Winter in Australia is a bit of a paradox. Step outside and you might be greeted by a crisp, sunny 20˚day, but inside, it’s a different story. Our homes, often built for summer, can feel like iceboxes once the mercury drops.
So, we rug up, clutch our hot water bottles, and try not to think about the quietly ticking power bill every time we flick on the heater.
But another winter woe plagues many Australian households: condensation on the windows.
You know the drill—you wake up to find your windows dripping with moisture, and if you ignore it, you’re rolling out the welcome mat for mould.
Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be a real health hazard, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
So, what’s a chilly Australian to do? Enter Sara Allan, a professional cleaner who’s become a social media sensation with her simple, cost-effective hack for keeping windows condensation-free. And the best part? It’ll set you back less than a fiver.
Sara’s trick is so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner. You only need a dry microfibre cloth and a squirt of dishwashing liquid.
Just rub a thin layer of the liquid onto your window pane, and voilà—you’ve created a protective barrier that helps prevent condensation from forming.
How does it work? The dishwashing liquid lowers water’s surface tension, making it harder for droplets to form on the glass.
It also acts as a thin insulating layer, helping to keep the glass temperature a little more stable.
Sara tested a few different brands and found that Fairy Ultra Concentrate Dishwashing Liquid gave her the best results—up to six days of clear, dry windows, compared to two or three days with other brands like Palmolive, Morning Fresh, or Coles’ own.
You can pick up a bottle of Fairy Ultra Concentrate for around $4.50 to $5.50 at Woolies or Coles, and Sara recommends reapplying every five days or so, depending on your home’s conditions.
Why does condensation happen, anyway?
Condensation is a classic winter problem, and it’s all about the science of warm and cold air. When you heat your home, the air inside can hold more moisture.
But when that warm, moist air hits a cold window, it cools down quickly, and the excess moisture turns into liquid droplets on the glass.
It’s not just heaters, either. Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and even just breathing while you sleep can add moisture to the air.
And because we tend to keep our windows shut tight in winter, all that moisture has nowhere to go.
Other ways to beat condensation
While the dishwashing liquid hack is a great quick fix, there are other methods you can try if you’re dealing with persistent condensation:
- Window film: These products add an extra layer of insulation to your windows, mimicking the effect of double glazing. They’re easy to apply and can make a noticeable difference, but remember, they don’t address the root cause of the moisture.
- Dehumidifiers: These are a bit of an investment, but they’re one of the most effective ways to reduce humidity in your home. Sara recommends the NWT 50L Dehumidifier for larger spaces (currently around $594) or the Kogan 20L SmarterHome Dehumidifier for smaller areas (about $189). They pull excess moisture from the air, helping prevent condensation and mould.
- Moisture absorbers: Products like Damp Rid are budget-friendly for smaller spaces like wardrobes, cupboards, or windowsills. You can pick them up at Bunnings for as little as $6 each.
- Elbow grease: Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Sara suggests squeegeeing your windows and wiping down the frames and sills each morning. It takes less than 15 seconds and can make a big difference.
One of the biggest misconceptions about mould is that it takes weeks to develop. However, if your home isn’t properly ventilated, mould can grow in as little as 12 hours.
That’s why acting quickly is essential if you spot moisture or the first signs of mould.
For a quick fix, supermarket or Bunnings mould sprays will kill surface mould and spores. However, Sara recommends Pro Mould from Clean Like a Pro for a more thorough solution.
It penetrates deep into surfaces to kill mould, mildew, algae, and moss—not just on the surface but also underneath.
It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use and can be used on everything from brick and concrete to drywall and grout. According to Sara, it keeps working for up to two years.
Have you tried the dishwashing liquid hack, or do you have your tried-and-true method for keeping condensation at bay? Maybe you’ve battled mould and come out victorious (or not!). We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below.
Also read: Pro cleaner’s $9 Kmart secret turns whole-house dusting into a breeze
