As the weather gets colder, you might be wondering if you should wipe condensation off your windows. With so many divided opinions on the internet, it can be tricky to know what to do about it – or if you should do anything at all!
Window condensation is very common and occurs when the warm air inside your home comes into contact with cold glass. While it's more prevalent during the winter months, when the temperature outside is lower, it can happen at any time of year – so it's a good idea to know the best solution.
To find out whether you should wipe the condensation off or just leave it be, we spoke with experts to hear their advice.
Should I wipe condensation off windows?
Yes, you should wipe condensation off your windows. In fact, if this happens regularly, it's a good idea to get into the habit of removing it every single day, recommends Stephen Hankinson, Heating Expert at Electric Radiators Direct.
Whether you use a microfiber cloth or a window vac, wiping the condensation will take only a few minutes but will help prevent common household problems, such as damp, from occurring.
Stephen adds, "As well as wiping away condensation on your windows, I recommend opening your windows every morning, even if it’s just for five minutes. Regularly opening windows can improve the ventilation inside of your home, creating fresh airflow and decreasing the humidity of the room.
"Plenty of houses now have trickle vents, especially new builds, which are designed to create ventilation and are a useful way of reducing condensation and bringing fresh air into the house. It is recommended to keep them open frequently throughout winter if you can."
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How often should I wipe condensation off?
To prevent problems in your home, such as mould on windows and rotten frames, Homebuilding's editor Beth Murton recommends wiping your window condensation every day.
It's most common during the early hours of the morning or late at night, so be sure to keep an eye out during these periods.
For the past 20+ years, Beth has worked for and contributed to a number of leading magazines and websites in the UK, including Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, Ideal Home, Period Living and Grand Designs.
What happens if you leave condensation on windows?
Since window condensation is something we see so regularly, it might not feel like a big problem that needs to be fixed. But according to Stephen Hankinson, it can actually lead to mould and mildew if left unchecked, which as we know, can cause serious health problems.
Homebuilding's Assistant Editor, Sarah Harley, can vouch for this. After learning from personal experience, she advises never leaving condensation on your windows for longer than necessary – or you'll face bigger problems in the long run.
She says, "Firstly you'll end up with pools of water that have nowhere to go and end up dripping onto floors or window sills. It's really not something you can ignore as it won't simply disappear.
"Secondly, it's not just about wiping it off, it's also about clearing it properly, as if you don't over time, the residual moisture builds up and black mould spores will appear. How do I know? Because I've had this problem on my windows.
"I have multi-panel, single-glazed sash windows, and winter brings with it a whole new condensation-busting morning routine. If I don't have my bedroom dehumidifier (MeacoDry ABC 12L) on overnight so that I can wake with condensation-free windows, it goes on as soon as I wake. Once it has cleared the bulk of the condensation, I then have to make sure I wipe down the wooden framework, as if I don't, mould spores appear after a few weeks."
Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs.
Wiping your windows is an important step in the battle against condensation, but it’s not the only trick you should have up your sleeve. By using one of the best dehumidifiers, you can help reduce the humidity levels in your home, which can make steamy windows even worse.
If you’re not in a position to make that investment, it’s worth checking out these budget-friendly condensation hacks, which we tested in our own homes.
