As the weather warms up, the combination of heat and moisture can make your home the perfect place for mould to grow – but there is a natural way to prevent it
The arrival of spring heralds warmer days, yet it also brings the unfortunate mix of heat and rain, which is a recipe for mould in UK homes. Mould loves the damp British climate, flourishing in steamy bathrooms, kitchen corners, and wherever laundry air-dries.
Jo Trotman, a whizz from The Residence Collection, offers a top tip for battening down against this unwelcome invader: pop a few houseplants around your pad. Trotman explained: “Incorporating plants into window spaces offers a range of benefits. Plants can enhance both environment and well-being and work towards boosting moods, as our research showed adding plants would make over one in eight Brits feel happier about their homes.”
Mainly coming from the lush tropics, many popular houseplants are seasoned pros at soaking up moisture. This is pretty handy, considering they’re natural humidifiers, guzzling airborne water so it won’t settle on walls and sprout unsightly mould.
When you place these leafy allies on your windowsill, say goodbye to morning wipe-down routines; they help fend off pesky condensation, too, as reported by The Express. Here’s a list of some of the best mould banishers you can buy.
READ MORE: Gardeners urged to plant specific flowers to confuse pests and keep them away
English Ivy
English ivy is not just a pretty climber perfect for adorning bookcases or hanging baskets; it’s also a natural air purifier that helps keep rooms dry. Jo explained: “The English ivy’s dense foliage is ideal for trapping particles in the air, making this plant highly effective at ridding homes of unwanted mould spores and absorbing extra moisture. Thriving in sunlight, place the English ivy on your windowsill where it can be protected by blinds or sheer curtains, such as in living rooms.”
This versatile plant doesn’t just beautify your space; it also tackles humidity and airborne toxins, reducing the risk of mould spore build-up.
Peace lilies
Not only do peace lilies boast striking tall white blooms, but they’re also air-cleaning heroes that are incredibly easy to maintain. What’s brilliant about peace lilies is their love for humid environments, making them perfect for bathrooms. Plus, they’re a breeze to look after.
Jo remarked, “Peace Lilies enjoy rooms with high humidity and low to moderate sunlight, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Like the English ivy, the peace lily has air-purifying abilities and can reduce moisture in the air through its leaves to prevent mould growth. Their elegant white flowers bring a sense of tranquility and beauty to spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas.”
Snake plants
Snake plants, with their distinctive upright leaves, not only add a decorative touch to the home but also keep mould and dampness at bay. These low-maintenance houseplants are ideal for those new to plant parenting or living a hectic lifestyle, as they thrive in dry conditions and do not require frequent watering.
Often found in adorning bedrooms, snake plants do more than just sit there looking pretty; they work hard at night to purify the air and provide you with oxygen, potentially boosting your sleep quality.
Jo explained: “Snake plants are excellent at absorbing toxins and moisture from the air, reducing the damp conditions that mould loves. They also release oxygen at night, enhancing the air quality in your home. Their adaptability to various light conditions makes them perfect for any window in your home.”
