Colder weather is upon us, which means frosty mornings, festivities – and condensation.
Creeping into homes, this creates damp patches which allow mold and mildew to thrive. The best solution is a dehumidifier, but what if you don't have one, or aren't ready to make the investment?
Here, we spoke to HVAC experts to find out their best alternative options to reduce your home's humidity, with budget-friendly DIY ways to control humidity and curb condensation.
DIY dehumidifiers
1. Charcoal
Wondering how to use activated charcoal in your home? Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of AirConditionerLab, suggests using it as a DIY dehumidifier, as an alternative to your best dehumidifer.
He says, 'Activated charcoal absorbs moisture and odors, making it ideal for damp spaces. It's also inexpensive and readily available. Choose activated charcoal, as this type is best because its porous surface absorbs moisture effectively.'
Then, using a breathable container, such as a mesh bag, coffee filter, old sock, or plastic container with holes punched in the lid, place the charcoal container in areas with excess moisture. This might be in closets, or any basement ideas and bathroom ideas.
'Swap out the charcoal every two to four weeks, depending on the humidity level,' recommends Mitchell. 'When the charcoal stops absorbing moisture, it's time for a replacement.
All prices correct at time of publication.
'Affordable and widely available, these work well for DIY setups when activated charcoal is hard to find,' says Mitchell.
These activated charcoal odor absorbers effectively eliminate odors and damp, and purify air. They're also rechargeable – simply place them in the sun to release trapped moisture and they're good for reuse for up to two years.
Designed for washing delicates, these breathable mesh laundry bags are perfect for making a DIY dehumidifier with activated charcoal.
2. Silica gel
As a brilliant way to keep moisture out of a pantry, silica gel, such as the Dry & Dry Premium Silica Gel Packets available at Amazon, make an effective alternative to dehumidifers, says HVAC expert Mitchell.
'Silica gel absorbs moisture and doesn't create messes like other methods,' he explains. 'It's also compact, and reusable, making it cost-effective for long-term use.'
To use silica gel, you can either save packets from product packaging, or buy silica gel in bulk. Then, using a breathable fabric pouch, such as the Tatuo 3 x 4 Inches Muslin Bags Cotton Drawstring Bags available at Amazon, small mesh bag, or open container, place silica gel packs in moisture-prone spaces.
'These might be closets, drawers, or storage bins,' adds Mitchell. 'For larger areas, use bulk silica gel in containers. When the gel becomes saturated (often indicated by a color change if it's a color-indicating type), dry it out in an oven at 200°F for one to two hours to restore its moisture-absorbing properties.'
You can also use silica gel to dry flowers, to preserve beautiful blooms. However, wherever you place yours, keep out of the reach of children and pets as they are not to be ingested.
'These packets are reusable and include color indicators to show when they need recharging, making them a practical and low-maintenance option,' says Mitchell.
3. Rock salt
You can make a DIY dehumidifier using rock salt, says Steve Pacholski, brand president of Varsity Zone HVAC, who uses this cheap salt trick to get rid of condensation.
'Rock salt is a great option for larger spaces,' he suggests. 'Just grab a container like a bowl or bucket, fill it with rock salt (such as the Mutual Industries Rock Salt available at Walmart) and place it in a damp area, such as a basement or bathroom.
'Rock salt naturally pulls moisture from the air, and, over time, will start to clump as it absorbs water. You'll want to check on it regularly and either replace the salt, or dry it out in the oven on a low setting to reuse it.'
You can also use Himalayan salt, such as the Natural Himalayan Salt Chunks available at Walmart, for this, which can then be used to cleanse your home with salt, according to spiritualists.
4. Baking soda
You may know about cleaning with baking soda, or how to use baking soda in laundry, but did you know it makes a great DIY dehumidifier, too?
HVAC expert Mitchell explains, 'Baking soda absorbs moisture and odors, making it ideal for smaller spaces with mild humidity issues. It's inexpensive, easy to find, and doubles as an air freshener,' to make your home smell nice.
To use baking soda, such as the Great Value Baking Soda available at Walmart, use a shallow, open containers such as a bowl, tray or baking dish, and pour a thin layer (about one to two cups) into the container, says Mitchell. Alternatively, if using this baking soda hack for closets, to banish odors and damp, you can just simply pop an open box in.
'The container should be placed in closets, bathrooms, or other small places where moisture is a problem,' adds Mitchell. 'Stir the baking soda every few days to keep it practical. Replace it entirely when it becomes clumpy, typically every one to two weeks.'
'This household staple is budget-friendly and effective for small-scale dehumidifying projects,' says Mitchell. 'You can also buy it in bulk for larger areas or frequent use.'
FAQs
What is the cheapest homemade moisture absorber?
If you're looking for ways to save money at home, rock salt is the way to go.
Not only is it affordable, it also has plenty of uses aside from absorbing moisture, from cooking in the kitchen to gritting a driveway. Therefore, it's a worthy product to bulk buy and have readily available.
Do salt lamps reduce humidity?
While salt lamps are a gorgeous way to make a bed look cozy and introduce soft lighting into your bedroom, unfortunately they aren't sufficient to significantly affect indoor humidity levels. Instead, pair them with another DIY dehumidifier, or invest in the real deal.
'DIY dehumidifiers work best in small areas,' says Mitchell. 'I recommend combining these methods with a small electric dehumidifier (such as the DAESUNG 60 OZ Dehumidifier available at Amazon) for more consistent results for larger spaces or homes with persistent moisture issues.'
Next, learn about dehumidifier mistakes to avoid.
