Experts warn condensation damp affects almost one in five UK homes, potentially leading to mould, damaged walls and health problems such as respiratory illness and skin rashes
Brits bracing themselves for icy temperatures and snow this winter are being encouraged to try a straightforward 50p household remedy to help stop condensation forming in their properties. With energy costs remaining elevated, experts caution that condensation damp impacts nearly one in five UK households, potentially resulting in mould, wall damage and health issues including respiratory conditions and skin irritation.
However, one insulation specialist says homeowners needn’t spend substantial amounts to address the issue – and suggests a bowl of rice positioned on a windowsill overnight could help reduce dampness. Chad Bragg, chief technical officer at insulation company SuperFOIL, outlined how the budget-friendly method works during colder months.
He said: “Overnight, we breathe out warm, moist air, which becomes trapped in the room, especially if the bedroom door is kept closed and ventilation is limited. When this moist air comes into contact with the cold glass, it condenses into water droplets, leading to a damp windowsill in the morning.
“Rice is naturally absorbent, and it works by drawing in excess moisture from the air. By leaving a bowl of rice on the windowsill, you create a simple, low-cost dehumidifier that reduces the amount of water in the air, helping to prevent condensation buildup. While it won’t solve the root cause of poor ventilation, it’s a quick and easy hack to reduce moisture and protect your windows and sills from damp.”
The 50p trick – often linked to saving water-damaged phones – comes as many households are hesitant to switch on the heating despite freezing temperatures. Mr Bragg cautioned that condensation is more than merely a winter irritation and should not be overlooked.
He said: “Condensation is a huge problem for many homes in the UK, with nearly one in five reporting issues with condensation damp. It’s more than just a nuisance that shows up in the colder months. If left untreated, the moisture from condensation can create damp and mould, which in turn may lead to health problems such as respiratory illnesses and skin irritation.”
He added that many people mistakenly believe addressing condensation is costly.
“Many people assume tackling the causes of condensation is expensive, but that’s not the case if you act quickly. Small changes, like adding radiator reflectors to keep rooms warmer, or bringing in spider plants to soak up some of the extra moisture, can make a big difference in stopping damp and mould from taking hold.”
