BREAK THE MOULD
My windows are always soaking wet with condensation but I can’t afford new ones – people swear by a ‘Scandinavian hack’
Scroll down to find out more about condensation and how to get rid of it
A WOMAN has revealed that she recently moved into a 1940s home, only to find that her windows are constantly soaking wet with condensation.
And without spare cash to get new ones, Siobhan Danielle was eager to ask DIY and cleaning fans for advice on what to do.
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Posting on , a private Facebook group with 2.2 million members, Siobhan shared snaps of her wet windows and begged: “Advice needed please.”
She then explained: We have bought a new home, it was built in the 1940s and has outdated timber frame windows that desperately need replacing.
“Unfortunately we don’t have the funds to replace the window straight away.”
The woman, who is from the UK, then questioned: “Has anyone had this issue before and know of any DIY solutions that we can try whilst we wait for new windows?”
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Not only this, but the homeowner also added: “The house was left empty for at least one year before we moved in and the dampness in the windows is happening upstairs where there is limited ventilation.”
Social media users flocked to the comments, eager to share their advice on how to banish condensation in winter.
So if your windows are covered in condensation and you aren't sure how to get rid of it, you'll need to listen up.
Whilst lots of helpful cleaning tricks were offered, many swore by the same easy hack - and it’s totally free.
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People claimed that a 'Scandinavian hack', which simply involves opening your windows in short bursts, will clear up condensation in no time at all.
One person said: “There’s a Scandinavian hack - every day no matter what the weather, open all the windows for five minutes to let all the moisture out.
Home expert FINALLY settles long-running debate over whether to leave curtains open or closed to stop condensation
“I thought “what a load of [rubbish]” but it actually works, I’ve had no wet on my windows since doing this.
“Also, dry any excess moisture to prevent mould. But honestly, the Scandinavian hack really does work, the heat from the house on the cold windows creates the moisture, the air sucks out the moisture.”
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.
Another added: “You need to reduce the humidity in the house, try a dehumidifier for a bit. Open your windows daily for a bit.”
Whilst a third commented: “You need ventilation in that room. Crack open a window a little for an hour and the condensation should go.”
Honestly, the Scandinavian hack really does work
Facebook user
Not only this, but many Facebook users were keen to share more advice on what has worked for them to put a stop to condensation.
One user beamed: “Window vac is the way forward. My house is 36 years old and is the same. I have serious mould issues no matter what I do. Run a dehumidifier too.”
Cheap condensation hacks
1. Use Salt or Cat Litter
- Place bowls of salt or silica-based cat litter in areas prone to dampness. These materials are excellent at absorbing moisture from the air.
2. DIY Dehumidifier
- Create a simple dehumidifier using a plastic container with a lid. Punch holes in the lid, fill the container with silica gel or activated charcoal, and place it in humid areas.
3. Ventilate When Cooking and Showering
- Open windows or use extractor fans when cooking or showering to let moisture escape. Even a small gap can make a significant difference.
4. Wipe Down Windows
- Regularly wipe down windows and other cold surfaces with a dry cloth to remove condensation. This prevents moisture from accumulating and causing mould.
5. Use Houseplants
- Certain houseplants, like peace lilies and spider plants, can help absorb moisture from the air. They also improve indoor air quality.
6. Keep Lids on Pots
- When cooking, keep lids on pots and pans to reduce the amount of steam released into the air.
7. Dry Clothes Outside
- Whenever possible, dry clothes outside or in a well-ventilated area instead of using indoor drying racks.
8. Open Curtains and Blinds
- During the day, open curtains and blinds to allow sunlight to warm up windows and reduce condensation. Sunlight also helps to reduce mould growth.
9. Use Towels Wisely
- Keep towels and other fabrics away from walls and windows to prevent them from absorbing moisture and becoming damp.
10. Seal Cracks and Gaps
- Use inexpensive weatherstripping or caulk to seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors. This helps to keep cold air out and warm air in, reducing condensation.
A second chimed in: “Washing up liquid forms a barrier on the surface of the windows, preventing the water from sticking.
"So in the space of just a few minutes, you can put a stop to the damp, mould, and mildew that wet windows can cause. Worked for me for a bit.”
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Meanwhile, someone else recommended: “Put bowls of salt on the windowsill.
"It's cheap and will draw the moisture out of the air, my nan used to swear by this.”
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