Opening windows for 10-15 minutes twice a day is the most effective way to keep mould at bay this winter, according to Colin Greenslade, founder of Colin's Slash Windows.
As October arrives and temperatures drop, mould becomes a real issue in homes, thriving in damp conditions. Large amounts of humid air become trapped indoors when windows are kept shut, and everyday activities such as showering, cooking or drying laundry indoors can trigger condensation — the process by which water vapour in the air turns to liquid upon contact with a cold surface. This is why windows often appear wet at this time of year, and left unchecked, it can create a breeding ground for mould to spread across walls and nearby furniture.
Simple Daily Habit to Reduce Humidity
Greenslade pointed out that while there are plenty of products and remedies available to combat mould, the single most effective way to keep spores at bay is simply to open your windows every day. He said: "Opening windows for 10-15 minutes twice a day clears humid air without losing too much heat."
Although many homeowners are reluctant to open windows during autumn for fear of letting in the cold, short bursts of ventilation remain the most reliable method of reducing indoor humidity levels. Even cracking the windows open for a few minutes allows damp air to escape and fresh air to circulate, significantly cutting the risk of both condensation and mould taking hold. Your home might feel a touch colder, but the walls, furniture and other surfaces will hold onto much of their warmth, meaning they won't cool down noticeably during a brief spell of ventilation.
Alternative Methods Offer Temporary Relief
There are alternative methods to tackle condensation, such as positioning bowls of salt, chalk or even cat litter beside windows, as these can soak up a considerable amount of moisture from the air. However, these approaches only provide temporary relief for a few hours at best and generally only prove effective in smaller rooms, so it's far quicker and simpler to open your windows daily instead.
All you need to do is open your bedroom and bathroom windows for 10 to 15 minutes each morning. It's best to do this as soon as you wake up, since we release water vapour as we breathe and generate significant moisture while we sleep. Where possible, open windows on opposite sides of your property to create a cross-breeze, which will help air circulate rapidly and eliminate humidity.
Keep Rooms Heated and Wipe Down Windows
It's also helpful to open windows after bathing or preparing meals to stop steam accumulating in your home. Be sure to keep rooms reasonably heated to ward off condensation and wipe down windows if you spot them becoming steamy or damp.
Dedicating just a few minutes to opening windows is the most effective way to prevent mould, allowing you to keep your home as snug as possible this autumn.
