15 Bathroom Plants That Absorb Moisture & Prevent Mold Naturally
My bathroom used to feel like a swamp. You know the deal, foggy mirrors, damp towels, that “just showered” humidity that sticks around forever? I was constantly cracking windows and blasting the exhaust fan.
Nothing worked… until I discovered moisture-absorbing plants.
It felt like magic. Not only did these leafy little heroes make my bathroom look like a mini spa, but they also soaked up excess humidity like champs.
No more mildew, and it smelled better too!
So if you’re like me, someone who wants their bathroom to look and feel fresh, stick around.
I’m sharing my absolute favorite plants that love your bathroom’s humidity more than you do.
1. Boston Fern
This was the first plant I added to my bathroom, and honestly, it felt like I’d brought the outdoors inside. Boston Ferns thrive in humidity, which makes them perfect for steamy bathrooms.
Their long, delicate fronds drape down beautifully, especially when placed in hanging baskets. They soak up moisture through their leaves while making the space look cozy and lush.
Just remember, they like their soil damp but not soggy. I water mine every few days and mist it lightly to keep the humidity love going.
- Loves: High humidity, indirect light
- Bonus: Fluffy fronds add serious spa vibes
- Care Tip: Mist regularly and avoid direct sun
- Best Spot: Hanging planter or shelf near the shower
2. Spider Plant
Spider plants are the definition of easy-going. I stuck one on a shelf near the sink, and it just kept thriving, even when I forgot about it for a week.
They have these adorable baby “spiderettes” that dangle down like streamers. Not only do they add greenery, but they also absorb moisture and purify the air.
They’re perfect for beginners, and they love a little humidity boost from your daily shower.
- Loves: Medium humidity, indirect light
- Bonus: Produces baby plants (spiderettes)
- Care Tip: Water when soil is dry, avoid overwatering
- Best Spot: Hanging pot or high shelf
3. Peace Lily
My peace lily sits right by the tub, and I swear, it’s thriving on my daily showers. The blooms are lovely, but what I really love is how well it handles bathroom humidity.
It soaks up moisture like a sponge and even filters toxins from the air. If your mirror always fogs up, this plant might help reduce that steam.
Just don’t forget, it’s a bit dramatic if you let it dry out. Mine wilts fast, but perks right back up with a drink.
- Loves: Humidity and low to moderate light
- Bonus: Gorgeous white blooms all year round
- Care Tip: Keep soil moist, not wet, mist for extra love
- Best Spot: Vanity, floor pot, or windowsill
4. Bamboo Palm
This plant gives off tropical vacation vibes, and who doesn’t want that in a bathroom? I placed a bamboo palm in the corner, and it instantly made the space feel taller and airier.
It naturally absorbs moisture and even reduces air pollutants. I noticed fewer mildew spots once it settled in.
Give it a bright, indirect spot, and it will flourish. I water mine once a week, and it’s been super low maintenance.
- Loves: Bright indirect light and warmth
- Bonus: Excellent humidity absorber and air purifier
- Care Tip: Water when topsoil dries out
- Best Spot: Corner near tub or floor planter
5. English Ivy
I added a little English Ivy in a hanging pot near my bathroom window, and now it’s trailing down like a mini green waterfall.
It’s one of the best plants for fighting mold spores in the air. That’s huge for small bathrooms that trap a lot of steam.
It likes a bit of light and air, so make sure it’s not crammed in a dark corner. It’s honestly one of the most rewarding plants I’ve owned.
- Loves: Indirect light and cool, moist air
- Bonus: Great for removing airborne mold spores
- Care Tip: Allow soil to dry slightly before watering
- Best Spot: Hanging basket or shelf near the window
6. Aloe Vera
I always thought of Aloe as a kitchen plant, until I tried one in the bathroom. Turns out, it thrives on the window ledge soaking in all that steamy air.
It’s a succulent, so it doesn’t drink much water. The thick, fleshy leaves actually absorb moisture straight from the air.
Plus, if you burn yourself with a curling iron (been there), you can break off a piece and use the gel. Handy and cute!
- Loves: Bright light and dry-ish conditions
- Bonus: Gel treats skin irritations and burns
- Care Tip: Water only when soil is completely dry
- Best Spot: Bathroom windowsill or corner shelf
7. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
If you want a plant that just works, this is it. I keep mine in a dark bathroom corner, and it’s still growing strong.
Its tall, sturdy leaves help absorb moisture and improve air quality, even while you sleep. Perfect if your bathroom gets stuffy.
It barely needs any water or care. I might water mine once a month and it still loves me.
