In a bathroom, humidity is a common problem that not only affects the atmosphere but also the condition of your beauty products. From foggy mirrors to makeup palettes that soften and brushes that deteriorate due to excess moisture, maintaining a flawless beauty routine can be difficult. So, how can you avoid these problems without relying on a noisy, energy-draining dehumidifier? The solution may lie in a simple but effective houseplant.
Why Is Humidity a Problem?
Humidity in a bathroom can quickly become a real issue for your beauty products. When humidity levels rise above 70%, it creates the perfect environment for bacterial growth, which can cause irreversible damage to your cosmetics. For example, powders may compact, eyeshadows could mold, and mascaras and other products may degrade. But that’s not all: high humidity levels can also harm your skin by promoting the growth of mold and fungi.
The ideal humidity level for a bathroom is between 50% and 60%. At this range, your beauty products remain stable, and your skin can breathe more easily. However, reaching this optimal level can be tricky, especially in a small bathroom where moisture tends to linger. This is where nature can step in, offering you a simple and aesthetically pleasing solution: plants.
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The Boston Fern: Your Natural Humidity Regulator
One of the most effective plants for regulating humidity in a bathroom is the Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), a tropical plant. Its special feature lies in its hygroscopic abilities, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air and release it through transpiration. This process helps maintain a stable humidity level around 50-60%, which is ideal for keeping your beauty products intact and creating a healthier environment.
NASA, as part of its research into indoor air quality, has shown that certain houseplants, including the Boston Fern, act as “biofilters,” capturing pollutants like cigarette smoke or certain solvents. On top of regulating humidity, this plant also works as an air purifier, helping create a cleaner and more relaxing bathroom environment.
How to Install the Boston Fern in Your Bathroom
To get the most out of the Boston Fern, it’s important to place it in the right spot in your bathroom. It thrives in humid environments but needs indirect natural light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out its fronds. A shelf or stool in a shaded area works best, while placing it on a cold tiled floor is not ideal.
Caring for the fern is easy. Keep the soil cool and moist but not waterlogged, with weekly watering usually enough. Regularly check the leaves and trim any dead fronds to help the plant continue to regulate humidity.
If your bathroom is small, you can add a Tillandsia (air plant) to complement the Boston Fern. It thrives on ambient moisture and can be placed in a decorative glass bubble. This combination will improve humidity control and create a healthier bathroom environment for your beauty products.
Why Choose Plants Over Dehumidifiers?
Although electric dehumidifiers are effective, they can be noisy and energy-intensive. Furthermore, some cheaper models may dry out the air beyond the optimal level, which can lead to discomfort and skin issues. On the other hand, plants like the Boston Fern offer a more natural, silent, and aesthetically pleasing solution. They require minimal upkeep, and in addition to absorbing moisture, they bring a touch of greenery to your space, which is always a plus.
