As the evenings grow chillier and frost begins to appear on our morning windows, mould can become a challenging issue to manage.
Whilst central heating dries out your property and helps prevent mould growth, the heating system isn't running constantly.
To tackle this problem, many turn to costly treatments and sprays.
However, there's a more straightforward, affordable and faster approach that numerous people in the UK are unfamiliar with, as the technique originates from Germany.
Called 'Lüften', it's a widespread practice in homes throughout the European nation.
It proves particularly beneficial in compact living spaces such as flats or apartments.
Although not as widespread in the UK, some specialists believe that Britain is missing out on significant advantages. One expert highlighted the health benefits of this method, not only for maintaining a mould-free home, but also for personal wellbeing.
Dr Kayode, a Consultant Allergist/Allergy Physician, issued a warning that tackling mould can involve more than simply keeping your property looking spotless.
She said: "A home with damp air can suffer from condensation, mould spores, bacteria, and dust mites.," reports Chronicle Live.
"This environment is linked to asthma flares, chronic cough, bronchitis, allergies, and increased respiratory infections.
"Mould, dust mites, and damp inflame the airways and trigger immune responses, infections, and allergic reactions such as sneezing, a runny nose, a stuffy nose, throat itch, and red, watery eyes.
"Increased exposure to moulds can also lead to irritation and side effects from the toxins and compounds they release.
"Common mould allergens found in homes with damp issues include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Penicillium and Aspergillus.
"To protect against the health hazards of excessive exposure to mould and dust allergens, ventilation is key.
"Ventilation is crucial in reducing humidity and preventing dust mites and mould from growing and reproducing.
"Ventilating by opening windows, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, ensures fresh air can circulate into the home, and excessive moisture can leave the house.
"Opening windows is effective at reducing moisture and making it hard for dust mites and mould spores to survive and spread."
However, keeping your windows open 24/7 in the middle of Winter will lead to its own health problems.
This is where a specific type of Lüften comes in.
Stoßlüften, also known as shock-ventilation, is a method of ventilating your home without your heating bill going through the roof.
This involves suddenly opening all windows simultaneously, keeping them open, then shutting them after approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on how large your home is.
This method can help minimise energy loss and keep your home warm and inviting. Doing this once a day will help ensure there is no stale air in your home.
Alternatively, if you're looking to freshen up a single room, you might want to try 'querlüften', also known as cross-ventilation.
This involves opening windows on opposite sides of the room, utilising wind pressure differences to create a swift flow of air into the space.