The past couple of weeks have been an absolute humidity nightmare. It’s felt less like winter and more like living inside a giant steam room! If your walls feel like they’ve been sweating, it’s time to tackle humidity and condensation head-on. And you don’t need to splash out on fancy gadgets. Here are five budget-friendly ways to keep the moisture at bay.
1. Crack a window (yes, even in winter!)
It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how effective a bit of fresh air can be. Condensation builds up when warm, moist air has nowhere to escape, so opening windows—even just for ten minutes a day—helps balance humidity levels. If you’re worried about the chill, just remember: a little draught is better than mouldy walls!
2. Use lids when cooking and dry clothes wisely
Boiling pasta? Making a cuppa? All that steam has to go somewhere, and more often than not, it’s straight onto your windows. Keep a lid on your pots to trap moisture and use your extractor fan if you have one. Drying clothes indoors is another culprit—if you must do it, try placing a dehumidifier nearby or using a well-ventilated space.
3. Invest in moisture absorbers
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-blown dehumidifier, moisture absorbers (like silica gel or calcium chloride) are a brilliant alternative. Pop them in wardrobes, cupboards, or corners prone to dampness, and they’ll quietly suck up excess moisture. You can even make your own with rock salt in a bowl—low effort, high reward!
4. Rearrange your furniture
It might sound odd, but pushing furniture right up against walls can trap moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for mould. Give your sofas, beds, and wardrobes a little breathing space to improve airflow. Plus, it’s a great excuse to refresh your home’s layout without spending a penny!
5. Keep an eye on indoor plants
We love a good houseplant as much as the next person, but some of them can contribute to excess moisture. If your home already feels a bit like a greenhouse, consider swapping out high-humidity plants (like ferns) for ones that absorb moisture, such as peace lilies or spider plants. A stylish way to fight dampness!
That’s all there’s to it. No more waking up to foggy windows or battling pesky mould. Now, put the kettle on and enjoy your fresher, healthier space.
