Take some time to create a pleasant and relaxing night routine It has become almost a necessity: we sleep worse and worse, it's harder to disconnect from screens, and the stress of the day seeps into the bedroom. Beyond the typical advice to eat dinner early or put your phone away a couple of hours before bed, the bedroom environment and how decorate the bedroom with plants They can also make a difference when it comes to falling asleep.
In addition to choosing a warm lighting (preferably reddish)Besides keeping your room tidy and your bed made, there's a very simple gesture that helps a lot: adding plants. Some species are able to purify the air, release oxygen at night, and generate a sense of calm that, without you even realizing it, prepares you for better sleep. Among them all, there are a few that work wonderfully in the bedside table and in the bedroom and they are also very easy to care for.
Why have plants on your bedside table and in your bedroom?
For years the myth has been repeated that Sleeping among plants was dangerous because they were “stealing” our oxygen while we slept; in reality, the amount of oxygen they consume is minimal, much less than what a person or even your pet consumes while sleeping next to you. What is true is that, choosing the species wellIts benefits for rest and health are very interesting.
There are plants that stand out for their ability to filter out typical indoor toxic compoundsThese include pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, ammonia, and carbon monoxide. These contaminants can come from lacquered furniture, paints, cleaning products, synthetic fabrics, or plastics, and in the long run, they affect our breathing.
In addition, plants help to slightly regulate ambient humidityIn very dry bedrooms, its presence can compensate for that lack of humidity, something that is noticeable when breathing at night, especially if you have a tendency towards dry throat or mucous membranes.
Another key point is the psychological effect: surrounding yourself with greenery creates a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Place a pretty flowerpot on the small tableA hanging plant on the shelf or a larger species in a corner of the room brings life, breaks the coldness of the room and makes you want to be there and disconnect from the day.
However, to make everything work in your favor, it's advisable Don't overcrowd the bedroom with too many plantsToo many potted plants can increase humidity too much, becoming overwhelming, and, from a feng shui perspective, generate an overly active energy for a relaxation area. It's better to have a few, well-chosen plants, placed intentionally.
Nighttime and calming plants for better sleep
There are some species known as nocturnal plants because they concentrate part of their activity when the sun sets: some release their aroma mainly at night, others open their flowers in the dark, and several continue producing oxygen during the early morning. In different cultures, these types of plants have been seen as sleep and home protectorsassociating them with both calm and a certain sensuality and intimate energy.
Valerian
Valerian is one of the classic plants associated with problems with insomnia, nervousness, and anxietyScience has not yet reached a consensus on its effectiveness in all cases, but in much of Europe it has been traditionally used to promote rest, whether in infusions, extracts, or simply by enjoying its presence in the bedroom.
It is a aromatic plant with an intense smellIt has a peculiar scent, which many describe as very distinctive. Although it can be strong, this fragrance helps create a more tranquil atmosphere. In terms of care, it thrives in a temperate climate, free from frost and extreme dryness, so it's best to protect it from very low temperatures and excessively dry air.
Valerian fits in perfectly in minimalist, organic, or very neutral style bedrooms, because It adds a natural touch without being overwhelming. And its discreet presence combines well with light woods, soft textiles and earth tones.
Peace lily or spathiphyllum
The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is one of the most popular and rewarding indoor plants for bedrooms. Its bright green leaves and its white flowers They provide an immediate feeling of freshness, and simply looking at them conveys serenity. They are considered a nocturnal plant in that they tolerate indoor spaces well and contribute to creating a relaxing atmosphere.
One of its great strengths is that thoroughly purifies the air in the roomhelping to eliminate compounds that can be harmful if they accumulate over time. According to NASA's renowned studies on air-purifying plants, the peace lily is able to reduce the presence of certain toxins found in many homes.
During spring and summer it usually enters a long flowering phaseWith proper fertilization at that time, you can enjoy its white spathes for several months, making it a fantastic decorative piece for a bedside table, dresser, or bedroom corner.
As for care, she likes the indirect light and moderate ambient humidityIt is ideal for rooms that are not excessively dry; simply keep the substrate slightly moist without waterlogging and place it away from very cold drafts.
The three star plants for your bedside table
If what you want is a quick selection of plants almost perfect to place next to the bedThree stand out: sansevieria, peace lily, and aloe vera. All of them fit easily on a bedside table, require little care, and are known for their ability to enhance the nighttime atmosphere.
Sansevieria or mother-in-law's tongue
The sansevieria, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, is probably one of the hardiest indoor plants you can haveIt withstands missed waterings, tolerates low light better than many others, and is hardly affected by pests if we don't drown it with water.
Its most interesting feature for the bedroom is that It continues to release oxygen during the nightUnlike most plants that focus on that process during the day, while you sleep, it helps to refresh the air in the room and reduce certain toxins in the environment.
