Is ‘burping’ really beneficial to your home? (stock) (Image: Kinga Krzeminska via Getty Images)
Have you ever considered ‘burping’ your home in winter? Whilst it might sound an odd concept, this practice could help create a healthier indoor atmosphere.
The technique involves expelling stale, potentially bacteria-laden air from inside and introducing fresh outdoor air in its place. Many advocate for this method – especially in Germany, where it’s been common practice for generations.
In certain cases there, ‘burping’ is even written into tenancy contracts. The method can help ward off condensation and mould accumulation on walls, which might otherwise cause damage or structural decline.
After the practice gained popularity on social media recently, Discovery+ presenter and home maintenance expert Patric Richardson weighed in on whether the technique is genuinely beneficial.
In a short video video, he explained: “Burping your house is opening the windows for a few minutes to let the stale air out and the fresh air in. But do I think you have to do it? I don’t think you have to, but I do think it’s really nice.”
Patric explained that as contemporary properties have become increasingly well-insulated over the years, they don’t “breathe” quite as effectively.
He continued: “Therefore in winter, your air gets kind of stale. You get less oxygen… you get various things. You know in the spring, you open the window and notice how nice it is – if you open the windows or in my case the back door – you do get some oxygen, you do get some fresh air.”
By thoroughly cleaning your property with chemical products, germs shouldn’t pose too much concern. Nevertheless, Patric noted: “It’s still a nice thing to let in a little fresh air in the middle of winter.”
He also highlighted the psychological benefits of opening your windows, adding: “If all of a sudden I get some fresh air, I know spring is coming and I can get through.”
Based on reactions in the comments section, it appears many people do indeed find ‘burping’ effective.
One Instagram user said: “I had the air quality of my house tested (due to mold concerns), and the inspector showed me the difference it makes when you open a door or window for just a couple minutes…
“The air quality monitor showed a drastic drop in particles within seconds of opening a door. I’ve burped my house daily ever since!”
A second person declared: “I’ve always opened my windows. Every day even in the winter unless it’s raining. I didn’t know that some people never open their windows.”
While a third Instagram user revealed: “We do it a few times a week. Nothing better than opening the windows when it’s beautiful weather!”
How to ‘burp’ your home
1. Pick the right time – Choose a day with mild, dry weather. You should also avoid days with high humidity or heavy pollution.
2. Turn off the heating – Switch off your radiators to prevent wasting energy while windows and doors are open.
3. Open everything up – Open windows and doors on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation. You should also leave interior doors ajar to allow air to flow through all rooms.
4. Air out soft furnishings – Shake out rugs, cushions, and bedding outside if possible, or place them near open windows to freshen them up.
5. Give everything time to breathe – Leave windows and doors open for 15-60 minutes, depending on outside conditions and how stale the air feels.
6. Reset – When you’re done, close the windows and doors to conserve energy. You can then turn your heating back on if needed.
