Damp and mould may be building in your home as winter encroaches. And with the extortionate costs of running a de-humidifier, your prospects may look bleak.
However, one simple houseplant might not only eradicate mould from your house, but also de-toxify air, and add some colour to your rooms. The humble peace lily is available for just £6 from B&Q and can maximise the health of your house.
Mould growth becomes a bigger issue in the colder months due to increased indoor humidity and reduced ventilation. While houseplants aren’t a cure-all, certain varieties can help reduce excess moisture in the air.
Particular houseplants are known for their ability to absorb moisture through their leaves in a process called transpiration, according to Beard & Daisies. Houseplants such as Peace Lilies and the Bird of Paradise are effective at removing moisture in the air, which can help lower indoor humidity levels, one of the main triggers for mould growth.
Air-Purifying Qualities
Houseplants not only help control moisture but also improve air quality too. Kentia Palms and the Snake Plant, for example, are known to reduce toxins that can increase mould growth. They soak up these pollutants and change them into nutrients, cleaning the air naturally.
Where to Place Them
To get the most out of your plants, place them in areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry/utility rooms. Houseplants like Boston ferns thrive in these environments and will help keep humidity levels down.
Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies and author of houseplant guide ‘The Unkillables’, emphasises the benefits of houseplants in moisture control. She said: “Incorporating a few houseplants can make a real difference in controlling moisture and mould in your home, especially in the cooler months when these issues tend to get worse.” Jo adds that while houseplants are often praised for their aesthetic appeal, their role in improving indoor air quality and dampness control isn’t spoken about enough.
She notes that “they not only help with humidity but also contribute to creating a fresher, healthier atmosphere overall. It’s a small but effective way to improve your home environment, especially when other ventilation options might be limited during autumn and winter, and lets not forget the fact they boost your mood too.”