For years, the persistent dampness in certain areas of my home, particularly the spare bedroom and a notoriously humid bathroom, was a constant source of frustration. Waking up to condensation streaming down the windows, the faint musty smell clinging to clothes in the wardrobe, and the underlying worry about mould growth were daily realities. It was more than just an inconvenience; it posed potential health concerns and threatened the integrity of my furnishings. I knew this problem needed a practical and affordable solution, something that could actively reduce the moisture in the air and provide a fresher, healthier living space. Finding an effective condensation remover was at the top of my list.
Key Considerations Before Acquiring a Moisture Absorber
Anyone looking to tackle excess humidity in their home will understand the need for a reliable moisture control solution. The primary goal is often to prevent condensation, combat musty odours, and inhibit the growth of mould and mildew, which can significantly damage property and impact air quality.
The ideal customer for a passive moisture absorber like the 1ABOVE Dehumidifier is someone experiencing mild to moderate damp issues in smaller, enclosed spaces. Think wardrobes, cupboards, caravans, small bedrooms, or bathrooms where a full electric dehumidifier might be overkill, too noisy, or simply not practical due to lack of power outlets or space. They are also perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance, electricity-free option to supplement existing ventilation or heating efforts.
However, if you’re battling severe damp, extensive mould growth, or significant water ingress (like a leaking roof or persistent plumbing issue), these passive units are unlikely to be a standalone solution. In such cases, you’d need to address the root cause of the damp and likely invest in a powerful electric dehumidifier that can extract much larger volumes of water daily. Those looking for immediate, rapid drying of large areas should also consider electric alternatives. If you have a serious structural damp problem, professional help might be required before any dehumidification product can be truly effective.
Before buying, consider the following:
* Severity of Damp: Is it light condensation, or significant water pooling?
* Room Size: Smaller units are best for smaller, contained areas.
* Power Availability: Do you need an electricity-free solution?
* Noise Preference: Passive units are silent.
* Maintenance: Are you comfortable emptying and replacing units periodically?
* Environmental Impact: Consider the disposal of collected water and plastic units.
* Cost vs. Efficacy: Are you looking for an affordable, ongoing solution or a larger upfront investment for powerful results?
Introducing the 1ABOVE Dehumidifier Pack
The 1ABOVE Dehumidifier 500ml Pack of 5 is a simple yet effective solution designed to absorb excess moisture from the air using hydrophilic crystals. It promises to lower dampness, combat allergens, neutralise odours, and reduce condensation, making it suitable for various household environments. When you purchase this pack, you receive five individual 500ml dehumidifier units, ready to deploy straight out of the box.
Compared to more advanced electric dehumidifiers, which are often the market leaders in terms of sheer extraction power, the 1ABOVE units offer a different approach. They are not designed to dry out an entire house rapidly like a £100+ electric model might, but rather to provide targeted, passive moisture absorption in specific problem areas. They are comparable to other non-electric moisture absorbers on the market, typically offering a similar crystal-based absorption mechanism, but often stand out for their convenient multi-pack offering and ease of use. They don’t have “previous versions” in the traditional sense, but the underlying technology of calcium chloride crystals absorbing moisture has been around for ages.
This specific product is ideal for homeowners or renters dealing with localised damp issues such as steamy bathrooms, musty wardrobes, small bedrooms, or even caravans and garages where persistent humidity is a nuisance. It’s not for those who need to rapidly dry out a flood-damaged area or maintain specific low-humidity levels across a large open-plan living space.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Easy to Use: Simply remove the foil and place; no assembly or power needed.
* Electricity-Free Operation: Environmentally friendly and cost-effective with no running costs.
* Portable and Quiet: Can be placed almost anywhere without noise or wires.
* Effective for Localised Damp: Noticeably reduces condensation and musty smells in small areas.
* Value for Money: A pack of five offers good coverage for multiple problem spots.
Cons:
* Slow-Acting: Takes time to show significant results, often days or even weeks.
* Limited Capacity: Not suitable for severe damp problems or large rooms.
* Disposable: Creates plastic waste upon depletion, though some parts might be recyclable.
* Aesthetic: While clear, they are still visible plastic containers, which might not suit all decor.
* Performance Variability: Effectiveness can depend on room conditions and how damp the product was when purchased (if stored in a poor warehouse).
