8 Good Plants to Use for the Bathroom

Plants in the bathroom? Yep, it’s a thing - and for good reason. The right greenery can make your bathroom feel fresher, calmer, and a little bit like a spa (even if you’re just brushing your teeth). But not all plants are cut out for steamy showers and low light. The good news? Some actually love it. Here are 8 plants that thrive in bathroom conditions and add a natural, laid-back vibe to your space. 

Why Add Plants to Your Bathroom?

Adding greenery to your bathroom can instantly transform it into a spa-like sanctuary. The right plants thrive in humid conditions, absorb excess moisture, and bring a fresh, natural feel to the space. Plus, they’re a simple way to add colour and life without taking up too much room.

Key Benefits of Bathroom Plants

Aside from making your bathroom look beautiful, houseplants offer a range of benefits. Many plants naturally improve air quality by filtering out toxins and increasing oxygen levels. Some even help combat mould and mildew, which can be an issue in high-humidity areas. On top of that, studies suggest that having plants in your home can reduce stress and boost your mood—so why not start with the bathroom?

Best Plants for Bathrooms

Ferns (Ideal for High Humidity & Low Light)

Ferns are a classic choice for bathrooms, and for good reason. They love moisture, making them ideal for steamy environments. Boston ferns, in particular, thrive in humid conditions and don’t require too much light, making them perfect for bathrooms with small or frosted windows. Just keep their soil slightly damp and mist them occasionally for best results.

Spider Plant (Great for Air Purification)

If you’re after an easy-care plant that helps purify the air, the spider plant is a great option. It removes toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide while adding a fresh, green touch to your space. Spider plants adapt well to different light conditions and are resilient, making them ideal for those who aren’t the best at keeping plants alive.

Peace Lily (Beautiful & Air-Purifying)

For a touch of elegance, peace lilies are an excellent choice. They produce stunning white flowers and thrive in humid environments. Plus, they’re one of the best air-purifying plants, removing common household toxins. Just be mindful that they prefer indirect light and need watering about once a week—too much water can cause root rot.

Snake Plant (Thrives in Humid & Dry Conditions)

If you want a bathroom plant that can handle a bit of neglect, the snake plant is a winner. It’s one of the most low-maintenance options out there and can tolerate both high humidity and drier conditions. Not only that, but it’s also fantastic for filtering out airborne toxins, helping to keep your bathroom fresh and clean.

Aloe Vera (Great for Bathrooms with Bright Light)

Aloe vera isn’t just useful for soothing sunburn—it’s also an excellent bathroom plant. It loves bright, indirect light and doesn’t need frequent watering, making it a great low-maintenance choice. The added bonus? If you ever need a quick skin remedy, you can simply snap off a leaf and use the gel inside.

Orchids (Adds Elegance & Loves Humidity)

If you’re after something a little more exotic, orchids are a fantastic choice. They thrive in humid environments, making them perfect for bathrooms with showers. Their delicate flowers add a touch of luxury to any space, and they don’t need much watering—just make sure they have access to some indirect light.

Bamboo (Low-Maintenance & Symbol of Luck)

Bamboo is not only easy to care for but is also said to bring good luck. It doesn’t need soil to grow, so you can simply place it in a vase with water and pebbles. Plus, it does well in low light, making it a great option if your bathroom doesn’t get much natural sunlight. Just remember to change the water every couple of weeks to keep it fresh.

Pothos (Hardy, Trailing Plant for Bathrooms)

If you love trailing plants, pothos is one of the best options for a bathroom. It’s incredibly hardy, can tolerate low light, and loves humidity. Plus, its cascading vines look fantastic on shelves or hanging baskets. Pothos is also great at filtering out toxins from the air, making it as functional as it is attractive.

How to Care for Bathroom Plants

Light Requirements

Not all bathrooms get plenty of natural light, so it’s important to choose plants that match your lighting conditions. If your bathroom has a bright window, opt for plants like aloe vera or orchids. For low-light spaces, ferns and snake plants are excellent choices. If natural light is minimal, consider using a small grow light to help your plants thrive.

Watering & Humidity Tips

Bathrooms tend to be humid, which can be beneficial for many plants, but it doesn’t mean they don’t need watering. The key is to strike the right balance—plants like ferns and peace lilies prefer consistently damp soil, while succulents and snake plants need the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can be a common issue, so always check the soil before adding more water.

Placement Ideas

Where you place your plants can make a big difference. Hanging plants like pothos work well in bathrooms with limited counter space, while small potted plants can be placed on shelves or window sills. If you have a larger bathroom, consider a statement plant like a tall bamboo or a cluster of ferns in a corner. Just be sure to keep plants away from direct contact with hot showers or heaters, as extreme temperature changes can stress them.

Final Thoughts

Adding plants to your bathroom is a simple way to enhance the space while improving air quality. Whether you prefer an elegant orchid, a hardy snake plant, or a trailing pothos, there’s a perfect plant for every bathroom. And if you’re updating your bathroom, don’t forget to consider the space that plants take up! We’d recommend a quadrant enclosure if you’re dealing with a small bathroom, but always make sure to compare quadrant enclosures before buying to ensure the best fit. 

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