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Condensation and mold risks increase during autumn and winter
As temperatures drop, households face an increased risk of condensation and mold growth due to moisture buildup. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air contacts cold surfaces like windows and walls.
Key contributors to high indoor humidity include drying laundry indoors, cooking, showering, and inadequate ventilation. The National Energy Action organization warns that drying clothes inside can release significant moisture into the air if the space is not well-ventilated.
To mitigate these issues, experts recommend regular ventilation, such as opening windows for several minutes in the morning to replace stale air with fresh air. A simple household remedy involves using common kitchen salt in a container placed on a windowsill to absorb moisture from the immediate surroundings. However, salt should be replaced once it becomes damp or clumped, and it should not replace the need for proper airflow.