Watering plants with dehumidifier water might not be the best choice (Image: Getty)
Dehumidifiers work by drawing in humid air, cooling it, and collecting the condensed water. The resulting water, however, is technically “grey water,” meaning it’s not pure.
According to Alex Biggart of 123 Flowers, a leading plant expert, “The water collected in dehumidifiers often contains a mixture of dust, spores, bacteria, and potentially even traces of metals from the coils inside the machine. This makes it unsuitable for many plants.”
One of the main concerns is that dehumidifier water, while free of chlorine and other chemicals found in tap water, may contain mould or bacteria that could harm plant roots. For plants, root health is crucial; exposure to bacteria-laden water can introduce diseases that may damage the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients.
Alex explains: “Using dehumidifier water on plants might be harmless in some cases, but for sensitive plants, it could actually do more harm than good.”
Dehumidifiers often contain metals which can be harmful to plants in higher concentrations. (Image: Getty)
Another concern is the possibility of metal leaching. Dehumidifiers often contain copper or aluminium parts, and the condensed water might pick up small amounts of these metals, which can be harmful to plants in higher concentrations.
“If you’re keen on using dehumidifier water, it’s best to filter it first and reserve it for hardier, non-sensitive outdoor plants rather than delicate indoor species,” advises Alex.
Despite these warnings, some gardeners have found ways to make use of dehumidifier water in safer applications. Watering non-edible, drought-tolerant plants like succulents outdoors can be an option, as these plants are typically less susceptible to bacterial infections.
However, experts stress that edible plants or those with delicate roots should ideally be watered with filtered or distilled water.
Ultimately, the consensus among plant experts like Alex is to proceed with caution. “While repurposing dehumidifier water might seem like a great way to save resources, it’s important to understand the risks.”