With energy costs remaining stubbornly elevated, specialists are warning that condensation damp is wreaking havoc in nearly one in five British households
As Brits brace themselves for plummeting temperatures and potential snowfall this winter, experts are championing a remarkably simple 50p household hack that could help keep condensation at bay in homes across the country.
With energy costs remaining stubbornly elevated, specialists are warning that condensation damp is wreaking havoc in nearly one in five British households, potentially triggering mould growth, structural damage to walls, and a host of health complications, including breathing difficulties and skin irritations.
However, one insulation specialist insists homeowners needn’t break the bank to combat the issue – suggesting that a humble bowl of rice positioned on a windowsill overnight might help draw out excess moisture.
Chad Bragg, chief technical officer at insulation company SuperFOIL, broke down how this budget-friendly solution performs during the 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 solution – typically linked to salvaging water-damaged mobile phones – has emerged as households remain hesitant to crank up their heating despite the bitter cold. Mr Bragg emphasised that condensation isn’t merely a seasonal irritation and shouldn’t be dismissed.
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 went on to explain that many people mistakenly believe addressing condensation requires significant expenditure.
“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.”
