My approach to interior design is searching beyond aesthetics, and I genuinely believe creating a healthy home is vital for a balanced and happy life. So many factors are part of the process, and having a home filled with clean, fresh air is number one.
Indoor humidity in the form of winter mould, unpleasant smell or dampness is not the most glamorous thing to deal with. But, unfortunately, it happens in many homes, especially in warm and rainy regions or in older buildings lacking proper ventilation. So, if you're struggling with the same issue at your home, no worries, there is a way to get rid of humidity in a completely natural way.
Houseplants are the most beautiful natural dehumidifier you could possibly get. Next to harvesting excess moisture, plants are great at detoxifying air, mood-boosting, increasing productivity, etc.
In the previous post I explained more in depth - How Important are Indoor Plants and How to Choose the Best Ones.
The Best Plants For Reducing Humidity at Home
1. Boston fern
With its lush look, this fast-growing houseplant is one of the most popular for a reason. It loves humid and moist areas. Boston fern enjoys indirect sunlight. I actually have mine in the semi-dark hallway, and she loves it! It also does a great job of removing toxins from the air.
Pet safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Get the fern on patchplants.com.
2. Peace Lily
Peace Lily loves water in every sense. Next to being watered regularly, this plant will successfully absorb moisture from the air. It requires a bit of indirect sun, but it can easily survive in a lower light environment. Same as Boston fern, peace Lily grows pretty fast, and it's excellent at air detoxifying.
Pet safety: Toxic to cats and dogs.
Get your Peace Lily at patchplants.com.
3. Orchid
Orchid is one of the hard-working plants when it comes to reducing humidity as it gets moisture is from the air surrounding it, as part of the daily nutrients it requires. It goes without saying it is one of the most beautiful indoor plants!
Pet safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Order Orchid on lazyflora.com.
4. Palm tree
They thrive in tropical, humid areas of the world which makes them perfect for the job.
Like most tropical plants, a palm tree absorbs moisture through its leaves. It can survive in mid-low light environment, making it ideal for a majority of homes. Keep the soil relatively moist and watch it thrive. A palm will also help purify your indoor air.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Get your palm at pathcplants.com.
5. English Ivy
English Ivy is typically found outdoors on walls and trees, but it can be grown indoors too. This easy-growing plant is excellent at reducing mould and as well as air toxins. They look great hanging or climbing. I have a baby ivy, and I have to say, it is one fast-growing fellow.
English Ivy needs a sound drainage system, so make sure you get a pot with plenty wholes at the bottom. It enjoys indirect sunlight.
Pet Safety: Toxic to cats and dogs.
Order English Ivy on patchplants.com.
6. Spider Plant
The Spider plant is often seen in many interiors and for a reason. It falls under the low-maintenance type of plants, it can survive almost any condition. It thrives in high humidity environment while removing all the bad stuff from the indoor air. The spider plant is also very easy to propagate. It can live off the nutrients and moisture in the air, which makes it a very effective natural dehumidifier.
Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Get your Spider plant on Etsy.
7. Tillandsia
Although Tillandsia or air plant is a perfect fit for bright rooms, it can survive darker corners. She enjoys filtered sunlight and regular watering. It is called the air plant because it doesn't require soil, it can simply hang in the air. It's perfect for anyone thinking of getting an indoor plant for the very first time, as it's practically indestructible. Placing your air plant in a humid bathroom will keep it happy.
Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Get your Air plant on Etsy.
8. Cactus
This little guy might come as a surprise. Cactus is a type of plant that can thrive in deserts and require low liquid water. It's known for the capability to grow in harsh temperature areas. Cactus usually has waxy or hairy leaves that are great at reducing humidity.
Pet Safety: Spiky leaves make it hazardous to cats and dogs, but they are non-toxic.
Get the Spiky friend on Patch.
9. Bromeliad
Similar to Tillandsia as it comes from the same plant family, except it can be planted in soil.
It is one of the beautiful, colourful exotic plants, a perfect splash of colour to a minimalist interior. It loves high humidity, and it's a great example of natural dehumidifiers.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Order the Bromeliad on Etsy.
Choosing The Right Compost For Your Plants
For healthy and happy plants, choosing the right compost is crucial. If you can get your hands on natural, organic, and eco-friendly alternatives, that's great. It's good for your plants and the Planet. One of them is the Eco-coir compost by For Peat's Sake.
How plants absorb humidity?
If you wonder how plants actually help reduce humidity, the answer is - through a plant’s foliar uptake. In this way, the plant absorbs moisture through the stoma (tiny pores) in the leaves. This moisture moves into the vascular tissue and travels down the roots. By choosing the right plants, you can significantly reduce humidity and prevent any future mould in your home.
How many plants do you need to improve air quality?
NASA research indicates that for a plant to efficiently do its job as an air purifier, you need at least one plant per 9.29 m² (100 square feet). I read this: fill it up till you have enough room to walk from point A to point B in your home! :) I recently took a picture of one part of my collection as a reminder, when I go shopping - enough is enough:
Where To Place The Plants for Reduced Humidity
The best place to put the plants to reduce humidity is in an area with filtered sunlight throughout the day. This way, plants can effectively reduce humidity and absorb nutrients and moisture from the air indoors.
You could group the plants in a planter and place them by the window.
Or perhaps display your plants in one of these carefully selected handcrafted planters you can get directly from the Makers.
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Thanks for reading.
Love,
Barbulianno x
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