If you’re looking for a quick fix to stop the build-up of condensation on windows, a cleaning fan recommended a common household item for the job
Families across the nation will likely be grappling with condensation this winter, but it needn’t become a major headache. Condensation can arise for numerous reasons, yet when left unaddressed, it may result in mould development, potentially causing severe health implications, reports the Express.
Cleaning enthusiast and TikTok star Lily recently revealed three of her best strategies to prevent condensation from appearing, including utilising a standard household cleaning item.
In her clip, Lily said: “Are you actually sick of this time of year when you get condensation on your windows? Yeah, I was at one stage, as well. Then I started doing these three things.”
How to prevent window condensation
Lily urged viewers to throw open their windows each morning, despite the cold and wet weather. She also suggested employing a dehumidifier to eliminate surplus moisture within the property.
To directly address the condensation issue on windows, Lily advised we should be polishing washing up liquid onto the glass. She clarified that this will prevent the condensation from “sticking” to the windows.
You can either dab the washing up liquid straight onto the cloth or add some dish soap to a spray bottle containing water, which can then be polished into the window. The washing up liquid assists in reducing the surface tension of water, enabling it to spread uniformly across the window.
This will stop water droplets from forming, which might otherwise remain after drying. However, it’s crucial you use the proper amount of washing up liquid, as the incorrect quantity could leave a soapy residue on the glass, and consequently, streaks.
Sara Hesikova wrote for Ideal Home : “So when I gave this hack a try, I did something similar – I only wiped half of the affected area with the soapy cloth, leaving the other half untreated to see if it would make any difference with stopping my window condensation.
“And, sure enough, it has! The treated area showed no sign of condensation the next day, while the untreated was stricken with it.”
Valeria Velikova, cleaning specialist at Fantastic Services, told Ideal Home: “Window fitters and manufacturers do not recommend using washing up liquid on windows because it can damage the rubber seals around your windows. Failed double glazing can then cause moisture to develop in between your window pains causing the glass to fog up and mould to develop.
“Using washing up liquid to prevent condensation can make the situation a whole lot worse.”
GLRE Glazing Refurbishment also agreed that washing up liquid should only be employed as a temporary fix for condensation. Its specialists revealed that the trick works by forming a thin layer that reduces surface tension and stops water droplets from appearing on a cold surface.
However, GLRE warned: “Remember, it’s a temporary solution and may not completely stop condensation, especially on colder days. It’s best applied to the bottom of the windows where condensation tends to accumulate the most.”
