Combat spring condensation with these moisture-reducing plants
Spring is a season of temperature and humidity fluctuations, and when warm, moist air contacts a window's cooler surface, it can cause liquid droplets, or condensation, to form.
Houseplants: They brighten up a space, they can reduce stress, and studies have shown they can efficiently remove some toxins from the air.
Some houseplants will even help keep condensation at bay and lower the risk of developing mould this spring.
Will these plants work miracles? Probably not, but you can consider them a tool in your mould-reduction kit.
Condensation common in spring
Spring is a season of temperature and humidity fluctuations, and when warm, moist air contacts a window's cooler surface, it can cause liquid droplets, or condensation, to form.
Mould needs moisture to grow. Mould spores are always floating in the air, and if they settle in condensation that's left to pool on windows, window sills, or walls, they can start to grow.
Mould-reduction tips
Health Canada says you can reduce the risk of mould forming by:
Wiping down condensation when you see it.
Opening windows or using fans to improve ventilation, especially when cooking or showering. Leave the fans on for a few minutes after you are finished.
Identifying problem areas and using a de-humidifier in those spaces.
Inspecting seals and insulation for weak spots.
Moisture-reducing plants
Here are some moisture-reducing houseplants that can help, in addition to following the tips above.
You can place them near problem areas, but be aware that some of these plants are toxic to pets like cats and dogs. Always research if a plant is suitable for your family before bringing it home.
Peace lilies are often recommended as bathroom plants because they are excellent at absorbing moisture.
Boston ferns are another popular bathroom plant because they absorb moisture well and prefer hot, moist environments.
Spider plants are relatively easy to care for and are known to reduce moisture and purify the air.
Snake plants and aloe vera prefer light and infrequent watering, making them relatively easy to care for. Both are native to humid climates and boast excellent moisture absorption abilities.
Houseplants can also remove toxins from the air
A 2023 study found that plants have a remarkable ability to remove cancer-causing gasoline fumes and other harmful pollutants from the air we breathe.
The study, a collaboration between University of Technology Sydney (UTS) bioremediation researcher Associate Professor Fraser Torpy and landscaping company Ambius, found a small green wall stocked with a variety of indoor plant species removed up to 97 per cent of the most toxic compounds found in gasoline fumes within just eight hours.
The plants seem to adapt to the level of toxins in the air, becoming more effective as concentrations increase.
While previous studies have shown that indoor plants can effectively remove indoor air contaminants, this research is the first to demonstrate how they tackle gasoline vapours.
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Header image: Cheryl Santa Maria for The Weather Newtwork via Canva Pro.