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THE COLD and gloomy weather has well and truly arrived, which for millions come with the same issue - windows dripping with condensation.
Although the water droplets cause an unsightly mess, there's another reason Brits should be concerned - according to experts, condensation can also lead to mould.
The problem is huge - as reported by Homebrite, an staggering 58 per cent of privately rented homes across the nation have reported having to live with mould - which can, in turn, cause health issues.
Those particularly vulnerable are people with respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma, as well as newborns, children and the elderly.
Being exposed to and inhaling the mould spores can cause a range of issues, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash.
Hundreds of Brits have been taking to social media sites to seek tips and advice on how to tackle the common issue, as the cold weather sets in.
One anonymous person shared their woes on Facebook, writing: ''We bought our house 3 years ago and every winter and when the temperature drops slightly the windows are covered in condensation when we get up every morning.''
According to the internet user, they've tried practically everything - but with no luck.
''It makes no difference if the heating is on or off. I’ve tried leaving the windows open or on vent and still no difference.
''Does anyone have any idea what causes this?
''It’s the only house we’ve lived in where this happens and it doesn’t happen to my neighbours.
''It’s frustrating having to wipe and dry every single window every morning!''
As some raced to comments to share their explanations, others offered a helping hand with their top tips and remedies - some of which included using common cupboard essentials.
One Facebook user responded, writing: ''Salt in a dish on window sill you will see a difference.''
By placing bowls of regular table salt near the affected areas, it will help to absorb moisture and dehumidify your house - not only is this effective but also purse-friendly, as you can find salt for around 70p at most supermarkets.
Home and garden enthusiast Andy Ellis from Posh.co.uk explained: "Salt has the ability to naturally absorb moisture from the air and essentially dries it out so that when it does come in contact with the glass, there are less droplets of condensation that will form."
Condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Condensation occurs when:
Air cools
Warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. When moist air touches a cold surface, like a window, the water vapour in the air turns into liquid water droplets.
Windows are colder than walls
Windows are often colder than insulated walls, so condensation is more likely to occur on them.
Windows are poorly insulated
Poorly insulated windows can lead to condensation, especially if they are made of aluminium, which conducts heat quickly. If left untreated, it can lead to mould and other serious problems.
, the guru went on: "It's a really easy trick that requires no effort at all. Simply fill a shallow bowl or a small jar with some salt - this can be table salt or rock salt."
He said: "The amount you use will vary depending on the size of the window you're placing it next to. Of course, generally speaking, the larger the window the more salt you'll need, though usually one small bowl should be fine.
''The same bowl of salt should last you a couple of days.''
According to the expert, you'll know it's time to replace it because the salt will appear damp and will begin to clump together.
