If you're struggling with misty windows daily, there's one simple bathroom item that could help reduce condensation
14:33, 08 Jan 2026
Waking up to foggy windows covered in condensation can be a real nightmare, but luckily there's a simple solution that's likely already sitting in your bathroom cabinet. Condensation happens when warm moist air comes into contact with a cold surface and needs swift action during the winter months as it can lead to black mould forming on damp patches, reports the Mirror.
One homeowner who was fed up with wiping down his windows every day turned to the Money Saving Expert forums looking for tips on stopping moisture building up on his glass. He wrote: "Any tips to stop condensation on windows please? I did hear some suggestions last winter but cannot recall them now."
Plenty of useful responses came through, but one clever tip suggested using a small amount of shaving foam on the inside of windows, reports the Express.
They wrote: "You can try coating the inside of windows with shaving foam. Apply it evenly using a cloth, don't use too much just enough to give a thin coating. Rub in until windows become clear (will leave a slightly smeary film)."
"I use it on bathroom mirrors and car windows all of which remain condensation-free for about four to six weeks. Try it on a bathroom mirror to see effect. Do not use shaving gel."
While it may seem odd, shaving foam acts as a protective barrier due to its surfactants that reduce surface tension, preventing the formation of water droplets. This handy tip is often recommended by drivers, who suggest applying a thin layer of shaving foam to car windows to prevent them from fogging up in the morning.
However, while this method offers a quick fix and can be effective throughout winter, it's unlikely to provide a long-term solution as the key to permanently eliminating window condensation lies in improving ventilation.
Condensation and mould can only flourish in damp and cold conditions, which means you'll need to reduce humidity levels in a room if you want to stop mould from developing in your home.
Some of the most effective ways to reduce moisture include opening windows during daylight hours when temperatures aren't too low, and always using an extractor fan in the kitchen while cooking or in the bathroom after a shower.
One forum user commented: "Heat and ventilation are the key. The hotter the room the more it can adsorb moisture. Insulation helps but that isn't always practical, a dehumidifier does help as it takes excessive moisture from the air."
If you're drying laundry indoors during winter then use a dehumidifier, but if running one proves too costly then make sure you have a window slightly open near your clothes horse as this can also help prevent condensation.
Another user advised: "To reduce condensation you need to create less water vapour in the house, and effectively remove any that you do create.
"You need to fit and use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure bathroom ones run on for about 20 minutes after a bath or shower. When cooking, use lids on pots. Do not dry washing indoors except by using a tumble drier."