Could this natural solution be the best way to prevent mould in bathrooms?

published 18 August 2020

Mould is a common indoor pollutant that torments many households. It’s a highly undesirable side effect of heat and humidity, which can have a serious impact on health if it’s not kept in check. And while you can buy astringent cleaning products to remove mould, wouldn’t it be better still to prevent it occurring altogether?

A good place to start is with plants, believe it or not. Houseplants are a good way to help alleviate the problem naturally, by bringing moisture levels down in the air.

The experts at Gardening Express reveal seven houseplants to use in damp, humid rooms – such as bathrooms, to prevent mouldy patches appearing.

More inspiration: Bathroom plant ideas – best plants to use to create a tranquil oasis in bathrooms

Among the plants the experts recommend are easy to look after varieties including spider plants and peace lily, along with tropical favourites including palms and ferns.

‘Mould in the home is caused by excess humidity. Warm rooms, like bathrooms, are at particular risk’ explains a spokesperson from Gardening Express.

‘Using plants to help keep mould at bay is a practical and natural way to control humidity and moisture in your home. How good a plant is at reducing humidity is all to do with its ability to absorb dew, fog and other moisture through its leaves. This moisture then moves down to its roots.

The beauty of this natural solution is that you will notice an improvement, while having beautiful plants to enjoy too.

Best plants to help prevent mould

1. English Ivy

'English Ivy removes airborne mould and other nasties too. It grows best in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering. Remember to keep it away from pets – its leaves are toxic to them.'

2. Peace Lily

'The peace lily loves the shade and thrives in high humidity so the perfect choice for areas prone to mould. It absorbs moisture through the air through its leaves and doesn’t need direct sunlight to thrive. This plant has beautiful white flowers but can be toxic to pets so keep it out of their way.'

3. Palms

black bathroom makeover with patterned floor tiles plants and roll top bath

'Palms are a great choice to help control humidity and keep mould at bay, absorbing moisture through their leaves. Varieties to look out for include Areca palms, bamboo palms, the lady palm, dwarf date palm and reed palm.'

4. Snake Plant

'This hardy and adaptable plant is another mould loving variety. It grows best in bright light and warm temperatures.'

5. Boston Fern

'The Boston Fern thrives in moist climates and will naturally absorb the air moisture and balance out humidity levels in your home. All it needs to survive in indirect sunlight and regular watering.'

6. Orchids

'Not only do they look beautiful, orchids also help reduce humidity in the home. They get all their nutrients and moisture from the air around them.'

7. Spider plant

'This is a popular indoor plant which is great at removing harmful pollutants in the home. It’s easy to look after too.'

Do you have an oasis of plants in your bathroom already?

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street.