How to Beat Condensation and Mould This Winter: A Fun Guide for Students
Winter is coming! With cozy sweaters and hot chocolate also comes a sneaky duo that no one wants to invite in: condensation and mould. But fear not! Here’s a fun and clear guide to keep your student pad safe from the dreaded damp.
How to Beat Condensation and Mould This Winter: A Fun Guide for Students
Winter is coming! With cozy sweaters and hot chocolate also comes a sneaky duo that no one wants to invite in: condensation and mould. But fear not! Here’s a fun and clear guide to keep your student pad safe from the dreaded damp.
1. Air Patrol: Let the Breeze In!
It might sound odd to crack open a window in the winter, but ventilation is key! When you shower or cook, steam builds up. This leads to condensation on your windows and walls. Open windows for at least 10-15 minutes a day (especially in kitchens and bathrooms). It’s like giving your home a quick breath of fresh air. You can even sing your favorite song during this time. 🎶
2. Captain Dehumidifier to the Rescue!
If you’re in a particularly damp area (looking at you, old student digs!), you might need an extra sidekick. A dehumidifier can help suck up the extra moisture in the air. It’s like the vacuum cleaner of dampness! You can even get small, budget-friendly ones for your room or bathroom.
3. Fight Back with Heat: Keep Things Warm and Steady
When your room’s temperature changes too much, condensation loves to settle in. So, try to keep the heating steady. If you can’t afford to keep the heat on all day, try to warm rooms you use most frequently. Also, don’t block the heat by putting furniture right up against radiators—let the warmth circulate freely!
4. Dry Clothes, Not Your Walls!
We get it—drying your clothes indoors is tempting. But wet clothes on a radiator = condensation city! Instead, dry your laundry outside when possible or use a clothes airer with a window open. Even using a fan can help speed up the process. Bonus: less condensation and quicker drying clothes!
5. Moisture Magnets: Keep Showers Short and Sweet
Long, hot showers might feel amazing on cold mornings, but they’re a major culprit for condensation buildup. Keep those showers short and sweet (your housemates will love you for this too!), and always use an extractor fan if you have one.
6. Wipe Out Early Signs
If you notice condensation gathering on your windows, wipe it down. This prevents the moisture from seeping into walls or window frames, which could lead to mould. A quick wipe with a cloth in the morning = no nasty black spots later!
7. Mr. Vinegar: Your DIY Mould Buster
If the dreaded mould does start to show up, don’t panic! Grab some vinegar and water, mix it in a spray bottle, and lightly spray the area. Vinegar is like nature’s super mould fighter—cheap, effective, and chemical-free!
8. Clear the Clutter
Clutter in your room might trap moisture. Make sure there’s enough space between your furniture and the walls for air to circulate, especially around wardrobes and beds. A well-organized room is a happy (and less mouldy) one!
9. Bonus Tip: Plants to the Rescue!
Certain houseplants, like peace lilies, are great at absorbing moisture from the air. Plus, they make your room look awesome! It’s like having a green sidekick in your fight against damp.