In this Article:
Benefits of Plants In the Bathroom
Factors to Consider
Our Top 5 Recommendations for Bathroom Plants
Bonus Plant!
Care Tips
Creative Display Ideas
As advocates of bringing nature into our homes, we believe that every room deserves a touch of green. Today, we’ll be focusing on one room that often gets overlooked when it comes to plant styling – the bathroom. Yes, you heard that right – your bathroom is not only a place for daily rituals and relaxation but also an ideal spot to cultivate your love for plants.
Introducing plants into your bathroom not only elevates the aesthetics of your space but also offers numerous benefits. For starters, plants are known to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. This is particularly useful in bathrooms, where humidity levels are higher, and air circulation may be limited. Moreover, studies have shown that being around plants can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect bathroom plants by considering factors such as humidity, temperature, light, and space constraints. We’ll then introduce you to our top 5 plants that are perfect for bathrooms, providing you with detailed care instructions and potential issues to watch out for. Finally, we’ll offer some tips on maintaining healthy bathroom plants and creative ways to display them in your space. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of bathroom botany!
PS – read to the end for a little bonus. 😉
Importance of incorporating nature into our homes
In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from nature. However, research has shown that surrounding ourselves with natural elements can have a significant positive impact on our mental and physical well-being. By incorporating plants into our homes, we can create a sanctuary that not only looks beautiful but also helps to purify the air, reduce stress, and boost our mood.
Benefits of having plants in the bathroom
Improved air quality
Bathrooms are known for their humidity and dampness, which can sometimes lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Plants can help combat this by absorbing excess moisture from the air and releasing clean oxygen in return. Plus, many plants are natural air purifiers, removing toxins and pollutants from the air.
Enhanced aesthetics
There’s no denying that plants add a touch of beauty and elegance to any space. Incorporating plants into your bathroom can instantly transform a dull, sterile environment into a vibrant, inviting oasis.
Stress reduction
As mentioned earlier, being around plants has been proven to help reduce stress and promote relaxation. What better place to enjoy these benefits than in your bathroom, where you can truly unwind and let the day’s worries wash away?
Factors to consider when choosing bathroom plants
Ah, the bathroom – a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, where we can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what if we told you that there’s a way to make your bathroom even more refreshing and inviting? That’s right, it’s time to bring nature home by adding some gorgeous greenery to your bathroom! But before we dive into the best plants for your bathroom oasis, let’s discuss some key factors to consider when choosing bathroom plants.
Humidity levels
Bathrooms are notorious for their high humidity levels, thanks to all the steamy showers and hot baths we enjoy. Some plants thrive in these conditions, while others struggle. When selecting plants for your bathroom, opt for those that love a good dose of humidity, such as ferns and tropical plants. These moisture-loving plants will thrive in your bathroom’s humid environment.
Temperature fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations are another factor to consider when choosing bathroom plants. Bathrooms can experience significant temperature changes throughout the day, from chilly mornings to steamy evenings. Look for plants that can tolerate these fluctuations, such as those that originate from tropical or subtropical regions. These plants are accustomed to temperature changes and will adapt well to your bathroom’s varying climate.
Light availability
Let’s face it, not all bathrooms are blessed with an abundance of natural light. When selecting plants for your bathroom, it’s essential to consider the amount of light available. Some plants, such as snake plants and spider plants, can tolerate low light conditions, making them ideal choices for bathrooms with limited natural light. On the other hand, if your bathroom has ample sunlight, you can opt for plants that require more light, such as Boston ferns or golden pothos.
Space constraints
Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s crucial to choose plants that will fit comfortably within your available space. For smaller bathrooms, opt for compact plants that won’t take up too much room, such as air plants or small succulents. If you’re fortunate enough to have a larger bathroom with ample space, feel free to go big and bold with larger plants like a monstera or fiddle leaf fig.
Our Top 5 Best Plants for Bathrooms
#1 – Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Say hello to the Boston Fern, a popular and versatile plant that hails from tropical regions in Central and South America. With its graceful, arching fronds and vibrant green hue, this plant is a true showstopper.
We’re huge fans of the Boston Fern’s aesthetics as the plant can grow to be as large or as small as your bathroom allows. Hang your fern, or place it on a shelf or a toilet to bring nature into your private space. Their relatively high CO2 consumption rate makes them a great natural air purifier, and their humidity-loving nature makes them the perfect companion for your steamy bathroom sessions.
