Bathroom Plant Ideas: How to Pick the Perfect Greenery for Your Space

Bathroom Plant Ideas: How to Pick the Perfect Greenery for Your Space

9th Apr 2025

Adding plants to your bathroom is a great way to transform the space and create a fresh, natural feel. But they're more than just decoration – some plants can also help to absorb moisture and improve air quality.

Whether you've got a bright, airy bathroom or a small space with little to no natural light, there are plenty of plants that will thrive in your setup. We'll walk you through the best plant options for every bathroom with tips and tricks to help you find the right one for your space.

Contents

Why should you add plants to your bathroom?

Bringing greenery into your bathroom is about more than just aesthetics. Plants come with a range of benefits. Whether you're searching for bathroom plant ideas to liven up a dull corner or looking for the best plants to keep mould under control, here's why houseplants can make a big difference:

  • Improves air quality – Certain houseplants can help purify the air by filtering out toxins and releasing oxygen, making your bathroom feel fresher. In fact, research from The Royal Horticultural Society found that, in the right conditions, houseplants can reduce the concentration of common indoor pollutants to healthier levels.
  • Regulates moisture – Some plants soak up humidity in the air when you shower or bathe, which reduces the amount of condensation and helps to stop damp from forming.
  • Boosts relaxation – Being around plants has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, with one study finding that being around plants for 15 minutes resulted in a slower, calmer heart rate – even when carrying out physical tasks. They can also reduce blood pressure and improve your mental state, creating a spa-like bathroom.
  • Adds personality – With so many different plants available, it's easy to find one that matches your chosen decor and adds a personal touch to your bathroom.

Best plants for bathrooms with no light or without windows

Not every bathroom is blessed with big, open windows and lots of natural light, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on the benefits of houseplants. While most plants need sunlight to thrive, a surprising amount can cope with low-light or even no-light conditions.

If your bathroom doesn't get much natural light, here are some hardy species to consider:

1. Snake Plant

Image by Kara Eads on Unsplash

  • Light: Low to moderate light, can tolerate low-light conditions
  • Water: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings
  • Humidity: Adapts well to high humidity but doesn’t need it
  • Height: Grows 50cm to 120cm tall, with slow, steady growth

If you're looking for a plant that basically takes care of itself, a snake plant is the way to go. They can handle low light, don't need much water, and even help purify the air – so they're doing far more than just sitting there.

Their long, upright leaves have a really striking look, with deep green patterns and yellow edges that add a bit of colour. They work well on corner vanity shelves or on top of cabinets if you don't have much floor space, and because they grow upwards rather than outwards, they won't take over your bathroom.

2. Pothos

Image by Kelsey Brown on Unsplash

  • Light: Low to moderate light, but also thrives in artificial light
  • Water: Keep the soil slightly damp but let it dry mostly between waterings
  • Humidity: Loves humidity but can also adapt to drier conditions
  • Height: Can trail up to 3m in length, but can be easily trimmed shorter

Pothos is one of the easiest species to keep alive, which is why it's such a great pick for bathrooms where you may not be checking in on your houseplants as often. It's very low-maintenance, doesn't need much light, and is quite forgiving if you forget to water it now and then.

The trailing vines make it perfect for hanging planters or high shelves. If you want to add some greenery to your bathroom without taking up surface space, a pothos plant is a great choice.

3. Boston Fern

Image by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers indirect light but can also tolerate low light
  • Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity, making it ideal for bathrooms
  • Height: Grows between 30cm to 90cm tall and wide, depending on the variety

Boston ferns love humidity, so they're right at home in a bathroom. With their delicate, feathery leaves, they add a soft touch to your space, and they're brilliant for improving air quality.

They do need a bit more attention when it comes to watering compared to some other low-light species – if the soil dries out completely, they can struggle. But as long as you keep the soil damp and give the leaves a mist now and then using a spray bottle filled with water, they'll thrive.

Try putting one on a shelf or using a hanging planter to make the most of your space.

