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Condensation can turn your home into a damp, uncomfortable space faster than you’d expect. Those foggy windows and wet walls aren’t just annoying—they’re a breeding ground for mold and can damage your property over time. The good news? Getting rid of condensation doesn’t require expensive renovations or calling in specialists. With a few strategic changes, you can control moisture levels and enjoy a drier, healthier home.
1. Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is your heavy artillery against condensation. These devices pull moisture directly from the air, reducing humidity levels throughout your space. Modern dehumidifiers come in various sizes—from compact units for bedrooms to larger models that handle entire floors.
Place your dehumidifier in the room with the worst condensation problem (usually bathrooms or kitchens). Run it for a few hours daily, or continuously in particularly damp areas. Most models have a water collection tank you’ll need to empty regularly, though some can drain directly into a sink. Expect to see results within 24-48 hours as moisture levels drop and condensation reduces noticeably.
2. Moisture Absorber
Moisture absorbers are the silent workers of condensation control. These inexpensive devices use crystals or gels to draw moisture from the air without electricity. They’re perfect for smaller spaces like closets, bathrooms, or bedrooms where you don’t want the noise or energy consumption of a dehumidifier.
Popular options like UniBond AERO 360 or DampRid containers work continuously for weeks before needing replacement. Place them on windowsills, in corners, or anywhere condensation tends to form. You’ll see water collecting in the container—proof they’re working. They’re particularly effective overnight when condensation typically peaks.
3. Improve Ventilation
Poor air circulation is condensation’s best friend. Improving ventilation breaks this cycle by allowing moist air to escape and fresh, drier air to enter. This doesn’t mean expensive renovations—simple changes make a significant difference.
Open interior doors to improve airflow between rooms. Move furniture away from walls to allow air circulation behind it. Keep window trickle vents open (those small openings at the top of modern windows). If you have air bricks or vents in walls, make sure they’re not blocked by furniture or decorations. Better airflow means moisture doesn’t settle on cold surfaces.
4. Open Windows Regularly
It sounds counterintuitive when it’s cold outside, but opening windows is one of the most effective condensation solutions. Even 10-15 minutes of fresh air daily can dramatically reduce moisture buildup.
Time your window opening strategically: after showers, while cooking, and first thing in the morning when condensation is heaviest. You don’t need to create a wind tunnel—a small gap on opposite sides of your home creates a gentle cross-breeze that carries moisture out. Yes, you’ll lose some heat, but preventing mold and structural damage is worth a few extra minutes of heating later.
5. Use Extractor Fans
Extractor fans target moisture at its source—the kitchen and bathroom where most household humidity originates. If you have these fans, use them every single time you cook or shower, not just occasionally.
Run bathroom fans for at least 15 minutes after showering, even if mirrors have cleared. In kitchens, turn fans on before you start cooking and leave them running until steam dissipates completely. If your fans seem ineffective, check filters for blockages or consider upgrading to a more powerful model. Removing moisture before it spreads through your home prevents it from condensing on cold surfaces elsewhere.
6. Salt Bowls
This old-school trick costs almost nothing and works surprisingly well in small spaces. Salt is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the air. While not as powerful as electric dehumidifiers, salt bowls make a noticeable difference in bedrooms, bathrooms, or on windowsills.
Fill shallow bowls with regular table salt or rock salt and place them in problem areas. Replace the salt when it becomes wet or clumpy (usually every few weeks). Some people add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. It’s a perfect solution for rental properties where you can’t install permanent fixes.
7. Double Glazing
If condensation consistently forms on your windows, single-pane glass is likely the culprit. Cold glass meets warm indoor air, creating the perfect conditions for water droplets. Double glazing creates an insulating air gap that keeps the inner pane warmer, preventing condensation.
This is admittedly the most expensive option on this list, but it’s a permanent solution that also reduces heating bills and outside noise. If replacing windows isn’t feasible, consider secondary glazing—a cheaper alternative that adds an extra pane inside your existing windows. Even temporary plastic film insulation kits (available at hardware stores) can reduce window condensation during winter months.
8. Proper Heating
Maintaining consistent, moderate heating prevents the cold surfaces where condensation forms. The key isn’t blasting heat occasionally—it’s keeping your home at a steady temperature.
Set heating to maintain 18-21°C (64-70°F) throughout the day rather than turning it off completely when you’re out. This keeps walls, windows, and furniture warm enough that moisture in the air doesn’t condense on them. Low, consistent heating is more effective and often cheaper than intermittent high heat. If heating costs are a concern, focus on keeping at least one or two main rooms at a stable temperature.
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Condensation doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your home. Start with the easiest, cheapest solutions—open windows daily, use extractor fans consistently, and try salt bowls or moisture absorbers. These simple changes often solve the problem without spending much money. If condensation persists, graduate to dehumidifiers or consider longer-term fixes like improved heating or double glazing. The key is consistency: moisture control works best as a daily habit, not a one-time fix.