19 Best Bathroom Plants That Absorb Moisture: A Complete Guide

Bathrooms are notorious for being humid environments. While this moisture can sometimes lead to issues like mold and mildew, there’s a natural and aesthetically pleasing solution: moisture-absorbing plants.

These plants thrive in humidity, absorb excess moisture from the air, and often help purify the air as well. In this guide, we’ll explore 19 of the best bathroom plants that can turn your bathroom into a fresh, green oasis while keeping humidity under control.

Why Humidity-Loving Plants Are Perfect for Bathrooms?

Bathrooms are naturally humid due to daily showers, baths, and the general presence of water. Excess moisture in the air can cause problems like mold growth, dampness, and musty odors.

However, some plants love these conditions. Tropical and subtropical plants, in particular, have adapted to thrive in humid environments, making them perfect for your bathroom. Not only do these plants absorb moisture, but they also contribute to improving air quality by filtering out toxins and increasing oxygen levels.

Many of these plants are low maintenance and can thrive in the fluctuating conditions of a bathroom, from warm steam to cool air. Let’s dive into the top 19 moisture-absorbing plants and how they can transform your bathroom space.

1. Aloe VeraAloe Vera

Moisture Absorption:

Aloe Vera is well-known for its medicinal properties, but it also thrives in moist environments. This succulent stores water in its thick leaves, making it an excellent plant for absorbing moisture in bathrooms.

Care Tips:

Aloe prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light. It requires minimal watering due to the high humidity in bathrooms. Make sure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Moisture Absorption:

Also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is incredibly hardy and thrives in a variety of conditions, including humid bathrooms. It efficiently absorbs moisture from the air and helps filter out pollutants.

Care Tips:

Snake plants are low maintenance and can handle low light, although they prefer bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, as they store moisture in their leaves.

3. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)boston fern (nephrolepis exaltata)

Moisture Absorption:

Boston ferns are ideal for bathrooms because they love humidity. Their lush, feathery fronds help absorb moisture and purify the air.

Care Tips:

Hang them in a spot with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but ensure it drains well. Regular misting helps maintain the humidity levels they love.

4. English Ivy (Hedera helix)English Ivy (Hedera helix)

Moisture Absorption:

English ivy is excellent at absorbing moisture from the air, making it perfect for bathrooms. It’s also known for its ability to filter airborne mold, making it even more beneficial in damp environments.

Care Tips:

This climbing plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Water it regularly and keep the soil moist.

5. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Moisture Absorption:

Golden pothos is one of the easiest plants to care for and thrives in humid environments. Its ability to absorb moisture and purify the air makes it a top choice for bathrooms.

Care Tips:

Pothos thrives in low light but also enjoys brighter, indirect sunlight. It requires minimal watering, making it ideal for beginners.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Moisture Absorption:

Peace lilies are known for their elegant appearance and ability to absorb moisture from the air. They also purify the air, making them perfect for a bathroom setting.

Care Tips:

Peace lilies do best in medium to low light and prefer to be kept moist. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, and mist regularly to maintain humidity.

7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)spider plant (chlorophytum comosum)

Moisture Absorption:

Spider plants are great for absorbing humidity and improving air quality. They are also pet-friendly and one of the easiest houseplants to care for.

Care Tips:

Spider plants prefer bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil. Water them when the topsoil feels dry, and mist the leaves occasionally to boost humidity.

8. Dracaenadracaena

Moisture Absorption:

Dracaena species are well-known for their ability to absorb moisture and purify the air. They are perfect for bathrooms due to their tolerance for humid conditions.

Care Tips:

Dracaena plants thrive in indirect sunlight and should be watered regularly. Ensure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot, and mist occasionally.

9. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Moisture Absorption:

Maidenhair ferns thrive in high humidity and are perfect for absorbing moisture in bathrooms. Their delicate, lacy fronds add a soft, lush feel to any space.

Care Tips:

These ferns need bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. They require regular misting to maintain their delicate foliage.

10. Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus)Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus)

Moisture Absorption:

Asparagus ferns thrive in moisture-rich environments and help absorb excess humidity in bathrooms. Their soft, needle-like leaves give them a unique appearance.

Care Tips:

Place them in a spot with bright, indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist. Mist regularly to maintain the humidity they require.

11. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)bird’s nest fern (asplenium nidus)

Moisture Absorption:

The bird’s nest fern is another excellent plant for humid bathrooms. Its broad, wavy fronds absorb moisture from the air, and it adds a tropical feel to any space.

