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Households can ditch their dehumidifier for a much cheaper way of preventing condensation and damp in winter, say window and door specialists.

While a dehumidifier is without doubt the most effective way to combat condensation in your house in these colder months, it comes at a price, with most units running into triple figures to buy and costing electricity to run a well.

Allan Reid, double glazing expert and founder of Art Windows & Doors, says that as many as 6.5M households in the UK will struggle with condensation and damp this winter, but that using baking soda, otherwise known as bicarbonate of soda, is a very cheap way to fight the issue if you can't afford to fork out for a high-tech solution just yet.

He explained: "Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, and your windows are often the first place you see it. It can be frustrating because it's not just unsightly; if left unchecked, it can damage window frames, encourage mould growth, and even reduce the lifespan of your double-glazing."

Baking soda, Allan says, is a safe and surprisingly effective way to manage this moisture. "It acts as a natural desiccant, absorbing excess moisture from the air around your windows. You don't need any fancy equipment or chemicals, and it costs next to nothing."

The method is simple. Allan recommends filling small open containers with baking soda and placing them on the windowsill.

"Even a few tablespoons in a small bowl per window can make a noticeable difference over a few days. For larger rooms, you can use multiple containers or refill them more frequently. The powder gradually absorbs moisture from the air, and you'll see less fogging on the glass."

He also stresses that placement matters. "Put the baking soda near the coldest part of the window or the area most prone to condensation. It's all about letting the powder interact with the damp air before it settles and drips."

Baking soda is also an extremely cheap solution compared with commercial anti-condensation products or high-tech dehumidifiers.

He added: "A packet of baking soda costs just 65p from Aldi and can last for weeks on one windowsill. Compare that to a small electric dehumidifier, which can cost £40 to £50 or more, and you're saving hundreds over the winter months if you treat multiple windows in your home."