Plants for a Better Night’s Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall well-being. When we’re well-rested, everything feels a bit easier and more manageable.

But in today’s busy world, quality sleep can sometimes feel out of reach. We’re always looking for natural ways to support our bodies and minds, and it turns out a few well-placed plants in the bedroom may help create a more restful environment.

Creating a peaceful sleep sanctuary is key. Plants can play a valuable role by adding a sense of calm and even helping to improve air quality in your sleeping space.

Plants That Support Fresher Air at Night

There’s a common belief that plants produce oxygen at night. While this is true to a degree, most plants also consume a small amount of oxygen in the dark, just like we do.

However, many plants can be used as part of a holistic approach to filtering out indoor air pollutants, and cleaner air can support better rest. It’s a subtle benefit, but one that may contribute to feeling more refreshed in the morning.

Calming Scents That Encourage Rest

Some plants are known for their soothing fragrances, which may help you unwind before bed.

• Lavender: The scent of lavender is widely associated with relaxation and reduced anxiety. A small lavender plant near your bed can help create a peaceful atmosphere.
• Jasmine: This delicate flowering plant has a light, sweet fragrance that research suggests may improve sleep quality and reduce stress.
• Valerian: While not the most decorative plant, valerian has been used in herbal medicine for its calming effects. The plant itself might provide subtle benefits, though it’s more commonly used in teas or supplements.

Easy-Care Bedroom Plants

When choosing plants for your bedroom, it’s best to go for those that thrive with minimal attention. You want them to contribute to calm, not become another task on your list.

• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): This hardy plant needs very little watering and can tolerate low light. It’s noted for its modest ability to help filter several airborne substances as part of your overall home air filtering system, and can continue absorbing CO2 at night, albeit in small amounts.
• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Another great option for low-maintenance greenery. It tolerates low light and doesn’t need frequent watering, making it ideal for bedrooms.
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): These trailing plants are simple to look after and are often mentioned for their potential to help filter indoor air. Research—including NASA’s original studies and more recent work—has shown that pothos can absorb substances like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene in modest amounts. However, they look lovely cascading from a shelf or hanging basket, making it an attractive and easy-care addition to your space.

Where to Place Plants in the Bedroom

Thoughtful placement can help your plants enhance the overall calm of your space. Smaller plants, such as lavender or jasmine, can sit on your bedside table.

A chest of drawers or dresser offers space for larger varieties like a ZZ Plant or Snake Plant. Hanging baskets in a corner can hold plants like Pothos or Spider Plants, which provide greenery without using up surfaces.

Shelves also offer a nice home for plants, especially if you want to keep things away from high-traffic areas. Just make sure each plant gets the light it needs in that location.

What to Avoid in a Sleep Space

Most common houseplants are fine in a bedroom, but there are a few considerations:

Avoid plants that are highly allergenic if you’re sensitive to pollen or spores. Scented plants are generally helpful, but strong or stimulating fragrances may not suit everyone in a bedroom setting.

It’s also best to skip high-maintenance plants that need constant attention, as they might create more stress than relaxation. And finally, if you have pets or young children, be aware of which plants could be toxic if touched or chewed. Always check plant safety if this applies to your household.

Adding a few carefully chosen, easy-care plants to your bedroom is a simple way to support a more peaceful space. Try adding one or two and see whether the presence of a little greenery helps you settle more easily into restful sleep.