Drying your clothes in ill-ventilated rooms during the winter months could lead to mould, fungus and bacteria growth, the experts have warned.
According to Homecure Plumbers, hanging wet clothes is one of the most common reasons people experience condensation and mould issues in the home. It might be cheaper than using a tumble dryer, but putting clothes on radiators to dry, for example, can account for up to a third of the moisture in the air.
"The wet clothes expel moisture into the air as they dry; which, if not ventilated enough, can condense on cold surfaces and eventually develop into build-ups of mould and mildew," says Lee Devlin, Managing Director at Homecure Plumbers. "Where possible, dry wet clothes outside or use a dryer. Not only do these help dry clothes quicker, but they also stop moisture from building up in the home."
If you are unable to dry your clothes outdoors (especially when the temperature tumbles) Lee recommends positioning wet clothes close to ventilation spots — and opening your bedroom windows every morning for at least 15 minutes. With cold temperatures increasing the chance of moisture build-up overnight, it's important to deal with the situation quickly.
"Windows, ideally with a dehumidifier or moisture catchers nearby to help reduce vapour in the air further," he adds. "In the morning, give your windows, frames and sills are wipe over with a paper towel or cloth to remove any excess and heavy build-ups of condensation."
Elsewhere, recent GOV.UK figures discovered that 463,866 homes in the UK suffer from mould and condensation, while those renting are four times more likely to report mould and condensation than homeowners.
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13 best SAD lamps to beat the winter blues
Soothe the midwinter gloom with Lumie's Vitamin L SAD and energy light. With 10,000 lux for effective light therapy and a slim screen size, it brilliantly combines convenience with the performance you'd expect from a much larger light. Take it with you on your travels or simply use it when working from home.
This more affordable option from Lumie starts 30 minutes before your alarm time and slowly brightens to wake you gently. Plus, it also has a 30-minute dimming sunset that can be used to unwind before bed.
Waking up in the dead of winter can be a challenge for everyone, but Lumie's Bodyclock Shine SAD light is here to make things a little easier. Designed to help you experience a more regular sleep and wake pattern, it also has a stylish modern fabric base that will blend effortlessly into your interior.
Beurer Portable Daylight Therapy Lamp, TL30
This lightweight daylight therapy lamp has a compact design with a protective carry pouch and can increase your energy levels after just seven days of use. It's a must-have essential now that winter is here.
Designed to lift your mood and boost concentration levels, this handy SAD reading lamp is ideal for a bedside table. It has a high-contrast light with adjustable neck for reading, plus a touch-control brightening function.
Start the day right with Lumie's Bodyclock Glow. Simply set your preferred final light intensity and wake up to a warm glow or a bright, sunny room. Beating the winter blues just got easier.
Inspired by nature, this therapy lamp has been designed to bring harmony into your day. Using both warm white and cool white LEDs to deliver 10,000 lux at 20cm maximum brightness, it's the perfect light to get your hands on for winter.
Philips Wake-up Light with Coloured Sunrise Simulation and 7 Natural Sounds
Struggling to wake up? This clever light eases you into the day by re-creating a natural sunrise. Instead of a blaring alarm, it will gradually light up the room. Another benefit is that it has a dimming light and gentle sound to send you off to sleep in the evening.
This moon-shaped therapy lamp helps to effectively combat low moods during the winter months. It comes with two remote controls for easier use, a USB port for mobile charging, and a memory function to help you quickly turn on your light from the last brightness setting.
Struggle to wake up in winter? Lumie's Bodyclock alarm will help you wake with a gradual sunrise to feel naturally refreshed. Choose from a sunshine duration (15-90 minutes) and final light intensity. It has also been approved by Quiet Mark.
Whether you're working from home or relaxing after hours, this affordable wellness light from Dunelm has been cleverly designed with smart features to make life easier. You can set the colour temperature according to your mood, and also adjust the timer to come on at your desired time.
Ideal for small side tables, this Beurer wake up light is equipped with various light and sound settings that can help to support your sleep rhythm. Plus, it also has individual colour-change settings so you can easily recreate a sunrise or sunset.
This budget-friendly option is also compact and portable. It'll help you fight against shift work fatigue, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, winter blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder.
