I’ve tried a dehumidifier to fix my condensation problem but my windows are still wet – a 32p hack helped massively
THE COLD autumn months have well and truly arrived, which for millions come with the same issue – windows dripping with condensation.
But whilst the water droplets are certainly annoying and unsightly, there’s another reason Brits should be concerned – according to experts, condensation can also lead to mould.
According to data by Homebrite, an astronomical 58 per cent of privately rented households in the UK are dealing with mould – and that can cause major health issues.
Those particularly vulnerable are people with respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma, as well as newborns, young children and the elderly.
Being exposed to and inhaling the mould spores can cause a range of issues, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash.
In some cases, mould can also cause asthma attacks.
Hundreds of Brits have been taking to social media to seek advice on how to tackle condensation, as the temperatures begin to drip – and amongst them is also Simon Martin.
Sharing his troubles on Facebook, the young man wrote: ”I have an issue with condensation on my bedroom windows. This happens every winter when the heating is on.
”The main glass pane is blown although the smaller ones appear OK.
”The windows are north facing and there are no trickle vents in the windows. Built around 1985, I think these are the originals.”
Simon went on in his post; ”I know I need to replace the blown glass but is a full frame replacement required?”
According to the Facebook user, despite keeping the dehumidifier on during the colder weather, the popular gadget ”doesn’t fix the problem”.
Luckily for Simon – and anyone else struggling with the common issue – there were plenty of responses, as fellow members of the DIY on a Budget members flocked to comments.
Dozens shared their tips and tricks, ranging from simply opening the window to other, more bizarre, suggestions, such as using cat litter.
One woman said: ”Besides all the other advise u can put some cat litter in a container on the window ledge.
”Will dry out some of that moisture. Very cheap hack the cat litter lasts for ages.”
Another person who also struggled with condensation chimed in: ”A quick fix – put some kitty litter around it as it will soak up the extra moisture in the air too.”
What is condensation?
Condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Condensation occurs when:
Air cools
Warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. When moist air touches a cold surface, like a window, the water vapour in the air turns into liquid water droplets.
Windows are colder than walls
Windows are often colder than insulated walls, so condensation is more likely to occur on them.
Windows are poorly insulated
Poorly insulated windows can lead to condensation, especially if they are made of aluminium, which conducts heat quickly. If left untreated, it can lead to mould and other serious problems.
Although it may sound like an unusual way to deal with the problem, the science behind this hack is simple – cat litter works for condensation because it’s designed to absorb moisture, similar to how it absorbs cat urine.
”It won’t be as effective as a dedicated dehumidifier, but it can help. Just place it in an old sock or bag, tie it up and let it do the job,” explained the pros at Speedy Hire.
”Replace this monthly, as it will smell once thoroughly damp.”
Shoppers can snap up this pet essential from a number of retailers, including Amazon, as well as The Range, where you can find a 5l bag for a mere £3.29.
This bag will be enough for ten cups for the hack – meaning it costs just 32p per use.