- Loves: Low light and high humidity
- Bonus: Converts CO₂ into oxygen at night
- Care Tip: Don’t overwater, let soil dry out completely
- Best Spot: Floor pot or corner of bathroom
8. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
I adore this plant’s leaf patterns, they’re like art! Calathea loves humidity, and I noticed its leaves perked up big-time once I moved it to the bathroom.
It even “prays” by folding its leaves at night, which is just adorable. The steam from the shower keeps it super happy.
Just don’t let the soil dry out completely, it likes moisture but not soggy roots.
- Loves: Indirect light and high humidity
- Bonus: Colorful, patterned leaves add charm
- Care Tip: Mist regularly and keep soil evenly moist
- Best Spot: Countertop or near the shower area
9. Golden Pothos
This plant grows like wildfire. I hung mine near the towel rack, and it now cascades beautifully.
Golden Pothos is amazing at soaking up moisture and filtering air. It’s so adaptable, I’ve even propagated cuttings in water jars.
Even if you’re forgetful, this one’s super forgiving. Water when the leaves start to droop.
- Loves: Bright, indirect light and humidity
- Bonus: Removes toxins from the air
- Care Tip: Let soil dry slightly between watering
- Best Spot: Hanging from ceiling or high shelf
10. Philodendron
This one surprised me. I placed it in a low-light corner of the bathroom, and it took off.
Its heart-shaped leaves love the humidity and grow lush and full. It gives off major jungle vibes, even in small spaces.
Just water when the top inch of soil feels dry, it doesn’t like to sit in wet soil too long.
- Loves: Medium to low light and humidity
- Bonus: Gorgeous trailing or upright growth
- Care Tip: Water moderately and rotate for even growth
- Best Spot: Hanging basket or bathroom shelf
11. ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is the ultimate low-maintenance roommate. I’ve forgotten to water it for weeks, and it still looks brand new with those shiny leaves.
It handles humidity like a pro and thrives in low light, making it ideal for those windowless bathrooms. Plus, it adds a sleek, modern vibe wherever you place it.
If you’re busy, forgetful, or just not a “plant person,” start with this one. It’s practically indestructible.
- Loves: Low light and humid spaces
- Bonus: Glossy leaves add a modern touch
- Care Tip: Let the soil dry completely between waterings
- Best Spot: Bathroom floor or small shelf
12. Orchids
I used to think orchids were high-maintenance divas, but putting one in the bathroom changed my mind. The humidity keeps it blooming and happy.
They thrive in bright, indirect light and love the steam from hot showers. The blooms are stunning and last for weeks, so they’re perfect for elevating your space.
Just don’t overwater. I mist mine gently and only water when the roots look silvery.
- Loves: Bright, indirect light and high humidity
- Bonus: Elegant blooms with a luxurious feel
- Care Tip: Mist often, avoid soggy roots
- Best Spot: Windowsill or shelf near the tub
13. Chinese Evergreen
This plant has soft, patterned leaves that practically glow. Mine lives happily in a shady corner of the bathroom, adding a pop of green with minimal effort.
It’s super forgiving, even if you occasionally forget to water it. It also helps clean the air and adds a calm, lush look to any space.
Rotate it every now and then for balanced growth, and it will be one of your easiest plant wins.
- Loves: Medium to low light and humid air
- Bonus: Air-purifying and mold-resistant
- Care Tip: Keep soil lightly moist, avoid cold drafts
- Best Spot: Shelf or floor near a wall
14. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
This plant is tiny but mighty. I first got one for my desk, but once I moved it into the bathroom, it started showing off those gorgeous vein patterns.
It absolutely loves steamy air and does best in low light. The vibrant colors brighten up any nook or shelf.
Just don’t let it dry out—it wilts fast but perks up just as quickly once watered. It’s dramatic, but lovable.
- Loves: High humidity and low light
- Bonus: Bright veins in pink, red, or white
- Care Tip: Keep soil evenly moist, mist often
- Best Spot: Mini pot on the sink or shelf
15. Tillandsia (Air Plants)
No soil? No problem. These fun little guys live off moisture in the air and look amazing in creative containers.
I have a few in glass orbs and seashells around my mirror. They soak in humidity from daily showers and barely need any attention.
Just give them a soak once a week, and they’ll reward you with funky shapes and cool textures.
- Loves: Bright, indirect light and humidity
- Bonus: No soil needed, super versatile
- Care Tip: Soak in water for 20–30 minutes weekly
- Best Spot: Wall-mounted holders or decorative bowls
Let Your Bathroom Bloom Naturally
Who knew a few green buddies could make such a difference? These bathroom plants don’t just absorb moisture, they lift your mood and make the space feel fresh, calm, and alive.
Try adding one (or five), see how your bathroom changes, and enjoy the chill spa vibes without any remodeling. Trust me, your towels, mirror, and lungs will thank you.
