Waking up to find your windows covered in a film of moisture is a common and frustrating winter woe. This condensation, caused by a clash between warm indoor air and cold glass, is often made worse by daily activities like cooking, showering, and even drying laundry indoors.
The Viral Mrs Hinch Condensation Hack
Seeking a solution, members of the popular 'Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips' Facebook group turned to a surprisingly simple and affordable remedy. The conversation was sparked on 10 January 2026, when one user expressed their struggle, noting that even with dehumidifiers and open windows, condensation persisted, especially in a two-year-old's bedroom.
The most recommended answer was clear: use cat litter. Group member Eilise Black advised placing cat litter in pots or tying it into socks or stockings on the windowsill to absorb moisture. Jennifer Smith echoed this, confirming that while filling a long sock with cat litter "doesn't look good," it "absorbs quite a bit of moisture."
Cost and Availability of the Hack
This budget-friendly solution can be picked up from major UK supermarkets. At the time of the recommendation, prices ranged from £2.18 at Asda and £2.19 at Sainsbury's to £4.39 at Pets at Home. The method provides a low-cost way to combat dampness without needing to leave windows open on chilly days.
Alternative Methods to Try
Beyond the cat litter trick, other group members shared their own proven techniques. Joey Mclennan advocated for a method seen from cleaner Nancy Birtwhistle: wiping windows with a dry cloth and a spot of washing-up liquid. They tested it on half their living room windows, finding the treated panes clear the next morning while the others were not.
Another suggestion came from Gill Heron, who recommended using a Karcher window vacuum to suck up the condensation directly, followed by airing the room for about ten minutes. This offers a more direct, albeit equipment-dependent, approach to the problem.
With these tips circulating online, UK households now have several practical, cost-effective strategies to fight back against persistent winter condensation and keep their windows clear.
