NASA says Peace Lilies clean air—so why isn’t one already in your steamy bathroom?

August 25, 2025

They Help Purify Air and Keep Damp Away — All While Looking Gorgeous

When your bathroom mirror stays foggy for ten minutes after a shower — or you’re forever wiping condensation off your window sills — too much indoor moisture may be quietly affecting your home (and your health). But what if your plants could do more than just sit there and look pretty?

Some houseplants are natural moisture magnets

In homes where air doesn’t circulate well (hello old weatherboard cottages and shut-tight winter windows), excess humidity can lead to mould, mildew and that ever-familiar musty smell. But here’s the curveball: certain plants can absorb moisture directly from the air through their leaves.

Yep. These green wonders don’t just breathe — they help balance your indoor climate. Or to put it plainly: your decor just became practical.

"The right indoor plants don’t just lift a space visually — they actually make the space healthier to live in. Especially where airflow is limited." — Candeece, Local Gardening Specialist

Houseplants That Quietly Reduce Air Moisture (and Still Look Stunning)

Here’s our shortlist of plants that thrive in Aussie homes — especially in smaller spaces like ensuites, laundry rooms, or that sunroom that still smells a bit damp post-rain.

1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Graceful, compact, and tough-as-nails. Peace Lilies drink water through humidity as well as from the soil, making them ideal for rooms that sometimes feel muggy. They’re natural air purifiers too — a win-win.

2. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

Often hung in pots or trained along walls, English Ivy loves to “soak up” high humidity. It’s also been shown to reduce airborne faecal particles. (Yes, really.) Perfect for bathrooms or pet areas.

3. Boston Fern

This frilly darling thrives in humidity-heavy conditions. But get this: it actually reduces it over time by absorbing moisture and releasing purified oxygen. Keep it nearby in mist-prone spots like laundries.

4. Tillandsia (Air Plants)

No soil? No problem. Air plants pull nutrients and moisture straight from the air. Scatter them creatively on bathroom shelves or bedside tables for a futuristic, low-maintenance green touch.

5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Famous for surviving neglect, Snake Plants quietly remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air and flourish even in low-light rooms. They also help stabilise humidity — and no, you can’t kill it easily.

Where to Put Them (and When They Work Best)

Pop these moisture-managers in stealthy spots where damp tends to linger. Here’s where they really shine:

Bathrooms: Cluster a Peace Lily, Air Plants, and English Ivy together for a humidity-hungry trio.
Laundry rooms: Mount a Boston Fern near the dryer or above the sink.
Bedrooms: Snake Plants not only help with moisture but are known to improve sleep quality.
Window sills: Ivy can crawl elegantly around these areas while helping prevent condensation build-up.

Do These Plants Replace a Dehumidifier?

Short answer: no. But in the same way open windows and ceiling fans support climate control, moisture-absorbing plants are a functional supplement — especially in homes that aren’t brilliantly ventilated year-round.

And honestly? They make much better talking points than a clunky plastic device humming in the corner.

Care Tips for Moisture-Hungry Plants

Most of these plants are low-hassle, but they’ll thrive better when you keep these simple tips in mind:

Regular Wipe Downs: Dust build-up on leaves can affect their moisture-absorbing superpowers. Gently wipe leaves every fortnight.
Position for Purpose: Bathrooms = high humidity; bedrooms = cooler air. Choose plant locations based on moisture levels.
Watch for Signs: Yellowing leaves or musty soil can mean overwatering. Let these plants take water from air, not just their pots.

Old Home? Rental? Tiny Flat? These Are Your Secret Weapons

If you rent an older place or live in a smaller South Aussie home with quirky windows and single-brick walls, you’ve probably noticed how moisture builds up — and how hard it is to get rid of it without blasting an extractor fan every hour. That’s where these quiet green heroes step in.

No big setups. No drilling into walls. Just living decor that earns its keep.

“Not all houseplants are equal. Some just look cute. Others actually help your house feel better. Choose wisely.” — Candeece

Here’s What This Really Means for Your Space

Adding the right plants isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s subtle energy. It’s the smile you get seeing your fern shimmer in the steam after a hot shower. It’s how your space feels — fresher, lighter, alive.

Let your plants work for you. Breathe with your space, not against it.

You don’t need more gadgets. You need smarter greenery.

Cheers to happier air — and the plants that made it possible,

— Candeece 🌿

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