Top 10 plants for the bathroom

The best plants for the bathroom: From monsteras to sword ferns

Green is the color of nature, and can contribute to a relaxing atmosphere. Picking the right green friend can vastly improve the feel of a space. However, you do need to take into account their preferences when it comes to humidity and light conditions. If you’re looking for the right plant, then this is the right article for you.

Bathroom in white with some green friends.
Large plants can be real eye-catchers in low-key bathrooms.

Good for the air and easy on the eyes: All species at a glance

No bathroom should go without at least one plant. They can be displayed on a shelf to regulate the room’s humidity and purify the air. Large, imposing specimens are eye-catchers and are often used as interesting accents. To make sure they thrive, and thereby look good, they should be selected according to the room's conditions.

These plants are perfectly suited for a bright bathroom

If the room allows a lot of daylight, the following options work particularly well:

  • Monstera deliciosa: The “great windowleaf” captivates with its large leaves and curious aerial roots. If you give it enough space, it can grow to be quite large and a great eye-catcher.
  • Orchid: This beauty feels perfectly at home in the warm, humid climates of South America and Asia. 
  • Bromeliads: These bright-colored specimens are over 65 million years old and still enchant with their fireworks of red, orange, and yellow. A special highlight: Bromeliads often open their colorful flowers in the cold season, when other plants are in hibernation.
  • Tillandsias: These aerophyte plants absorb vital moisture through their leaves, so they're extremely comfortable in a humid room. Because they don't require a pot, they make wonderful floating decorations. 
  • Sword fern: This plant only achieves its full splendor in rooms with high humidity. When choosing a location, take note that it doesn’t like it too dark or too bright with direct sunlight.

These plants are satisfied with just a little light

White bathroom with bamboo lamps
Large specimens emphasize a natural feel when combined with a stone floor and lights made of bamboo.

Even if you don't have a bright room, you don’t have to give up beautiful plants. Houseplants that look good even in dark bathrooms don’t, for the most part, have impressive flowers. Their charm often lies in the splendor of their leaves, as the following species show:

  • Golden pothos: It cleans the air and looks good at the same time. This plant, also known as Ceylon creeper or devil’s ivy, is very easy to take care of and can be placed in a hanging basket to save space. From there, the moisture-loving ivy entwines through the room.
  • Philodendron: The heart-shaped leaves of the Philodendron hederaceum love moisture and require almost no daylight. This makes it suitable for rooms with a north-facing window.
  • Zamioculcas: This plant, also given names like ‘lucky feather’ and ‘Zanzibar gem,’ is known for its long shoots that quickly shoot up. It is considered indestructible and requires little care.
  • Peace lily: This plant has its origins in the tropics of South America, so it enjoys the humid air in the bathroom and produces big, beautiful, cream-colored flowers as its gift.
  • Arrowroot: The striped leaves of this tropical species are an interesting contrast in low-key interiors. It also tolerates high humidity very well.

How to care for your moisture-loving plants in the bathroom

Bedroom in white with open bathroom and green vine
Vines have a wild character and bring a tropical feeling into the room. Here, it serves as a visual room divider. 

All the above species like moist air, making them the ideal lineup. However, pay attention to the care instructions for your little green friends: some can be placed directly next to the steaming bath tub, while others want a little more fresh air at the window.

Our top care tips:

  • Don't water too frequently: Many of the above plants only need moderate watering once a week. Also note rest periods, when water requirements are even lower.
  • Keep an eye out for mold in the potting soil: Mold can form if watered too often and the humidity is too high.
  • Air out after styling: Hair sprays, nail polish remover, or perfume – many species don't like these extreme odors, as they absorb them through their leaves. So be sure to briefly ventilate the room after you get dolled up.

Design your bathroom with green accents

Plants are a real asset in both light and dark rooms. They provide a good indoor climate, clean the air and, if well cared for, look really good. Choose your favorites according to personal taste.

Frequently asked questions about plants in the bathroom

What plants are suitable for a bright room?

Monstera deliciosa, orchids, bromeliads, tillandsias, and sword ferns will work well.

What plants are suitable for a darker space?

Ivy, philodendrons, zamioculcas, peace lilies, and arrowroots in particular feel at home in darker rooms.

How do I use plants as decoration?

Plants like tillandsias can be arranged in hanging baskets without potting soil. For other species, choose beautiful pots that have a decorative character.

What functions do bathroom plants serve?

Many of these green plants clean and filter pollutants from the air. They also regulate humidity and provide a pleasant climate.

What do I need to know when taking care of my plants?

Many plants for the bathroom rarely need watering, as they absorb moisture from the air. Make sure that the soil isn’t too moist to prevent mold.
Model showering with matte black hansgrohe hand shower.

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