Six mould-preventing plants for your windows

With around two million people in the UK living in homes with significant mould issues¹, finding natural ways to improve air quality and reduce humidity is more important than ever. While chemical sprays and prevention paints might seem like a quick fix, houseplants offer a more sustainable solution—and they look great, too!

Windows are essential for these plants, creating the perfect mini-environment for them to flourish. Here at The Residence Collection, we’ve put together your ultimate guide to window plants to help you make the most of these green heroes.

Why windows are key for plant success

Windows do more than just let light into your home; they’re crucial for creating a healthy environment for both you and your plants. Here’s why:

Natural light: Plants need light for photosynthesis, the process that gives them the energy to grow. By placing plants in your windows, you’re giving them access to the light they need without the risk of them getting too much direct sun (unless they’re sun-loving types like Aloe Vera).
Fresh air: Opening windows allows fresh air to circulate, which not only benefits your plants by providing them with the airflow they need to grow stronger and healthier but also helps prevent mould. Good air circulation reduces indoor humidity levels, making it harder for mould to thrive in damp, stale air.
Humidity control: Rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens tend to have higher humidity levels, which can affect the windows in these areas. The windows in these rooms can be perfect for plants that love a bit of moisture. By placing these plants in windows, you’re naturally balancing the humidity in your home.

So, which plants will keep your home mould free?

1. English Ivy

Why it loves your windows:
A fan of bright light, but this plan doesn’t want to be directly in the sun’s glare all day. Place this lovely vine on a windowsill with filtered light—think sheer curtains or a spot that catches morning sun to give it just the right amount of light to grow.

How it kicks mould to the curb:
The dense leaves are fantastic at trapping particles in the air, including pesky mould spores. Plus, they absorb excess moisture, which helps keep humidity levels in check.

2. Peace Lilies

Why your windows are perfect:
Peace Lilies aren’t sunbathers; they prefer the gentler, low to moderate light that your bathroom or kitchen windows can provide. Windows in these rooms often get diffused light and have higher humidity levels, which Peace Lilies just love.

How it helps prevent mould:
These beauties are like natural dehumidifiers! Peace Lilies absorb moisture from the air through their leaves, helping to balance out the humidity levels in your home. This makes it tougher for mould to grow. Plus, they’re great at purifying the air, removing toxins, and keeping your indoor environment fresh.

3. Boston Ferns

Why it loves a window view:
These plants are all about that indirect light life. They don’t want to be blasted with sun, but they do need enough light to keep their leaves green and healthy. Windows that provide soft, filtered light—like those in bathrooms or kitchens—are ideal spots for these ferns.

How it keeps mould at bay:
Boston Ferns are humidity-balancers! They absorb excess moisture from the air, which helps prevent the damp conditions that mould thrives in. Placing them on a windowsill positions them perfectly to soak up moisture in humid areas of your home.

4. Spider Plants

Why your windows are their happy place:
Spider Plants are super easygoing and love bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill that gets plenty of light but not direct sunlight is perfect for these adaptable plants.

How it fights mould:
They are amazing air purifiers and do a fantastic job of absorbing extra moisture. By filtering the air and reducing humidity levels, they help create an environment where mould is less likely to grow. And because they’re so easy to care for, they’re a great option for any window in your home and homeowners who may not have green fingers!

5. Aloe Vera

Why it thrives by the window:
Aloe Vera loves the sun, but not too much! It’s all about that bright, indirect sunlight, making window sills an ideal home. Place your Aloe Vera in a window that gets plenty of light but isn’t exposed to harsh, direct sun all day. This way, it can soak up the rays it loves without getting scorched.

How it reduces mould:
Aloe Vera is not just great for your skin; it’s also a natural mould fighter! Its moisture-absorbing abilities help reduce humidity levels, while its antifungal properties make it tough for mould to take hold.

6. Snake Plants

Why it loves windows:
Snake Plants are the ultimate low-maintenance houseplants. They’re super adaptable and can handle a variety of light conditions, making them perfect for any window in your home. Whether your window gets a lot of light or just a little, Snake Plants will happily settle in and thrive.

How it keeps mould out:
Snake Plants are great at absorbing toxins and moisture from the air, which helps reduce the dampness that mould loves. Plus, they release oxygen at night, which can improve air quality while you sleep, boosting the overall freshness of your home.

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