8 Best Gun Safe Dehumidifiers [Updated 2023]

by Dave Chesson

July 28, 2022

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If you have a gun safe, and guns inside of it that you’d like to protect, I’d recommend getting the best gun safe dehumidifier you can.

Gun safes are the best way to protect your firearms from theft and from access by children however, they don’t protect your firearms from rust! Depending on where you live and how often you open your safe, moisture and excess humidity can really take a toll on your firearms.

Fortunately, investing in some of the best gun safe dehumidifiers isn’t going to break your bank. They’ll actually prevent the degradation of your guns’ parts and save you money in the long run.

How Do Gun Safe Dehumidifiers Work?

There are essentially two main types of gun safe dehumidifiers. The first is a desiccant type and the second is electric. Essentially the desiccant type pulls the moisture out of the air and the electricity heats the air to avoid condensation building up.

I’ll go into this in more detail later on in the article but for now, let’s have a look at the best gun-safe dehumidifiers below.

Just as a disclaimer, I’ll be using Amazon Associate links inside this article. This doesn’t change how I feel about these items, and they don’t cost you any extra to use them. If you do though, it helps ensure that I can keep slinging steel downrange and bringing top-notch reviews you’ve come to expect.

Best Gun Safe Dehumidifiers

These are the best gun-safe dehumidifiers in order:

  1. Afloia Mini Gun Safe Dehumidifier
  2. Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier
  3. Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod
  4. Browning Ever Dry Electric Rod
  5. Hornady Rechargable Gun Safe Dehumidifier
  6. Hornady Dehumidifer Canister
  7. Lockdown Silica Gel Canister
  8. Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier

REVIEWS OF THE BEST GUN-SAFE DEHUMIDIFIERS

Above we have listed our Best Gun Safe Dehumidifiers, below we go through each of these products and individually review each item, look at its pros and cons and point you in the right direction to purchase one of these if you find something that suits your application.

1. Editor’s Choice Afloia Mini Dehumidifier

Editor's Choice
Floia Mini Gun Safe Dehumidifier

Afloia Mini Dehumidifier

The cylinder design of the cordless dehumidifier increases the moisture-absorbing area and the 360° circular air inlet makes moisture absorption more efficient.

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  • Durability A+
  • Design A+
  • Reliability A
  • Value A

Our Grade

A+

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

A

Based on 3 Reviews

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Afloia Mini Specs

  • Power Supply American standard plug, AC100-120V 50/60Hz
  • Dehumidifier Rate 4oz/100ml per cycle
  • Heating Base Weight 3.05oz/0.37kg
  • Capacity of each dehumidifier box 100ml/cycle

Afloia Mini Dehumidifier Review

I personally like the concept of the Afloia Mini dehumidifier. You have your canister which has a window at the top. If the beads inside the window are orange, then it is ready to dehumidify. If they are green, then it needs to be added to the charger, until it is orange again.

Because of this design, you do not need an electric cord – like some require (which is also hard to work inside most safes. Furthermore, because the Afloia can stand up, and has a 360-degree surface area for dehumidifying, it works better than disposable bags, or one-sided boxes.

Also, because of its looks, it looks pleasant in larger safes – unlike the disposables which either look out of place or look like left trash in your safe. I get that looks aren’t always important, but for my larger safe, I like to keep it nice and presentable. So, aesthetics count.

One problem with this though is that it is too large for bedside safes, or smaller handgun safes, and will therefore only work with a larger safe. Also, you’ll need to check on it to see if it needs changing.

While some might say the price is a little high compared to others offered here, I’d say that based on its functionality, looks, and quality, it comes in at a reasonable price and a good ROI.

For a more in-depth look at this dehumidifier be sure to check out my article – Afloia Mini Gun Safe Dehumidifier Review.

Afloia Mini Pros and Cons

  • Rechargeable
  • No need for plugging in during use
  • Lots of surface area
  • Only fits in larger safes

2. Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier

Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier

Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier

  • Non Destructive: Removes moisture
  • Attachable legs for placement
  • Versatility: Comes in multiple sizes

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  • Durability A-
  • Design A-
  • Reliability B
  • Value A-

Our Grade

A-

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

B

Based on 1 Reviews

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Goldenrod Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Electric
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 100-500 cubic feet
  • Length 12″, 18″, 24″, 36″
  • Weight 0.5 lbs

Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier Review

Coming in at the second spot for our best gun safe dehumidifiers list lies the Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier.

