By Katie-Ann Gupwell

Copyright mirror

October has dawned and temperatures are plummeting, but that’s no reason to shut your windows, as doing so could trigger several issues including dampness and condensation. Despite the weather turning chillier, and many of us yearning to snuggle up inside, an expert has revealed it’s crucial to open windows throughout autumn and winter whenever possible. The Waterproofing Guru, who boasts a massive following on TikTok , claims people fall for a major misconception about dampness and what triggers it in their homes. If you’re keen to keep your property as spotless and moisture-free as possible, he explained the secret lies in opening your windows for periods during the day, regardless of how bitter it becomes. Regarding dampness, he revealed people frequently assume it’s triggered by chilly air, but that’s wrong. Rather, a straightforward error could be causing it to flourish in your property, and there are additional everyday practices that can spark the issue as well. He explained: “Hot air holds moisture, cold air does not. There’s a typical myth that people say during the winter. ‘I don’t want to open my window because I don’t want the damp air to come in’. “That’s completely scientifically incorrect. Hot air can hold moisture, cold air cannot. That’s why, on a sunny day, we feel really muggy and it’s difficult to breathe and, on a very cold day, it rains. Nobody ever died from fresh air.” Following the video being posted, it’s racked up hundreds of views, with viewers rushing to react. They shared various opinions. One person said: “All year around I open my windows for at least 20 minutes in the morning to get second hand air out and fresh air in.” Another added: “Clean, crisp air. Lovely.” A third also replied: “I open all the windows in the mornings and air the beds. My mother and grandmother here in Ireland have always believed in it.” Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “I air my house every morning, no matter what the temperature outside. I can’t stand sleeping in a room with no window open.” For those still baffled by the science behind it, chilly air retains less dampness than heated air, since the ability of air to contain water vapour is directly linked to its temperature. This means the hotter the air becomes, the more water vapour it can accommodate before reaching saturation point. When heated, moisture-laden air cools down, its capacity to retain dampness decreases. As a result, this compels the surplus water vapour to transform into liquid form, which is a process that creates fog, dew or rainfall. If you weren’t aware, you ought to open your windows during the autumn and winter seasons. This should be carried out for short, intensive spells. Opening windows delivers fresh air, reduces condensation, stops mould development and also enhances air quality. This is because it assists in eliminating stagnant, contaminated air and dangerous indoor pollutants that accumulate when homes are shut off from the cold. For those battling with condensation, it’s not just about temperature, but moisture too. A simple trick like opening your windows occasionally can let out the moisture and help prevent damp conditions that encourage mould growth. Even in the colder months, cracking open a window can help balance indoor temperatures by swapping stuffy, warm air for cooler, fresh air. And it’s not just about comfort – it can also boost your health. Poor indoor air quality can lead to headaches , nausea and respiratory infections, so the benefits are more than you might think.