Care Tips:

This fern prefers moderate to low light and consistently moist soil. Regular misting will help maintain the high humidity levels it needs.

12. OrchidOrchids

Moisture Absorption:

Orchids are not only elegant and beautiful but also thrive in the humidity of bathrooms. They absorb moisture from the air and add a touch of luxury to any space.

Care Tips:

Orchids need bright, indirect light and regular misting to mimic their natural tropical environment. Water them when the soil is almost dry.

13. Tillandsia (Air Plants)Tillandsia (Air Plants)

Moisture Absorption:

Air plants are unique because they don’t require soil to grow. They absorb moisture directly from the air, making them ideal for bathrooms with high humidity.

Care Tips:

Place air plants in bright, indirect light. Mist them regularly or soak them in water every week to ensure they get enough moisture.

14. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Moisture Absorption:

ZZ plants are tough and resilient, making them a great choice for humid bathrooms. They efficiently absorb moisture and require very little maintenance.

Care Tips:

ZZ plants can handle low light but prefer bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, as they store moisture in their thick, fleshy stems.

15. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

Moisture Absorption:

The cast iron plant is incredibly hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including humidity. It helps absorb moisture while being almost indestructible.

Care Tips:

This plant thrives in low light and requires minimal watering. It’s perfect for a low-maintenance bathroom setup.

16. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Moisture Absorption:

Chinese evergreen plants thrive in humidity, absorbing moisture from the air while also being very forgiving of low light conditions.

Care Tips:

This plant prefers indirect light but can tolerate low light. Mist it regularly to maintain high humidity, and water when the soil feels dry.

17. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

Moisture Absorption:

Bamboo palms are perfect for large bathrooms. They not only absorb moisture but also filter out toxins, improving overall air quality.

Care Tips:

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light. Keep the soil moist and mist regularly to maintain humidity.

18. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)fiddle leaf fig (ficus lyrata)

Moisture Absorption:

Fiddle leaf figs are trendy, statement plants that thrive in high humidity. They absorb moisture and bring a touch of sophistication to any bathroom.

Care Tips:

These plants need bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top layer of soil feels dry. Mist regularly to maintain humidity.

19. BegoniaBegonia

Moisture Absorption:

Begonias love high humidity and absorb moisture from the air, making them ideal for bathrooms. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, adding a pop of color to your space.

Care Tips:

Begonias prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered when the topsoil feels dry. Mist them regularly to keep the humidity levels high.

Plant Care in Bathroom Environments

While many of these plants thrive in humidity, it’s important to ensure that they are not overwatered. High humidity means they may require less frequent watering than plants in drier areas of your home.

However, misting is often necessary to maintain the moisture they need. Drainage is crucial, as waterlogged roots can lead to plant rot.

Also, keep in mind that light can be limited in bathrooms, especially those with small or no windows. Consider plants that tolerate low light or invest in grow lights to ensure your plants thrive.

Design Tips for Bathroom Plants

When placing plants in your bathroom, consider their light and space requirements. Use hanging baskets, window sills, or even shelves to make the most of your space.

Hanging or wall-mounted plants like Boston ferns, English ivy, and pothos are perfect for smaller bathrooms, while larger plants like bamboo palms and fiddle leaf figs make great statement pieces in more spacious bathrooms.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Moisture-Absorbing Bathroom Plants

Adding moisture-absorbing plants to your bathroom is not only a functional solution to control humidity but also a way to introduce beauty, freshness, and calm to your space. Whether you’re a beginner plant parent or a seasoned indoor gardener, there’s a plant on this list that can thrive in your bathroom.

From hardy, low-maintenance options like the snake plant and ZZ plant to humidity-loving tropicals like the orchid and bird’s nest fern, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the green and let these plants transform your bathroom into a tranquil, eco-friendly haven.

Call to Action

Ready to revamp your bathroom? Try adding one or more of these moisture-absorbing plants and see how they transform your space! Be sure to share your favorite plant choices or care tips in the comments. For more inspiration, check out our guide on indoor plant care or visit our Pinterest board for design ideas!

James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg

James Rivenburg is the founder of plantandpest.com, a passionate gardener with valuable experience and knowledge gained through trial and error. The website has a large community of followers who trust his tips and techniques and have succeeded with his advice. He is always Committed to helping others create a beautiful and healthy garden.

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