Winter time is fireplace time. Whenever the temperature drops, the firewood is popped in the wood burner and lit up. Everyone enjoys cosy evenings in front of their fireplace. But however pleasant the atmosphere is in a room, whenever a fire is alight in the fireplace there is a little problem. A wood-burning stove always makes the air in the room very dry. So you should always ensure that there is a jug, or bowl, of water on the fire which gives off moisture into the air. It's not just good for your skin, eyes and mucous membranes, it's great for you pocket too. This is because the greater the humidity in a room, the warmer we perceive the temperature to be. So humid air helps you to save on heating costs. When there is a bowl of water on top of the fire, the water evaporates and the humidity in the room increases. A tip: Humidity of between 40 and 60 per cent is ideal for a pleasant indoor climate. But it should not be any higher, or you will risk mould forming in the corners. With an indoor hygrometer you will be able to check humidity values at a glance. Fully equipped with a moisture meter and a fireproof bowl of water, you can be completely relaxed about lighting your fire, and sit back, perhaps with a good book and a glass of wine. To prevent the water in the bowl or in a humidifier from beginning to smell unpleasant, since bacteria can form in the stagnant water, you should add a SecoSan Stick to the water. This will keep the water pure and fresh for long periods of time, and prevent germs forming. And that will make your evenings by the fire even cosier.