These low-maintenance plants can help keep mould at bay
02:00, 12 May 2026Updated 07:22, 12 May 2026

Snake plants are super effective in bathrooms(Image: Getty)
Varying bathroom temperatures and unpredictable moisture levels throughout a typical British summer provide ideal conditions for mould growth. Bathroom mould commonly develops in grout lines and on ceilings, particularly in spaces without an extractor fan. Big Bathroom Shop has partnered with houseplant specialist Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, to reveal four moisture-absorbing houseplants.
Rikki Fothergill, bathroom design expert at Big Bathroom Shop, said: “While households are typically more aware of bathroom moisture in the colder, wetter months, it’s equally as important to stay on top of this as we head into summer. With increased heat and moisture, houseplants are simple yet effective accessories that help to balance that airflow within the space.
“I’d recommend keeping them in the bathrooms all year round to maintain a fresh and hygienic environment whilst avoiding pricey structural repair costs as a result of long-term damage.”
Monstera
Also known as a Swiss cheese plant, this houseplant adapts well to bathroom warmth, though it’s best positioned away from direct sunlight, according to the Express.
It’s the perfect plant for managing constantly shifting conditions and reducing the development of harmful bacteria.
Peace lily
Jo said: “The peace lily is one of my go-tos for summer because it’s incredibly good at telling you what it needs.
“It handles the humidity of summer well and doesn’t need direct sunlight to thrive.”
It’s an ideal solution for those struggling to keep mould under control in a windowless bathroom.

Swiss cheese plants are super low-maintenance(Image: Olga Rolenko via Getty Images)
Boston fern
Steamy, humid bathrooms can actually help Boston ferns flourish.
The plant expert said: “It loves humidity, it loves warmth, and it grows noticeably faster when conditions are right.”
That said, they do require some ventilation, such as a window or a fan, as adequate airflow proves more effective.
Snake plant
Snake plants are perfect for those who need low-maintenance greenery to help tackle mould.
Jo said: “It tolerates heat, handles irregular watering better than almost anything, and it’s completely unbothered by temperature fluctuations.”
Better still, they have a striking appearance and can make a bold statement in any bathroom.

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