4. Spider Plant

Image by Levente Bagi on Unsplash

  • Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate shadier spaces
  • Water: Water when the top of the soil feels dry to touch
  • Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to different conditions
  • Height: Reaches 30cm to 60cm in height with long, trailing offshoots

Spider plants are a popular bathroom houseplant that are easy to care for, which makes them perfect for anyone who isn't known for their green thumb. Their long, arching leaves give them a stylish, almost tropical look, and they have great air-purifying properties to keep your bathroom feeling fresh.

They don't need much attention – just water them when the soil starts to dry out and give them a mist occasionally if your bathroom isn't very humid. They look great on the side of your bathtub, a windowsill, or even hanging from a planter, and their outward growth looks right at home in larger bathrooms.

5. Heartleaf philodendron

Image by NHN on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light
  • Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity but adapts to average levels
  • Height: Typically grows 30cm to 1.2m in height, with trailing vines up to 3m

Heartleaf Philodendrons are perfect for bathrooms because they love humidity and don't need a lot of light to survive. Their trailing vines and glossy, heart-shaped leaves make them a stylish addition to any space, whether you let them trail down a shelf or hang them above your shower.

These plants are really low maintenance – just keep the soil slightly damp and give them the occasional trim if they get too long. If your bathroom doesn't get much light, don't worry! They'll still grow happily, though they might slow down a little in winter.

Small bathroom plant ideas

If you're working with a smaller bathroom, you might think houseplants aren't an option. The good news is that plenty of compact plants let you bring greenery into your home without taking up too much space.

Whether you want a tiny potted plant next to your basin or a hanging plant to tuck away in the corner, here are five of the best house plants for small bathrooms:

1. String of Pearls

Image by ignartonosbg on Pixabay

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light conditions
  • Water: Don’t over-water; let the soil dry out between waterings
  • Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity
  • Height: Trails up to 90cm long with slow growth

String of Pearls is one of the best hanging plants for small bathrooms because it doesn't need much space but still makes a big impact. This plant doesn’t produce any upward or outward growth. Instead, it’s made up of trailing vines that are covered in small, bead-like leaves. These plants look great draped over a vanity shelf or hung directly from the ceiling.

Because this plant stores water in its leaves, it's a good low-maintenance choice if you don't want to worry about watering it too often. If the tendrils start to become too long, you can easily clip them back with a pair of clean scissors. Just make sure it's not in a completely dark bathroom – if you don't have a window, you might need to pop it in a brighter spot every now and then.

2. Air Plants

Image by Michael Walter on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light
  • Water: Soak in water for 15-20 minutes every one to two weeks
  • Humidity: Thrives in humid environments
  • Height: Usually 5cm to 30cm tall, depending on the species

Air plants are a brilliant option if you're short on space because they don't even need soil. You can tuck them into a decorative bowl, lay them on a shelf, or even attach them to a piece of driftwood for a stylish, modern look.

Since they absorb moisture from the air, they love a steamy bathroom. Just give them an occasional soak to keep them hydrated, and they'll thrive even in the smallest space.

3. Lucky Bamboo

Image by Toushif Alam on Unsplash

  • Light: Low to bright, indirect light
  • Water: Keep the roots submerged in either distilled or filtered water
  • Humidity: Does well in humid environments
  • Height: Can grow 30cm to 1m tall, depending on the environment

Lucky bamboo is a great choice for small bathrooms, thanks to its compact, upright growth. The leaves don’t extend past the pot they’re grown in, meaning they can easily be tucked into a corner out of the way.

They’re also extremely easy to care for, which makes them perfect for adding to a bathroom where it will mostly look after itself. You don't even need soil or a pot – just pop it in a glass of water, and it'll be happy.

It's also known for bringing good fortune, so keeping it on your vanity unit or a shelf near the sink can help to give you an energy boost to start your day.

4. Orchid

Image by Berke Can on Unsplash

  • Light: Bright, indirect light
  • Water: Once a week, giving the roots time to dry out between waterings
  • Humidity: Prefers high humidity
  • Height: Typically grows between 30cm to 75cm tall

Orchids are an easy way to make even the smallest space feel more elegant, and they love the humid environment of a bathroom. While they’re known for their impressive flowers, Orchids are relatively small and have a compact footprint – making them ideal for rooms with limited floor or counter space. Although they're a bit more delicate than some other houseplants, if you give them the right care, they'll reward you with beautiful flowers that can last for months.

