We Took 296 Temp Readings to Find Out If 2 Dreo Misting Fans Really Cool the Air

A misting fan is a type of evaporative cooling system that works by dispersing water droplets, which absorb heat as they evaporate, while the fan accelerates the evaporation process. The cooling effect is generally strongest in hot, dry conditions and weaker in humid air. When I placed my hand up against the misting feature of each fan, it felt like ice water was running over my skin. But it didn’t actually make my skin wet, and the moment I removed it, my hand felt its regular temperature again. 

It makes sense that you might be concerned about using electronics, like a laptop, around a misting fan. I did not notice any moisture on my laptop after using it near the Dreo 516S. But to play it safe, avoid directing the mist toward electrical equipment and devices.

Like humidifiers and other water-containing appliances, misting fans can develop mold and other microorganisms in their reservoirs and water lines if they aren’t properly emptied and cleaned. Dreo recommends unplugging the fan, thoroughly drying it, and reassembling it. For misting fans, the water reservoir should be emptied and dried regularly to prevent buildup in the water system. Follow the specific cleaning instructions for each of the fans to ensure it is properly cleaned and maintained.

If you are a hot sleeper or get hot flashes, running a misting fan overnight can be useful. But it can also raise the room’s humidity, which has some downsides. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause hair shafts to absorb water, leading to frizz, tangling, or scalp irritation in some people (not to mention ruining that expensive blowout). Wearing a hair bonnet can help combat frizz, prevent breakage, and keep your hair hydrated. Alternatively, these misting fans from Dreo let you turn off the mist and run the fan alone, which may be preferable.