How to stop condensation in just minutes using little-known German technique

Condensation on windows is a common problem in the colder months, but experts have revealed the simple reason why it happens - and what you can do to avoid it

One of the most frustrating things about cold weather is the fact that at this time of year, we're met with condensation accumulating on our windows - and it can be a real pain. This happens when the cold, external air encounters the warmth of our cosy homes, resulting in a collection of water droplets appearing on the interior of our windows - particularly in the bedroom.

Not only is this concerning due to the potential for things like window sills to become damp and swollen, but it can also encourage the growth of mould - which can trigger a range of health issues, including asthma. While there are numerous methods for removing mould, such as utilising tea tree oil, the optimal solution is to address the root cause to prevent its recurrence.

According to Which?, one of the main causes of condensation, and mould, is inadequate ventilation within our home. Condensation is triggered "when humid air meets cold surfaces like walls and windows," which explains why it's more prevalent during the colder months.

As temperatures decrease, the "amount of moisture that the air can hold falls and the tiny drops of water form on the surface". This issue is exacerbated in properties with poor ventilation, as it means the moist air, generated within homes by activities such as cooking, showering and drying laundry, has no escape route, reports the Mirror.

This typically occurs in the morning, in bedrooms, because the moisture from our breath causes condensation to form on windows - and it has nowhere to go. Due to modern home improvements such as double glazing, excess moisture can accumulate within buildings, making effective ventilation crucial to prevent condensation and mould. Fortunately, there's a straightforward solution to ensure mould doesn't take hold in your home.

Which? advises that simply opening your windows can make a big difference. The consumer advice website suggests: "This can be as simple as remembering to open windows when you're at home or, if you have windows that lock when partly open, leaving them like this more often will help."

For those seeking a more lasting fix, options include installing window vents on top of window frames or incorporating roof ventilation tiles. However, the concern arises that frequent window opening might lead to draughts and increased energy bills.

However, adopting the German 'Stosslüften' technique, which translates to 'shock ventilation', you can avoid this issue. This method entails opening several windows briefly to create a draught, effectively eliminating condensation in mere minutes. Rather than keeping windows open all day and losing heat, 'Stosslüften' involves a brief airing, sometimes as short as three minutes, to expel the surplus moisture.