Mould Coz It’s Cold – Cutting Heating Causes Catastrophe
Uswitch has released its 2026 Mouldy Nation Report. It shows mould is no longer just a maintenance issue, it's becoming part of everyday home routines.
The energy switching service believes mould is not just caused by cold bridges and poor ventilation, it is also a result of people adapting to energy costs.
The research suggests that mould prevention has become a daily domestic habit, balancing comfort, cost and practicality during winter.
Key findings:
Around 18 million households are dealing with damp or mould. Over a third say it’s worse this year because they’ve been heating their homes less.
Two million homes bought a dehumidifier this year and many are now running them more often.
39% are drying clothes on radiators more to save money on energy.
Another 39% kept windows shut this winter and 1 in 7 avoided opening them even when condensation appeared.
1 in 5 had not opened a window in over a month.
Most households (81%) have tried to tackle mould themselves using cleaning products or tools
Ben Gallizzi, an energy expert at Uswitch.com, said: “Millions of households are suffering problems with damp, mould and condensation this winter, with the high cost of heating preventing them from improving the situation.
“It’s understandable that households want to keep the home warm but occasionally airing out rooms is a great way to get rid of the moist air that can contribute to mould problems.
“Many of us are more likely to dry clothes on radiators this year to save money on using a tumble dryer. This also releases extra moisture into the air.”
Dehumidifiers
Gallizzi added: “If you’re drying clothes indoors, doing some cooking or having a steamy bath or shower, make sure to use extractor fans or open a window to get rid of excess damp air.
“Dehumidifiers are another good way to limit the effects of wet air. Most use less than 200W of power, making them a cheap way to keep the home dry.”
3,000 adults in the UK were surveyed on their experiences and opinions on mould between 26/01/2026 and 02/02/2026.
Key takeaways
18 million homes are battling condensation, damp and mould, with a third (36%) finding the problem worse this year as they’ve cut back on heating.
Half of households (49%) have damp and mould in bedrooms, with three-fifths (58%) seeing problems in bathrooms.
Two million households have bought a dehumidifier in the past year, with a quarter of owners (23%) saying they’re running them more frequently.
Two-fifths of homes (39%) admit to drying clothes on radiators more frequently this winter to save money on energy bills.
Two-fifths of households (39%) have kept windows shut this winter due to energy costs, with one in seven (14%) holding out despite condensation.
Uswitch.com urges households to air their homes frequently, turn on extractor fans where possible and consider using a dehumidifier to combat condensation, damp and mould.
Picture: Mould is an increasing problem as households try to cut their heating and other energy bills.
