12 Bathroom Plants That Absorb Moisture for a Fresher, Healthier Space
Bathrooms can be tricky to decorate — the high humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and limited natural light often make them feel damp and musty.
The good news? The right plants not only thrive in these conditions but also help absorb excess moisture, reduce mold risk, and add a lush, spa-like vibe. Here are 12 bathroom plants that combine style with function, plus how to design them into your full bathroom view.
1. Boston Fern
Boston ferns are classic humidity-loving plants that thrive in bathrooms. Their feathery fronds act like natural air filters, soaking up excess moisture while keeping the air fresh. They also add soft greenery that pairs beautifully with white tiles or natural stone.
Style tip: Place your Boston fern in a hanging basket above the tub or in a corner shelf. Pair with wooden accents, like a bamboo stool or caddy, for a calming spa atmosphere.
2. Peace Lily
The peace lily is not only elegant with its glossy leaves and white blooms but also known for absorbing moisture and improving air quality. Its sculptural look makes it a natural fit for modern bathrooms.
Design idea: Place it in a sleek ceramic pot beside a vanity or next to the shower. Pair with minimalist décor, frameless mirrors, and soft lighting for a crisp yet cozy bathroom feel.
3. English Ivy
English ivy climbs and cascades, making it perfect for absorbing moisture in damp bathrooms. Its trailing vines bring a lively, organic touch to small or large spaces.
To style it, hang a planter above your bathtub or let it drape across open shelving. Combine with textured towels, matte black fixtures, and neutral walls for a chic contrast.
4. Bamboo Palm
Bamboo palms thrive in humidity and add a tropical, airy feel. With tall fronds, they’re excellent for filling empty bathroom corners while balancing moisture levels.
For a polished look, pair the palm with natural stone tiles, woven baskets, and oversized mirrors. The tall, architectural leaves make your bathroom feel more spacious and inviting.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera loves bright, humid environments and doubles as a natural skincare plant. Its spiky form introduces a sculptural element to bathroom décor.
Place aloe vera in a small pot on your windowsill or vanity. Pair it with light wood shelving, neutral stone countertops, and simple accessories for a fresh, low-maintenance bathroom design.
6. Orchids
Orchids thrive in warm, moist bathrooms and bring a touch of elegance with their delicate blooms. They absorb humidity while adding instant luxury.
Design-wise, place orchids near a bathtub or vanity for a spa-like atmosphere. Complement them with glass jars of bath salts, scented candles, and marble finishes for a serene retreat.
7. Spider Plant
Spider plants are easy-care, moisture-absorbing wonders with arching leaves that look beautiful in hanging baskets or decorative pots. They also help remove pollutants from the air.
Hang a spider plant in a macramé holder or place it on a high shelf. Match with patterned shower curtains, light wood floors, and woven hampers for a modern-boho bathroom vibe.
8. Snake Plant
Snake plants thrive on neglect, making them ideal for bathrooms. They tolerate low light and help regulate humidity while filtering toxins.
To style it, place a snake plant in a tall planter near your vanity or shower. Pair with geometric tiles, industrial accents, and monochrome colors for a bold, contemporary bathroom look.
9. Calathea
Known for its striking patterned leaves, calathea thrives in low light and high humidity. Its lush foliage makes a bathroom instantly feel more vibrant.
Design tip: Pair calathea with rattan baskets, textured rugs, and earth-toned accents. Place it near a mirror or window ledge where its dramatic patterns can pop against lighter walls.
10. Bamboo
Bamboo is a symbol of good luck and thrives in water-rich environments, making it perfect for bathrooms. It can be styled in minimalist glass vases or full planters.
For a modern Zen-inspired bathroom, pair bamboo with natural stones, pebbles, and a freestanding soaking tub. Add soft ambient lighting for a calming, retreat-like vibe.
11. Tillandsia (Air Plants)
Air plants absorb moisture directly from the air, making them one of the best choices for humid bathrooms. They don’t even need soil, just creative displays.
Mount air plants in wall frames, hang them in glass terrariums, or place them on open shelves. Pair with matte finishes and minimalist décor to create a clean, artistic bathroom feel.
12. Pothos
Pothos is nearly indestructible and loves the steamy conditions of bathrooms. Its cascading vines soak up humidity while looking lush and full.
Place pothos on a shower ledge, floating shelf, or tall cabinet. Combine with warm brass fixtures, white tiles, and large mirrors to balance greenery with a modern edge.
Estimated Cost Guide for Bathroom Plants (U.S. 2025 Prices)
- Boston Fern: $20 – $60
- Peace Lily: $25 – $70
- English Ivy: $15 – $50
- Bamboo Palm: $40 – $120
- Aloe Vera: $15 – $40
- Orchids: $30 – $150 (depending on variety)
- Spider Plant: $15 – $45
- Snake Plant: $25 – $90
- Calathea: $30 – $100
- Bamboo: $20 – $80
- Tillandsia (Air Plants): $10 – $40 each
- Pothos: $15 – $60
Pro Tip: To create a truly cohesive bathroom design, mix one tall statement plant (like a bamboo palm or snake plant) with two smaller trailing or hanging plants (like pothos or ivy). This layering effect makes the space feel lush without overwhelming it.
