AS we’re fast-approaching the cold winter season, millions of Britons are dealing with the same issue – condensation.
A common autumn and winter problem, condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Not only can this annoyance make an unsightly mess, but these water droplets can also lead to the growth of mould – which, in some cases, can prove to be fatal.
Amongst those most vulnerable are newborns, young kids, elderly, as well as those with respiratory issues, allergies and asthma.
As temperatures are now slowly but surely dropping and thousands have been taking to social media to seek advice, other savvy cleaning enthusiasts have shared their favourite remedies.
Amongst them is also on TikTok user, mum Lily (@cleanwithlilyx), who recently revealed how she keeps condensation at bay thanks to three simple tips – one of which costs just 20p.
She said in the video: ”Are you actually sick of this time of the year where you get condensation on your windows?
”I was at one stage as well – until I started doing these three things.”
As well as opening windows first thing every morning to let the humid air out, Lily also swears by the viral washing-up liquid remedy.
You can use Fairy washing-up liquid – but a cheaper supermarket version will work just fine.
She instructed: ”You’re gonna put some Fairy liquid on a cloth and get it buffed into those windows.
”This will stop condensation sticking to your windows,” Lily explained.
However, if you are keen to give this cost-effective hack a go, it’s worth noting that this is a temporary solution, with some warning that the method could even make matters worse.
According to some cleaning whizzes, using washing-up liquid to tackle the common issue will only ”push the condensation elsewhere”.
Dropping the knowledge bombs online, the savvy mum also revealed another, lesser-known trick – using hanging dehumidifier bags, which you attach to the curtain rod.
A firm winter staple for many, a dehumidifier works ”by drawing air from the room over a coil cooled to a very low temperature by a refrigeration system”, explained the pros at Breathing Space.
What is mould and how to get rid of it?
Mould is more likely to grow during the winter months.
Olivia Young, Product Development Scientist at Astonish revealed exactly why this is.
“Unfortunately, mould is a common problem many people face during winter. It thrives in conditions that are warm and damp, so your bathrooms are likely to be the most affected place.
“That said, during the colder months most rooms in your home could be vulnerable to mould growing.
“This occurs primarily from condensation that builds up on your windows when you’ve got your radiators on.
“If you think about it, when windows and doors are closed, there’s not much chance for the air to circulate and the moisture to make a swift exit.
“This build up is what can cause dreaded mould to make an appearance, especially in bathrooms, as it creates that warm and wet environment that is a breeding ground for mould.
“If left untreated, not only is it unsightly but it can also pose a serious risk to your health, so it’s really important you treat it.
“The key to tackle mould is to act fast.
“Try to come into as little contact with it as you can. So, grab your gloves, tie up your hair and get to work to remove any signs of mould as soon as you notice them.
“To keep mould at bay, there are some simple solutions you can introduce throughout home.
“The first is keep it ventilated. Yes, even in the cold winter months try to leave your bathroom window open for at least 10/15 minutes post shower or bath. This will get rid of any excess moisture quickly preventing mould gathering.
“If you’re having a repeat problem with mould in one particular area, it might be because the humidity levels are too high. You can get a dehumidifier that will help keep the levels low and reduce the risk of mould returning.
“The golden rule to remember when dealing with mould is the quicker you can treat it, the better. If you leave it, it will only get worse so never ignore it!
“To successfully get rid of mould every time, I recommend opting for the UK’s No 1 Mould & Mildew Remover, that effectively removes mould and mildew stains almost instantly, with no scrubbing necessary.”
The water vapour then condenses on the cold surface and the water drips inside the plastic container under the hydrophilic crystals.
Shoppers can find this winter essential online, on sites such as Temu, Amazon, Dunelm and Shein.
The latter – the China-based marketplace – offers a pack of 20 for around £2, which works out to be a mere 20p per bag.
Raving over the affordable condensation solution, the mum said: ”These are an absolute game-changer, I love them.”
Uploaded just one day ago, the clip has already taken the internet by storm, racking up more than an astronomical 500k views and dozens of comments.
”Fairy up gals unite,” chuckled a fellow cleaning fan.
”New follower here! Thank you for the tips, deffo will give it a go!” someone else chimed in.
However, a third warned: ”Please don’t do this with Fairy liquid. The condensation will go to the next coldest spot – usually your walls!
”Just dry your windows with a towel or window vac, freshen the room for a little while with the window open and it’ll be fine.”