Boston Fern Care requirements
Light: These ferns adore bright, indirect light but can do well in lower-light spaces. Place them near a window if you can, but they’ll do ok in darker spaces as well. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching their delicate fronds. If you have generally darker spaces in your home, check out our list of best houseplants for low-light conditions.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water your fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Temperature: Boston Ferns prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Humidity: High humidity is essential for this plant. Keep it happy by misting regularly or placing it on a tray of pebbles filled with water. Or take an extra long shower. 🙂
Potential issues and solutions
Yellowing fronds may indicate overwatering or insufficient humidity. Adjust your watering schedule and increase humidity to keep your fern vibrant and healthy. If you have a very low-light bathroom, you may want to bring it out to get extra light once or twice a week.
#2 – Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant, native to South Africa, is a charming and adaptable plant that boasts long, slender leaves with a captivating variegated pattern. Like the Boston Fern, Spider Plants are excellent air purifiers, removing pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. The higher humidity may also increase the chances of your plant developing ‘spiderettes.’ Don’t worry these aren’t bugs but rather a colloquial term for how these plants self-propagate. You can get 3 Spider Plants for $9 each on Amazon.com.
Spider Plant Care requirements
Light: Bright, indirect light will keep your Spider Plant happy and thriving, but they can make due with less light than some!
Water: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to overwater.
Temperature: These plants enjoy temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Humidity: Spider Plants can tolerate a range of humidity levels, making them a great fit for most bathrooms.
Potential issues and solutions
Brown leaf tips may be a sign of underwatering or low humidity. Adjust your watering schedule and consider misting your plant to increase humidity if they’re in an extra bathroom that isn’t utilized frequently.
#3 – Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The elegant Peace Lily, originating from tropical regions of the Americas and southeastern Asia, is known for its glossy green leaves and stunning white flowers that resemble a white flag of peace.
Peace Lily’s add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom décor. Purchased young, their slim footprint and vertical stature means they can fit in most places. We recommend placing them on a raised planter in a corner if you don’t have a large sink basin. If you aren’t afraid of drywall and power-tools, extra credit is available for wall-mounted Peace Lily’s which will be sure to start a conversation and impress guests.
Get the perfect bathroom-sized peace lily from Amazon.com for $26.85.
Peace Lily Care requirements
Light: These plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering. Peace Lilies will let you know when they’re thirsty – their leaves will droop slightly.
Temperature: Aim for temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
Humidity: Peace Lilies love humidity, so your bathroom’s steamy environment is perfect for them.
Potential issues and solutions
Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure your plant has proper drainage to prevent root rot.
#4 – Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The striking Snake Plant, native to West Africa, boasts tall, sword-like leaves with eye-catching patterns. They’re also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, but don’t worry – they’re much friendlier than the name suggests!
Towards the top of our list for beginner-friendly plants, snake plants are almost impossible to neglect, and should be a top selection if you don’t have a lot of time to devote or find yourself traveling frequently.
Snake Plant Care requirements
Light: These plants can handle everything from low light to bright, indirect light.
Water: Snake Plants are drought-tolerant, so water sparingly when the soil is completely dry, but don’t be afraid to top them off if you’re leaving on a long trip.
Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C) but can tolerate cooler conditions.
Humidity: These plants are adaptable to various humidity levels, making them perfect for any bathroom.
Potential issues and solutions
While snake plants are robust, chronic overwatering can lead to root rot. Be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings and use a well-draining potting mix. Fortunately, these plants don’t require pots with drainage.
#5 – Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
The Golden Pothos, native to the Solomon Islands, is a fast-growing, trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves featuring stunning yellow variegation.
Golden Pothos are excellent air purifiers and can help neutralize any foul odors. Their cascading vines also create a gorgeous, jungle-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Their vines can be used to decorate spaces like shelves or sink basins.
Golden Pothos Care requirements
Light: These plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions.
Water: Water your Golden Pothos when the top inch of the soil is dry.
Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Humidity: Golden Pothos can handle various humidity levels but will appreciate the extra moisture in your bathroom.
Potential issues and solutions
Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure your plant has proper drainage to keep it healthy and happy.
#6 – Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Who doesn’t love a bonus? We couldn’t stop at 5 and NOT mention one of our absolute bathroom favorites – the Air Plant! Air Plants, native to the forests, mountains, and deserts of Central and South America, are an unconventional, unique addition to any bathroom. These plants are epiphytes, meaning they absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves rather than roots, making them perfect for a humid environment like a bathroom.
