Why do windows steam up and go foggy on inside? Five ways to stop it this winter
Why do windows steam up and go foggy on inside? Five ways to stop it this winter
While cold weather cannot be avoided, there are ways to help get rid of foggy windows this winter.
Why do windows steam up and go foggy on inside? Five ways to stop it this winter
With plummeting temperatures as winter looms, many people might be waking up to foggy windows each morning.
Steamy windows around your home may be something you notice more as we enter the wintery months with frosty mornings and freezing nights
While cold weather cannot be avoided, there are a few steps that can be taken to help combat that annoying damp layer of condensation on our windows.
If ignored, steamed up windows could result in awful black mould appearing on the walls around your property.
But what is causing the dampness and fog on windows around our homes?
Here are the reasons you may be spotting condensation and ways you can combat it...
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.
1. 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.
2. Move your houseplants
There is no denying that houseplants look beautiful against the backdrop of our busy homes, but be careful where you place them.
Clusters of houseplants gathered in the corner of a room can fuel moisture and add to the watery condensation on your windows.
Spread houseplants throughout your home during the winter and save those crafty group displays for the warmer months.
3. Use a dehumidifier
Investing in a dehumidifier this winter could benefit your home in more ways than one.
Not only will it reduce moisture levels in the air but it could also help to eliminate allergies and dust mites lurking in your home.
Always take care when using a dehumidifier through the colder months as a drop in temperature could cause the coils to freeze if it gets too cold.
Keep your home well heated while using a dehumidifier to reduce condensation and balance humidity levels room-to-room.
4. 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
5. 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.
Get in contact for some little tips and bits of advice we’ve picked up along the way on improving your home and home value.