A HOMEOWNER has revealed a “magical” 69p hack which has stopped condensation building up on her windows.
Anita Birges was “absolutely blown away” after discovering her cheap winter home hack which even prevents condensation from ever appearing.
Condensation, which generally occurs more in winter time, happens when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cooler surface.
The cooler temperature causes the water vapour to lose energy and transition into liquid form, often seen as droplets.
But it can be a nightmare for homeowners who suffer with this as it can cause dampness, mould and damage to the inside of their homes.
So Anita’s tip, which she shared as a video on her TikTok, has been well received for many as it’s so affordable as well.
Talking to camera, she says: “Best home hack you’re gonna see today, and it’s for all that condensation buildup we get at the bottom of our glass windows and doors in winter.”
She then shows the camera condensation build up that has occurred in her home.
Anita continues: “Now these are the windows in my lounge room, but this condensation problem is happening all over my home.
“Grab your dish washing liquid and a dry microfiber cloth, put a small amount on, and let’s get to it.
“Starting from the top, I want you to rub vigorously all over the window, including the frame. If your cloth is getting too wet, replace it with a dry one and keep on going.
“The dish washing liquid creates a barrier which stops condensation from coming back.
“I only used this magical hack on the middle window because I wanted you to see the difference a day after.
“Look at this, I’m gonna be going around and doing the whole house now.”
You will most probably own dishwashing liquid, but it can be bought from stores for as little as 69p from Tesco.
In the caption for her video, Anita also wrote: “It’s for all that condensation build up we get all over our glass windows and doors in winter, which often ends up with pools of water at the bottom of the frames!
“Grab your dishwashing liquid and a dry microfibre cloth, put a small amount on the cloth and rub vigorously all over the glass and frame.
“Come back a day later and you will be astounded by how well this works!
She first started off by pouring some dish washing liquid on a microfiber cloth[/caption]
By using the cleaning liquid, Anita was able to get on top of her condensation issue[/caption]
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.
“It has something to do with the dishwashing liquid creating a barrier which stops condensation!
“I know what I’m going to be doing with the rest of my day.”
Many people rushed to the comments section to share their thoughts.
One wrote: “Oh my goodness! My house is so damp and every morning in winter I have to dry lots of the windows. I so hope this works for me!!”
Another added: “Cheap refill shower gel works too and as a bonus your rooms are left smelling like flowers.”
A third also said: “I do this all the time too and it does work.”
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.
