An expert recommends using an item you may already have in your kitchen to tackle the issue (Image: Getty)
Dealing with the that builds up on windows may not be at the top of your list of cleaning priorities, but it can be dangerous if left unaddressed. Condensation occurs when warm humid air from indoors comes into contact with cold glass.
This build up of moisture can lead to damp, and cause mould to build up on the windowsill, underneath wallpaper and even on your furniture. Damp and mould can be hazardous to your health, predominantly affecting your airways and lungs, as per the UK Government. According to , respiratory effects of damp and mould can cause serious illness and, in the most severe cases, death. Thankfully, there are various steps you can take to reduce the risk of , and as one cleaning guru explains, it doesn’t necessarily require any expensive specialist products.
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Condensation can cause damp and mould which can be hazardous to your health. (Image: Getty)
Allan Reid at said: ” is a frequent problem, particularly during winter when the contrast between indoor and outdoor temperatures is at its peak.
“Though it might appear minor, the long-term impact can be considerable. If left unchecked, can encourage mould growth, potentially harming both your property and your health.”
Dehumidifiers can help by removing excess moisture from the air, but if you can’t get one, there are cheaper tricks you can try, Allan explains.
He said: “You likely already have a natural dehumidifier at home – bicarbonate of soda. Simply placing small bowls of it on windowsills can help absorb excess moisture in the air.
“Over time, you’ll see it harden, a sign that it’s working effectively. It’s an inexpensive and widely available solution, perfect for smaller rooms where it can help reduce humidity and prevent .”
Rock salt is also a great option when tackling build-ups of moisture in bigger, less confined spaces, he said, explaining that it “naturally draws in dampness and can handle a higher volume, making it particularly useful in bigger rooms where is an issue”.
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Allan says your showering habits could also be affecting how much your surfaces are exposed to, explaining: “If you frequently have long, hot showers, the excess steam can significantly raise indoor humidity levels.”
He recommends keeping showers “short and use warm rather than very hot water”.
The expert also advises ventilating the bathroom afterwards. This can be done by opening a window or turning on an extractor fan.
While some people have houseplants purely for decorative purposes, certain ones, like peace lilies and Boston ferns, “naturally help absorb excess moisture from the air”, he says.
These types of plants “assist with humidity control” whilst also improving “the air quality in your home by removing pollutants”.
Allan also recommends using central heating “sensibly”, and letting fresh air into the home.
“Allowing fresh air to circulate, even in winter, can help maintain a healthier indoor environment,” he says, explaining that “opening windows for at least an hour lets out moisture-laden air and brings in drier outdoor air”.
“Keep an eye out for signs of excess moisture, such as water stains or mould, particularly in areas with poor ventilation. If left unaddressed, mould can become much harder to remove and may lead to both household damage and potential health concerns.”
Allan says it’s best to contact a professional if the issue becomes too severe to manage, as they will be able to “identify the root cause and recommend solutions, which may include resealing window panes or even refitting windows to prevent further moisture build-up”.
You can find other hacks for dealing with condensation .