing because of the white and black body, and you’d be happy to show it. Its high-quality plastic is smooth and doesn’t have a poor feel to it. 

With a 12.6-inch height and a 7.9-inch width, it has a compact footprint. Because of its modest size, it may also be used as a portable device for customers who wish to take their air purifier on vacation.

Read more: Best Battery Powered Dehumidifier Reviews [2021 Updated]

All of the cleaner’s buttons are on the top, which responds wiftly. Because it is a primary cleaner, there are only four buttons to operate its many operations.

You can use it as a nightlight as well. It is because the blue light generated by this device has two brightness settings. So, you can quickly turn it off if you don’t want to use it as a nightlight. 

There are three fan settings in total, and although at the highest speed. A replacement filter sensor is also included, which will alert you when the filters need to be replaced. 

The three-stage filtration technology, which has been crammed into such a compact body, sets it unique. Once the air has been purified, the three-stage filtration system guarantees that you breathe air free of allergies, dust mites, and other dangerous particles.

The first filter, which removes big particles, is basic. It can capture airborne germs, pet hair, and big mold spores. The genuine HEPA filter is the next stage in the filter system, catching 99.97 percent of all particles larger than 0.3 microns. 

It makes no noise thanks to the compact size and design. On the lowest level, you will not even notice it is operating. Even on the maximum level, you’ll hear a pleasant humming noise, so you can watch TV or relax without being bothered. 

In a nutshell, it is exceedingly quiet while still being extremely efficient. However, it is a compact device (dimensions of 7.9 x 7.9 x 12.6 inches). So, don’t expect it to have a wide coverage area. 

This unit is only suitable for dorm rooms with limited space (roughly 129 square feet). You may always buy numerous units if you wish to cover a larger region.

What we like

• Best value for the price 
• Adjustable night light settings
• Save maintenance fee thanks to the durable and long-lasting filter
• People-friendly
• No by-product release during operating

What we don't like

• Not cover more extensive areas

#2: Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier - Best For Quiet Operation

Key Features:

• Brand: Pure Enrichment
• Dimensions: 10.8 x 6.9 x 12.1 inches
• Item Weight: 6 pounds
• Battery Required: No 
• Filtration: The Pre-Filter, True HEPA Filter, and UV-C Light

This Pure Enrichment PureZone 3-in-1 is a low-noise machine with some additional distinguishing features. This device can be a decent alternative if noise and affordability are your priorities. 

The PureZone is practically quiet. On its lowest level (with roughly 30 dB), you sometimes can’t even notice its operation.

On medium and high modes, it creates a rather low-pitched hum that is not irritating and never exceeds 50dB, and some even find it to be nice white noise. 

In a dorm room, when you and your roommates are studying, there’ll be no chance the noise can bother them. So, you will most likely be sleeping next to it. 

This more modest machine also has an automated off-timer, which everyone will love. It’s reassuring to know that your cleaner will turn off when you leave for school, although if you forget. 

That said, the PureZone can keep dorm rooms relatively allergen-free, but it may struggle in bigger quarters.

Using a basic formula (CADR x 1.5), its effective area is only approximately 150 square feet. Of course, you can use this unit in bigger rooms, but the efficiency would be significantly reduced.

The sole drawback of PureZone air cleaner is that it lacks several of the features seen in more expensive devices. 

There are three fan settings but no controller and no ambient air meter constructed. Though these features aren’t required, they do provide a level of convenience if equipped.

What we like

• Automatic ON/OFF settings
• Lightweight and compact
• Affordable price tag
• Comfortable using experience thanks to low-noise operating
• Three-stage filtration

What we don't like

• Only appropriate for rooms that are less than 180 square feet
• Lack some features of the more costly versions

#3: Blueair Blue Pure 411 - Best For Auto Mode

Specifications:

• Brand: Blueair
• Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 16.7 inches
• Item Weight: 11.97 pounds
• Battery Required: No
• Filtration: Pre-Filter, Particle Filter, and Carbon Filter 

The BlueAir Pure 411  is among the most sophisticated and self-contained purifiers available. The highlight feature is its auto mode. 

It includes several helpful sensors that contribute to the device’s efficiency. The intelligent dust sensor, for example, may detect the present air quality inside the room and match it to the data on the integrated tables.

The particle sensor sends messages to the automated motor, which the engine comprehends and responds to. It comes in handy once you have a lot of guests, such as friends, mutual acquaintances, and roommates. 

These visitors also bring along particular tiny companions that might create serious health problems. If the sensor detects excessive levels of air pollution, the engine speeds up the fans to expedite the filtering process. 

Likewise, when the room’s air quality returns to normal, the room purifiers reduce the filtration and fan’s speed to save energy. This portable purifier will undoubtedly enhance your living spaces and your dorm’s attractiveness.

Apart from its convenient automatic mode, this product is straightforward to install and use as well. 

The filter on the Blue Pure 411 is already installed, so all you have to do is plug it in, and you’re good to go. If you want, you may hit the button on top for an extra rush of excitement. 

It operates pretty quietly on its usual speed setting, which is another major plus. On maximum power, it is a little louder, but you’d only use it if there was some sort of awful air-fouling issue.

