Waking up to find moisture forming on your windows is a familiar issue during the colder months, particularly in properties where air circulation is insufficient. The phenomenon happens when humid, heated air meets a chilled surface like glass, prompting the air to cool down and deposit water beads.

Beyond being a daily irritation, this moisture build-up can result in damp and mould growth, potentially damaging your home or triggering health concerns including breathing difficulties, asthma and allergic reactions. Therefore, if you’re consistently seeing condensation on your windows each morning, taking action is essential.

Fortunately, consumer specialists at Which? have revealed an effective method to eliminate window condensation through a simple daily routine that can be carried out in the morning. What’s more, it’s completely free.

The solution is straightforward: “Open windows or vents to let the moisture escape,” they shared. According to the consumer organisation’s website, they also suggest, as a preventative measure against condensation returning, to “spray a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, plus a couple of drops washing-up liquid, onto your windows”.

They explain: “The vinegar creates a protective barrier, and soap breaks down the surface tension of the droplets on your window.”

They also advise: “It’s also worth checking your window seals, as if these are old or damaged, moisture can get in and create condensation between the glass panes. Double glazing often comes with a 10 year, 20 year or sometimes lifetime warranty, so if the seals or panes need replacing, check your warranty.”

However, there are additional measures you can take throughout your property to reduce condensation levels, which can subsequently lead to dampness.

For instance, remove moisture from the bath and tiles following a bath or shower. Additionally, should you need to dry wet clothes indoors – perhaps because you lack a tumble dryer or wish to reduce costs – ensure a window remains open.

The specialists added: “When cooking put lids on pans to lock in that moisture. If you have an extractor, use that too, and if not, open a window.”

It’s also worthwhile considering installing a dehumidifier in your property if condensation is proving problematic, as it can “certainly help prevent mould by drawing in excess moisture”.

A further crucial suggestion is to attempt preventing “sudden rises and falls in air temperature as this can increase condensation”. The specialists suggest maintaining your heating at a low and steady temperature, whilst using draught excluders to optimise warmth retention.