The ‘game changer’ £8 cold weather item in unexpected aisle for tackling condensation – you can use it again & again
FIGHTING mould in the colder months could cost as little as £7.99 with an item that some have branded a "game changer".
Reusable dehumidifier bags can help tackle condensation which can appear on windows around the home in the colder months.
The Simply Reusable Car Dehumidifier can be bought from Halfords for as cheap £7.99 making it a bargain investment.
The compact bag absorbs and releases moisture due to its silica gel interior.
It features a heat sensor which changes from blue to pink to indicate when it needs to be "recharged" back in a microwave.
The gadget has become popular online with drivers praising that it can clear your windscreen.
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Yet savvy shoppers online have noticed the dehumidifier bags can be used anywhere - such as on window sills at home.
One user took to TikTok to explain: "I leave mine in the car and when I go to it in the morning there's less condensation".
While another user pointed out that they were "amazing in the car, van, house - anywhere!"
People also commented on the post saying the bag was a "need".
And another person said: "They're amazing. They make such a difference."
Dehumidifying your home is essential in the colder months as condensation can quickly develop into signs of mould.
The reusable bags are a low cost method compared to investing big bucks into an electric dehumidifier which plugs into the wall.
For example, the SIP 20 Litre Dehumidifier from Halfords costs £239.99.
The small bags can be placed on window sills and in corners where electrical appliances might not reach.
You also get to avoid the cost of running an electrical appliance - and while dehumidifiers only 4p an hour it always helps to save on these monthly costs.
Especially from this month onwards as 28 million households on standard variable tariffs (SVT) face an increased energy price cap.
According to Ofgem, which sets the limit, bills are set to rise by 10% from this month onwards causing households to spend an annual £149 extra on average.
Therefore those dodging turning the heating on and instead finding methods to heat themselves could still see their homes affected by cold weather.
Mould spores can cause health problems unknowingly by contaminating respiratory air and causing allergic reactions to your skin.
Mould can also be a pain to blast once it's settled.
CheckATrade values the average mould removal cost this year to be £30 an hour - or as much as £300 a room.
"Unfortunately, mould is a common problem many people face during winter. It thrives in conditions that are warm and damp, so your bathrooms are likely to be the most affected place.
"That said, during the colder months most rooms in your home could be vulnerable to mould growing.
"This occurs primarily from condensation that builds up on your windows when you’ve got your radiators on.
"If you think about it, when windows and doors are closed, there's not much chance for the air to circulate and the moisture to make a swift exit.
"This build up is what can cause dreaded mould to make an appearance, especially in bathrooms, as it creates that warm and wet environment that is a breeding ground for mould.
"If left untreated, not only is it unsightly but it can also pose a serious risk to your health, so it’s really important you treat it.
"The key to tackle mould is to act fast.
"Try to come into as little contact with it as you can. So, grab your gloves, tie up your hair and get to work to remove any signs of mould as soon as you notice them.
"To keep mould at bay, there are some simple solutions you can introduce throughout home.
"The first is keep it ventilated. Yes, even in the cold winter months try to leave your bathroom window open for at least 10/15 minutes post shower or bath. This will get rid of any excess moisture quickly preventing mould gathering.
"If you’re having a repeat problem with mould in one particular area, it might be because the humidity levels are too high. You can get a dehumidifier that will help keep the levels low and reduce the risk of mould returning.
"The golden rule to remember when dealing with mould is the quicker you can treat it, the better. If you leave it, it will only get worse so never ignore it!
"To successfully get rid of mould every time, I recommend opting for the , that effectively removes mould and mildew stains almost instantly, with no scrubbing necessary."
You'd typically find the pouch-like gadget down a motoring aisle or in an auto retailer like Halfords.
Other places where you can purchase affordable reusable dehumidifier bags include The Range and Amazon.
The Range sells theirs at a bit more expensive a cost at £8.99.
Whereas some products on Amazon, such as the FPD 2 Car Reusable Humidifier bags, can cost as little as £5.98.
As usual we recommend shopping around to get the best prices.
It's always a great trick to use the "sort by" tool while browsing and selecting "cheapest first" to see the best deals.
There are other portable dehumidifiers you could try too.
We tested five different mini dehumifiers including plug-in models and similar ones to Halfords.
The winner costs £10.99 from Robert Dyas but it only lasts three months so you will need to buy refill tablets.
Meanwhile, we also tried a heated airer and a dehumidifier for drying clothes without heating.
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Plus, we've tried five popular tricks to get rid of condensation and mould.
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