Easy change to make in your home today to avoid condensation and black mould

22 October 2023 , 15:57

494     0

Condensation can lead to mould (stock image) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

As the weather gets colder, many homes will have noticed that their windows are covered in droplets of water - especially in the mornings. Condensation is one of the most common forms of damp, and although it might not seem like such a big deal then and there, it can eventually lead to the growth of black form.

Condensation forms on internal surfaces when the temperature outside drops significantly lower than the moist air inside a property, which is why it can usually be spotted on windows or sometimes walls. If left untreated, mould can lead to damage to the property as well as trigger health problems such as asthma. But the good news is that there are ways to prevent it - including a very easy change that you can do today.

If you're noticing condensation or mould in your home, early treatment is very important - and one of the easiest things you can do to prevent it is moving your furniture around. Mould thrives in conditions with poor airflow, and behind furtniture is the perfect spot for this, particularly if the humidity levels in your home is high.

This is especially true if your furniture is placed close to external walls. According to EnviroVent, air trapped behind furniture cools when it comes into contanct with the surface of a wall, which release moisture. This can quickly soak into plaster or windowsills, and create a damp patch where mould can start to grow.

Keeping furniture away from walls and well-spaced out will allow the air to circulate freely in your home, and help prevent condensation to form. You should also keep wardrobes and heavy items away from external walls, which are particularly prone to condensation build-ups.

Property expert's simple hack to get rid of bedroom window condensation

According to experts, it's also advisable to put your heating on for a 20-minute blast each morning to prevent mould forming. "Putting the heating on for around 20 minutes in the morning can help control the humidity in the room. Open the windows first to get a healthy airflow going, then put the heating on to stop the windows from steaming up," said the experts from MeandMyGlass.co.uk.

You should also take time each morning to wipe condensation off windows, and open them up to allow for more ventilation. You could also invest in some plants, such as orchids, that are known to reduce moisture in the air.

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz