A few clever items offer a natural line of defence against mould and mildew in humid bathrooms this summer.
Summer typically brings sunshine and clear blue skies, but July can equally deliver plenty of rainfall, making it crucial to watch for signs of mould developing in your home. While mould is often considered a winter issue, it actually only needs warmth and dampness to thrive.
During the colder months, it spreads due to moisture from clothes drying indoors, but in summer, you’re more likely to spot mould in bathrooms. Steam accumulating in enclosed spaces allows moisture to settle on walls, tiles and other surfaces.
Most of the water should evaporate, but July can be particularly humid thanks to heavy downpours following hot spells. This means bathrooms are less likely to be properly aired out, keeping them damp for extended periods.
Fortunately, there’s a straightforward way to prevent mould and stop it becoming an issue — according to Adam Whittaker-Bush from Sanctuary Bathrooms, all you need is the right houseplant.
Adam explained: “Excess moisture is one of the most commonly faced bathroom challenges. It creates ideal conditions for mould and mildew to take hold, particularly in poorly ventilated bathrooms. If cleaning bathroom mould is an all-too-common occurrence, plants offer a natural line of defence.”
How can houseplants prevent mould?
Many popular houseplants are tropical species that naturally grow on the forest floor in rainforests, where they’re surrounded by towering trees with dense foliage. The dense canopy of a rainforest prevents much of the rainfall from ever reaching the ground, meaning these plants have evolved to draw moisture directly from the surrounding air.
These houseplants can absorb excess steam and humidity that builds up in a bathroom, making them one of the most effective natural defences against mould growth.
It’s a chemical-free, fuss-free solution to keeping those stubborn spores at bay — meaning less time scrubbing and more time soaking up the summer sun.
What are the best plants to keep in a bathroom?
For those after a low-maintenance option, the snake plant is an excellent choice. It can survive for weeks without watering and thrives in low-light conditions, making it practically indestructible.
These striking, spiky green plants are remarkably resilient and positively thrive on bathroom humidity, making them an ideal weapon in the battle against mould.
If you’d prefer something a little more decorative, a peace lily could be just the ticket. Renowned for its striking white blooms, it favours moist soil and is already a firm favourite amongst bathroom plant enthusiasts.
Orchids are another brilliant option for keeping mould at bay. They prefer a consistently warm environment for their roots, and add a welcome splash of colour to any bathroom.
For something cheerful and unfussy, popular houseplants such as ferns, aloe vera and English ivy will all flourish in a humid bathroom setting.
