From October onwards, Irish households can prevent window condensation and mould with simple tips like rubbing washing up liquid on glass.
Rubbing a thin layer of washing up liquid on a dry window can help to prevent condensation forming(Image: Claire Schofield)
With autumn now in full swing, temperatures will begin to drop from October onwards, and as we head into winter many households will soon face a familiar seasonal nuisance – condensation on windows.
This happens when warm, moist indoor air meets cold glass surfaces, causing water droplets to form. While condensation is typically harmless, if left unchecked it can lead to more serious problems, including the development of mould, which can cause health issues such as asthma, eczema and bronchitis.
Luckily, experts say there’s a surprisingly simple way to tackle it using just a bit of washing up liquid. The trick works because washing up liquid contains surfactants that reduce water’s surface tension. When applied to a window, it spreads the moisture into a thin, invisible layer instead of letting droplets form.
Experts at Home Things explained: “By taking a small drop of washing up liquid and rubbing it into the condensation-prone window with a dry cloth you can completely stop the issue all together. The 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.”
A bottle of washing up liquid costs as little as 99 cent at Dunnes Stores, making this a cheap and easy fix. However, it isn’t permanent – the film will wear off over time, so regular reapplication is necessary.
Water pooling from window condensation.(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Experts at Glazing Refurbishment also stressed that while dish soap can help, it’s a temporary solution, stating: “Applying dish soap to windows can provide a temporary solution by creating a film that prevents water droplets from forming; however, it’s not a permanent fix.
“Over time, the soap film will wear away, and the condensation may return. For a long-term solution, you need to manage the humidity levels in your building and improve insulation.”
Heating habits can also influence condensation. Warm air holds more moisture, so if you heat one room while leaving others cold, the unheated spaces are more prone to damp. The World Health Organization recommends maintaining a minimum of 21C in living rooms and 18C in bedrooms.
If condensation does appear, wipe down windows promptly to prevent mould from taking hold. Any black spots can be treated with a mild bleach solution or an anti-fungal spray to stop growth spreading. By taking these steps from October onwards, Irish households can stay ahead of damp and keep their homes healthier throughout winter.
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.