The leaves of the sansevieria are long, firm, and upright, so They take up very little horizontal space on the small table.This tall and slender design combines beautifully with modern, Nordic, or other style bedrooms. Minimalist, and it also adds a very interesting graphic touch.
To take proper care of it, ideally it should be placed in a place with bright indirect light, although it tolerates shadier areasWatering should be very moderate, allowing the substrate to dry completely between waterings and using pots with good drainage to avoid waterlogging. It is also advisable to keep it away from drafts of cold air.
Peace lily as a night companion
We've already mentioned the peace lily as a nocturnal and purifying plant, but it deserves a specific spot next to the bed because It works wonderfully on the nightstand.Its broad leaves and white flowers decorate without the need for many other accessories.
By releasing moisture and filtering out unwanted substances, the peace lily contributes to to maintain cleaner, more breathable air in the bedroom. If you often wake up with a dry nose or a stuffy feeling in the air, it can help you feel the atmosphere lighter.
But remember that it needs a substrate that is always slightly moistwithout overdoing it. In very dry bedrooms, it will appreciate gentle misting of its leaves to mimic higher ambient humidity. It's best to avoid intense direct sunlight on the bedside table, as this can scorch the foliage.
Aloe vera: purifier and natural first aid kit
Aloe vera is another great candidate for the side table because it combines aesthetic, purifying and medicinal benefitsIts fleshy, elongated leaves give a very contemporary touch to the bedroom, especially if planted in a minimalist ceramic or cement pot.
Like the sansevieria, aloe is capable of release oxygen during the nighthelping to refresh the air in the room while you sleep. In addition, it has the ability to absorb certain substances present in the home environment.
On the other hand, having an aloe vera plant on hand is very practical: the pulp of its leaves has been used for years for its beneficial properties. regenerative and soothing properties on the skinIn case of a minor burn, slight irritation or tightness, you can cut a small piece of leaf and apply the gel inside (provided it is a plant grown without harsh chemicals).
In terms of maintenance, it's a plant that requires Plenty of light, but no intense direct sunlight indoorsWater sparingly: it's better to underwater than overwater, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Again, a pot with excellent drainage is essential.
Other recommended plants for the bedroom
Beyond the favorites for the bedside table, there is a whole range of species that work great in bedrooms, whether for their purifying capacity, its resistance, or its decorative valueSome can go on the small table; others are better on the floor, shelves or high shelves.
Ficus: presence and style
Ficus trees are widely used in decoration due to their elegant appearance and abundant foliage. It is true that they require They require a little more care than other, more robust species.But they are still quite affordable for anyone with a minimum of consistency.
Since these plants can reach a good size, they need enough space to developSo they're not the best choice for a bedside table. They work better in a clear corner of the bedroom, where their leaves create a decorative green backdrop.
Ficus trees like the Plenty of light but without intense direct sunlightIt's important to filter the light with curtains or keep them away from windows where the sun shines directly in. It's also advisable to keep them away from radiators, drafts, and excessively low temperatures.
As for watering, a couple of times a week is sufficient in warm weather, or when you notice the surface of the soil is dry in winter. It's also a good idea to occasionally clean its broad leaves with a... damp cloth to remove dustbecause this way they breathe better and look brighter.
During spring and summer you can contribute a liquid fertilizer diluted in irrigation water to support its growth. There are many types of ficus: benjamina, lyrata, elastica… you can choose the one that best suits the style of your bedroom.
English ivy
English ivy is a climbing plant that looks spectacular in shelves or hanging baskets inside the bedroom. Its hanging stems add a romantic or bohemian touch and are very decorative.
Furthermore, it is considered a good plant for to trap suspended particles and help improve indoor air quality. However, it must be kept out of reach of pets or small children, as it can be toxic if ingested.
boston fern
Boston fern is ideal in rooms with somewhat dry atmospherebecause it helps to soothe that dryness. Its hanging, fluffy fronds add volume and look great in baskets or on a shelf.
It needs indirect light and good ambient humidityIn very dry bedrooms, it's a good idea to spray it with water or place a humidifier nearby to prevent it from drying out.
Pothos or pothos
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a classic because it almost It survives everything and adapts to most rooms.. It tolerates low light levels quite well.However, if it has more light it grows faster and with more showy leaves.
Its hanging style makes it perfect for hang it above the small tableon a nearby shelf or a high shelf. Variegated varieties will need a little more light to preserve the light tones of the leaves.
zamioculcas
The zamioculcas is considered one of the hardiest indoor plantsAs long as you don't overwater it, it's perfect for bedrooms with low light, as it tolerates partial shade quite well.
Its modern look, with glossy, upright leaves, fits in very well with modern and minimalist decorationsYou only need to water it when the soil is completely dry and avoid saucers with accumulated water.
Monstera delicious
Monstera deliciosa is the star plant if you want a touch jungle and exotic in your bedroomIts perforated leaves are very decorative and fill any corner without much effort.
It can be placed in a corner of the room, on the floor or on a stand, and adapts well to medium indirect lightWith a support, it can gradually gain height and presence.
