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Have you ever walked into your home from the fresh outside air and smelled that dreaded musty scent? Do you know the kind where the air feels damp and heavy? You might have too much humidity in your house.
Humidity usually occurs in wet, hot climates but it happens in the winter as well! It can lead to anything from annoying problems like smelly air to huge problems like mold.
The best way to deal with this issue? Invest in some plants that absorb humidity! If you don’t know where to start, read on to learn about 7 easy indoor house plants that’ll destroy that musty smell.
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1. Peace Lily
These indoor plants are perfect for those that don’t quite have a green thumb. Peace lilies are known to be very low maintenance and perfect for apartments or offices.
Placing your peace lily in a sunny space will cause it to flower, giving you those perfect white blooms. If you prefer green foliage, keep your lily away from direct sunlight.
Regardless of light level, peace lilies are efficient little air cleaners! They’re known as one of the best indoor plants for absorbing moisture. Even with infrequent watering, they will gather enough water from their environment to survive.
2. Spider Plant
Resembling spiders dangling off a web, these plants are not as scary as they sound. They are extremely robust shrubs and almost impossible to kill, even for new gardeners.
Spider plants are very effective indoor house plants for absorbing humidity. But they do more than that! NASA studies have found that these tough guys also absorb 90% of formaldehyde found in the air. Spider plants effectively keep your lungs and home clean and fresh!
3. Philodendron
Gorgeous climbing (or hanging) plants, Philodendrons can be found just about anywhere. This very common plant is very easy to care for and doesn’t need much special attention. Just keep them out of direct sunlight to avoid burning their leaves!
Philodendrons are one of the best plants that absorb humidity from the air. Because they love warm, humid temperatures, the bathroom is a perfect place for this tropical plant. You can say goodbye to your post-shower dampness!
4. Snake Plant
Being desert natives, snake plants are very used to hot weather. The lack of rain in the wilderness makes them pretty self-sufficient. In fact, they can go more than six weeks without watering!
Snake plants usually get their water from the environment which makes them perfect for absorbing humidity in your home. As a bonus, they’re also very trendy plants right now and will make your space Insta-worthy! Functional and beautiful? A winning combination.
5. Ficus Tree
Looking for something a little bigger and more dramatic? A ficus tree is the perfect combination of natural dehumidifier and decor. These tall, leafy indoor trees enjoy indirect sunlight and warm temperatures.
Ficus trees need humidity to stay at a level of around 40%, so living rooms and bedrooms are the perfect home for them. While relatively easy to care for, these little trees can be fickle so moving them around is a bad idea. Once you’ve chosen the perfect spot for your ficus, leave it be!
6. Tillandsia
Better known as “air plants”, Tillandsia are amazing tiny indoor house plants! It’s almost impossible to kill this plant because it doesn’t need water or soil to survive.
Tillandsia’s can grow anywhere. In rocks, seashells, bowls, cups, and any other holder you can think of. But the best place for this greenery is in the bedroom. Air plants photosynthesize at night so placing them in your bedroom allows for fresh oxygen while you snooze!
These little guys are native to rainforests so they love a humid space. And because they’re so small, you can keep them even in the tiniest of places.
7. Boston Fern
Looking for a non-toxic plant for a home with pets or children? The Boston Fern is an excellent option. Although a bit more difficult to take care of than the others on this list, it makes quite a dramatic statement.
These green giants look the best hanging from the ceiling or placed in a bowl-shaped pot. Boston Ferns love humidity and crave a hot, wet climate. These would work really well in a bathroom or kitchen for absorbing excess moisture.
Benefits of Fresh Air
Most people don’t get as much fresh air as they should. We spend a lot of time working, living, and sleeping indoors. Not only do these plants balance the humidity levels in your space, but they also remove toxins from the air.
Other benefits of indoor house plants include:
- improved concentration
- higher productivity
- decreased stress levels
- better mood
- increased positive feelings
Keep toxins out of your home by reducing humidity levels with beautiful, indoor plants. Nature’s best dehumidifier!
The Problem With Mold
According to the CDC, humidity levels in your home should be kept around 30 to 50%. Anything higher than that can contribute to mold growth.
Mold can get in through cracks, windows, doors, and vents. It thrives in humid, wet places and grows very quickly. Mold is not instantly deadly but most of it is toxic. The effects range from very serious to moderately annoying.
The most common problems associated with mold are:
- allergies
- asthma
- dry, long-lasting cough
- stuffy nose
- itchy eyes
- scratchy throat
- wheezing
While making your place a little more green can do you a lot of good, plants are not a magic cure. If you’re dealing with severe dampness and mold, you should use professional mold inspections and testing.
Decorate With Plants That Absorb Humidity
Are you thinking about buying a humidifier for your muggy room? Stop! Plants that absorb humidity are a natural, cheaper, and lovelier way to freshen up a room.
Besides, taking care of plants is proven to lower stress levels and boost good feelings! Truly a perfect solution for both your living space and your mental health.
Want to learn more about improving your well-being? Check out our Health & Fitness section for tons of great reads.
