THE BEST PLANTS FOR THE BEDROOM
Adding plants to your bedroom will not only bring a source of natural beauty to your space, but it can also provide a huge boost to your overall well-being and help you to sleep better. Research shows that certain plants are proven to reduce stress, improve air quality, and, as a result, enable you to have a more restful night’s sleep.
In this article, gardening and plants expert Calum Maddock at HomeHow.co.uk explores the impact that adding greenery to the bedroom can have on your sleep and which are the best plants to choose.
What are the Benefits of Having Plants in My Bedroom?
Indoor plants act as natural air filters and are known to remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and other harsh chemicals that come from paints, furniture, cleaning products, etc. Houseplants can have a huge impact in promoting cleaner air, which in turn will make your lungs work easier and help you to sleep more peacefully.
As well as improving the air around you, plants can significantly boost your mood. Looking at greenery and spending time around plants can make you feel calmer, less stressed, and happier overall. This makes them an ideal addition to a bedroom environment where you want to be winding down at night.
Many plants release moisture into the air, which increases humidity levels in the room. This will help to relieve respiratory and dry skin conditions that can disrupt sleep and promote gentle air circulation, making your bedroom feel fresher.
What are the Top Plants That Can Help Me to Sleep Better?
Snake Plant
The snake plant is a popular houseplant native to tropical western Africa. It is easily recognised for its sword-shaped upright leaves that are typically green with yellow edges.
This hardy plant is an excellent choice when it comes to promoting better sleep. It cleans the air of toxins and releases oxygen at night, making your breathing easier. Snake plants need minimal water and prefer indirect light, so they are easy to care for – just let them work their magic whilst you sleep soundly!
Peace Lily
The peace lily is a well-known indoor plant native to the forest floors of tropical Central America and Southeast Asia. It is beloved by many for its attractive foliage and unique, white, spathe-like flowers.
Peace lilies are great at clearing mould spores and chemicals from the air. Whilst adding a beautiful touch of elegance to your bedroom, they will also improve the air quality and enable better sleep. Be sure to keep the soil moist, but don’t overwater, and place it in a shaded spot.
Lavender
Lavender is a group of herbaceous perennial shrubs native to the Mediterranean region. They are known for their fragrant leaves and attractive purple flowers, which are commonly used in gardens and for essential oils.
Lavender isn’t just a pretty scent; it’s a natural relaxant. Its calming aroma reduces anxiety and helps you to fall asleep faster. Position a pot near your bed or use a diffuser with dried lavender to get the best sleep benefits.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a succulent plant with gelatinous interior leaves. It is widely used in alternative medicine and is known for its benefits in improving digestion and boosting the immune system. It belongs to the lily family and has yellow, bell-shaped flowers.
This stunning plant not only looks good but also cleans the air of formaldehyde and benzene whilst the soothing properties extend to your skin and respiratory health. Aloe vera is very easy to care for – just place it in bright, indirect light and water sparingly.
Areca Palm
Areca Palm is a versatile plant native to Madagascar. It features feathery, arching fronds, each with up to 100 leaflets. Mature palms have ringed cane-like trunks, which have similar characteristics to the Bamboo Palm.
The lush leaves of this palm add a tropical touch and boosts humidity in your room. It’s a natural stress reliever and perfect for creating a calming atmosphere. Keep it in bright, indirect light and water when the topsoil is dry.
English Ivy
English Ivy, also known as common ivy or Hedera helix, is a climbing evergreen plant that can thrive in cold and low-light situations. It is popular as a houseplant due to its easy-care nature, elegant look and versatile stems.
This plant, which comes in several varieties, filters airborne toxins like formaldehyde and benzene effectively, so it is a great choice for the bedroom. It looks great hanging or climbing and requires regular pruning. Make sure it’s in a spot with good air circulation, and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
What Are Some Things to Consider When Selecting the Right Plant for My Bedroom?
- When selecting plants, it is always important to consider the safety of pets and children. Some plants are toxic. When choosing plants, consider safety for pets and children. English Ivy, for example, is toxic to pets, so if you have cats or dogs, you may be better off sticking to options like the snake plant or aloe vera.
- Consider how much time you have to invest in maintenance. For many, low-maintenance houseplants which can thrive with minimal water and care are ideal.
- Select plants that fit in well with the grand scheme of your bedroom and avoid over-cluttering the space. Small, potted plants work great on bedside tables, while larger ones can add a lush, calming backdrop.
- Focus on the different toxins and pollutants the plants filter out and what they can bring to the air. For example, peace lilies remove mould spores and airborne chemicals, whilst a snake plant will produce oxygen at night. Combining these plants can create a healthier sleep environment.
What are some Top Tips for Making the Most of Bedroom Plants to Help Me Sleep Better?
- Position your plants near your bed, but avoid direct contact with your pillow or sheets. Keep them in well-lit spots but away from drafts or heaters. The right placement maximises benefits without cluttering your space.
- Check watering routines and sunlight regularly, and use organic fertilisers occasionally to encourage growth. Clean the leaves often to remove dust and prevent pests – Healthy plants are better air purifiers and live longer.
- Use decorative pots or plant stands to make your greenery a stylish part of your decor. Remember, too many plants can clutter, so choose a few impactful ones instead.
- Combine plants with other sleep habits like blackout curtains or a humidifier. Also, using essential oils or gentle diffusers alongside greenery can help to create a relaxing ambience.
Final Thoughts
Adding the right plants to your bedroom can turn it into a peaceful sanctuary conducive to a good night’s sleep. From improving air quality to reducing stress, they can help you to sleep more deeply and wake up feeling refreshed. Add some greenery to your room today, and enjoy the restful nights to come!
MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR… CALUM MADDOCK: Calum Maddock is a UK-based landscaper with over fifteen years of experience in the industry. As a gardening expert for HomeHow, Calum offers his expert advice to tradespeople and homeowners around the globe. He has also been featured as a gardening expert for a range of reputable publications.
