WIRED identifies best multiuse air purifiers for 2026
New guide highlights dual-purpose devices that combine air purification with heating, cooling, and aesthetic design to save space in small apartments.
WIRED has published a guide recommending the best multiuse air purifiers for home use in 2026, targeting consumers who need to maximise limited square footage. The publication highlights dual-purpose devices that integrate air purification with additional functions such as heating, cooling, vacuuming, and decorative art. By combining these features, the recommended appliances aim to reduce the need for multiple separate devices while offering aesthetic appeal for small apartments.
The guide features specific models from Dreo, Blueair, Eye-Vac Air, MinusA2, PetAir, and SwitchBot. Each device was selected for its ability to handle two or more tasks efficiently, thereby reducing cords, outlet usage, and storage space. The recommendations range from compact units designed for bedrooms to larger models suitable for living areas, all prioritising a balance between performance and design.
Among the top picks, the Dreo model offers 99.97 percent HEPA filtration and an air quality sensor, with the fan and purifier capable of operating independently. Filter replacements for this unit cost approximately $40. The Blueair small-room model features built-in heating and cooling, utilising both mechanical HEPA and electrostatic technology to capture pollutants. It includes an air quality index indicator light that responds to particulate matter levels, providing a visual cue for air quality.
The Eye-Vac Air distinguishes itself by combining an air purifier with a touchless vacuum. It features two sets of HEPA and activated carbon filters and achieves five air exchanges per hour in a 120-square-foot space. Its design allows it to be positioned flush against a wall, making it particularly useful in kitchen settings. The MinusA2 doubles as wall-mounted art, featuring a six-layer filter system with customisable options for pet allergies, germ defence, and toxin absorption.
For specific household needs, the Blueair Mini Restful includes a sunrise alarm clock feature with nine sound options, though it is only quiet on its lowest setting. The PetAir is designed for pet-focused homes, featuring a Pet Mode that adjusts fan speed when an animal is detected, along with a prefilter for pet hair and an H13 HEPA filter. The SwitchBot Air Purifier Table functions as a side table with a mood light and phone charger, though it requires 12 inches of clearance on three sides for optimal airflow.
WIRED’s testing methodology involved using each model for nearly a month in various locations, including near unventilated gas stoves, windows drawing in exhaust fumes, and near pet litter boxes. Testers measured auto-engagement times, return-to-clean-air times, pollutant levels using air quality monitors, and noise levels using decibel monitors. The guide emphasises that while aesthetic appeal is a key factor, the primary focus remains on the practicality and efficiency of these compact appliances.
