What Happens When You Put Dawn Dish Soap On Your Windows?

Waking up to condensed windows every morning can be quite frustrating, particularly during freezing winters. More frustratingly, wiping them off with a clean, dry cloth won't have much of an impact, as the liquid droplets will return again a few hours later. Alas, this untreated condensation on your window creates the perfect damp environment for mold and mildew to thrive, which can lead to health issues if not dealt with swiftly. So, you can't really leave it be. But what if we told you there's a way you can turn this never-ending chore into a once-in-a-few days task? Just grab a kitchen essential — Dawn dish soap — to simplify your life.

This hack works because the active ingredients in this dishwashing detergent will reduce the surface tension of the glass panes. As such, water droplets won't be able to cling to your windows, helping them remain condensation-free. Besides, it'll let your windows remain cleaner for longer, as this dish soap can cut through grease with ease. It'll also give them a streak-free finish. But, keep in mind that Dawn dish soap will leave behind a sticky film on your window panes. So, this idea might be alright for spaces that don't see a lot of traffic, like your shower or guest room, but you should use it with caution on your living room windows.

Grab a squeegee, a dry microfiber cloth, or a handheld window vacuum to remove the built-up moisture. Then, mix ¼ gallon of distilled water (so that there's no mineral deposit) and 1 teaspoon of Dawn dish soap in a bowl. Combine them slowly to minimize suds and transfer this solution into a spray bottle. Now, spray it on a sponge or a clean microfiber cloth and gently spread it across your window in circular motions. Alternatively, sprinkle it on your window and use a squeegee to spread it out evenly. Once done, get a clean microfiber cloth to soak up any excess and let your soapy-water solution dry completely (this will take a few hours). As it dries, you'll notice a thin condensation-repelling film forming on your treated window.

Though this is a quick and easy trick to keep mold and mildew out of your shower, bedroom, and kitchen, it's a temporary solution to your condensation problem. This is because it'll wear off with time and will need reapplication every few days or weeks. Moreover, some manufacturers warn against this method since they fear long-term application has the potential to ruin your window's seal. So, only try this hack when you're in a bind (think guests arriving in a few hours). Otherwise, stick to long-term solutions, such as improving insulation and encouraging increased airflow, to keep your window panes moisture-free.