Jump directly to the content

BATHROOMS are a breeding ground for mould because they are often damp with poor ventilation.

You can find the pesky stuff growing on walls, showers, baths and grouting - and not only is it hideous, but it's a risk to your health.

Mold and grime around a bathtub and faucets.
3
Bathrooms are a haven for mould, which grows quickly in damp areas.Credit: Getty Images - Getty
Peace Lily in blue pot on windowsill.
3
But there's a mould-busting plant that will help keep those ugly patches at bay.Credit: Getty Images - Getty

That's why homeowners turn to every mould-busting hack they can find to banish the stuff.

From household bleach to products specifically designed for mould-busting.

Even trying out cool gadgets to suck the moisture from the air.

But if you're not keen on flooding the bathroom with strong-smelling chemicals or cluttering up your space with gadgets, there's another au naturel option.

Read More Fabulous News

And not only will it keep ugly mould at bay - but it will look fabulous in your house.

Peace Lilies (also known as Spathiphyllum) prevent mould from growing in your bathroom by battling the hot steam and moisture that gets left behind by a relaxing shower or bath.

, they've been dubbed the "only house plant you need to stop mould growing in your bathroom."

The article included guidance from , who are experts in plant care and supply British plants all over the nation.

telling customers: "Peace Lilies are great at removing excess moisture from the air and can help to reduce the growth of mold [sic] and mildew."

The lily absorbs moisture through its leaves, which in turn balances the humidity in your bathroom.

And if you're not very green-fingered, don't panic - the plants are really easy to look after.

Five tips for getting rid of mould

"They prefer low to moderate light and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch," Plants For All Seasons wrote.

It's really easy to spot when your plant is dehydrated, as it will start to droop.

In the summer, it will need watering about once a week with a light misting over the leaves.

The plants don't like to be in direct sunlight, so they can be tucked away from the window.

Common Bathroom Habits That Increase Mould

Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the chance of mould growing in homes.

Leaving wet towels and bathmats on floor 

Wet towels and bathmats on the floors after a shower or bath can increase humidity levels which provides a perfect breeding ground for mould spores.

To prevent this, hang towels and bathmats in an area where they can dry quickly and to wash them regularly.

Not turning on the fan 

An exhaust fan is critical in reducing moisture levels in the bathroom. 

When taking a hot shower or bath, steam increases the room's humidity level, creating an ideal setting for mould to flourish on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.

An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mould growth. 

Experts suggest running the fan during the shower and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to lower humidity levels.

Ignoring small leaks

Even minor leaks from the sink, toilet, or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, fostering an environment where mould can thrive. 

Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, promoting mould growth in less visible areas such as inside walls or under flooring. 

Fix leaks promptly to prevent mould and potential structural damage.

Keeping shower curtains or doors closed 

Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, delaying the drying process and creating a humid environment conducive to mould growth. 

Mould can easily develop on shower curtains, doors, and in tile grout if they remain wet for too long. 

To avoid this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry more quickly.

Storing too many products 

Shower caddies and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can obstruct airflow and trap moisture and creates hidden, moist niches where mould can grow unnoticed. 

Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum, and regularly clean and dry the areas underneath them to prevent mould growing. 

Where to buy a mould-preventing plant

.

Sainsbury's Peace Lily in a brown pot.
3
Sainsbury's are selling a Peace Lily for only £4.00.Credit: SAINSBURY'S

But you can find them even cheaper in .

If you're not sold on the Peace Lily, there are other mould-fighting plants to choose from.

READ MORE SUN STORIES

English Ivy, also known as Hedera Helix, is an effective mould remover (although you'll want to keep it far away from pets).

Or you could pick up a hardy Spider Plant that's "pretty much impossible to kill."

Topics