In-Depth Look at Performance and Advantages
Having used these 1ABOVE dehumidifiers for an extended period, I can speak to their functionality and the benefits they offer, broken down by their core features.
Passive Moisture Absorption with Hydrophilic Crystals
The fundamental principle behind the 1ABOVE Dehumidifier lies in its use of hydrophilic crystals, primarily calcium chloride. These crystals have a strong affinity for water molecules, actively drawing them from the surrounding air. When I first started using them, I placed several units in different damp spots: one in the bathroom, two in a north-facing bedroom that often suffered from condensation, and one in a wardrobe.
How it performs/feels: Initially, there was a period of anticipation. For the first few days, sometimes even a week or two, it seemed like nothing was happening. The crystals remained largely unchanged, and the collection chamber below was bone dry. This can be a bit disheartening, leading some to believe the product isn’t working. However, what’s actually happening is a slower, two-stage process. The crystals first absorb moisture, gradually clumping together and solidifying. Once saturated, they begin to release the absorbed water into the collection tray below. After this initial “activation” phase, I started noticing a clear liquid accumulating in the bottom chamber. It’s a slow and steady process, but it is indeed effective. Over time, the crystals visibly diminish as they convert moisture into liquid.
Benefit: This passive absorption is crucial for areas where electricity is scarce or undesirable. No need for sockets, no humming noise, and no energy bill implications. This makes the moisture absorber an ideal choice for places like caravans, sheds, or cupboards where continuous, silent operation is key. It continuously works in the background, subtly improving air quality and protecting belongings without any intervention required until it’s full.
Combatting Condensation, Damp, and Mould
The primary purpose of any dehumidifier is to tackle the visible and invisible signs of excess moisture. The 1ABOVE units explicitly target condensation, damp, and the associated issues of mould and mildew.
How it performs/feels: In the previously problematic bedroom, where windows would be heavily beaded with water every morning, I noticed a significant reduction after about three to four weeks of consistent use. While it didn’t eliminate condensation entirely – especially on very cold mornings – the amount of water was dramatically less. The window sills were no longer perpetually damp, and the risk of mould forming on the frames diminished considerably. Similarly, in the back of a wardrobe that always felt clammy, the clothes began to feel fresher, and that tell-tale musty odour started to fade. The collected water in the trays served as tangible proof of its effectiveness; it’s quite satisfying to see how much moisture these small units pull out of the air.
Benefit: By reducing the ambient humidity, these dehumidifiers for damp directly address the conditions necessary for mould and mildew to thrive. This not only safeguards your property from unsightly and damaging growth but also contributes to a healthier living environment. Less damp means less chance for allergens associated with mould, which is a major plus for anyone, especially those with respiratory sensitivities.
Neutralising Odours and Improving Air Quality
Excess moisture often goes hand-in-hand with unpleasant, musty odours. The 1ABOVE Dehumidifier aims to neutralise these smells, contributing to fresher air.
How it performs/feels: The change in air quality isn’t instantaneous or dramatic like using an air freshener, but it’s a gradual improvement that you notice over time. The lingering damp smell in my bathroom, which was particularly noticeable after showers, genuinely lessened. Similarly, the slightly stale scent that used to emanate from the wardrobe was much less pronounced. It’s not just masking the odour; it’s addressing the root cause by removing the moisture that contributes to the smell.
Benefit: Breathing fresh, healthy air is fundamental to well-being. By tackling musty odours, the product creates a more pleasant indoor atmosphere. This is particularly beneficial in small, enclosed spaces like caravans or basements where stagnant, humid air can quickly become unpleasant. It means you inhale cleaner air, free from the heavy, dampness-related smells.
Portable and Quiet Operation
One of the standout special features of the 1ABOVE Dehumidifier is its portability and quiet operation. Each unit measures approximately 9D x 15W x 11H centimetres, making them compact and easy to place.
How it performs/feels: Their small size means they can discreetly fit on a windowsill, inside a cupboard, or even on a shelf without being obtrusive. Crucially, they operate in complete silence. There are no fans, no compressors, just the silent chemical reaction. This makes them ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any area where noise is a concern. I’ve had one in my home office, and it never once disrupted a call or concentration. You truly forget it’s there until you notice the water accumulating.
