As winter tightens its grip, many households across the UK are battling a familiar foe: condensation and mould on their windows. This persistent issue, driven by the clash between chilly outdoor air and warm, moist interiors, can quickly escalate from a nuisance to a health hazard if left unchecked.
The Expert's Simple Solution
Thankfully, a powerful solution doesn't require expensive chemicals or specialist equipment. According to cleaning guru Lynsey Crombie, the secret weapon is already in your kitchen cupboard: washing-up liquid.
In a recent Instagram video, Lynsey, who comes from a long line of cleaners, shared her family's tried-and-tested method. She explained that the first step is to be proactive. Every morning, use a super-absorbent microfibre cloth to wipe all the water off your windows. After wiping, it's crucial to open the window slightly to allow the pane to dry completely.
Creating a Protective Barrier
The real magic happens next. Lynsey demonstrates applying a very small amount of washing-up liquid to a cloth and wiping it across the entire surface of the glass. This creates an invisible, protective film that acts as a barrier.
"This tip is very similar to shaving foam on a shower screen," Lynsey said. "You're creating a barrier which is going to stop the water from sticking to it." For those worried about streaky windows, she assures that using just a tiny dab will prevent this problem while still being effective.
Tackling the Root Cause of Condensation
Beyond the immediate window cleaning hack, Lynsey also addressed the root cause of condensation: high humidity levels inside the home. A major contributor is drying laundry indoors.
Her recommendations for preventing moisture build-up include:
- Drying clothes outdoors whenever possible.
- If drying indoors, use a well-ventilated room with a window slightly open.
- Turn off the radiator in the room where clothes are drying.
- Place the drying rack in front of a bright window to speed up the process.
- Always close the door to the room to contain the moisture.
Lynsey is also a strong advocate for using a dehumidifier, especially during the colder months. She notes that modern dehumidifiers use very little energy and often have auto shut-off features, making them cost-effective to run, even overnight. They not only reduce condensation but also help laundry dry faster.
Neglecting condensation can lead to persistent mould and mildew, which can be difficult to eradicate and may cause respiratory issues. For homes with wooden window frames, the lingering moisture can also lead to rot and damp, resulting in costly repairs. Implementing these simple, expert-backed strategies can help protect your home and your health this winter.
