20 Best Bathroom Plants That Absorb Moisture and Thrive in Humidity

Last winter, after one of those long, gray weeks when everything felt damp and dreary, I noticed something unusual in my bathroom. A small fern I had forgotten near the tub—still in its nursery pot, a little unloved—had perked up with brighter leaves and new fronds uncurling like little green question marks. While everything outside seemed asleep, this tiny plant was thriving.

That simple discovery opened my eyes to a hidden secret: bathrooms are paradise for certain kinds of plants. All that steam from daily showers, the cozy warmth, the filtered light—it’s like a miniature rainforest in there if you look at it the right way.

Since then, I’ve been slowly turning my bathroom into a lush little hideaway. Plants dangle from the ceiling, line the windowsill, and perch near the sink, drinking in the humidity like it’s their favorite thing (because it is). Some clean the air. Others add a splash of color or texture. All of them make the space feel more peaceful and alive.

If you’ve ever thought your bathroom was too damp, too dim, or just too small for plants, think again. These 20 moisture-loving beauties don’t just survive in bathrooms—they absolutely flourish. Let’s take a walk through the leafy world of bathroom plants that love humidity as much as you do after a hot shower.

#1. Boston Fern

Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata) are perfect for bathrooms due to their love of humidity. Their feathery fronds thrive in moist environments and help absorb moisture in the air.

These ferns prefer indirect light and frequent watering, making them a great choice for bathrooms with natural light. Regular misting can also help them thrive, adding a refreshing green touch to your space.

#2. Spider Plant

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are well-suited for bathrooms because they adapt to varying humidity levels. Their ability to absorb moisture from the air helps reduce excessive dampness while filtering out common household toxins.

Spider plants are low-maintenance, thrive in moderate to bright light, and are perfect for hanging baskets or small pots.

#3. Peace Lily

Peace lilies thrive in humid environments, making them a great addition to your bathroom. They not only absorb moisture but also purify the air by removing toxins such as ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde.

Peace lilies do well in low light, and their beautiful white blooms make them an elegant and functional addition to your bathroom.

#4. English Ivy

English Ivy (Hedera helix) loves humidity and can thrive in bathrooms with indirect light. It’s an excellent moisture-absorber, helping to maintain a balanced environment.

Known for its ability to filter out pollutants like formaldehyde, it also grows quickly and can be trained to climb or cascade, adding a lush, green touch to your space.

#5. Bamboo Palm

The bamboo palm is ideal for bathrooms due to its tolerance of high humidity levels. This tropical beauty thrives in low to medium light and helps absorb moisture, contributing to a more balanced atmosphere.

It also filters indoor air, removing harmful substances like benzene and formaldehyde. Its elegant, feathery fronds are perfect for brightening up your bathroom.

#6. Snake Plant 1

Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) are some of the most resilient plants, able to withstand varying humidity levels. They absorb moisture from the air and also purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

These plants are low-maintenance, needing only occasional watering, and thrive in low to indirect light, making them ideal for bathrooms with less natural sunlight.

#7. Orchid

Orchids, especially the Phalaenopsis variety, love the humid conditions found in bathrooms. They absorb moisture from the air and can thrive with regular misting.

Orchids require bright, indirect light and benefit from the steam and moisture typical in bathroom environments. Their elegant flowers add a sophisticated touch while keeping the air fresh and clean.

#8. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a hardy, moisture-loving plant that thrives in bathrooms. While it doesn’t require high humidity to survive, it benefits from the moisture in the air.

Aloe Vera is great for purifying the air and can be used for its soothing gel, which is perfect for minor burns or skin irritation. It thrives in bright, indirect light.

#9. Pothos

Pothos is an incredibly versatile plant that does well in humid environments. It thrives in bathrooms, absorbing moisture and helping purify the air.

Known for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, Pothos does well in low to medium light and can be placed in hanging baskets, shelves, or pots. It’s also forgiving if you occasionally forget to water.

