The 32p buy that’ll stop condensation forming on your windows as Brits hail it as ‘better than expensive dehumidifiers’
WITH temperatures plummeting, millions of households are all wondering how to keep condensation at bay.
A common annoyance for a number of people around the world, condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Not only can this make for an unsightly mess, but these water droplets can also lead to the growth of mould – which, in some cases, can be fatal.
Amongst those most vulnerable are newborns, young kids, elderly, as well as those with respiratory issues, allergies and asthma.
With the cold weather now in full force, thousands of desperate Brits have been taking to social media to seek advice and tips on how to deal with the issue.
One of them was also Katie Harris, a member of the popular Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips on Facebook.
On the lookout for purse-friendly methods to deal with the wet windows, Katie wondered: ”Hi, does anyone have any tips on what can be used to stop condensation on windows apart from buying an expensive dehumidifier?”
Although dehumidifiers are a popular way to banish the water droplets, this winter household must-have can also set you back a fortune – and luckily, there are other cost-effective methods to try out.
Dozens of social media users flooded to comments to share their top alternatives to the pricey device, which ranged from using washing-up liquid to even purchasing a pet essential.
One wrote: ”Put a spot of washing up liquid in a cloth and wipe, you’ll be able to see out the windows.”
Someone else was raving over a cupboard essential, writing: ”I sadly had the same issue and ended up getting a dehumidifier.
”But an alternative if to put a saucer or shallow dish by the window with table salt on it. Fill it right up.
”You will be amazed just how much water it collects!”
Another added: ”Bowl of rice or pasta.”
However, there was also another, less known hack that some people swore by – and it costs mere pennies.
”Put cat litter in a sock n leave on widow sill,” shared one cleaning fanatic.
”Cat litter in a sock near the window,” someone else was also a fan of this method.
Safety warnings if using cat litter
Scroll down for a full list of safety warnings if using cat litter as a condensation hack.
- Keep it out of reach: Keep cat litter out of reach of children and other pets.
- Avoid inhaling dust: Many clay-based cat litters contain crystalline silica, which can create dust that is harmful to inhale. Use cat litter in a well-ventilated area.
- Wash hands: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling cat litter.
- Seek medical attention: If cat litter is ingested, seek medical attention immediately.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Store cat litter in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat.
- Don’t flush: Never flush cat litter into the toilet. The mineral in cat litter can form large clumps that block wastewater lines.
- Dispose of properly: Dispose of used litter, feces, and excrement as described on the packaging. Many municipalities offer specific bins for large-scale composting or organic disposal.
- Avoid changing litter if pregnant: Pregnant women should avoid changing cat litter if possible. If you must change the litter, wear a mask and rubber gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
- Be careful with self-cleaning litter boxes: Some self-cleaning litter boxes have been known to kill cats.
”Have heard Cat litter in a sock tie it in a knot at ankle bit n place in window at side?for a week or two?” a third commented.
While 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.