As the UK braces for a severe cold snap and disruptive weather, homeowners are battling a common winter woe: mould and condensation. A simple and affordable solution from B&Q, costing just £7.50, is receiving glowing reviews for its effectiveness in eliminating excess moisture in as little as two days.
Budget Gadget Wins Rave Reviews
The product in question is the Blyss Curve Bright White and Translucent Moisture Trap, a non-electric dehumidifier available at B&Q. Designed to reduce condensation effectively, it uses a solid 'donut' refill that slowly dissolves, collecting ambient moisture in a 900ml spill-proof tank with a water level monitor.
Shoppers have flooded the retailer's site with positive feedback. One customer named Bella reported that within two days of use, there was a 1cm depth of water in the tank, and both condensation and black mould in her bathroom had disappeared. Another, called Ang, noted a significant collection of moisture after just one day, leading to no more condensation or mould in her son's 20msq bedroom after roughly four weeks of use.
"Cheap and cheerful but does the job," wrote Heather, while Sammy was "super impressed" by how much water it extracted. The majority of reviews are positive, with many customers returning to buy multiple units.
Winter Weather Warnings Intensify
The search for solutions comes at a critical time. The Met Office has multiple weather warnings for snow and ice in place across Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and England. The situation is set to escalate with a 'multi-hazard' event forecast for Thursday into Friday.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer explained that a deepening area of low pressure – named Storm Goretti by Meteo France – will clash with the very cold air over the UK. "Thursday night could be what we call a ‘multi-hazard’ event, with snow on the northern flank of the low, wind and rain on the southern flank," he stated.
Yellow warnings for snow and wind have been issued, with the potential for disruption and difficult travelling conditions. The public is urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts as the track of the low-pressure system remains uncertain.
Combating Condensation and Cutting Costs
During winter, activities like cooking, drying clothes indoors, and simply breathing contribute to excess indoor moisture. This leads to condensation on windows, which can quickly develop into mould and dampness. Using a dehumidifier can help improve air quality, make a home feel warmer, and potentially reduce heating costs.
While electric dehumidifiers are available from retailers like Dunelm and Tesco at higher price points, the B&Q moisture trap offers a low-cost, non-electric alternative. B&Q states the device helps create a healthier environment by reducing airborne moisture and features a secure closure with safety perforations to prevent contact with children's fingers.
Although most feedback is positive, a small number of users reported issues. John mentioned the refill lasted three weeks instead of the suggested six, while Magrat found the plastic container difficult to open. One reviewer claimed it collected no moisture, though this appears to be an outlier.
For those seeking an immediate and economical way to tackle damp during the freezing weather, this £7.50 gadget is proving to be a popular weapon in the war against winter mould.
