As the autumn weather starts to creep in, many of us will start drying our clothes indoors – here we reveal how one item can help prevent mould from building up in your home
As autumn is now here and the weather gets colder, reminding us to stay vigilant for signs of mould creeping into our homes.
During this period, more people begin to dry their clothes indoors, unwittingly inviting dampness and condensation into their living spaces. Mould finds its haven in the moist conditions that come with the combination of dropping temperatures and indoor dampness, eager to spread through our homes. But fear not, because, according to Jamie Jones, founder of Open Space Concepts, there’s an elegant solution to ward off the threat of mould – houseplants. Jamie explained: “Plants are the perfect design choice for a room plus they can help prevent condensation and mould too.”
What houseplants should you have in your home to prevent mould
It might seem odd, but certain houseplants enhance air circulation, which critically reduces the possibility of moisture settling on your walls, reports the Express. Acting as natural air purifiers, these green guardians absorb airborne moisture via their foliage, fostering conditions less conducive to mould growth.
Among the top picks is the peace lily. Not only do these plants add beauty and require minimal care, but their affinity for the high humidity of rainforest climates makes them formidable adversaries against indoor dampness.
Jamie revealed: “Peace lilies can remove excess moisture from the air and absorb mould spores, therefore reducing the growth of mould and mildew in the home. They can reduce humidity levels in their immediate environment, which isn’t great for mould, which thrives in damp environments.”
He also noted that peace lilies prefer indirect sunlight and cautioned against placing them on a window sill as they might dry out. Instead, he advised watering them when the soil feels dry to touch, saying: “Peace lilies rather stay in indirect sunlight, so it’s best not to keep them in the window where they could easily dry out and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch.”
If looking after flowers isn’t your cup of tea, Jamie suggests snake plants as a hardy alternative that also tackles mould. “Snake plants not only have the benefit of being a more low-maintenance plant option but can also remove excess moisture from the air and can remove airborne toxins, again preventing that mould growth that thrives in damper environments,” he said.
James highlighted that snake plants are particularly effective in bedrooms as they release oxygen at night, enhancing air quality while you slumber, but they also fit nicely into living rooms, offices or hallways. Moreover, James recommended snake plants for those new to plant care who are dealing with mould issues.
He said: “If you’re a beginner to plants and struggling with mould, a snake plant might be the best option for you; they’re one of the easiest plants to care for. Just water occasionally when the soil is dry, and whilst they can grow in most conditions, they will benefit more in a sunny space, in a warm, humid environment-making it the perfect bathroom plant.”
