Which bedroom plants improve sleep quality?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Some plants can significantly improve sleep quality by releasing oxygen during the night and regulating humidity. Snake Plants and aloe vera are the kings of this category due to their unique process of CAM photosynthesis, where they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen after the sun goes down. I have both next to my bed and actually notice deeper sleep cycles.
Distance placement is crucial for achieving the optimal benefits. Placing your plants 3-5 ft (0.9-1.5 m) from your pillow on or nearby nightstands or shelves provides optimal oxygen access without excess humidity. Do not select any fragrant varieties, such as Gardenia, as they can trigger allergies while sleeping. For example, my Aloe Vera plant is 4 ft away and provides a balance of cleaning oxygen and no moisture.
Oxygen Boosters
- Snake Plant: Releases oxygen at night through CAM photosynthesis
- Aloe Vera: Nighttime oxygen producer with air-purifying benefits
- Orchids: Add beauty while increasing overnight oxygen levels
Humidity Regulators
- English Ivy: Reduces airborne mold for cleaner breathing
- Spider Plant: Adds moisture without over-saturating air
- Boston Fern: Natural humidifier for dry bedroom environments
Care Essentials
- Watering: Moderate schedule to prevent mold (every 10-14 days)
- Drainage: Use pots with holes and well-draining soil mix
- Cleaning: Wipe leaves biweekly to maintain gas exchange
- Rotation: Turn plants monthly for even growth
Avoid mold risks by ensuring good drainage and air flow. Use pots that have holes at the bottom and a fast-draining cactus mix. Allow for airflow around your quartz clusters. Never sit them directly on the carpet. Use terracotta pots with pebble trays to reduce excess water. The roots of the plants will remain healthy with no peak in humidity.
I started with just one low-maintenance plant (Snake Plant, which I'll share in the next ring). I placed it correctly and monitored the sleep enhancements. Then, I added additional plant types in the following weeks. The first two plants helped cut down nighttime stuffiness. Now, with five different plant species, I have established the optimal sleeping conditions through coordinated oxygen release.
Read the full article: Top Air Quality Plants for Cleaner Homes
