As the chill of a British winter sets in and heating systems whirr back to life, a familiar and frustrating problem begins to appear on windows across the country: condensation. This daily nuisance of wiping down wet glass, however, could be a thing of the past thanks to a remarkably simple cleaning hack shared by an expert.
The Expert's Simple Solution
The powerful advice comes from Chantel Mila, a renowned cleaning and lifestyle content creator on TikTok who has amassed a following of over 1.6 million people. Her solution to the perennial problem of condensation requires just two common household items: dish soap and peppermint oil.
This accessible mix offers a preventative measure for anyone concerned about the potential for mould growth during the colder, damper months. The dish soap, which can be purchased from major supermarkets like Asda and Tesco for as little as 62p, is the key active ingredient.
How to Apply the Mixture
The application process is straightforward. First, take a clean cloth and apply a small squeeze of washing-up liquid. Next, add a few drops of peppermint oil to the cloth. Then, rub the mixture thoroughly across the entire surface of your windows.
It is crucial to buff the mixture in well so that no visible residue is left behind on the glass. However, a vital warning from the experts is to keep the mixture well away from window sealants, as the washing-up liquid could potentially cause damage to them over time.
Why This Method Works
According to specialists from Fantastic Services, the dish soap creates a temporary, invisible barrier on the glass pane. This film prevents the warm, moist air inside your home from condensing into water droplets upon contact with the cold glass surface.
While this trick is an effective way to manage the symptom of condensation on windows, it does not address the root cause of excess moisture in the air. For homes with a more severe dampness issue, investing in a dehumidifier is a recommended next step.
These devices work by actively extracting moisture from the air and collecting it in a removable container. They are particularly useful in households that need to dry laundry indoors, a common activity that significantly contributes to indoor humidity levels and subsequent mould risk.
