As the UK shivers through its coldest snap of winter so far, a familiar and frustrating problem has returned to plague households across the nation: condensation on windows.
The Unusual Household Hero
While many resort to opening windows or investing in pricey dehumidifiers, an unconventional and surprisingly effective solution is gaining traction online. The secret weapon? Cat litter.
The tip emerged in the popular Facebook group, Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips, where a member sought advice on stopping condensation "without it costing a fortune." The response was overwhelming, with numerous users championing the use of cat litter.
One user advised, "Put sock filled with cat litter on ur window ledge. That's supposed to help." Another confirmed its effectiveness, replying, "I do that in my car – works a treat." The consensus was clear: filling old socks with cat litter or placing the litter in dishes on windowsills can significantly absorb excess moisture.
Understanding the Condensation Problem
Condensation is a common blight in British homes during the colder months. It occurs when warm, moist air from everyday activities like showering, cooking, or drying clothes meets a cold surface, such as a window pane. This causes the water vapour in the air to turn into liquid droplets.
If you find condensation on the outside of your windows, it's actually a good sign, indicating your double glazing is effectively keeping heat inside. However, persistent condensation on the inside suggests your windows may be less efficient, allowing heat to escape.
Other Methods and Why It Matters
Beyond the cat litter hack, the Facebook discussion, which accumulated over 100 replies, offered other suggestions. These included placing glasses of salt on windowsills, using specialist window vacuums, or wiping sills with washing-up liquid.
Regardless of the method chosen, experts agree that removing condensation regularly is crucial. Left unchecked, the moisture can lead to water damage on window frames and, more seriously, encourage the growth of harmful mould. Whether you opt for the frugal cat litter approach or a more traditional dehumidifier, tackling condensation is a key step in maintaining a healthy home this winter.
