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For some homeowners, dealing with the regular appearance of condensation in the bathroom can be tiresome. This is especially so in the colder months when condensation can be at its most problematic throughout the rest of the home.
But, as well as being annoying to contend with, the effects of ongoing condensation in your bathroom can become damaging if left unchecked. When not treated, condensation can lead to mould, mildew, and even, at its worst, structural damage.
Yet, there are several things you can do to keep bathroom condensation in check. Here, The Bathroom Showroom shares several helpful tips to help you prevent condensation in your bathroom and maintain a clean and dry environment.
What Causes Condensation in the Bathroom?
Before we dive into the tips, it’s worth understanding the root cause of condensation in the bathroom. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as a mirror or tiled wall. The moisture in the air then turns into droplets, leading to that dreaded foggy bathroom.
It’s certainly understandable that one of the wettest rooms in the home will undoubtedly produce a small amount of condensation through regular use. With most homes using the shower several times in one day, humidity levels remain high during each showering session, leaving little time in between for this room to dry out fully as a result.
Yet, when this condensation starts to become problematic, not only can it affect user experience but ultimately prolonged condensation can lead to overall poor bathroom health, potentially causing bigger problems later on.
Top Tips to Help Reduce the Appearance of Bathroom Condensation
1. Improve Bathroom Ventilation
Proper bathroom ventilation is crucial in preventing condensation. Make sure your bathroom is equipped with an exhaust fan that's suitable for the room's size. Run the exhaust fan before, during, and after showering to remove excess moisture from the air.
Also, remember to clean your bathroom fan regularly to keep it in good working order. If your bathroom doesn't have a fan, consider installing one or opening a window to create air circulation.
2. Insulate Bathroom Pipes
Cold water pipes can contribute to condensation. Insulate any exposed pipes to prevent them from cooling the air around them. By insulating the pipes, you can reduce the temperature difference between the air and the surface, minimising condensation.
3. Seal Any Leaks and Cracks in the Bathroom
Check for any leaks or cracks in your bathroom that could allow moisture to seep in. Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and fixtures to keep the outside air from entering and causing condensation. Pay attention to areas where tiles meet, as grout lines can deteriorate over time and create openings for moisture.
4. Use a Dehumidifier
If your bathroom tends to remain humid even with proper ventilation, consider using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will help remove excess moisture from the air, reducing the likelihood of condensation. Place the dehumidifier in a strategic location, such as near the shower or bathtub, to effectively control humidity levels.
5. Limit Hot Showers
Long, hot showers are a recipe for condensation. The steam produced by hot water significantly increases the moisture in the air. To minimise condensation, try taking shorter showers with slightly cooler water. If you can't resist a steamy shower, make sure to run the exhaust fan longer as well as opening a window to let the moist air escape during showering..
6. Use a Shower Curtain Liner
If you use a shower curtain, this alone may not provide enough protection against condensation. Adding a shower curtain liner creates an extra barrier that helps prevent water from escaping and accumulating on the bathroom floor. Opt for a liner made of mildew-resistant material for long-lasting effectiveness.
7. Wipe Bathroom Surfaces Dry
After using the bathroom, take a few moments to wipe down surfaces such as the walls, mirrors, and countertops. Removing any lingering moisture reduces the chances of condensation forming. Keep a squeegee or absorbent cloth handy for a quick and easy wipe-down.
Promote a Healthier Bathroom by Actively Reducing Condensation
By implementing these useful tips, you can work at actively reducing condensation in your bathroom, thus creating a more pleasant and healthy environment. Ultimately, by taking steps to stop condensation in its tracks, you ensure a healthy bathroom all around for everyone to enjoy for many years to come.
For more bathroom help, take a look at both our Blog and Rest & Relaxation section.
If you’re looking to create a healthier space, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.