When temperatures drop and winter takes hold, many households battle more than just the cold—humidity, condensation, mold, and astronomical heating bills can all be part of the season’s challenges. But a surprising yet incredibly simple home remedy is making waves across the internet as both powerful and affordable: placing a bowl of **salty water by a window**. This practical tip, widely regarded as an effective trick, is being compared to the efficiency of **aluminum foil on windows in summer** as a temperature-control technique. While aluminum foil helps reflect sunlight and reduce indoor heat buildup during warm months, salty water can provide a winter-specific benefit that many are only just beginning to discover.
This approach uses salt’s natural properties to address an issue many people are unprepared for: excess indoor moisture. During winter months, condensation on windows can lead to mold, mildew, and even structural issues in homes. But by simply setting a small bowl of salt and water near windows or other areas prone to dampness, the salt acts as a **natural dehumidifier**, improving air quality and potentially even lightening the load on your heating system. It’s a technique that’s low-effort, high-reward—and it just might change the way you think about winter comfort this season.
Why salt and water in winter windows is getting attention
| Tip: | Place a bowl of salty water near windows during winter |
| Purpose: | Reduces window condensation, improves air quality |
| Benefits: | Prevents mold, lowers maintenance costs, enhances comfort |
| Comparable To: | Aluminum foil reducing heat entry in summer |
| Requires: | Small bowl, table salt, water |
| Cost: | Under $2 |
| Placement: | On window sills or where condensation forms |
What salt really does when placed near windows
Salt is hygroscopic by nature, meaning it **naturally attracts and absorbs water molecules** from its surroundings. During cold months, the warm indoor air meets the freezing surface of windows, resulting in condensation. Over time, this water accumulation fosters mold and can damage wood and paint. The salty water bowl absorbs excess moisture in the air, acting much like a rudimentary dehumidifier—one that **does not consume electricity**, making it both environmentally and economically friendly.
“Salt is an excellent passive absorber. Leave just a small dish near a cold window overnight, and the reduction in condensation is visible by morning.”
— Dr. Marian Lefford, Indoor Air Quality Specialist
Moreover, the avoidance of synthetic chemical solutions or commercial dehumidifiers keeps your indoor space healthier. And since most homes already have salt in the kitchen, it’s a remedy that doesn’t require running to the store—it’s an **instant fix with everyday materials**.
How to correctly set up your salty water bowl
Setting up this DIY dehumidifying solution is impressively simple. You’ll need only three things: a clean ceramic or glass bowl, standard granulated table salt, and cold water. Here’s a simple step-by-step:
- Fill the bowl halfway with cold tap water.
- Stir in 3-4 tablespoons of salt until it dissolves partially.
- Place the bowl directly on a **window sill** or beneath a window where condensation typically forms.
For extra humid spaces such as basements or bathrooms, place multiple bowls throughout the room to keep moisture at bay. Replace the solution every few days if the salt begins to cake or forms a crust—indicating it has absorbed significant moisture.
Main advantages for you and your home
The benefits of this solution extend far beyond just moisture control. Here are the key ways it enhances your home environment during winter:
- Prevents window mold: Stops mold at its source—moisture buildup.
- Improves indoor air quality: Reduces allergen levels associated with mold and dust mites.
- Protects paint and wood: Prevents condensation damage to furniture, trims, and sills.
- Supports energy efficiency: A drier atmosphere heats up faster than a humid one, reducing heating costs.
The beauty lies in its simplicity. Unlike branded moisture absorbers that come with a hefty price tag and chemicals, this **natural alternative** is biodegradable, harmless to pets and children, and easily scalable.
Comparing winners and losers of common winter tricks
| Technique | Category Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Salty water bowl | Winner | Low-cost, natural, effective, pet-safe |
| Plastic film insulation | Loser | Difficult to install, not reusable |
| Commercial dehumidifiers | Loser | High energy use, costly maintenance |
| Heated window panels | Loser | Expensive, requires professional installation |
Additional tricks to pair with salty water for maximum impact
While the salty water bowl is effective on its own, pairing it with other simple strategies creates a holistic winterproofing system for your home. Some easy enhancements include:
- Use thermal curtains: They insulate against window chills while containing indoor heat.
- Seal window gaps: Use weather stripping to prevent drafts from underperforming seals.
- Ventilate strategically: Air out rooms 5-10 minutes daily to dump indoor moisture.
- Declutter window areas: Obstructed airflow near windows can trap humidity and promote mold growth.
“Think of it like layers. Just as you wear multiple items to stay warm, your home benefits from layered defenses against the cold.”
— Erik Manson, Home Energy Consultant
Who benefits most from this winter hack
This strategy is ideal for renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners alike—essentially anyone looking to keep heating costs low without compromising health or comfort. It’s especially useful for buildings with poor insulation or outdated windows that frequently attract condensation. For individuals sensitive to indoor allergens like mold spores or dust mites, this trick offers a barrier against potential flare-ups.
Final thought—simple solutions often carry the most value
While modern technology often dominates discussions around efficient home upgrades, this low-tech solution of using salty water proves that sometimes **the most effective answers are also the most basic**. For pennies on the dollar, you can keep your windows clear, your air cleaner, and your home safer this winter. With minimal effort, this natural trick stands toe-to-toe with some of the most discussed energy-saving hacks of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the salty water bowl last?
Typically 3–5 days before requiring replacement, depending on the humidity level of your home.
Can I use other types of salt?
Yes, but regular table salt is preferred due to its fine granules which dissolve and absorb faster.
Is the salty water safe around pets?
As long as the bowl is out of reach and not consumed, it poses no harm. Always use caution with pets that explore surfaces.
Does it work in large rooms?
It helps reduce humidity, but for best results in larger rooms, place multiple bowls around humid-prone areas.
Will this replace a dehumidifier?
Not entirely. It supplements minor moisture issues and works best as a preventive measure rather than a heavy-duty solution.
Is the salt reusable after absorbing moisture?
No, once clumped or hardened, it’s best to replace it with fresh salt to maintain effectiveness.
Can I add essential oils to the salty water?
Yes. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or lavender can improve the aroma without impacting moisture absorption.
Why not just wipe the windows every day?
Wiping removes visible moisture temporarily, but this method helps prevent new condensation from forming in the first place.