Air plants can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom by introducing a touch of exotic charm. They are superb air purifiers and don’t require soil, making them a clean, fuss-free choice. You can showcase their intriguing forms by hanging them in glass orbs, mounting them on driftwood, or placing them in a decorative dish.
Air Plant Care requirements
Light: Air plants prefer bright, indirect light, so placing them near a window with filtered light would be ideal.
Water: Since they absorb moisture through their leaves, you should mist them with a spray bottle 2-3 times a week. Alternatively, you can soak them in water for about 30 minutes every 1-2 weeks.
Temperature: They thrive in temperatures between 50-90°F (10-32°C).
Humidity: As tropical plants, air plants enjoy high humidity, making the bathroom an excellent location for them. We’re surprised they aren’t more popular.
Potential issues and solutions
Brown or crispy leaf tips may indicate under-watering or low humidity. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure your plant is in a high-humidity environment. A weekly soaking could be helpful in resolving this issue.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Bathroom Plants
As you embark on your journey to transform your bathroom into a verdant sanctuary, it’s essential to understand the proper care techniques to keep your plants thriving. In this section, we’ll share some invaluable tips for maintaining your bathroom plants, ensuring that they stay happy, healthy, and ready to brighten up your space.
Proper Watering Techniques
Water is the lifeblood of your plants, but it’s crucial to strike the right balance. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause your plants to wither away. Here are some tips to help you become a watering pro:
Know your plants: Each plant species has unique water requirements, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with their individual needs. For instance, Snake Plants prefer to dry out between waterings, while Boston Ferns thrive in consistently moist soil.
Check the soil: To determine when your plants need water, gently poke your finger into the soil about an inch deep. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, hold off for a few more days.
Water thoroughly: When watering, ensure that you soak the soil evenly, allowing the water to drain out of the pot’s bottom. This helps prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged and encourages healthy root growth.
Avoid wet leaves: To prevent fungal issues, try to water the soil directly, avoiding the leaves. This is especially important for plants like the Peace Lily, which are prone to leaf diseases when kept in a humid environment.
Fertilization
Just like us, plants need a balanced diet to grow strong and healthy. Fertilizing your bathroom plants provides them with the essential nutrients they need to flourish. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on how to fertilize your plants the right way. For now, here’s how to feed your bathroom buddies:
Choose the right fertilizer: Opt for a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for indoor plants. These usually contain equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for plant growth and health.
Follow the instructions: Over-fertilizing can cause more harm than good, so be sure to follow the package directions when applying fertilizer. Less is often more when it comes to feeding your plants.
Adjust for the environment: Bathroom plants typically grow more slowly due to lower light levels, so they may not need as much fertilizer as plants in brighter areas. Keep an eye on your plants’ growth and adjust your fertilizing routine accordingly.
Pruning and Grooming
Regular pruning and grooming not only keep your plants looking their best but also promote healthy growth. For future bathroom reading, check out our full guide on how to prune your plants. For now, here’s how to keep your bathroom plants in tip-top shape:
Remove dead or yellowing leaves: Gently snip off any dead or yellowing leaves using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This helps redirect energy to the healthier parts of the plant and prevents the spread of disease.
Trim leggy growth: If your plants become too leggy or overgrown, trim them back to encourage bushier growth. This is particularly important for plants like the Golden Pothos, which can become quite unruly if left unchecked.
Keep plants clean: Dust and grime can accumulate on your plants’ leaves, hindering their ability to photosynthesize. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or give them a gentle shower to keep them clean and healthy.
Pest Control
Pests can be a nuisance, but with a little vigilance, you can keep them at bay. Here’s how to protect your bathroom plants from pesky invaders:
Quarantine new plants: Before introducing a new plant to your bathroom, keep it in a separate area for a week or two to ensure it’s pest-free. This helps prevent the spread of pests to your existing plants.
Inspect regularly: Regularly check your plants for signs of pests, such as tiny insects, webbing, or sticky residue. Catching infestations early is key to preventing them from getting out of control.
Use natural remedies: If you do spot pests, try using natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat the problem. These options are less harmful to your plants and the environment than chemical pesticides.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a healthy, thriving bathroom jungle. Remember, the key to success is consistency and attention to detail. With a little love and care, your bathroom plants will reward you with lush foliage, improved air quality, and a serene, spa-like atmosphere.
Creative Ways to Display Bathroom Plants
Transforming your bathroom into a lush oasis doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity and some playful experimentation, you can easily elevate the aesthetics of your space while reaping the benefits of having plants in your bathroom. In this section, we’ll explore some innovative and stylish ways to display your bathroom plants, making them not only functional but also a beautiful addition to your personal sanctuary.
