Condensation on windows can be a real pain, but one woman has shared a simple and cheap hack to help stop it from forming in the first place – and it really works
Condensation on windows can be a real headache. It’s caused when warm, humid air comes into contact with cold glass – often the result of everyday activities like cooking, showering, drying clothes, and even breathing.
Even if you have double glazing, regular condensation can lead to issues such as mould growth, damp patches, and potential damage to paint or woodwork around the window. Rooms with high humidity – like kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms – are more prone to condensation buildup.
This was precisely what was happening to my bedroom windows each morning, as the humidity from my overnight breathing caused mist and water droplets to form on the glass.
Cracking open my windows for a few hours daily aided in ventilation, but I was eager to find a method to prevent the condensation from forming initially.
A traditional trick for this is to place a bowl of salt by your window. I was somewhat doubtful about this – it seemed too straightforward to be effective, reports the Express.
Nonetheless, I decided to give it a shot with nothing to lose. I purchased some table salt for 65p from Sainsbury’s and filled a small bowl, positioning it on my windowsill before bedtime.
The following morning, I was astonished to discover that very little condensation had formed on my windows, and the salt bowl was moist to the touch. It had clearly been working to absorb the excess moisture before it could form on the glass.
Since then, I’ve kept the bowl on my windowsill every night, changing the salt every few days or so, depending on how often it needs replacing. I’ve seen a significant reduction in the condensation on my windows each morning, proving that this old-school trick really does work.
How to use salt for condensation.
Salt naturally draws moisture from the air and acts as a simple, cost-effective dehumidifier. It works by extracting some of the moisture from the air before it can reach the glass and cool down.
You can use any kind of salt, but I would recommend using table salt, as its grains are finer, allowing for better absorption. Simply fill a small bowl or dish and place it on the windowsill, particularly during the colder months when condensation is prevalent.
Over time, you might notice the salt becoming damp or clumping together – that’s a sign it’s working and absorbing moisture.
You may need to replace it every few days or once a week, depending on the humidity level in your room. You can even place bowls in multiple rooms, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or kitchens, to help reduce overall indoor humidity.
While salt won’t completely eliminate condensation, it can noticeably reduce moisture build-up and help keep your windows clearer and drier.
