This common houseplant will help prevent bathroom mold — and it cost less than a coffee

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

I woke up this morning to see condensation on my windows. It’s one sure sign that the weather has turned a corner, and my home could quite easily become a mold haven if I let it.

This early sign is a reminder that I need to take action to prevent mold and mildew from building up in my home, especially in my bathroom, which suffers the most.

But it’s not only the threat of unsightly black marks on my bathroom ceiling, caulking, and tile grout that cause an unpleasant aesthetic that concerns me, it’s the potential health risks that mold can cause to my family's health.

The problem of bathroom mold

Mold growing in a tub — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If left untreated, mold can cause allergic reactions, such as sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose, and at the worst, asthma attacks and chronic lung conditions. And I know from experience, how frightening it is when your child suffers an asthma attack.

However, you don’t necessarily have to purchase one of the best dehumidifiers to stay on top of bathroom mold, there’s a natural way that will reduce moisture — and it will cost you less than a coffee-to-go.

This mold-miracle is a common houseplant which is known for its beautifying properties rather than its moisture-busting benefits. What’s more, it’s one houseplant that I love, and it will bring an elegant touch to your bathroom.

Aside from being ornamental, aloe vera, with its succulent leaves, can be used to treat skin conditions, such as sunburn, and it’s used in many beauty products. Extracts may also be used to treat digestive issues, such as heartburn.

How does the Aloe vera plant prevent mold?

A close up of Aloe Vera leaves — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Aloe vera is more than a pretty face — it has moisture-absorbing qualities. Although be warned, it won’t get rid of the mold that’s already there, its job is to prevent future mold from occurring.

What makes this common houseplant perfect for preventing mold in bathrooms is that it thrives in warm conditions. What’s more, it's a low-maintenance plant and requires minimal water, all thanks to its moisture-absorbing qualities.

If you’ve ever owned an aloe vera plant before, you may have noticed how heavy the leaves are, which is where all the moisture is held.

One of the biggest challenges of looking after an aloe vera plant in the winter is the drop in humidity, which leads to dry air. And although Fiona Jenkins, Gardening and Plant Expert at MyJobQuote has previously told Tom’s Guide that purchasing an air humidifier could solve the problem, we know that there’s an easier and cheaper solution.

Placing an Aloe vera plant in your bathroom will provide it with all the moisture it needs, helping to prevent mold.

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Camilla is the Homes Staff Writer and covers everything to do with homes and gardens. She has a wealth of editorial experience, mounting over 30 years, and covers news and features, tests products for reviews and compiles buying guides.

Her work has appeared in business and consumer titles, including Ideal Home, Real Homes, House Beautiful, Homebuilding & Renovation, and Kitchen & Bathroom Business. She’s even appeared on the cover of Your Home, writing about her own house renovation.

Although she’s obsessed with decorating her home, she also enjoys baking and trying out the latest kitchen appliances. But when she’s not inside, you’ll find her pottering about in her yard, tending to her vegetable patch or taking in her prized hydrangeas.

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