As autumn brings wet and chilly weather with less sunlight, many UK homes face the familiar problem of damp and moisture buildup. Where damp exists, mould often follows, posing serious health risks. According to gov.uk, "Damp and mould primarily affect the airways and lungs, but they can also affect the eyes and skin. The respiratory effects of damp and mould can cause serious illness and, in the most severe cases, death."
Government warning on mould health risks
Government guidance also states that mould and damp exposure can cause allergic reactions, respiratory irritation and inflammation leading to bronchitis, development or worsening of allergic airway diseases such as rhinitis, asthma flare-ups, eczema and other patches of itchy skin or skin rashes, fungal infections, and mental distress and deteriorating mental health.
Home experts suggest a straightforward and effective solution. Ideal Home's Kayleigh Dray shared her personal experience of getting rid of damp by adding three houseplants to combat moisture. She said: "I have found a lot of success in adding 3 plants to my home to help with damp. Part decor, part practical, I love how they look dotted about the place… and I especially love how they help to siphon all of that moisture from the air."
English Ivy: a top moisture absorber
Kayleigh explains that English Ivy is "pretty adept at trapping moisture with its leaves." The glossy evergreen is a top pro choice for controlling condensation and preventing mould growth. In fact, the English Ivy can remove up to 78% of airborne mould in just under 12 hours. It trails delightfully, looks beautiful, and can be placed on a high shelf or hung from a good height to add to your indoor space's aesthetic allure.
Spider plant and Chinese evergreen
The spider plant is "one of the easiest to look after" and has "put up with a lot of negligence over the years," yet managed to thrive and survive. It is also excellent at absorbing excess moisture and improving indoor air quality, and is heralded for its ability to reduce humidity levels.
The Chinese evergreen, called "basically unkillable" by Kayleigh, has been heralded for its "ability to reduce humidity levels" over the years. She cheekily adds: "The devil works hard, but this plant works even harder." Labelled "notoriously brilliant at purifying the air in your home," the Chinese evergreen is extremely easy to look after, as long as it's kept moist and away from chilly draughts. To ensure it thrives, find a spot of indirect light, as too much bright sun will burn its leaves.
Apart from these three, Boston ferns and peace lilies are also regarded as more than fit for the job. These plants remain a top choice and are known to be excellent at controlling humidity, as well as enhancing the overall air quality inside homes.
