Honestly, every winter my windows looked like they were trying to win a condensation contest—dripping everywhere, mold creeping in corners, ugh. But this year, I tried running a dehumidifier overnight and cracked open the windows just a tiny bit during the day for ventilation. Surprisingly, it worked wonders. First winter without puddles on the sill or moldy edges! Curious if anyone else found some tricks that actually worked for them too?
I've had decent luck with weather stripping and insulating film. Last winter, my windows were practically waterfalls too, and I realized the seals were shot. Replaced the stripping around the frames, then added that shrink-wrap plastic film stuff—honestly thought it'd look tacky, but it wasn't too bad. Condensation dropped significantly, and my heating bill improved noticeably. Still tempted by the dehumidifier idea though...might try that next year.
Did you notice any drafts afterward? I've been considering the shrink-wrap stuff myself, but I'm worried about how well it actually seals around the edges. Also curious—did you find it tricky to remove once winter was over? Heard mixed things on that front, and I don't want to spend hours scraping adhesive off my window frames come spring...
I've used the shrink-wrap stuff a few winters now, and honestly, drafts weren't an issue for me. The key is taking your time with the hairdryer to get a tight seal—if you rush it, you'll definitely notice some gaps. As for removal, it's usually pretty straightforward. The adhesive strips peel off cleanly if you don't leave them on too long into spring. Had one year where I procrastinated until May... yeah, that was a bit of a sticky situation (literally).
I've never tried the shrink-wrap method myself, but good to know it actually works. This winter, besides the dehumidifier trick, I also wiped down the windows every morning with a microfiber cloth—takes just a minute or two and really helps keep mold at bay. Also found that keeping curtains open during the day lets sunlight warm up the glass, reducing condensation buildup. Small things, but they've made a noticeable difference around here.
Nice job figuring out what works for you! I've been dealing with foggy windows every winter for years, and honestly, it's always a bit of trial and error. The microfiber cloth trick is definitely underrated—I started doing that a couple winters ago, and it really does help keep things dry. Plus, there's something oddly satisfying about wiping away all that condensation first thing in the morning...
I haven't tried the shrink-wrap method either, mostly because I worried it'd look weird or be a hassle to install. But hearing that it actually works makes me reconsider giving it a shot next year. And you're totally right about opening curtains during the day—sunlight is surprisingly effective at warming up the glass and cutting down moisture.
Anyway, glad you've found some simple solutions that make a noticeable difference. Sometimes it's just those little daily habits that end up making winter way more manageable.
I've found that shrink-wrap kits aren't as intimidating as they seem at first glance. Yeah, they can look a little odd at first, but if you take your time installing it (especially using a hairdryer to smooth out any wrinkles), it ends up looking pretty subtle—almost invisible unless you're looking for it. I’ve recommended them to clients who were skeptical too, and most were pleasantly surprised.
Have you checked the humidity levels in your home, by the way? Condensation usually happens when warm, moist air hits cold glass, so if you’re seeing a ton of fogging, it might mean your indoor humidity is a bit too high. Running exhaust fans more often (especially when cooking or showering) or even using a small dehumidifier can help a lot. Also, do you know if your windows are double-pane or single-pane? Older single-pane windows are notorious for fogging up because they just don't insulate well enough. Upgrading to double-pane or insulated glass can make a huge difference, though obviously that's a bigger investment.
And yeah, sunlight is surprisingly effective. I always tell people to keep curtains open during the day in winter—not just to help with condensation, but also because natural heat gain can lower heating bills a bit. It’s one of those small things that adds up over time.
Anyway, it's great you're finding little habits that make winter easier. Home maintenance is often just tweaking daily habits and small adjustments here and there. Glad you're seeing results.
Totally agree on the shrink-wrap kits—once you get past the initial awkwardness, they're pretty great. A couple extra tips I've learned the hard way:
- Don't skimp on the double-sided tape they give you. Trust me, nothing worse than waking up to saggy plastic.
- If you're lazy like me, a cheap hygrometer is your best friend. I grabbed one online for like $10 and it helps keep humidity in check without guessing.
- And yeah, sunlight's underrated. My cat figured this out years ago...he's basically my winter heating consultant now.
Shrink-wrap kits are handy, but honestly, I got tired of the plastic look after a while. Ended up investing in thermal curtains instead—bit pricier upfront, but they look nicer and keep the drafts out surprisingly well. Plus, no tape drama! Agree on the hygrometer though, total lifesaver for humidity control. And yeah, cats definitely know all the best sunny spots...mine basically owns the south-facing window now.
"Ended up investing in thermal curtains instead—bit pricier upfront, but they look nicer and keep the drafts out surprisingly well."
Thermal curtains are definitely a step up visually, but I'm not totally convinced they're always as effective as shrink-wrap kits for sealing drafts. Have you noticed any condensation issues behind the curtains? I've seen situations where moisture builds up unnoticed, eventually causing mold problems. Curious if you've run into this or maybe it's just me being overly cautious...