Get Rid of Mold Successfully with These Common House Plants
Mold is a common issue in many households, especially in areas with high humidity. Not only is it unsightly, but mold can also negatively impact your health, triggering allergies, respiratory problems, and other health concerns.
While there are many chemical solutions available, did you know that certain houseplants can naturally help combat mold?
Yes, that’s right! Some common house plants have powerful properties that can help reduce indoor mold levels, purify the air, and create a healthier living environment.
Let’s explore which plants can help you get rid of mold successfully and how to use them effectively.
1. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is a popular houseplant known for its ability to filter toxins from the air. It’s particularly effective at reducing airborne mold spores, making it a great choice for rooms prone to mold growth, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
English Ivy is also relatively easy to care for, thriving in moderate light and requiring only occasional watering.
How to Use:
- Place a potted English Ivy plant near windows, in corners, or in areas where mold is likely to develop.
- Ensure the plant gets some indirect sunlight and water it when the soil feels dry to the touch.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is not only a beautiful addition to any room, but it’s also an air-purifying powerhouse. This plant is highly effective at removing mold spores and other pollutants from the air.
It thrives in low light conditions, making it ideal for darker, damper areas of your home where mold tends to grow.
How to Use:
- Place Peace Lilies in areas like bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms where humidity levels are high.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity.
3. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are natural humidifiers that can help regulate moisture levels in your home, making them a great choice for reducing mold growth.
They are known for their ability to absorb moisture from the air, which helps to keep mold spores from settling and growing.
How to Use:
- Position Boston Ferns in rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Keep the plant’s soil consistently moist and mist its leaves regularly to keep them healthy and effective.
4. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” the Snake Plant is one of the most low-maintenance houseplants that can help improve indoor air quality.
It effectively removes mold spores, as well as toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air. It can tolerate low light and dry conditions, making it perfect for any room in your home.
How to Use:
- Place Snake Plants in any room where mold is a concern. They do well in low to moderate light and only need watering when the soil is completely dry.
- Consider placing a Snake Plant in your bedroom to improve air quality while you sleep.
5. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is not just known for its healing properties; it’s also an effective air purifier.
It helps remove mold spores and other toxins from the air, creating a healthier environment in your home. Aloe Vera thrives in sunny spots, making it perfect for kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms.
How to Use:
- Place Aloe Vera near a sunny window where it can get plenty of indirect light.
- Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering.
6. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Bamboo Palms are excellent at filtering air and reducing mold spores. These plants thrive in low to moderate light and help maintain healthy humidity levels, preventing mold growth.
How to Use:
- Place Bamboo Palms in areas with indirect light, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
- Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is one of the easiest houseplants to care for and is highly effective at purifying the air.
It absorbs mold spores and toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, making it a great choice for any room in your home.
How to Use:
- Position Spider Plants in well-lit areas, such as kitchens or bathrooms.
- Water when the top of the soil feels dry, and mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
How to Maximize the Mold-Fighting Power of Your Plants
- Group Plants Together: Placing multiple plants in one area can increase the effectiveness of air purification and humidity control.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your plants healthy by watering them appropriately, providing the right amount of light, and pruning any dead or yellowing leaves.
- Rotate Plants: Rotate your plants to different areas of your home to maximize their air-purifying benefits in different rooms.
Create a Healthier Home with These Mold-Fighting Plants
By incorporating these common house plants into your living space, you can naturally reduce mold growth, improve air quality, and create a healthier environment for you and your family.