They're great for adding a pop of colour to your space, whether you place one on a windowsill, shelf, or even your bathroom vanity. Just make sure it's not sitting in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

5. Bird's Nest Fern

Image by Soo Ji Choi on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers indirect or low light
  • Water: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity
  • Height: Reaches 30cm to 60cm in height

Ferns are a popular choice for bathroom houseplants, and Bird's Nest Ferns are fantastic because they do well in warm, humid spaces. They grow upright, making them a great, compact alternative to traditional leafy plants that work brilliantly in small bathrooms. Plus, their bright green, wavy leaves add a unique feature to your space.

They're easy to care for and don't need much light, so they work well in bathrooms without a window. Plus, you can pop one on a shelf or in a hanging planter to add some greenery without taking up valuable counter space.

The best plants for large bathrooms

If you've got a spacious bathroom, you have a lot more options when it comes to choosing houseplants. Larger plants can fill empty corners, add height to your room, and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Here are some of the best plants for large bathrooms:

1. Calatheas

Image by Katka Pavlickova on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light
  • Water: Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity
  • Height: Grows 30cm to 90cm tall

Calatheas, or 'prayer plants', are known for their patterned leaves and love a humid environment, making them the perfect choice for bathrooms. They can be a little fussy, so keep them away from direct sunlight and make sure the soil stays evenly moist.

If you've got the room, placing a Calathea on a bathroom shelf or in a decorative pot near your bath can create a luxurious feel. Plus, their air-purifying qualities help keep your space feeling fresh.

2. Swiss Cheese Plant

Image by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade
  • Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity
  • Height: Can grow up to 2m indoors

If you've got a bigger bathroom, a Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) transforms your bathroom into a jungle paradise. With its large, glossy leaves and recognisable holes, it adds a bold, tropical feel to any space.

These plants love warm, humid conditions, so a steamy bathroom is ideal. Just make sure it's not in direct sunlight, as too much can scorch the leaves. If you're placing it in a corner, rotate it from time to time to keep the growth even.

3. Weeping Fig

Image by vadim kaipov on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade
  • Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry
  • Humidity: Enjoys high humidity
  • Height: Reaches 1m to 3m in height indoors

The Weeping Fig is a great choice if you're looking for a plant with a bit of height. They can easily reach up to 180cm indoors, making them an excellent option for Victorian and other period homes with high ceilings. It has elegant, arching branches that are covered in small, glossy leaves – adding colour and shape to your bathroom.

This plant does well in humid conditions, but it doesn't like to be moved around too much. Once you find the perfect spot – somewhere with plenty of indirect light like a shelf or basin near a window – try to leave it there.

4. Schefflera

Image by zoosnow on Pixabay

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade
  • Water: Water when the soil is dry to the touch
  • Humidity: Enjoys high humidity but can adapt well to less humid conditions
  • Height: Grows 1.2m to 2.5m tall indoors, depending on variety

Schefflera, also known as the Umbrella Plant, is a great low-maintenance option if you want something that looks full and leafy without too much effort. The glossy green leaves fan out, giving it a tropical feel that works well in larger spaces.

This plant thrives in humid conditions, but it's also pretty forgiving if you forget to water it now and then. Just make sure it's in a spot with plenty of natural light.

5. Peace Lily

Image by Sandra Seitamaa on Unsplash

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light
  • Water: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering
  • Humidity: Thrives in humid environments, making it ideal for bathrooms
  • Height: Grows between 50cm to 100cm

Peace lilies are one of the best houseplants for a bathroom if you want something elegant but also easy to look after. They have deep green leaves and bright white flowers, adding a fresh touch that makes your space feel even more bright and open.

Because they love humidity, they do well in areas with regular showers or baths. They're also one of the best plants for improving air quality, absorbing toxins, and even reducing mould spores – so they don't just look good, they're practical too.

How to choose the right plants for your bathroom

The secret to picking a good plant for your bathroom is making sure that your growing conditions match the plant’s requirements. Bathrooms tend to be warm and humid, but not every plant loves the lack of sunlight or occasional temperature changes.