Plants that purify the air in the bedroom
According to several studies, including the famous NASA study, there are plants that act almost like small natural filters inside the houseThey won't replace daily ventilation, but they can contribute to reducing common toxic substances in enclosed environments.
Among the most interesting for the bedroom are the peace lily, snake plant, English ivy, bamboo palm and aloe veraAll of them help, to a greater or lesser extent, to clean the air of pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene or xylene, while also providing a decorative touch.
The peace lily, for example, is a good option for people with allergies or sensitivity to moldbecause it helps reduce airborne spores. The bamboo palm, for its part, also contributes to increasing the relative humidity of the air, which is very useful in dry climates.
Feng shui recommended plants for the bedroom
From a feng shui perspective, the bedroom is a space where [the following should predominate]: calm and peaceful energyTherefore, it is not advisable to fill the room with plants or to use very large species or those with extremely pointed leaves that generate an overly active energy.
However, there are certain plants that feng shui considers them allies of well-being and harmony in the bedroom:
- Lavender: Known for its calming aroma, it helps to relax and promotes sleep. It needs good light and is fantastic for repelling mosquitoes in summer.
- Lucky Bamboo: It is associated with harmony and stability in the home.
- Orchid: A symbol of elegance, sensuality and emotional balance, it also helps regulate humidity.
- Crassula ovata (money plant): related to prosperity and economic abundance.
- Pothos: It is said to help unlock stagnant energies and activate somewhat "dead" areas of the house.
It is preferable to place these plants en bedside tables, corner shelves or tall shelvesavoiding filling them right around the bed so that energy can flow without obstruction.
Benefits of sleeping with plants in the bedroom
Placing plants on the bedside table or in other spots in the bedroom is not just an aesthetic matter; there are several concrete benefits for health and well-being which should be taken into account.
On the one hand, many species help to purify the air and neutralize odorsThis is crucial in city homes exposed to pollution, fumes, or unpleasant odors from outside. Some are especially effective against tobacco smoke or certain chemical compounds.
They also contribute to lightly humidify the environmentIf you always rely on a humidifier in winter, or notice that the heating dries the air out a lot, certain plants can help soften that effect, even indicating with their soil when the environment becomes too dry.
Another key aspect is its effect on sleep: species such as lavender, some gardenias, or valerian They are known for promoting relaxation, whether through their fragrance, their symbolism, or the feeling of connection with nature they evoke.
From an emotional point of view, incorporating green into the bedroom invites... slow down, disconnect from the rhythm of the day and treat the space as a refuge. That small routine of watering, pruning, or simply observing your plants before bed can become part of your relaxing nighttime ritual.
How to decorate the bedroom with plants without overwhelming it
The key to making plants work in the bedroom is Don't overdo it with the quantity or overload the spaceIt's not about creating a jungle, but about placing some strategic touches of greenery that bring freshness and calm.
A good trick is to play with different heights and sizes: a small plant on the bedside table (sansevieria, aloe, succulents), a medium-sized one on the dresser (spathiphyllum, pothos), and perhaps a larger one on the floor (monstera, ficus, areca palm) in a clear corner.
Hanging plants, like hanging succulents, ivy, or pothosThey work very well above the bed (on a high shelf), in corners or by the window, adding movement without taking up floor space.
You can also use flowerpots as a decorative element: change colors, materials, and textures to create variety while maintaining a cohesive look. palette harmonious with the rest of the bedroomBaskets made of natural fibers, glazed ceramics, cement… everything adds character.
However, the success of decorating with plants depends on Take care of them and water them wisely.Research the specific needs of each plant species and create a realistic watering routine based on your lifestyle. And don't forget to ventilate daily: it's important to prevent excess moisture and water from accumulating in the pots, as this can encourage mold growth, which is harmful to both your health and the plants themselves.
Plants especially suitable for the bedroom
If you want to go straight to the point, there are a number of plants that, due to their characteristics, are especially suitable to live with us while we sleep and that completely debunk the myth that plants "suffocate us" at night.
- Aloe vera: In addition to its cosmetic and medicinal uses, it releases oxygen at night and helps neutralize odors and chemical compounds from detergents and plastics.
- Lavender: Its aroma helps you fall asleep and repels mosquitoes in summer; it needs plenty of light.
- Orchid: Delicate and elegant, it regulates humidity well and dresses up any small table or dresser.
- Sansevieria: It transforms carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, ideal for bedrooms with little light and for people who forget about watering.
- Love bow (Chlorophytum comosum): A classic houseplant that filters carbon monoxide, benzene, and formaldehyde, noticeably improving air quality.
These species, combined with a good daily ventilation and appropriate lightingThey will create a much healthier, more welcoming, and pleasant environment for rest. By choosing a few plants well-suited to your light, space, and care time, your bedside table and bedroom can be transformed into a small green oasis where it's much easier to disconnect and sleep soundly.
