Steamed up windows can appear misted and damp to touch when moisture builds up around the home. While it can be an enjoyable household mishap to draw on and admire, allowing steamed up windows to thrive in your property could result in the less enticing growth of black mould. The cold weather can’t be avoided, but there are a few other factors which could be fuelling condensation in your home – and this is how to fix them.
Why do my windows steam up on the inside?
When moisture contained within humid air meets a cold surface like a window, the contact reaction causes the moisture to turn back into a liquid.
This glazed, misty fog on your windows is known as condensation.
Steamed up windows can be easily fixed with a simple wipe over to catch dripping water droplets from ruining your floor.
While there is no harm in wiping your windows daily, there are plenty of ways to prevent your windows from steaming up in the first place.
How to prevent condensation on windows
Controlling moisture levels in the air is the key to reducing condensation around your home.
There are many ways to take hold of humidity and moisture lurking in the air with everything from dehumidifiers to the position of your houseplants making a difference.
Ventilate your windows
Most modern double glazed windows have a trickle vent feature, which is your best friend when it comes to condensation control.
Balancing heat with fresh air is crucial, so open windows regularly on sunny winter days – and use the trickle vent feature when you’re not in to blast some fresh air while keeping windows locked.
Use extractor fans
Cooking hearty hot dinners and taking long hot baths and showers are just a few of winter’s delights – but they could be making condensation worse.
Make use of extractor fans when cooking and using the bathroom to absorb excess moisture from steam.
Leave it on for a while after you’re done showering or cooking to keep moisture levels steady and prevent mould growth.
To prevent steamy mirrors, you can apply any of the following onto the mirror before showering to reduce residual water building up:
- Shaving cream
- White vinegar and water spray
- Dish soap
Don’t dry clothes indoors
Airing your clothes during the winter may seem more cost-effective than using a tumble dryer, but it can contribute to vast levels of moisture lingering in your home.
Excess moisture can eventually cause mould and damp which could result in poor health and a costly repair fee.
Avoid using radiators to dry your clothes during the winter and try isolating your washing in one room.
Bathrooms work best to place your clothes horse due to the durable materials used, so ventilate your bathroom and close the door to channel moisture through the window.