Bathrooms are one of the easiest rooms for mould to take hold. With constant moisture, poor ventilation and fluctuating temperatures, damp can build up quickly — but the right houseplants may help. Certain varieties can absorb excess moisture from the air while adding a decorative, spa-like touch to the space.
‘Houseplants are simple yet effective accessories that help to balance the airflow within the space,’ says Rikki Fothergill, bathroom design expert at Big Bathroom Shop. ‘I always recommend keeping them in bathrooms all year round to maintain a fresh and hygienic environment.’
Below, we reveal the ones worth bringing in, and how to style them.
1. Monstera (Swiss Cheese plant)
This leafy beauty is a tropical plant, which means it thrives in hotter environments similar to the climates it comes from.
‘The monstera is one of those plants that actually comes into its own in summer,’ says Jo Lambell, plant expert and founder of Beards and Daisies. ‘The warmth suits it well – just keep it out of direct sun to avoid scorching the leaves.’
With its large, sculptural foliage, the monstera instantly creates a statement in a bathroom. For a more elevated look, pair it with a brushed gold or metallic planter to complement its rich green tones, then layer in forest green accessories and warm metallic finishes for a luxe, boutique hotel feel.
2. Peace lily
If you love the idea of being a plant parent but want something relatively low maintenance, the peace lily is an ideal choice.
‘The peace lily is one of my go-tos for summer because it's incredibly good at telling you what it needs,’ Jo explains. ‘It handles the humidity of summer well and doesn’t need direct sunlight to thrive.’
Its ability to cope in lower-light conditions makes it particularly well suited to windowless bathrooms, where mould and excess moisture are often harder to control. Style it with crisp white towels and soft neutral textures, and place it in a matt white or sage green planter to enhance its clean, calming aesthetic.
3. Boston fern
Humid, steamy spaces like bathrooms can actually help Boston ferns to flourish, as their large fronds take in moisture from the surrounding air.
Jo explains, ‘It loves humidity, it loves warmth, and it grows noticeably faster when the conditions are right.’ Just be sure to ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated, as it is more effective alongside proper airflow.
It is shorter in height compared to some of the other moisture-absorbing plants, which means it works especially well in smaller bathrooms. Its feathery leaves do make a subtle statement – a black pot will allow this to pop, as well as creating a chic, spa-like atmosphere.
Read more: Bathroom condensation driving you mad? Experts recommend a Boston fern
4. Snake plant
Like the idea of houseplants, but don’t want the upkeep? The snake plant is one of the easiest varieties to care for.
'It tolerates heat, handles irregular watering better than almost anything, and it's completely unbothered by temperature fluctuations,’ says Jo. This makes it ideal for those who are frequently away from home and who can’t open windows to keep bathrooms properly ventilated.
Its upright, architectural shape also makes it perfect for styling awkward empty corners. Taller varieties work beautifully beside a vanity unit or bathtub, while woven baskets or textured neutral planters help soften the plant’s more structured appearance and create a relaxed, spa-inspired finish.
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