It’s an electric-powered dehumidifier that can actually lower the excess humidity within your safe by 50%! Its rod-shaped design allows it to uniquely fit inside your safe. However, the most commonly seen location for it is at the bottom.

It does get hot to the touch so be careful when digging around near it. But that means the units working so, rest easy.

It’s also easily installed for those of you who have an electric socket either inside of your safe or a channel to route electric wires. That being said, those without electric capabilities within their safes should keep scrolling down our list to a desiccant type dehumidifier.

We really love that this dehumidifier comes in 4 DIFFERENT SIZE OPTIONS-unlike any other selection on this list. It provides for 100 cubic feet right up to 500 cubic feet of dehumidifying efficiency. The bigger the rod, the more effective it gets. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty! What’s not to love?

For more info on the Golden Rod, see our Review here.

Goldenrod Original Dehumidifier Pros and Cons

  • Works great
  • Allows for up to 5 degree warmer temps inside your gun safe
  • Comes in many different sizes
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Made in America
  • Gets hot to the touch
  • Requires electrcal outlet

3. Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod

Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod

Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod

  • Removes moisture
  • Dries approx. 200 cubic ft.
  • Easy install/ quick plug attachment
  • Protects firearms from mildew

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  • Durability B+
  • Design B+
  • Reliability B
  • Value A

Our Grade

B+

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

A-

Based on 2 Reviews

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Lockdown Rod Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Electric
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 100-200 cubic feet
  • Length 12″ – 36″
  • Weight 0.5 lbs

Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod Review

The Lockdown is another great electric gun safe dehumidifier.

Like the Goldenrod, this works by heating the air around it ever so slightly to ensure a circulation of warm air throughout your gun safe. And this action is what actually draws the humidity out of the air.

The Lockdown comes in four sizes which is pretty nice if you need a bigger dehumidifier for that extra boost. It does come with an easy-to-disassemble male plug in order to easily weave this through an electrical port within your safe.

To read a more in-depth review, check out our Lockdown Dehumidifier Article Here!

Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod Pros and Cons

  • Has 4 available sizes
  • 12 Watts
  • Stand Legs Included
  • Hot to the Touch

4. Browning Ever Dry Electric Rod

Browning Ever Dry Electric Rod

Browning Ever Dry Electric Rod

  • Small and Compact
  • Budget Friendly
  • 200 Cubic Feet

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  • Durability B
  • Design B
  • Reliability B
  • Value B-

Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

B

Based on 1 Reviews

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Browning Rod Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Electric
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 200 cubic feet
  • Length 18″
  • Weight 8 oz

Browning Ever Dry Electric Rod Review

If you’re in the market for a dependable, and budget-friendly, electric dehumidifier, perhaps the Browning Ever Dry is perfect for you.

Now, the Browning only comes in one size which might lead you to utilize extra dehumidifying measures within your safe. But it is more budget-friendly than some other systems available.

What we really love about the Ever-Dry is that while it does get hot to the touch… It never gets too hot to handle. You’re not going to burn yourself with this one. That’s why the Browning Ever Dry makes the cut.

Quick Tip: When you’re deciding on getting any type of dehumidifier, make sure the material it is made out of, is the best quality. This REALLY affects the life of the humidifier.

For more on the Browning, be sure to check out the individual review here.

Browning Rod Pros and Cons

  • Male end of plug easily removable for installation
  • Reliable
  • Only available in one size

5. Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe Dehumidifier

Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe

Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe Dehumidifier

  • Safeguards firearms from mold and mildew
  • Eliminates humidity up to 333 cubic feet
  • Quick-connect bracket

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  • Durability B
  • Design B+
  • Reliability B
  • Value B

Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

A-

Based on 2 Reviews

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Hornady Rechargeable Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Dessicant
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 333 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 6″ x 4″ x 2″
  • Weight 15 oz

Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe Dehumidifier Review

From the makers of some of the best ammo available comes the Hornady rechargeable gun-safe dehumidifier.

The Hornady is the first desiccant type on this list. It works by having these little beads of desiccant (like those silica packets in your favorite beef jerky-and like those… don’t eat these either) that absorb moisture straight out of the air. Once the desiccant beads have become saturated, they change into a different color signaling that you need to recharge them.

Simply plug the unit into the wall as per instruction, and wait for the crystal color to return to normal. As a heads up, there have been a few reports of the recharging feature not working to the fullest. Another thing we like about this model is that it comes with a quick mount for the inside of your gun safe.

