As the weather gets colder and damper it’s important to keep on top of home maintenance
Experts are asking people to place a bowl of salt on their window sills this winter. It might sound odd, but there is one very important reason that this common kitchen item should be left out as the days get shorter and colder.
One of the plagues of winter is condensation, If not treated properly this can cause all kinds of issues including mould, which can lead to health complications.
The home and garden experts at Posh.co.uk have found that a bowl of salt can help to minimise condensation. In turn, this will make your home dryer and reduce the risk of mould growing.
Condensation is caused by the air inside being warmer than that outside. When the warm air from indoors comes into contact with the cold surface of the window, it can cause condensation to form on the glass.
However, salt can absorb moisture from the air, and reduce condensation and damp. Less moisture in the air means that when the indoor air does come into contact with the cold glass, less condensation should form.
Andy Ellis, home and garden expert at Posh.co.uk said: “A constant build up of condensation in the home isn’t great and in some cases, it can cause mould growth which can be dangerous for your family.”
“Salt has the ability to naturally absorb moisture from the air and essentially dries it out so that when it does come in contact with the glass, there are less droplets of condensation that will form.”
He added: “It’s a really easy trick that requires no effort at all. Simply fill a shallow bowl or a small jar with some salt – this can be table salt or rock salt.
“The amount you use will vary depending on the size of the window you’re placing it next to. Of course, generally speaking, the larger the window the more salt you’ll need, though usually one small bowl should be fine.
“The same bowl of salt should last you a couple of days. You’ll know when it’s time to replace it because the salt will appear damp and will begin to clump together.”