#10. Philodendron

Philodendrons are moisture-loving plants that thrive in humid bathroom conditions. They absorb excess moisture from the air and grow quickly with minimal maintenance.

These plants tolerate low to bright indirect light and can be placed in hanging baskets or pots. Their trailing vines create a lush, tropical feel while improving indoor air quality.

#11. Ficus

Ficus, particularly the rubber plant, loves humidity and thrives in bathrooms with indirect light. It absorbs moisture from the air and can help maintain a balanced environment.

Ficus plants are relatively low-maintenance, requiring occasional watering and well-drained soil. Their glossy leaves add a touch of elegance to your bathroom decor.

#12. Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair ferns flourish in humid environments, making them a fantastic bathroom addition. They absorb moisture and help keep the air fresh.

These delicate plants prefer indirect light and consistent moisture. Their graceful, lacy fronds add a soft, refreshing feel to any bathroom, especially in spaces with high humidity.

#13. Cast Iron Plant

The Cast Iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is known for its resilience in low-light and high-humidity environments. It thrives in bathrooms, absorbing moisture from the air while purifying it.

This plant requires minimal care, making it perfect for low-maintenance bathrooms. Its glossy, dark green leaves create a sleek, modern look that complements various bathroom styles.

#14. ZZ Plant

ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are known for their tolerance of low light and variable humidity. While they don’t require high humidity to survive, they can absorb moisture from the air in bathrooms.

ZZ plants are low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering, and their waxy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance and freshness to your bathroom decor.

#15. Bromeliad

Bromeliads are tropical plants that love humidity, making them a perfect fit for bathrooms. They absorb moisture from the air and thrive in indirect light.

These plants are easy to care for and add a splash of color to your bathroom with their bright, vibrant flowers. Their unique rosettes and exotic appearance are ideal for creating a tropical bathroom atmosphere.

#16. Tillandsia

Tillandsia, or air plants, thrive in high humidity and do not need soil to grow. They absorb moisture directly from the air, making them ideal for bathrooms.

These unique plants require indirect light and a misting once a week. Tillandsias can be displayed in decorative containers or hung from ceilings, adding a minimalist touch to your bathroom decor.

#17. Ferns

Boston ferns are one of the best plants for absorbing moisture and thrive in bathroom environments. They love humidity and need indirect light to flourish.

Ferns help maintain a healthy atmosphere by removing toxins from the air and adding lush greenery to the space. Regular misting can help them thrive even more in bathrooms with high moisture levels.

#18. Chinese Evergreen

Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema spp.) are versatile plants that do well in humid bathrooms. They are great at absorbing moisture and adding a fresh touch to your space.

This plant can tolerate low to bright light and needs only occasional watering. With their bold, patterned leaves, they add a pop of color and texture to your bathroom decor.

#19. Prayer Plant

Prayer plants (Maranta leuconeura) are perfect for bathrooms, as they thrive in the humidity and indirect light typical of these spaces.

They absorb moisture from the air, and their stunning, patterned leaves fold up at night, making them a unique addition. Prayer plants require consistently moist soil and a moderate amount of light.

#20. Creeping Jenny

Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is a low-growing plant that loves humidity, making it ideal for bathrooms. It thrives in moist conditions, absorbing moisture from the air and creating a soft, lush carpet of green.

This plant does well in indirect light and can be used as a ground cover or in hanging baskets to add a fresh, natural look to your bathroom.

Final Thoughts

Transforming a bathroom into a green haven isn’t just about decoration—it’s about breathing life into a space that often feels overlooked. These plants not only thrive in the moisture-rich air of bathrooms but also give back in quiet, powerful ways.

Each one has its own story, character, and rhythm. Find the ones that speak to you, bring them into your home, and let your bathroom become the peaceful, plant-filled retreat you deserve. And if a leaf wilts or a fern fumbles? That’s part of the journey. Keep growing—one plant at a time.