For more on this solution be sure to see our Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe Dehumidifier Review here.

Hornady Rechargeable Gun Safe Dehumidifier Pros and Cons

  • Able to be mounted
  • Color changing crystals
  • Some reliabilty issues

6. Hornady Dehumidifier Canister

Hornady Dehumidifier Canister

Hornady Dehumidifier Canister

  • Protect firearms from rust and corrosion
  • Desiccant crystals adjust color on recharge
  • Unlimited recharges no batteries Required

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  • Durability B
  • Design B-
  • Reliability B+
  • Value B+

Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

A-

Based on 2 Reviews

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Hornady Canister Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Dessicant
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 50 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 6″ x 4″ x 5″
  • Weight 2 lbs

Hornady Dehumidifier Canister Review

While the Hornady rechargeable may have a few hang-ups with its recharging system, this one surely does not.

The Hornady canister dehumidifier recharges in a different way. After the desiccant absorbs all it can, you’ll need to set this one in a 300F oven and bake the moisture out. Afterward you’ll see the color crystals have changed back to their normal color to indicate they are dry once again.

For a more indepth review of this canister be sure to check out our Hornady Dehumidifier Canister Review.

Hornady Dehumidifier Canister Pros and Cons

  • Unlimited recharge capabilty
  • Color changing crystals
  • Smaller effective dehumidifying area
  • Oven recharges can get tedious

7. Lockdown Silica Gel Canister

LOCKDOWN SILICA GEL CANISTER

Lockdown Silica Gel Canister

  • Absorbs moisture in vault
  • Does not require power
  • Durable vented canister

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  • Durability B
  • Design B-
  • Reliability B+
  • Value B+

Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

B

Based on 3 Reviews

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LOCKDOWN SILICA GEL SPECS

  • Dehumidifier Type Dessicant
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 50 cubic feet
  • Length 1.5″ x 6″ x 2″
  • Weight 2 lbs

Lockdown Silica Gel Canister Review

The Lockdown Silica Gel canister is another great choice for a canister-type dehumidifier.

It has a slightly higher effective area than the Hornady and operates just the same. So why do we prefer the Hornady?

It’s because the color-changing desiccant crystals are less pronounced on the Lockdown. But other than that… a solid choice for those looking for (or needing) a canister-type dehumidifier.

Find the Lockdown Canister Review here!

Lockdown Silica Gel Canister Pros and Cons

  • Unlimited recharges
  • No electricity required
  • Not the largest effective area
  • Color change crystals are not as apparently clear as other canister-type
  • Oven recharge

8. Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier

Eva-Dry Dehumidifier Review

Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier

  • Works in up to 333 cubic feet
  • Lasts for 20-30 days
  • Requires no batteries or cords
  • 100% Renewable & Eco-friendly

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  • Durability B-
  • Design B
  • Reliability B
  • Value B+

Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

C+

Based on 3 Reviews

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Eva-Dry Renewable Specs

  • Dehumidifier Type Dessicant
  • Cubic Ft Efficiency 333 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 6.5″ x 5″ x 3″
  • Weight 2 lbs

Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier Review

Last on our list, but definitely, not least is the Eva Dry Renewable.

The Eva Dry works similar to the Hornady rechargeable except for this time there are no complaints about the recharge function. They seem to work just right on the Eva Dry. A single Eva Dry can supposedly cover up to 333 cubic feet. This is pretty impressive because Eva Dry sells these in a money-saving two-pack.

Now, they may not be as effective as some of the electric dehumidifiers such as the Goldenrod. But if you’re looking for the best gun-safe dehumidifier that isn’t electric, the Eva Dry Renewable might be your best bet.

For our individual review on this dehumidifier be sure to check out the Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier Review here.

Eva-Dry Renewable Mini Dehumidifier Pros and Cons

  • Available in discounted 2-pack
  • Rechargable up to 10 years
  • Under warranty for 5 years
  • Does not come with mount

Why You Need a Top Gun Safe Dehumidifier

Now, you may be wondering why you need a gun safe dehumidifier in the first place. Isn’t having a safe good enough? The problem is that safes may keep your guns safe from outside forces and elements, but the inside of the safe has its own environment.

And depending on where you’re located…humidity can be a major problem. Moist and humid environments spell trouble when storing your guns. The moisture in the air from humidity over time can rust your gun components, corrode moving elements, and cause pitting within your barrels. None of this is good for your gun. Severe cases of rust and corrosion can cause malfunctioning firearms.

