Households are being urged to use this 65p cupboard staple to tackle condensation this winter without the need to buy an expensive dehumidifier
Households are being urged to ditch dehumidifiers for this cheaper alternative(Image: Getty Images)
Households looking to tackle condensation and damp this winter may not need to rely on an expensive dehumidifier, according to window and door specialists. While dehumidifiers are undoubtedly one of the most effective ways to reduce moisture in your home during the colder months, they can come with a hefty price tag.
Many models cost hundreds of pounds to buy and running them adds to electricity bills. Although experts suggest there are cheaper alternatives that can help prevent condensation and protect your home from damp, allowing homeowners to keep their living spaces comfortable without breaking the bank.
Allan Reid, double glazing expert and founder of Art Windows & Doors, warns that up to 6.5 million households in the UK are likely to struggle with condensation and damp this winter. He suggest that using baking soda, also known as bicarbonate of soda, is a very cheap way to tackle the problem for those who aren’t ready to fork out for a high-tech solution.
He explained: “Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, and your windows are often the first place you see it. It can be frustrating because it’s not just unsightly; if left unchecked, it can damage window frames, encourage mould growth, and even reduce the lifespan of your double-glazing.”
The expert says baking soda is a safe and effective way to manage the moisture, continuing: “It acts as a natural desiccant, absorbing excess moisture from the air around your windows. You don’t need any fancy equipment or chemicals, and it costs next to nothing.”
It is extremely simple, Alan recommends filling small open containers with baking soda and placing them on the windowsills around your house, the Express reports.
“Even a few tablespoons in a small bowl per window can make a noticeable difference over a few days. For larger rooms, you can use multiple containers or refill them more frequently. The powder gradually absorbs moisture from the air, and you’ll see less fogging on the glass,” he states.
Although where you place the tubs matter, as he adds: “Put the baking soda near the coldest part of the window or the area most prone to condensation. It’s all about letting the powder interact with the damp air before it settles and drips.”
He continues: “A packet of baking soda costs just 65p from Aldi and can last for weeks on one windowsill. Compare that to a small electric dehumidifier, which can cost £40 to £50 or more, and you’re saving hundreds over the winter months if you treat multiple windows in your home.”
Although Allan advises using baking soda, this dehumidifier on Amazon costs just 8p per hour to run on auto and is down to £79.98 in the sale.
The 12L/Day Dehumidifier for Home Smart Humidity Control, which has a smart panel and real time humidity display, has three different working modes and claims to have super optimal humidity control, which can remove up to 12 litres of moisture.
The dehumidifier has received an impressive 1,215 reviews from customers, gaining a 4.5 rating. With one pleased customer penning: “Absolutely AMAZING! We had damp throughout the house and it’s all gone! Helps dry our clothes and keeps the damp clear, what more could I ask for. Noise level is minimal, like a AC unit sound.”
Although they did say the dehumidifier can get extremely heavy, as their review continued: “Looks sleek and easy to pick up (mind when its fuller it does get a tad heavy). Had it for a month or so now and its lasted no problem, had it on almost everyday – plus it barely uses any electricity! Fab!”
