The Top 10 Indoor Plants to Reduce Humidity in Your Home Naturally

Having too much humidity in your home can lead to a number of issues, from mold growth to musty odors. While you could run a dehumidifier, there is a more natural solution – using plants to regulate humidity levels. Certain indoor plants are excellent at absorbing moisture from the air through a process called foliar uptake. Adding these humidity-reducing plants is an easy way to create a healthier home environment.

In this article, we will look at the top 10 indoor plants to reduce humidity, how they work, where to place them, and tips for caring for them. Read on to learn how to naturally dehumidify your home with plants.

How Do Plants Reduce Humidity?

Plants absorb moisture through their leaves via foliar uptake The moisture enters the plant through pores on the leaves called stomata, It then moves through the plant’s vascular system just like water absorbed through the roots

As the plant transpires and releases water vapor back into the air, it effectively acts like a natural dehumidifier. Plants from tropical regions with high humidity have adapted to take in more moisture this way.

The Top 10 Humidity-Reducing Indoor Plants

Here are 10 great options to choose from

1. Peace Lily

Peace lilies are excellent for absorbing moisture from the air. They have broad, dense leaves that give them a large surface area for foliar uptake. Peace lilies also remove air pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.

2. Snake Plant

Snake plants, also called mother-in-law’s tongue, are succulents that thrive with little watering. Their stiff, upright leaves provide ample surface area for moisture absorption. Their drought-tolerant nature also helps remove humidity.

3. Philodendrons

Philodendrons are tropical plants with heart-shaped leaves that can absorb ample moisture through their large surface area Varieties like the split-leaf philodendron grow well in shady indoor spaces

4. Spider Plant

Spider plants are easy to care for and great at reducing humidity. Their long, narrow leaves have more surface area for moisture uptake. Spider plants also filter out pollutants like carbon monoxide and xylene.

5. English Ivy

English ivy is a popular trailing vine plant. Its multitude of leaves absorbs humidity while helping filter airborne mold spores and allergens. Let the vines spread or train them on a trellis.

6. Orchids

Beautiful orchids act as natural humidifiers. They absorb moisture through their fleshy leaves and thrive at average indoor humidity levels around 40-50%. Place them in indirect sunlight.

7. Ferns

Boston ferns, bird’s nest ferns, and other varieties thrive with regular misting. All that moisture keeps their fronds lush while helping to balance humidity levels indoors.

8. Palm Trees

Palm trees are adapted to absorb moisture through their large, fan-shaped fronds. Parlor palm, areca palm, bamboo palm, and lady palm are great choices for indoor spaces.

9. Succulents

Succulents like aloe, echeveria, and jade plants need minimal watering and thrive in dry environments, so they’re ideal for reducing indoor moisture. Group them together for better humidity absorption.

10. Air Plants

Air plants like tillandsia absorb all their moisture and nutrients from the air – no soil needed. Their unusual shapes and textures make them great display plants too. Mist them occasionally for optimum growth.

Where to Place Humidity-Reducing Plants

Focus on rooms with recurring humidity issues:

• Bathrooms – All that steam from hot showers can create a humid environment. Place plants out of direct water contact.

• Basements – Below-grade basements tend to collect moisture easily. Add dehumidifying plants on open shelves or hang them from the ceiling.

• Kitchens – Cooking and dishwashing add a lot of moisture to kitchen air. Set plants above the sink or on the windowsill.

• Bedrooms – Breathing and perspiration can make bedrooms humid. Put plants on nightstands or dressers.

Caring for Your Plants

• Most humidity-absorbing plants like average room temperatures between 65-85°F. Avoid drafty areas.

• Check soil moisture regularly. Water when the top inch becomes dry. Use room temperature water.

• Give plants bright, indirect light. Rotate them periodically for even growth.

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup and maximize air circulation.

• Remove yellowing leaves promptly. Check for signs of pests like webs, spots, or holes.

• Consider using pebble trays or misting leaves to increase moisture absorption.

Enjoy Cleaner, More Comfortable Indoor Air

Adding indoor plants is an attractive and effective way to naturally absorb excess moisture and regulate humidity at home. Their ability to filter pollutants also improves overall indoor air quality. With the right plants and proper care, you can reduce humidity without constantly running an appliance. Try these top 10 picks to create a healthier, more comfortable living space.