As temperatures drop and condensation rises, homes across the UK are increasingly at risk of damp and mould. Condensation is the leading cause of mould, which can damage property and pose serious health risks. The latest figures suggest that up to 6.5 million households in England could be affected, with private and social renters particularly vulnerable. With the UK facing multiple Met Office yellow weather warnings for snow and ice this week, households are being urged to take extra precautions to keep interiors dry.

Cold weather makes mould and damp problems worse because lower temperatures reduce the ability of air to hold moisture. However, one expert has shared an unusual yet effective and affordable method that can help.

Andy Simms, a building expert at MyBuilder.com, has shared multiple tips to help with mould in your home, including filling old socks with cat litter and placing them in areas prone to damp.

He did stress the need, however, to address the underlying causes of moisture first which may sometimes require the services of a professional, such as poor ventilation or leaks, since simply placing cat litter in socks will only manage symptoms rather than prevent mould from returning.

The litter absorbs moisture and helps to reduce condensation. For best results, it should be replaced every month.

If you already have a cat, you can use the litter you already have, always it remains an inexpensive solution that costs around £2 at supermarkets such as Aldi, Asda, and Waitrose.

All you need to do is fill an old sock with cat litter and place it near areas prone to damp, such as window sills or corners of rooms.

Another of his tips include keeping windows slightly open to improve ventilation, drying clothes outside whenever possible, and using a dehumidifier in problem areas.

Another method involves using mega chalk and clove oil. Simply place the chalk on window sills or other areas prone to mould, then use clove oil to wipe down any affected surfaces. You can also apply clove oil directly onto the chalk and place it in drawers. Be cautious, though as undiluted clove oil can be toxic to pets, so keep it out of their reach.

Salt and baking soda are also affordable ways to fight condensation, as they naturally absorb moisture. Placing them in small bowls or ramekins on window sills, for example, can help reduce dampness and prevent mould from forming.

These measures, alongside the cat litter trick, can help keep mould at bay during colder months when condensation tends to increase.