Winter can often bring dampness and moisture problems indoors, but there are several rituals and habits you can adopt to help prevent dampness and maintain a healthier home environment. Also, have a look at Ideal Home's article here.
Landlords, tenants and housing officials are being urged to come together to tackle this problem. Although landlords can do things to help damp and mould prevention, there are daily actions that the tenants are responsible for. According to the Institute of Health Equity, illnesses linked to cold, damp and dangerous homes, mould and damp cost the NHS more than £2.5 billion a year.
An alarm company, Aico, has set up what it’s calling Damp and Mould Action and Awareness Week, claiming that over seven million households in the UK are affected by damp and mould.
It says damp and mould produces allergens, irritants, mould spores and other toxins that are harmful to health (check out Asthma and lung website).
The action and awareness week, which will take place between October 28 and November 3, has the backing of Professor Timothy Sharpe, Head of Architecture at the University of Strathclyde, who specialises in indoor ventilation and transmission.
To prevent damp and create a healthier home in the UK during winter, here are some simple yet effective rituals you can try:
1. Morning Airing Routine
Open Windows for 10-15 Minutes Each Morning: Even on cold days, open windows in each room briefly. This helps circulate fresh, dry air and release moisture that builds up overnight from breathing, cooking, or heating.
Cross-Ventilation: If possible, open windows on opposite sides of the home to create cross-ventilation and ensure air flows freely through the rooms.
Use trickle vents: Many windows have small vents at the top called trickle vents. Keep them open to ensure continuous airflow without letting in cold air.
2. Use a Dehumidifier or Natural Moisture Absorbers
Place Dehumidifiers: To keep indoor humidity below 60%, especially in rooms prone to dampness, like bathrooms and kitchens, use electric dehumidifiers to reduce excess moisture in the air.
Natural Options: You can also place bowls of salt, silica gel packs or activated charcoal in damp corners to naturally absorb moisture.
3. Dry Clothes Outdoors or in a Well-Ventilated Room
Avoid Indoor Drying: Drying clothes indoors can significantly increase humidity. If drying inside is unavoidable, use a well-ventilated space, and open windows to let the moisture escape or use a tumble dryer with an external vent.
Use a Clothes Airer Near an Open Window: If you must dry indoors, place a drying rack near an open window or use a well-ventilated area with a fan to prevent condensation.
Use a Dehumidifier: An electric dehumidifiers with laundry option is very helpful. Click here for a good buy.
4. Control Heating Wisely
Keep Consistent Temperature: Avoid letting your home get too cold as this can cause condensation when you turn the heat back on. Aim for a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to keep moisture levels low. Keep your home at a steady, moderate temperature to avoid moisture buildup.
Heat Every Room: Make sure all rooms, including less frequently used spaces, get some heat during winter to prevent cold, damp spots.
5. Wipe Down and Ventilate After Showers & Cooking
Ventilate Bathrooms After Use: Run your bathroom extractor fan during and after showers, if you don’t have an extractor fan, after showering, open a window to let out the steam. You can also wipe down the walls and mirrors to reduce the moisture hanging in the air. If you can afford, use a dehumidifier after shower for bathrooms without windows.
Use Lids and Exhaust Fans When Cooking: Cooking releases a lot of steam, so always use lids on pots, and turn on kitchen fans or open windows to let out moisture.
6. Indoor Plants that Absorb Moisture
Grow Moisture-Loving Plants: Some indoor plants, like peace lilies, spider plants or ferns, can help absorb excess moisture from the air. These plants can naturally reduce indoor humidity while also purifying the air. Be mindful not to overwater indoor plants, as this can contribute to dampness.
7. Inspect and Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Clear Debris: Regularly check gutters and downspouts to ensure they're free from leaves and debris, as blocked gutters can cause water to seep into walls and create damp spots.
8. Use Anti-Mould Solutions on Vulnerable Surfaces
Spray Vulnerable Areas: Use an anti-mould spray or homemade solution (e.g., vinegar and water) to treat areas prone to dampness, such as windowsills, bathroom corners, and behind furniture.
9. Check for Leaks and Insulate
Inspect for Leaks: Check windows, doors, roofs, and plumbing for leaks. Address any issues immediately to prevent water ingress.
Use Draft Stoppers: Place draft stoppers under doors and windows to prevent cold air and moisture from entering.
Insulate Walls and Floors: Ensure your home is well-insulated to keep moisture out and warmth in.
10. Prevent Condensation on Windows
Wipe down windows: Regularly wipe condensation off windows with a cloth or squeegee in the morning to prevent mould and damp buildup.
Install thermal curtains: These can help reduce condensation by keeping the cold air from windows away from the warm air inside.
11. Mindful Humidity Control
Monitor Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels in your home. This inexpensive tool can help you monitor indoor humidity. Ideally, keep indoor humidity between 30-50%. If levels are too high, increase ventilation or use a dehumidifier.
Bonus: Essential Oil Diffuser with Eucalyptus or Tea Tree Oil
Both eucalyptus and tea tree oils have natural antimicrobial properties, which can help to keep the air fresh and reduce the risk of mould and mildew. Use these oils in a diffuser to maintain a clean, healthy atmosphere during the winter.
By following this winter ritual, you'll reduce dampness, promote better air circulation, and create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
Comments