I don’t know about you, but I want my guns to work right and when they’re supposed to-especially during cases of home defense.

That’s why it’s so important to dehumidify your gun safes.

How do you determine the humidity of your gun safe?

When it comes to keeping your guns nice and dry, you really need to pay attention to the exact measure of humidity within any of your gun safes.

The recommended value range to stay between is around 45-55% relative humidity. Anything above that, your guns are going to start to rust and corrode, and anything below that can start to dry out your guns too much. Like that wooden furniture on your old Mossberg, leading to cracks or deformities. Thankfully, there’s a simple little device that can help you keep track of just how humid the air inside your safe is. It’s called a hygrometer. And if you have any gun safes at all, you need one of these. I’d recommend picking up one of these sweet little ThermoPros. They’re right around ten bucks and get the job done.

What’s the difference between electric-type and desiccant dehumidifier types?

When it comes to choosing the best gun-safe dehumidifier for you, there are two main types to select from, electric and desiccant.

Electric gun-safe dehumidifiers aren’t “true dehumidifiers” in the sense of the word. They don’t actually draw the moisture out of the air. Instead, electric dehumidifiers work by heating up and circulating the air around them. This warm cyclic air helps to prevent condensation buildup on the interior walls of your safe, keeping your guns dry. A big fear that some people have is putting a heating element in with combustible components such as ammo. However, the electric rods don’t heat up nearly enough to trigger any combustion.

Desiccant types are extremely different than their electric counterparts. They work by having special moisture absorbing crystals that actually draw the moisture out of the air. The crystals act like little sponges and are usually made to change color when they’ve absorbed all they can. This lets you know when your crystals need to be “recharged”. Recharging can happen in one of two ways. First, you can plug the dehumidifier into a wall socket or the second is to put the entire dehumidifier inside of a preheated oven for a short period of time.

Things To Consider When Buying the Top Dehumidifier for you

There are literally hundreds (if not thousands) of dehumidifiers available on the market. But which ones are the best for you?

That can be pretty difficult to figure out. But if you follow this handy checklist you should be able to narrow it down.

Do you require a desiccant dehumidifier or an electric?

Before you start purchasing a dehumidifier, you need to determine what type is best for you. And whether you choose an electric-type or desiccant is based on a few factors. First, do you have enough room in your safe for an electric type to fit comfortably? An electric dehumidifier requires a large amount of space to function properly than most desiccant types. So if you have to finagle a rod type all sorts of ways… Stick with desiccant. Next, is your safe located near an electrical outlet? Moving a safe isn’t an easy matter. If it were…they wouldn’t be so safe. An electric dehumidifier would be too much of a hassle if there’s nowhere to plug it in.

And finally, if you have to drill holes in your safe… stick with desiccant. Some safes come equipped with special ports that you can run a wire through OR there’s an actual outlet inside. Putting a hole in your safe not only is gonna suck to, but it will certainly jeopardize the integrity and fireproofing of your safe.

How many cubic feet do you need to be dehumidified?

Be sure to choose the right option based on the size of your safe. If you have a smaller safe, you might not need a 36″ Goldenrod. So break out your safe’s manual for the most accurate measurement. But…not all of us still have those manuals. Things happen. It may have been lost or accidentally tossed out. However, that doesn’t mean you can get a good reading of how many cubic feet your safe is. It just requires some simple calculations.

You’re going to need to take three measurements. The height of your safe, the width of your safe, and the depth. BUT… You need to make sure that you’re measuring this out in feet for the calculation to work right the first time. Now, take all three of those values and multiply them together. So if you’re safe is 6 feet x 4 feet x 3 feet, your safe is 72 cubic feet.

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About Dave Chesson

Dave Chesson is prior Navy with a specialty in international arms dealing for the US government across multiple countries. Having traveled the world and abided by ATF and ITAR, Roy has a unique background in legal as well as practical capabilities of weapons deployment and use.

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4 COMMENTS

  1. Is it possible that my safe is too small to use with an electric dehumidifier rod? I have a 12.73 cu. ft safe and I have purchased a 12 inch golden rod lockdown 100 cu/ft dehumidifier. I am concerned that I will cook my guns if the rod is too large. Thank you for your feedback.

    1. Great question, Andreo. There is no “safe” humidity level nor temperature where rust is not a concern. A firearm can rust in any condition. As a general rule, less humidity is always better and you should always ensure your firearms are properly lubed to prevent rust. We cover our favorite gun oils here: Best Gun Oil

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