Hanging Planters
One of the most popular and space-saving ways to showcase your bathroom plants is by using hanging planters. These versatile containers come in a variety of materials, such as ceramic, metal, or woven baskets, and can be suspended from the ceiling, shower curtain rod, or even a wall-mounted hook. Hanging planters are perfect for creating a cascading effect with trailing plants like the Golden Pothos or Boston Fern. Plus, they keep your plants off the floor or countertop, freeing up valuable space in smaller bathrooms.
Some of our favorites include this bundle of self-watering pots for just $25.99, as well as this playfully colored window hanger for $27.99.
Wall-mounted Planters
If you’re looking to make a bold statement with your bathroom plants, consider wall-mounted planters. These planters can be attached directly to the wall, creating a vertical garden that not only saves space but also adds a unique visual element to your bathroom. Wall-mounted planters come in various styles, from minimalist geometric designs to rustic wooden boxes. They work exceptionally well with plants that have shallow root systems, such as the Spider Plant or smaller varieties of Snake Plants. To create an eye-catching display, arrange multiple wall-mounted planters in a cluster or grid pattern, mixing and matching different plant species for added visual interest.
Ladder Shelves
For those who prefer a more flexible and mobile display option, ladder shelves such as are an excellent choice. These freestanding structures come in various materials and designs, from sleek metal frames to rustic wooden ladders. With multiple tiers, ladder shelves provide ample space to showcase a collection of bathroom plants, allowing you to create a mini jungle right in your bathroom. Plus, the open design of ladder shelves allows for better airflow around your plants, which can help prevent mold and mildew growth in the humid bathroom environment. To create a cohesive and visually appealing display, arrange plants with varying heights, textures, and colors on the ladder shelves, ensuring that each plant’s light and humidity requirements are met.
Depending on your situation, we’re fans of this narrow shelf option ($59.99 @ Amazon.com) for smaller bathrooms, or this full-size option for above a toilet bowl @ $129.99.
Windowsill Gardens
If you’re fortunate enough to have a windowsill in your bathroom, don’t let that prime real estate go to waste! A windowsill garden is an excellent way to display your bathroom plants while also providing them with the natural light they need to thrive. This display option works particularly well for plants that require bright, indirect light, such as the Peace Lily or Snake Plant. To create a visually appealing windowsill garden, choose planters in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and arrange them in a way that complements your bathroom’s overall design aesthetic. Be mindful of your plants’ watering needs, as the increased light exposure may cause the soil to dry out more quickly.
There are countless creative ways to display your bathroom plants, turning your space into a lush oasis that not only improves air quality but also enhances your overall well-being. Whether you opt for hanging planters, wall-mounted planters, ladder shelves, or a windowsill garden, the key is to choose a display method that complements your bathroom’s design and meets your plants’ specific care requirements. Some of our favorite solutions include recycled kombucha bottles, vintage coffee cans, and even shot glasses. Tag us with your creative solutions on Instagram!
Bring It (Nature) Home
And there you have it, fellow green-thumbed enthusiasts! We’ve dived into the lush world of bathroom plants and emerged with a definitive list of the top five contenders. Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane and recap our fabulous finalists:
1. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – This feathery friend thrives in the humid environment of your bathroom, while also purifying the air and adding a touch of elegance to your space.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – A superhero in its own right, the Spider Plant battles air pollutants and brightens up your bathroom with its playful, cascading foliage.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – Bring serenity and sophistication into your bathroom with the Peace Lily’s elegant white blooms and lush, glossy leaves.
4. Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – A true survivor, the Snake Plant is not only a striking addition to your bathroom decor but also a champion at filtering out toxins from the air.
5. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Let the vibrant, heart-shaped leaves of the Golden Pothos drape gracefully from a hanging planter or climb up a trellis, creating a lively, green oasis in your bathroom.
6. **BONUS** Air Plants (Tillandsia) – Break away from the norm with these soil-less wonders. With their unusual forms and minimalistic needs, Air Plants add an intriguing and exotic touch to your bathroom. Their versatility in display options allows you to get creative, transforming your bathroom into an engaging, green space.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of these botanical bathroom buddies, we encourage you to take the plunge and introduce one (or more) of them to your very own personal spa. Remember, not only will these plants enhance the aesthetics of your bathroom, but they’ll also improve air quality and reduce stress, creating a tranquil, rejuvenating space for you to unwind in after a long day. So, go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create your very own bathroom jungle paradise.
Bring Nature Home – Happy Planting!
