Mould is common in the UK (Image: Getty)
Approximately two million people in England live in homes plagued by severe mould issues, according to the UK Health Security Agency ().
With temperatures rising after months of unpredictable rainfall, the risk of mould-related problems has increased. However while anti-mould sprays and paints may seem like an effective solution, they often contain harsh chemicals.
A natural alternative is placing plants on your windowsills. Certain plants can help purify the air and reduce humidity, making it harder for mould to thrive.
In fact, recent research from found that more than one in eight Brits (14%) would feel happier in their homes if they introduced more plants. With this in mind, they have identified six of the best houseplants to place on your windowsill to help prevent mould growth.
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1. English Ivy
With its lush, dense foliage, English Ivy is highly effective at trapping airborne particles, helping to reduce mould spores and absorb excess moisture in the home. Thriving in sunlight, it’s best placed on a windowsill, partially shaded by blinds or sheer curtains – especially in living rooms.
2. Peace Lilies
These plants flourish in humid environments with low to moderate sunlight. It makes them ideal for places like your bathroom or kitchen. Like English Ivy, they have air-purifying qualities and control moisture levels through their leaves. Thi means they canhelp to reduce the risk of mould growth.
3. Boston Ferns
These are great for home humidity making it unatrractive for mould to grow. They thrive in indirect light and love high humidity making them perfect for sprucing up your bathroom or kitchen windowsills.
Boston Ferns are one of many plants that can help (Image: Getty)
4. Spider Plants
Spider Plants are excellent at filtering air pollutants, absorbing excess moisture, and enhancing indoor air quality to help prevent mould growth. Thriving in bright, indirect light, they are ideal for windows in living rooms, kitchens, or other well-lit areas of the home.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a natural mould deterrent, thanks to its moisture-absorbing and antifungal properties. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, making it an ideal plant for sunny windowsills to help reduce humidity and prevent mould growth.
6. Snake Plants
Snake Plants are effective at absorbing toxins and moisture from the air, helping to reduce the damp conditions that encourage mould growth. They also release oxygen at night, enhancing indoor air quality. Their ability to thrive in various lighting conditions makes them a perfect addition to any window in your home.