How to Reduce Condensation With Houseplants

Colder external temperatures have a massive impact on the formation of condensation on windows; the greater the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature, the more chance of condensation forming. With central heating also playing its part, it seems endless. Fortunately, there are various houseplants you can make use of to reduce the problems of damp window cills and the spread of black mould. Plants themselves decrease room humidity as well as enhance the look and feel of your home. We’ve listed the best ones at reducing condensation below.

Spider Plant

Notoriously hard to kill, spider plants are incredibly easy to grow; they rarely need more care and attention than a little water every so often. Dust allergens and carbon monoxide are easily absorbed by this plant through its many replicating leaves. Impressively, in just 48 hours, spider plants are capable of eliminating 90% of air toxins.

Peace Lily

Homes are typically heated to around 19°C, and this lily tolerates temperatures between 18°C and 29°C. What makes the peace lily such a brilliant plant in combating mould is that it thrives in humid conditions. It can break down carbon monoxide incredibly well, as well as other airborne toxins, and can improve indoor air quality by up to 60%. The peace lily will absorb any mould spores at its roots to feed its growth. However, it is also toxic to pets, so it should always remain out of their reach.

Areca Palm

With a touch of the tropics, this palm turns carbon dioxide into oxygen and is a master of both absorbing and releasing moisture into the air. If you happen to live in a dry place, where there is a lack of humidity, the areca is definitely the plant for you. Praised for its looks as well as its capabilities, the areca palm is great at controlling humidity levels.

Boston Fern

Ferns generally like moist climates. They absorb as much moisture in the air as they can, easily balancing out high humidity levels. It purifies the air of formaldehyde, which is present from carpets and anything paper based. With one of these on a particularly moist window cill, you can be sure that it will explode with life as it saps the moisture from the air.

English Ivy

Often regarded as the most useful plant in tackling mould, ivy won’t cost you the Earth. With its many leaves, it traps a lot of moisture and makes good use of it. Ivy is also adept at removing toxins from the air, which is useful for anyone with allergies, and is capable of removing 78% of airborne mould in just 12 hours. Such airborne mould produces green and black blotches in the corners of rooms.

You should take note that the leaves are toxic to animals, though, so you might have to reconsider this one if you can’t trust your pets to stay away. As long as it’s out of reach, they should be okay; ingestion is the main problem. Consequently, Irish ivy can be a suitable replacement as the leaves are bigger.

Snake Plant