As the cold weather tightens its grip, a familiar and frustrating problem is reappearing on windows across British homes: condensation. But according to consumer champions Which?, a simple and cheap solution could be hiding in your kitchen cupboard.
Why Condensation is a Winter Worry
Condensation forms when the warm, humid air inside your home meets a cold surface, like a window pane. The water vapour in the air then cools rapidly, turning into liquid droplets. This is an especially common issue during British winters, when we keep our windows shut and the heating on, trapping moisture indoors.
If left unchecked, this moisture can lead to damp and mould, which can damage window frames, walls, and soft furnishings, while also creating potential health risks by compromising indoor air quality.
The Expert-Recommended Solution
The first step is always to deal with existing condensation by ventilating your home. Which? specifically highlights bedrooms as a key area, where body heat and moisture from breath can create significant condensation overnight. They advise slightly opening windows to allow this moist air to escape.
To stop the condensation from returning, they propose a clever preventative hack. Create a simple spray by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water, then add a couple of drops of washing-up liquid.
"The vinegar creates a protective barrier, and soap breaks down the surface tension of the droplets on your window," the experts explained. This combination prevents the water droplets from clinging to the glass, effectively stopping condensation from forming in the first place.
Further Steps to a Condensation-Free Home
For best results, this DIY spray should be used alongside other moisture-reducing strategies. Which? recommends a multi-pronged approach to tackle the root causes of condensation in your home.
Keep your heating on a constant, low setting rather than in short, intense bursts, as this helps maintain a more consistent temperature and reduces the risk of cold surfaces. Running a dehumidifier, particularly at night, can also actively pull moisture from the air.
It is also crucial to limit the amount of moisture produced inside. Simple actions like putting lids on pans while cooking, drying clothes outside when possible, and using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms can make a big difference.
Finally, check the seals on your windows. If they are old or damaged, moisture can seep between the glass panes, creating a separate condensation issue that a simple spray cannot fix.
"Condensation forming on windows in the winter months is normal and nothing to be alarmed by," Which? reassured. "If you implement the tips and recommendations we've covered, you should be able to prevent condensation from forming in the first place, or eliminate the condensation build-up on your windows."
