7 Tips to Protect Your Kauai Home from Humidity

Living in Kauai, Hawaii, we're blessed with year-round sunshine, postcard-perfect beaches, and the best fruit you’ve ever tried. But there’s one thing that can ruin our tropical homes: humidity. Unfortunately, all that beautiful water isn’t just sparkling in the ocean, it’s also floating in the air and nurturing mold on our walls.

But don’t worry. A few precautions can protect your home and belongings from all that wet. Here are my 7 favorite tips to keep your home clean and free from humidity damage.

1. How can I keep the humidity from damaging my belongings?

The key is to keep the air moving. Use fans to circulate air and reduce moisture build-up. At the right time of day, keep doors and windows open to let fresh air in and stale air out. You can also invest in a humidity meter to keep track of your home's moisture levels.

2. How often should I clean to prevent mold and mildew?

Just like anywhere else, cleaning should be a regular part of your routine on Kauai. You just may have to do it more often. Once a day, wipe down surfaces with a dry cloth. Mop up any spills and remove any damp items immediately. It's essential to keep your home dry and clean to prevent mold and mildew from ruining your Kauai paradise.

3. Should I use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to control the humidity?

Short answer: Yes! Both work great, but a dehumidifier is the most effective way to reduce humidity levels. It's best to use it in rooms that tend to be the most humid, such as bathrooms and basements. You can also set your air conditioner to "dry" mode, which removes excess moisture from the air.

4. How can I protect my cashmere, wool, and leather?

Cashmere or wool sweaters and leather boots can get damaged by Kauai’s humid air. To protect your favorite styles, store them in specialized bags that remove the moisture and keep your clothes and shoes dry. DampRid and Dry & Dry are my favorites, and they’re both easy to order on Amazon.

5. Can I hang my clothes outside to dry, or will they just get damp again?

Hanging clothes outside to dry is a great way to save on energy costs, but it's not always the best option in humid weather. If you choose to hang your clothes outside, make sure to check the weather forecast and only do it on sunny days with low humidity. Otherwise, use a dryer to ensure that your clothes stay dry and mildew-free.

6. Can I leave my windows open during the day, or will that let in too much moisture?

It's best to keep your windows open during the day to let fresh air in and moisture out (and to soak in that sunshine and birdsong!). But keep in mind that humidity levels tend to be highest in the morning and evening. So, if you're going to leave your windows open, I recommend doing it during the afternoon when humidity levels are lower.

7. How can I clean and maintain my outdoor furniture to prevent mold and rust?

Regular cleaning is the key to preventing mold and rust on outdoor furniture. Wipe down your furniture with a dry cloth after each use and store it in a dry place (if you can find one!) when you’re not using it. If your furniture is made of metal, use a rust-resistant spray to protect it from moisture.

With these tips, you can enjoy Kauai’s sunshine and mangoes without worrying about your coffee table sprouting mold. Keep your home clean and dry, invest in a dehumidifier or air conditioner, and take care of your furniture to ensure that it lasts for years to come. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way!