With the Blue Pure 411, there is nothing to complain about. This one has smart auto mode, is lightweight (11.97 pounds), and saves much space in your dorm room with small dimensions of 8 x 8 x 16.7 inches. 

It’s not for commercial-grade pollution removal. However, for convenient settings and preserving less pollution, the BlueAir 411 is great.

What we like

• Impressive 3-stage filtration
• Convenient using experience thanks to automatic mode
• Smart touch control panel
• Energy-star rated
• Durable build quality

What we don't like

• Hefty filter replacement prices

#4: Medify MA-14 Air Purifier - Best For Allergy Protection

Specifications:

• Brand: Medify Air
• Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 8 inches
• Item Weight: 8.8 pounds (4.4 pounds for each)
• Battery Required: No
• Filtration: HEPA H13

The Medify MA-14 air purifier is a must-have item if you search for an air purifier with medical-grade H13 HEPA filter for allergies or medical offices. 

Mites, mold, dander, foul odors, cooking aromas, cigarette smoke, toxic particles, germs, trap odors, and even viruses may be filtered out by its H13 medify HEPA Filtration system. It can filter out nearly 100% of contaminants sized by 0.1 microns. 

Air is drawn into the device from the front panel.  And the purifier sucks in polluted air, filters it, and then releases clean air. 

Because it features an intelligent filter replacement indication that tells you when to change the HEPA filters, you will never run out of fresh air. So, those who suffer from allergies, viruses, and nurseries will be satisfied with this purifier.

It is designed in the shape of a box, making it small enough to fit on your tables or work desk. You may use this unit as the focal point of your dorm room as a high-end device. 

Due to its small size, many people may be skeptical of this air purifier’s cleaning ability. This model can clean 117 square feet of atmosphere in 15 minutes and 200 square feet in 30 minutes. 

Also, it has three levels of adjustable fan speed levels plus a quiet and sleep mode to make things easier. The control center lights turn off when you sleep, and the sound level is reduced.

However, you must register your air cleaner with Medify Air to continue receiving full coverage on all components and services. 

After that, replacing authentic Medify Air filters every 4 months is required, which might cost you an arm and a leg. The warranty will be invalidated if you use different filters.

What we like

• User-friendly
• No by-product release during operating
• Smart filter replacement indicator

What we don't like

• High filter-replacement cost

#5: VEVA 8000 Elite Pro - Best For Tiny Rooms

Specifications:

• Brand: VEVA
• Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 23 inches
• Item Weight: 6.71 pounds
• Battery Required: No
• Filtration: HEPA and Premium Carbon Filters

This VEVA 8000 tower air purifier can be ideal for placing on both the ground and your desk. With dimensions of 9 x 8 x 23 inches, it is not a big cleaner, delivering a compact design even for the smallest dorm rooms. 

It is a little under 7 pounds in weight. You may move the device around your room as needed and put it in different areas. 

Its base is removable, and you can place it horizontally on any surface, which is a great way to save space in narrow areas while still getting the benefits of the best portable HEPA filters right at the dorm. 

This VEVA purifier is coated in a gleaming and sleek black finish, making it simple to blend into any room decoration, from traditional to high-tech.

That it’s small in size doesn’t sacrifice its cleaning effect with a true HEPA filter.  Carbon filters are essential in those that use real HEPA tech. Their principal function is to trap odors and microparticles and extend the life span of the HEPA filter. 

VEVA sophisticated carbon filters are long-lasting and collect pet hair well. You will need to change the filter every 7 to 12 months, depending on how unclean the space is. 

Given the model’s pricing, this VEVA 8000 review should come as a surprise for its capability. That said, this purifier is missing intelligent features, and it does not include an LCD screen.

What we like

• No by-product releasing
• Long lifetime of filters (at least 7 months)
• Reasonable price tag
• Quiet operation

What we don't like

• Lack of LCD screen

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1. What Causes My Dorm Room To Become So Dusty?

There might be various reasons for dusty dorm rooms, and the following are a few of them. 

• The windows of your dorm room are not open. 

• In the dorm room, you don’t have an air purifier. 
• Vacuuming is not done every week. 
• The bedding is not laundered correctly regularly.

2. Are The Veva True HEPA filters?

Yes, VEVA filters are the most cost-effective and long-lasting True HEPA filters available for full-size air purifiers.

This filter can eliminate the cigarette smoke and toxins generated by carpets, furniture, dust, etc. Therefore, it brings users the cleanliness of the air. 

3. What Is H13 True HEPA?

The H13 HEPA filter is a medical-grade air filter with a 99.95 percent effectiveness in removing all particles 0.21-micron and bigger. 

H11 and H12 typical HEPA filters appear in most household air purifiers, and they can catch 0.3-micron particles with an efficiency of 80 to 95 percent. 

Semiconductor production companies, airplane cabins, pharmaceutical plants, and hospitals all employ medical-grade filtration. Since they have a greater particle retention rate, it is the case. 

The usage of HEPA filters, especially H13 HEPA, are what you can place your trust in. While filtering, they don’t generate any harmful by-products.

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Among this air cleaner for college dorm review, the LEVOIT Air purifier was rated as the best air purifier for dorm room with an H13 filtration. 

It’s a dependable machine that not only does its job but does it very well. At any time, you will be able to breathe freely.

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