Bathroom plants are kinda magical for changing up your space, aren’t they? If you’ve ever walked into a bathroom and found it looking, well, bland or musty—ugh, that’s the worst—adding a little greenery can seriously help. Trouble is, lots of plants can’t really deal with all that humidity and low light. So, picking the right bathroom plants actually makes all the difference, and it’s easier than you’d think. I’ll share my faves for humid spots (seriously, I’ve tried them in every house), but if you’re super into house plants in general, you’ll probably love checking out these blooming indoor house plants or the most popular house plants everyone loves, too. Okay, let’s jump in and get your bathroom looking lush and just… happier.
Table of Contents
Best Plants for Humid Environments
If you’re like me, you’ve probably accidentally roasted a plant or two in the bathroom before (RIP, little friend…). Not every plant likes a steamy shower, you know? But some just thrive in wild humidity, honestly more than me in August. My personal stars are ferns, pothos, and the classic peace lily—they act like they’re on vacation in the rainforest, soaking it in.
The thing about these plants? They soak up steam, don’t get spotty leaves, and won’t shrivel if sunlight is rare. Ferns love the misty shower aftermath, pothos never complain about indirect light, and peace lilies bounce back quick even when I forget to water them for a week. Oh, and if you want more ideas for low-light green friends, here’s a great list on the best indoor plants for low light.
Unique Characteristics of Humidity-Loving Plants
Not all plants have what it takes to hang out in your bathroom, let’s just be honest. These humidity-loving plants, though, are like little survivors. Their leaves are often broader or waxier—they don’t mind droplets or extra moisture in the air. And the roots? Oh, they’re pros at not sitting in soggy soil, so less root rot drama.
Take spider plants and snake plants—they seem to ignore the muggy air and just keep spitting out new shoots (kind of like my neighbor’s zucchini in late summer). I once stuck a Boston fern above the shower, totally expecting it to sulk, but instead it doubled in size—go figure. That’s real life proof these guys adapt and even get more vibrant around all that steam.
Care Tips for Bathroom Plants
When it comes to caring for your bathroom plants, here’s the deal—keep it simple, keep it regular. I’m all about plant parenting that doesn’t feel like work. Here’s what I wish I knew sooner:
- Don’t overwater. Bathrooms are already humid, so the soil takes longer to dry. Less is more.
- Rotate them every couple of weeks. This evens out their growth and helps any light they get do its job.
- Give them a little leaf-shine once in a while to keep dust and soap scum off. Trust me, shiny leaves make a big difference.
I even keep a tiny watering can under my sink, just because it reminds me to check in. That’s basically as fancy as my garden strategy gets.
Aesthetic Benefits of Bathroom Plants
Adding plants—any plants—instantly pulls your bathroom out of “blah” and into “spa day” mode. It’s not just the pop of green (though, wow, that helps everything). I swear the bathroom feels fresher, and, yeah, I do take more baths now just to enjoy the vibe. If you’ve ever wanted to pretend your home is in a five-star hotel, stick a lush fern by the tub or hang a trailing pothos in the window and you’re halfway there.
Plus, guests always make a little comment like, “Oh, this is cute!” and then ask what kind of plant it is. Little ego boost for me, not gonna lie. Plants just feel homey—way better than staring at another boring bottle of shampoo.
Top Considerations When Choosing Bathroom Plants
Let’s get real: all bathrooms are different. Some get zero sun (hello, tiny basement half-bath) and others are basically mini greenhouses. Before you grab the prettiest plant you spot, a couple things to think about:
Is there a window in your bathroom? Even a small one helps, but plenty of plants do fine with just the bathroom light on (my golden pothos literally doesn’t care). Next, how much floor or shelf space do you have? Tiny bathrooms love hanging plants, while big ones can handle a full-on corner tree—okay, maybe not an oak, but you get me.
And don’t forget to check for pets! Some popular plants can be sneaky toxic. If you share your home with a nosy cat or curious pup, cross-check this safe-for-pets houseplants guide before buying.
I was always nervous about putting plants in my bathroom, but after trying out Sarah’s tips and picking the right ones for my small space, it’s honestly made my morning routine so much better. Plus, my air feels cleaner and I smile every time I walk in there. – Jamie L.
Bathroom Plants: 10 Indoor Plants That Love Humidity
Bathrooms aren’t just for bubble baths and brushing your teeth—they’re also perfect homes for humidity-loving plants. All that steam from showers creates a cozy, moist environment that certain plants absolutely love. These 10 bathroom plants thrive in warm, damp spaces, and they’ll help turn your bathroom into a peaceful, jungle-like escape.
1. Alocasia (Elephant Ear Plant)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Alocasias naturally grow in tropical rainforests, where it’s warm and damp—just like your bathroom!
- Look: Big, bold leaves that look like elephant ears—super dramatic and eye-catching.
- Care Tips: Likes bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Keep soil slightly damp but not soggy.
- Bonus: Adds a tropical vibe and instantly makes your bathroom feel like a spa.
2. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
- Why it loves bathrooms: This fern naturally grows in rainforest trees, soaking up moisture from the air.
- Look: Wavy, shiny green leaves that grow in a circle like a nest.
- Care Tips: Enjoys low to medium light and high humidity. Keep the soil slightly moist and never let it dry out fully.
- Bonus: Super stylish in a hanging pot or on a bathroom shelf.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Tolerates all kinds of light and thrives in steamy, humid air.
- Look: Trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves—can be green, gold, or variegated.
- Care Tips: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Super easy to grow and propagate.
- Bonus: One of the best low-maintenance plants for any room—bathroom included!
4. Philodendron
- Why it loves bathrooms: These jungle natives love warm air and filtered sunlight.
- Look: Leaf shapes vary, but most are heart-like or deeply cut and beautifully green.
- Care Tips: Prefers bright, indirect light and moist (but not soggy) soil.
- Bonus: Fast-growing and happy to climb or trail. Great for adding a pop of green to small bathrooms.
5. Tradescantia (Wandering Jew)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Loves warmth and humidity and doesn’t mind the lower light.
- Look: Striking striped leaves in green, purple, or silver. Great for hanging planters.
- Care Tips: Water regularly but let the soil dry slightly between drinks.
- Bonus: Grows quickly and adds a splash of color to your space.
6. Autograph Tree (Clusia rosea)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Originates from tropical places like the Caribbean, so it thrives in humidity.
- Look: Thick, glossy green leaves you can actually write on with a blunt object—hence the name!
- Care Tips: Likes bright, indirect light and weekly watering. Don’t overwater—roots like to breathe.
- Bonus: A great medium-sized plant that brings structure and shine to bathrooms.
7. Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Prefers damp, shady areas—exactly what a bathroom can offer.
- Look: Fronds start out coppery-red (like autumn leaves!) and mature into bright green.
- Care Tips: Needs moist soil and medium to low light. Keep it out of direct sun.
- Bonus: Adds softness and movement to tight spaces—especially lovely near bathtubs.
8. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)
- Why it loves bathrooms: Needs constant humidity to keep from wilting—bathroom steam is perfect!
- Look: Small leaves with bright white, red, or pink veins running through them.
- Care Tips: Likes indirect light and evenly moist soil. Water when the top starts to dry.
- Bonus: Compact and colorful—ideal for small shelves or windowsills.
9. Peperomia
- Why it loves bathrooms: Many types of Peperomia enjoy humid conditions and don’t mind low light.
- Look: Comes in many shapes and textures—from round, rubbery leaves to rippled patterns.
- Care Tips: Let the soil dry a bit between waterings. Prefers indirect light and good airflow.
- Bonus: Super cute and low-maintenance—great for beginners.
10. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Bonus: Great natural air purifier and fills corners beautifully.
Why it loves bathrooms: Classic humidity-lover. Bathroom air helps it stay fluffy and full.
Look: Long, lacy green fronds that spill over the edges of pots or hanging baskets.
Care Tips: Needs indirect light and moist soil. Mist regularly if your bathroom isn’t super steamy.
What is the best plant to absorb moisture in the bathroom?
Here’s the quick and dirty answer: ferns are champions at this. Boston ferns and maidenhair ferns drink up humidity like nothing else. If your bathroom fogs up every morning, put one of these plants on a shelf or even hang it from the ceiling. They suck up the extra moisture and just look happier for it. That’s why ferns land on everyone’s must-have list when you need greenery that won’t get mushy or weird in the steam.
What plant purifies the air in the bathroom?
Snake plants, hands down, are the MVP for air purification. They don’t just sit there looking cute—snake plants filter out formaldehyde and other gunk. Peace lilies are another star, great for pulling nasty bathroom smells from the air (plus those flowers, come on). Both grow well with minimal fuss and low light.
Want even more plant air-freshener ideas? Try indoor plants for clean air. That’s a list worth saving.
Ready to Make Your Bathroom Feel Like a Fresh Oasis?
So, picking the right bathroom plants can totally change the way your space feels—and even make that morning fog less… depressing. Just remember to choose humidity-lovers, keep their roots comfy and don’t fuss about complicated routines. And honestly, these little green friends are way easier to keep happy than you might expect. If you need more inspiration, check out what folks on r/houseplants are recommending or poke around for the latest house plants to brighten your space. It might turn into your favorite room, promise.
Common Questions
Q: Can I keep succulents in my bathroom?
A: Usually not the best idea. Most succulents get mushy in too much humidity. If you must, give them lots of bright light!
Q: How often should I water my bathroom plants?
A: Way less than you’d think. Wait until the soil is dry to the touch. Bathrooms stay damp longer, so check before watering.
Q: Do bathroom plants really reduce odors?
A: Oh yes. Plants like peace lily and pothos help clear out bathroom funk, which blew my mind a little.
Q: What’s the easiest bathroom plant for beginners?
A: Pothos, hands down (super forgiving and trails beautifully). Snake plant is another no-brainer.
