As autumn rolls in, the days get shorter, and cooler temperatures settle in, we find ourselves preparing for darker commutes and the yearly battle with household heating. But there’s one silent threat creeping into homes this time of year — mold.
Often going unnoticed, this unwelcome guest can silently chip away at your health. But, there’s a simple fix that involves nothing more than a common kitchen item: salt.
Mold thrives in damp environments, and autumn brings the perfect conditions for its growth.
Embed from Getty Images“Mold can trigger respiratory issues, exacerbate allergies, and cause discomfort for asthmatics,” says household expert Joshua.
While it might not always be deadly, mold can create an unhealthy home environment. The main culprit? Condensation, a common issue that can be managed by keeping your home dry and well-ventilated.
Condensation forms when warm air meets a cold surface, like your window.
As temperatures drop, the warm air cools and releases moisture, which turns into water droplets on the window. If left unchecked, this dampness creates the ideal environment for mold to grow, turning your cozy home into a breeding ground for this ‘silent killer.’
So, how does a bowl of salt come into play?
Surprisingly, salt has moisture-absorbing properties. Placing a bowl near a window can help absorb excess moisture from the air, reducing condensation and preventing damp conditions.
Joshua explains, “It’s a simple, cost-effective trick that anyone can use to combat condensation.”
To make this work, all you need is a shallow bowl or small jar filled with either table salt or rock salt.
For larger windows, you may need to increase the amount of salt used. As the salt absorbs moisture, you’ll notice it starting to clump together — this is your signal to replace it with fresh salt to keep its moisture-fighting powers active.
In addition to salt, there are other practical solutions for reducing condensation in your home.
Joshua suggests opening your windows for a couple of hours each day. “This allows moist air to escape and lets in fresh, dry air,” he says. Doing this in the morning, followed by turning on your heating, can significantly help reduce moisture build-up.
Dehumidifiers are another effective tool, especially in rooms that tend to retain moisture, such as the bathroom.
Embed from Getty Images“If you have an extractor fan, run it for at least 30 minutes after showering to reduce dampness,” Joshua advises.
It’s also a good idea to avoid drying clothes indoors or boiling water without lids, as these activities add extra moisture to the air.
Keeping your home warm and properly ventilated is key to avoiding condensation — and subsequently, mold.
While a bowl of salt is a great start, combining it with these other moisture-reducing tips will give you a stronger defense against the ‘silent killer’ lurking in your home.
And if your home is particularly damp, you might need to use multiple bowls of salt throughout your living space.
Embed from Getty Images“The kitchen and bathroom tend to be the dampest areas,” Joshua notes, “so place bowls of salt near windows or areas where condensation builds up the most.”
In conclusion, while condensation and mold may seem like small nuisances, they can have significant impacts on your health and comfort.
A simple bowl of salt can absorb moisture well, but for the best results, pair it with other preventative measures. So, as autumn settles in, keep your home warm, dry, and mold-free with these expert tips.
