Weather
I never get condensation on my windows in winter thanks to one simple daily habit
Key Points
I never get condensation on my windows in winter thanks to one simple daily habit Condensation and mould can be a real problem during autumn and winter, but I've discovered a simple, free daily habit that has kept my bedroom windows clear and mould-free for years There's no escaping the fact that autumn has well and truly arrived. The weather has turned extremely cold and dreary over recent weeks across the UK, leaving many of us reaching for the thermostat to fire up our central heating....
I never get condensation on my windows in winter thanks to one simple daily habit
Condensation and mould can be a real problem during autumn and winter, but I've discovered a simple, free daily habit that has kept my bedroom windows clear and mould-free for years
There's no escaping the fact that autumn has well and truly arrived. The weather has turned extremely cold and dreary over recent weeks across the UK, leaving many of us reaching for the thermostat to fire up our central heating.
One drawback of this season, though, is that indoor conditions can result in waking up to find condensation covering your windows. If left unchecked for too long, this moisture can eventually lead to unwanted mould spores forming on walls and ceilings.
It's something I've managed to avoid entirely, thanks to an incredibly straightforward two-second daily habit I've adopted without even giving it much thought.
One of the most popular methods for tackling condensation and mould in the home is purchasing a dehumidifier. These practical devices work by extracting moisture from the air and collecting it in a small tank that needs to be emptied periodically.
Many people swear by them, particularly for drying clothes indoors throughout the winter months, which is a complete nightmare and makes me wish I had a tumble dryer.
That said, I've never actually owned a dehumidifier, nor do I expect to buy one this winter. With finances tight for many households at present, the good news is that my go-to solution costs absolutely nothing.
How I keep my bedroom mould-free
The straightforward and speedy trick I rely on to keep my bedroom free of mould is simply opening the windows each day. It may sound obvious, but it has genuinely worked so well for me, as I've never had to deal with mould throughout my entire time living in my flat.
Ventilation is absolutely vital all year round, but particularly during the autumn and winter months here in the UK. Mould tends to flourish at this time of year as it requires warm, damp and dark conditions to take hold, and when we've got the heating cranked up at home with no fresh air circulating, it creates the perfect environment for it to spread.
Yet something as straightforward as throwing the windows open each day has been sufficient to completely rid my home of the problem - even if it feels a little brutal when it's already chilly outside, it's absolutely worth it.
I don't think the time of day really matters, but I always make a habit of doing it first thing in the morning. Not only is this a brilliant way to prevent condensation and mould from forming, but it's also lovely to let some fresh air flood into the bedroom at the start of the day, and there's nothing quite like the scent of a crisp autumn morning.
You don't need to leave the windows open for long, either, which is ideal now that temperatures are genuinely beginning to drop.
If I put a wash on during the day, I'll also fling both windows wide open and position the drying rack between them, helping the laundry dry without adding to any potential mould issues. This is the point when temperatures can really begin to plummet, so whether I'm working or relaxing at home, I'll simply keep the bedroom door shut tight for as long as I can manage.
Another straightforward yet highly effective step I always take is ensuring the curtains stay open throughout the day. This allows natural daylight to retain some warmth on the glass without allowing condensation to build up, which, as we all know, can lead to mould if left untreated.
Keeping the trickle vents at the top of the windows open at all times is equally crucial. This allows air to flow in continuously throughout the day without being overly noticeable - the ideal trick for winter.
While it may sound like stating the obvious, these measures are absolutely vital for stopping mould from spreading during winter. By doing them right now, you'll be grateful when we're even further into the coldest months.