Imagine stepping into your bathroom and being greeted by a lush, green sanctuary that instantly soothes your senses. Houseplants have transcended their traditional spots in living rooms and bedrooms to find a new haven in bathrooms. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the inclusion of carefully selected houseplants in bathrooms offers an array of benefits that range from improved air quality and humidity regulation to a tangible connection with nature's rejuvenating essence. 

While the popularity of having houseplants in bathrooms is on the rise, it's important to note that the success of growing plants in this space depends on factors like light levels, humidity, and plant selection. As this trend continues to gain momentum, let’s learn the art of incorporating houseplants into your bathroom, from selecting the perfect plants that harmonize with your bathroom's environment to mastering their care - Join us on a journey to discover how a touch of green can turn your bathroom into a revitalizing spa-like space. 

Why Should You Have Houseplants in Bathroom? 

Having houseplants in bathrooms can offer several benefits, both aesthetic and functional. Here are some reasons why people choose to decorate their bathrooms with houseplants:

• Aesthetic Enhancement: Houseplants can add a touch of natural beauty and vibrancy to your bathroom space. They can liven up the décor and create a more inviting and visually appealing atmosphere.
• Improved Air Quality: Many houseplants act as natural air purifiers, helping to filter out toxins and pollutants from the air. This is particularly beneficial in bathrooms, which can sometimes have limited ventilation and may contain harmful chemicals from cleaning products.
• Humidity Regulation: Bathrooms tend to have higher humidity levels due to showers and baths. Some houseplants thrive in such conditions and can help maintain a healthier humidity level. This can be especially useful in dry or arid climates.
• Stress Reduction: Research suggests that having plants in indoor spaces can contribute to reduced stress and anxiety levels. The presence of greenery and natural elements can have a calming effect on individuals.

• Privacy and Décor: Some larger plants can be strategically placed to provide a degree of privacy by blocking or obscuring windows. They can also be used to soften harsh architectural elements and create a more inviting environment.

• Aromatherapy: Some fragrant plants, like lavender or eucalyptus, can release pleasant scents into the bathroom, creating a spa-like atmosphere and enhancing relaxation.

Growing houseplants offers many benefits
Photo by New Africa

What Houseplants Can Be Grown in Bathrooms?

A bathroom is a unique environment characterized by lower light levels and higher humidity due to showers and baths. When selecting houseplants to thrive in such conditions, consider those that can adapt to these specific characteristics. Plants that love bright light and low humidity levels like cacti and succulents are not suitable for bathrooms. Houseplants that thrive in bathrooms are humidity-loving plants that can tolerate relatively lower lighting conditions. 

Creating a thriving indoor garden in a low-light bathroom can seem like a challenge, but there are several houseplants that are perfectly adapted to these conditions. These plants have evolved to survive in the dim light found under the canopy of larger trees in their natural habitats. While they might not grow as quickly or vigorously as they would in brighter conditions, they can still thrive and bring a touch of nature to your bathroom retreat. When selecting low-light houseplants for your bathroom, consider their foliage. Darker green leaves often indicate a plant's adaptability to lower light levels, as they are more efficient at photosynthesis in limited light.

Selecting the right plants to grow in bathroom is very important.
Photo by Liudmila Chernetska

Moreover, the best plants for bathrooms should be houseplants that love high humidity levels. Plants that originate from rainforests and tropical environments often flourish in high-humidity conditions. Their adaptations include features like thicker leaves, water storage cells, and the ability to absorb moisture through their leaves. When placed in bathrooms, these plants can provide a refreshing and invigorating ambiance. When choosing high-humidity plants for your bathroom, look for those with larger, broader leaves. These leaves are adept at capturing moisture from the air, which is especially beneficial in bathrooms with heightened humidity. Additionally, consider plants with leaf structures that allow water to bead up and roll off, preventing issues like fungal growth.

Which Houseplants Grow Best in Bathrooms?

Here is a list of our top 10 houseplants that we recommend for bathrooms. These plants can release oxygen at both day and night so they are ideal choices if you want to enhance air quaility in your bathroom:

• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Snake plants are renowned for their hardiness and adaptability. They can thrive in low light conditions, making them an ideal choice for bathrooms with limited natural light. Their upright, sword-like leaves come in various patterns and sizes, adding a touch of modern elegance to your bathroom. Snake plants are also excellent air purifiers, helping to improve indoor air quality.

• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The ZZ plant is practically indestructible, making it perfect for low light bathrooms. Its glossy, dark green leaves are not only visually appealing but also help purify the air by removing toxins. ZZ plants store water in their rhizomes, allowing them to withstand periods of drought and handle the occasional humidity of bathrooms.

• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Pothos is a classic choice for low light conditions. Their heart-shaped leaves come in various shades of green, making them a versatile decorative option. Pothos vines can cascade gracefully from hanging pots, adding a dynamic touch to your bathroom décor. They thrive in the humidity generated by showers and baths and are quite forgiving in terms of care.

• Ferns: Ferns are synonymous with lush, green foliage and are well-suited for bathrooms due to their love for humidity. Boston ferns and maidenhair ferns are popular choices. Their feathery fronds create an enchanting and calming atmosphere, especially in spaces with higher humidity levels.

• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Peace lilies are known for their elegant white blooms and glossy green leaves. They can tolerate low light conditions and appreciate the increased humidity found in bathrooms. Peace lilies are also effective air purifiers, making them a functional and beautiful addition to your bathroom space.
• Bamboo Plant (Dracaena sanderiana): Also known as "lucky bamboo," this plant is often grown in water and can thrive in indirect light. It's a symbol of good luck and can add an element of zen to your bathroom. Lucky bamboo is known for its easy care and resilience, making it suitable for various bathroom environments.
• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are popular due to their air-purifying abilities and adaptability to different conditions. They can thrive in low-light environments and are tolerant of humidity fluctuations. Their arching leaves with white stripes add visual interest to bathrooms.

• Aloe Vera: Aloe vera's succulent leaves are not only visually appealing but also contain a soothing gel with various skin benefits. While aloe vera prefers bright indirect light, it can still tolerate lower light conditions commonly found in bathrooms. Just make sure it receives occasional access to light to keep it thriving.

• Air Plants (Tillandsia): Air plants are unique in that they don't require soil to grow. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, making them well-suited for humid bathroom environments. Air plants can be creatively displayed in various ways, such as in hanging planters, on decorative hooks, or in glass containers.

• Orchids: Certain orchid varieties, like Phalaenopsis orchids, can thrive in bathrooms with sufficient indirect light and higher humidity levels. Their intricate and exotic flowers make them a striking focal point. Orchids may require a bit more care and attention, but their beauty and elegance are well worth the effort.

Tips to Care for Your Houseplants Grown in Bathrooms

• Bathrooms often have lower light conditions. While many houseplants can tolerate low light, it's still essential to provide some indirect light. Place your plants near windows or consider using a grow lamp to supplement light if necessary.
• Ensure your plant containers have proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Standing water can lead to root rot and other issues. Use only well-draining potting soil mix.
• While bathrooms have higher humidity, it's essential not to overwater your plants. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings. Use your finger to test the moisture level in the soil before watering.
• Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and disease and treat them promptly to prevent plant damage. 

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