People have been urged to avoid opening their bathroom window after a shower, as it can do more harm than good in the long run.
While it may be a habit to let the steamy air out of the room, it can also promote mould growth.
This can especially be an issue in the colder months, where the indoor air will be far warmer than what's outside.
Specialists at Plumbworld explained: "The cold air from outside rushes in and mixes with the warm, damp air inside, and that’s when condensation forms on surfaces like tiles, walls, mirrors and even around the window itself.
"All that extra moisture is basically an open invitation for mould, and once it starts growing it can be very difficult to get rid of.
Why opening your bathroom window after a shower does more harm than good
Following a hot shower, humidity levels in a bathroom can surge enormously, especially in compact or poorly ventilated spaces.
This moisture adheres to tiles, mirrors, ceilings, and windows, and if not properly managed, mould can start to grow within 24 to 48 hours.
Opening a window following a shower might appear beneficial, but it can actually disrupt the circulation generated by extractor fans and bring in chilly air that speeds up condensation formation.
This results in additional moisture accumulating on surfaces, precisely what mould requires to flourish.
If you have an extractor fan, it is recommended to turn this on before you start your shower and leave it on for at least 30 minutes after you're done.
James Roberts, from Sanctuary Bathrooms , adds: "Simple behavioural changes can make a significant difference.
"We recommend closing the shower screen or door, keeping towels and surfaces dry, and running the extractor fan with the door closed.
"From a design perspective, selecting moisture-resistant materials such as non-porous tiles can be hugely beneficial.
Meanwhile, Nicholas Auckland, home heating and energy expert at Trade Radiators , suggests also wiping down all surfaces after a shower.
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He said: "Use a squeegee on the shower screen, tiles, and any other wet surfaces as this will physically remove the bulk of the water, leaving mould spores nothing to feed on."
Keeping your bathroom warm is another way to prevent mould growth, as he explained: "Having warmth in the bathroom such as a heated towel rail or other bathroom radiator, means that surfaces can stay at a temperature above the dew point as much as possible.
"This makes it harder for condensation to form in the first place, however you must still refrain from opening your window wide here as this will remove all the warm air instantly".
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