· By Shawne Huff
10 Best Bedroom Plants for Better Sleep
Transforming your bedroom into a serene sanctuary can be as simple as incorporating a few carefully chosen houseplants. These green companions brighten your space and contribute to a calming atmosphere, enhancing relaxation and sleep quality.
Below, you’ll discover the 10 best bedroom plants that promise aesthetic appeal, plus the benefits of improved sleep. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor garden journey, these selections will breathe life into your room while helping you unwind after a long day. Get ready to create your perfect retreat and discover how the right greenery can cultivate tranquility in your personal space.
Criteria for Choosing Bedroom Plants
When selecting houseplants for your bedroom, several factors come into play to ensure they contribute positively to your sleep environment. Firstly, it's crucial to consider the plants' light requirements. Bedrooms often have varying levels of natural light, and selecting plants that thrive in low—to medium-light conditions can prevent disappointment and ensure the plants remain healthy. Plants such as snake plants and peace lilies are excellent choices for low-light environments, as they can thrive without direct sunlight.
Another critical factor is the plant's ability to purify the air. Some plants are adept at removing toxins and pollutants, improving indoor air quality, and promoting better sleep. For instance, the English ivy and spider plant are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them ideal candidates for the bedroom. Additionally, it's worth considering houseplants that release oxygen at night, such as certain types of succulents and snake plants, as this can further enhance the sleeping environment.
Finally, maintenance and care requirements should be considered when choosing bedroom plants. Opt for low-maintenance plants if you have a busy lifestyle or lack a green thumb. Indoor plants that require minimal watering and care, like pothos and ZZ plants, can be a good fit for those who want to enjoy the benefits of bedroom plants without the stress of high maintenance. By carefully considering these criteria, you can select the perfect plants to create a serene and sleep-inducing atmosphere in your bedroom.
Bedroom Plants for Better Sleep
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Great for beginners, the snake plant, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, is a popular bedroom choice due to its striking appearance and low maintenance needs. This hardy plant is known for converting carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, making it an excellent oxygen-producing companion for your sleep environment. Its tall, upright leaves with variegated patterns add a touch of elegance to your bedroom decor.
Snake plants thrive in low to bright indirect light and require infrequent watering, making them ideal for bedroom settings. They can tolerate neglect and still flourish, which is perfect for those who may not have much time to dedicate to plant care. Additionally, snake plants are known for their air-purifying properties, helping to remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
2. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is well-known for its calming and soothing properties, making it a fantastic addition to any bedroom. Its fragrance can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and better sleep. Having a potted lavender plant on your bedside table can provide a natural source of aromatherapy, helping you unwind after a long day.
Lavender plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. While they require regular watering, letting the soil dry out between waterings is vital to prevent root rot. The beautiful purple flowers of lavender add a pop of color to your bedroom and contribute to a peaceful and serene atmosphere, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are renowned for their elegant white flowers and lush green foliage, making them a popular choice for bedroom decor. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, peace lilies are excellent air purifiers, capable of removing common household toxins such as ammonia and trichloroethylene. Their air-cleaning properties can help create a healthier sleep environment.
Peace lilies thrive in low to medium light conditions, making them suitable for bedrooms with limited natural light. They prefer consistently moist soil but can tolerate occasional drying out. The graceful, arching leaves and delicate white blooms of the peace lily add a touch of tranquility to any bedroom, making it a perfect addition for creating a serene sleep space.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a versatile and easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in bedroom environments. This popular houseplant is known for its healing properties; it can benefit your sleep space. The gel inside its succulent leaves has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help treat minor cuts and burns. Moreover, aloe vera releases oxygen at night, improving air quality and sleep.
Aloe vera plants prefer bright light and well-draining soil, such as a sunny windowsill. They offer great vibes and require minimal watering, making them low-maintenance and ideal for busy schedules. The spiky, green aloe vera leaves can add a touch of modernity to your bedroom decor while providing various health benefits.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is a classic and charming plant that can add a touch of elegance to your bedroom. Its trailing vines and lush green leaves can create a soothing and inviting atmosphere. English ivy is known for its air-purifying abilities, effectively removing mold spores and other airborne toxins, which can contribute to a healthier sleep environment.
English ivy thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates low-light conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil but can withstand occasional drying out. Hanging baskets or shelves are perfect for displaying English ivy, allowing its vines to cascade gracefully and enhancing the visual appeal of your bedroom.
6. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata)
Fiddle-leaf fig trees are another easy-care plant that thrives in medium to bright indirect sunlight. Native to the rainforests of West Africa, they are known for their large leaves and striking appearance—some grow over 10 feet tall!
Moving your fiddle leaf fig can harm the plant's health, so find the best spot in your bedroom and leave your plant there to thrive. While the plant can be challenging to grow, it is worth the effort. However, unfortunately for pets, the fiddle leaf fig contains harmful toxins, so these beautiful plants are best kept away from your furry friends.
If you choose to add a Fiddle Leaf Fig to your collection, read these articles on how to care for them, in particular pay attention to the correct light levels.
7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are popular for their air-purifying qualities and ease of care. Their arching green leaves with white stripes add a touch of freshness to any bedroom. Spider plants effectively remove air pollutants such as formaldehyde and xylene, contributing to a healthier sleep environment.
Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to low-light conditions. They prefer evenly moist soil but can tolerate occasional drying out. The spider plant's ability to produce "spiderettes" or baby plants makes it a charming and dynamic addition to your bedroom decor, creating a lively and rejuvenating atmosphere.
8. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian is a lesser-known but highly effective plant for promoting better sleep. Its roots have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for insomnia and anxiety. Valerian's soothing properties can help calm the nervous system and improve sleep quality. Keeping a potted valerian plant in your bedroom can provide a natural source of relaxation.
Valerian plants prefer full to partial sunlight and well-draining soil. They require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. The delicate pink or white valerian flowers can add a touch of beauty to your bedroom while improving sleep and relaxation.
9. Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
Gardenias are known for their beautiful white flowers and intoxicating fragrance, making them a lovely addition to any bedroom. The sweet scent of gardenia can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. A gardenia plant in your bedroom can create a romantic and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for winding down before bedtime.
Gardenias prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining, acidic soil. They require consistent moisture and humidity to thrive, making them more high-maintenance than other bedroom plants. However, gardenias' stunning blooms and soothing fragrances make them worth extra care.
10. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a hardy and low-maintenance option for bedroom decor. Its glossy, dark green leaves add a modern and sophisticated touch to any space. The ZZ plant is known for tolerating low light and infrequent watering, making it an ideal choice for those who may not have much time to dedicate to plant care.
ZZ plants thrive in various light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. They prefer well-draining soil and can go for extended periods without water, making them perfect for busy individuals. The sleek and elegant appearance of the ZZ plant can enhance the overall aesthetic of your bedroom while providing the benefits of improved air quality and a serene atmosphere
Benefits of Having Plants in the Bedroom
Incorporating plants into your bedroom decor offers numerous benefits beyond aesthetic appeal. One of the most significant advantages is the improvement of indoor air quality. Many bedroom plants, such as the snake plant and peace lily, are known for filtering out common household toxins and pollutants. This can lead to cleaner air and a healthier sleeping environment, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies.
Another benefit of having plants in the bedroom is the promotion of relaxation and stress reduction. Plants like lavender and jasmine release soothing fragrances that can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. Greenery has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with insomnia or have difficulty winding down at the end of the day.
Additionally, plants can contribute to better sleep quality by regulating humidity levels in the bedroom. Many plants release moisture through transpiration, which can help maintain optimal humidity levels. This is especially important in dry environments, where low humidity can lead to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and disrupted sleep. Incorporating plants that release moisture can create a more comfortable and conducive environment for restful sleep.
Finally, plants in the bedroom can enhance overall well-being and happiness. Studies have shown that spending time around plants and nature can boost mood and improve mental health. Caring for plants can also provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose, contributing to overall emotional well-being. Creating a green and inviting sleep space can cultivate a positive and nurturing environment supporting physical and mental health.
DIY Bedroom Plant Decor Ideas
Creating a beautiful and relaxing bedroom with plants doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With a few DIY decor ideas, you can add a personal touch to your sleep sanctuary while incorporating the benefits of greenery. One simple and effective idea is to create a hanging plant display. You can suspend plants like spider plants or English ivy from the ceiling or wall using macrame plant hangers or simple hooks. This saves floor space and adds a dynamic and eye-catching element to your bedroom decor.
Another creative idea is to repurpose everyday items as plant containers. Teacups, mason jars, and vintage tins can make charming and unique planters for small plants like succulents or herbs. Adding a personal touch to your plant containers allows you to create a bedroom decor that reflects your style and personality. Additionally, using upcycled materials is an eco-friendly way to enhance your space.
Consider creating a plant shelf or green wall in your bedroom. Floating shelves can display various plants at different heights, creating a lush and layered look. Alternatively, you can install a vertical garden or trellis on one wall, allowing climbing plants like pothos or English ivy to create a living tapestry. This not only adds visual interest but also maximizes the use of vertical space.
Making a terrarium can be fun and rewarding for those who enjoy crafting. Using a glass container, sand, rocks, and small plants like cacti or air plants, you can create a miniature garden that adds a touch of nature to your bedroom. Terrariums are low-maintenance and can be customized to suit your decor style.
Finally, consider incorporating plant-themed artwork or prints into your bedroom decor. Botanical prints, framed pressed flowers, or even paintings of plants can complement the natural elements in your space. This can create a cohesive and harmonious look, tying together the various aspects of your bedroom decor.
By getting creative with your plant decor, you can design a relaxing and visually appealing bedroom that promotes better sleep and well-being. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a lush, jungle-like atmosphere, there are endless possibilities for incorporating plants into your sleep sanctuary. You can transform your bedroom into a serene retreat with creativity and effort, supporting relaxation and rejuvenation.
Conclusion: Creating a Serene Sleep Environment
Transforming your bedroom into a serene sleep sanctuary involves more than just choosing the right plants. It's about creating an overall environment that promotes relaxation and well-being. Start by decluttering your space and removing any items that may cause stress or distractions. A clean and organized bedroom can help create a sense of calm and order, making it easier to unwind at the end of the day.
Consider incorporating elements that enhance the overall ambiance of your bedroom. Soft lighting, such as bedside lamps or string lights, can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Adding cozy textiles, such as plush blankets and soft pillows, can make your bed more comfortable and inviting. Combined with calming and air-purifying plants, these elements can help create a holistic sleep environment that supports relaxation and restful sleep.
Pay attention to the sensory aspects of your bedroom as well. Incorporate soothing scents through essential oils, candles, or naturally fragrant plants like lavender and jasmine. Playing soft, calming music or nature sounds can also enhance the peaceful atmosphere. You can create a multidimensional sleep sanctuary that promotes deep relaxation and rejuvenation by engaging all your senses.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels like a retreat from the outside world. By carefully selecting and arranging bedroom plants that improve air quality, reduce stress, and promote relaxation, you can cultivate a tranquil environment that supports better sleep. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor garden journey, these selections can help you create the perfect bedroom oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.