Here's what to keep in mind before choosing your new leafy companion:

1. Light levels

Not all bathrooms get a lot of natural light, especially if there's no window. Luckily, some plants don't mind the shade. Some of the best low-light plants include Snake Plants, Pothos, and Peace Lilies, which do just fine in low-light conditions.

On the other hand, if you've got a bright, airy bathroom, Orchids and Swiss Cheese Plants love the extra sunlight.

2. Humidity tolerance

Since bathrooms are naturally humid, it makes sense to choose plants that love moisture. Boston Ferns, Bird's Nest Ferns, and Calatheas all thrive in steamy spaces, making them perfect for placing near a shower or bath.

If your space is well-ventilated and on the drier side, or if you live alone and don’t use the bathroom as much, Spider Plants and Weeping Figs are great options if you're comfortable with the occasional misting.

3. Space and placement

If you're working with a small bathroom, you don't have to sacrifice style for space. Air Plants, Lucky Bamboo, and String of Pearls are all fairly compact and can sit on shelves, window ledges, or even hang from the ceiling. 

For bigger bathrooms, plants like Schefflera or Peace Lilies can sit directly on the floor in a decorative pot and can really make a statement.

4. Maintenance and care

Some plants need more care and attention than others, which can be important when choosing options for a bathroom – especially if it's a cloakroom or guest bathroom that isn't used regularly. 

If you're looking for low-maintenance bathroom plants, Pothos, Snake Plants, and Spider Plants are happy with minimal effort. 

But if you love looking after plants and don't mind extra care, Orchids and Calatheas will reward you with their stunning leaves and seasonal flowers.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best plants for mould in your bathroom?

If you're looking for plants that help combat mould, choose species that absorb moisture from the air, as this reduces the amount of nutrients the mould spores need to survive. Ferns like the Boston Fern and Bird's Nest Fern are great because they thrive in humid environments while naturally reducing dampness.

Peace Lilies are another good option – they not only soak up excess moisture but also help purify the air, making your bathroom feel fresher.

Can I grow plants in a bathroom with no windows?

Even if your bathroom doesn't get any natural light, there are still plenty of plants that can survive. Snake Plants, Pothos, and Heartleaf Philodendrons don't mind shady conditions and will still bring that fresh, natural feel to your space. 

If you want to go the extra mile, you could always use a grow light to keep your plants in the best condition. These are a type of artificial sunlight that helps plants photosynthesise properly – even when they don’t have much access to natural light. 

They usually have a purple tinge, which makes them great for adding mood lighting to your bathroom, and many come with timers meaning you don’t need to leave them on constantly.

What are some pet-safe bathroom plants?

If you've got pets at home, you'll want to make sure your plants are safe for them. Some great pet-friendly bathroom plants include Boston Ferns, Bird's Nest Ferns, and Areca Palms – they're all non-toxic and love the humidity of a bathroom. Just be careful with plants like Pothos and Peace Lilies, as they can be dangerous to cats and dogs if eaten.

When shopping for plants, take the time to read the plant information before purchasing to make sure it’s safe for pets. If you’re unsure, a quick Google search will usually help to clear things up and prevent any avoidable trips to the vet!

Which are the best hanging plants for a bathroom?

Hanging plants are a great way to add greenery without taking up valuable space. If you're after something that can be hung on the ceiling or draped from a shelf, String of Pearls or Heartleaf Philodendrons are fantastic choices.

Air Plants are also great because they don't need soil – you can pop them in a glass terrarium or even let them trail over your shower enclosure for an earthy look.

Bring your bathroom to life at Wholesale Domestic

Adding plants to your bathroom is an easy way to make the space feel fresher and more relaxing. Whether you're working with a bright, airy room or a small room with no windows, there's a plant to suit every space.

At Wholesale Domestic, we stock a wide range of bathroom furniture and accessories to help you create the perfect setup for your plants. From wall-mounted shelves to vanity units with plenty of storage for pots and planters to sit on, you'll find everything you need to bring your bathroom to life.

If you need help choosing the right style, get in touch with our team, and we'll be happy to help. Or, for more bathroom inspiration, take a look at our blog.