Benefit: The “set it and forget it” nature, combined with silent operation, means these dehumidifiers integrate seamlessly into daily life. You don’t have to plan around power outlets or endure the hum of a machine. Their portability allows for flexible placement, targeting the exact spots where moisture is most problematic, from a kitchen cupboard to a basement corner.
Minimising Health Issues and Harmless Design
The product description highlights its role in minimising health issues like asthma and breathing problems by improving air quality, also stressing its harmless nature, making it safe for children’s rooms.
How it performs/feels: While I can’t provide medical evidence, the general reduction in dampness and musty odours certainly *feels* healthier. The air feels lighter, less oppressive. Knowing that mould growth is being inhibited reduces a significant environmental trigger for respiratory issues. The sealed design means the hydrophilic crystals are contained, and the collected water is safely stored in the lower chamber, preventing direct contact with skin or accidental ingestion. I’ve placed them in my children’s play area without any concerns about safety, provided they are placed where they won’t be easily knocked over.
Benefit: For families, especially those with young children or individuals suffering from allergies or asthma, creating a less damp environment is a significant health benefit. The reassurance that the product itself is harmless and doesn’t emit any fumes or particles adds peace of mind, allowing it to be used freely throughout the home where it’s needed most.
No Electricity Use and Environmentally Friendly Claims
A key selling point is that these units require no electricity, making them both cheap to run and environmentally friendly.
How it performs/feels: The sheer convenience of simply placing a unit and letting it work without thinking about power consumption is a huge advantage. This translates directly into zero additional electricity costs, which is a welcome relief given rising utility prices. From an environmental perspective, the claim of being “environmentally friendly” is nuanced. While they don’t consume electricity, the units are plastic and disposable once the crystals are depleted. The collected water is often salty and needs to be disposed of carefully, usually down a drain, which then enters the wastewater system. So, while electricity-free, they do generate plastic waste, which is a disadvantage to consider. My experience confirms the zero electricity usage but reminds me to be mindful of responsible disposal.
Benefit: The immediate benefit is the cost-saving aspect – no extra bills for running these. For those who are conscious of their carbon footprint from energy consumption, this offers a guilt-free solution for tackling damp. It’s perfect for situations where power isn’t available or reliable, offering a simple, self-sufficient way to manage moisture.
Social Proof: What Other Users Are Saying
Having scoured the internet, I found a mix of user reviews that seemed rather positive, yet also highlighted some crucial observations. Many users, like myself, initially felt skeptical after a few days because no water had collected. One person noted that the crystals become “rock hard” first, indicating they’re absorbing moisture, before eventually releasing water into the collector – a crucial detail confirming the two-stage process. This patience, they conclude, is key, with many expressing happiness after a couple of weeks, seeing noticeable water collection and a reduction in condensation. Another user specifically reported placing five units by their window and, after three weeks, saw significant water collection in each, with much less condensation than before. They too emphasised that “patience is key.”
However, there’s a strong counter-narrative, particularly from those dealing with more severe damp issues. Several users, even after weeks, reported seeing no water collected whatsoever, describing the product as “total GARBAGE!” or a “waste of money” for their specific damp problems. One individual, who had a leaking car windscreen, found the units bone dry inside despite the car being wet, eventually concluding that these are not the solution for significant water ingress. Another user who bought ten units for damp in a car, sash window, and cellar, similarly reported not a single drop of water forming in any tub over a month, advising others to invest in a proper electric dehumidifier for serious issues. There were also concerns about product inconsistency, with some receiving different units than advertised that failed to work, suggesting potential issues with storage or batch quality. These reviews highlight that while effective for mild, localised damp, these units are definitely not a magic bullet for major moisture problems or a replacement for an electric dehumidifier.
Bringing the Dampness Battle to a Close
The battle against persistent dampness, condensation, and musty odours is one that many homeowners face, and if left unchecked, these issues can lead to significant structural damage, unpleasant living conditions, and potential health complications.
The 1ABOVE Dehumidifier 500ml Pack of 5 offers a practical, fuss-free approach to managing these problems in targeted areas. Its silent, electricity-free operation makes it an excellent choice for smaller spaces or situations where power access is limited. While it requires patience to see results, it has proven effective for localised damp, reducing condensation, and improving air freshness over time. If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly solution for mild moisture issues in your home, this product is certainly worth considering. To discover more and see how these can help your home, please click here to check out the product!