As temperatures drop, maintaining a dry, mould-free home becomes increasingly challenging, since cold weather makes it tougher to combat excess moisture in the atmosphere.
While there are a number of methods to reduce your home’s susceptibility to dampness and mould – including purchasing dehumidifiers, maintaining proper ventilation by frequently opening windows, and promptly wiping down wet surfaces – it’s also advised to utilise extractor fans whilst cooking or bathing, and avoid drying your wet laundry inside.
However, decorating your home with specific plant varieties can also prove beneficial. Plants are known for their ability to purify air whilst enhancing a home’s aesthetic appeal, but they can also serve as an affordable method to prevent mould.
On TikTok, a user called ‘bloom.buddy.plant’ has shared five common plants to incorporate into your home, which can help combat mould and atmospheric moisture.
“Five plants that naturally fight mould,” the text on the opening slide declared, before explaining in the caption: “They don’t just decorate – they literally clean your air.”
1. English ivy
English Ivy, an evergreen climbing plant typically found outdoors, can significantly decrease airborne mould levels in your home.
This plant “naturally filters airborne mould particles and absorbs excess moisture,” the TikTok user outlined in the post. Studies reveal it can eliminate up to 78% of airborne mould in merely 12 hours, with some sources reporting even higher percentages.
Its potency stems from its capacity to capture mould spores and soak up moisture from the atmosphere, making it especially beneficial in humid spaces such as bathrooms.
2. Peace lily
Similar to English ivy, peace lilies can assist in combating mould by soaking up surplus moisture and mould spores from the atmosphere.
Their wide leaves function as natural air purifiers, and the plant flourishes in these moist conditions, which assists in lowering the humidity that mould requires to develop.
The post says peace lilies “break down toxic mould spores while adding calming beauty to any space.”
However, peace lilies are poisonous to cats, with the bloom causing immediate oral discomfort and pain if bitten. While the symptoms are typically localised and short-term, contact a vet if your cat has come into contact with the plant.
3. Snake plant
Snake plants help fight mould by soaking up moisture and toxins from the atmosphere. They also emit oxygen during the night, which can enhance the overall freshness of your home.
It is also a low-maintenance houseplant, as the TikTok post clarified: “Requires minimal care and reduces humidity that leads to mould growth.”
Be cautious with watering, as overwatering could result in the soil developing mould, which would counteract its purpose of preventing mould. If this occurs, simply remove the mould and allow the soil to dry before watering again.
4. Boston fern
A Boston fern is an excellent plant to have in your bathroom, as it flourishes in humid rooms that are susceptible to mould and mildew. The plant will assist in preventing mould by absorbing excess moisture from the air, which is crucial in humid areas where mould thrives.
“Acts as a natural humidifier while filtering out mould spores and toxins,” stated the TikTok post.
To optimise these plants’ mould-fighting abilities, position them in bathrooms or other damp areas with good air circulation, ensuring they receive indirect sunlight and regular watering.
5. Palms
Certain palm plants can also be used to combat mould by absorbing excess moisture. Place palms like the Lady Palm or Bamboo Palm in high-humidity areas such as a bathroom to help absorb moisture.
Keep leaves dust-free to aid with air purification.
The TikTok post said these palms “reduce moisture levels and prevents mould from forming on walls and surfaces.”