10 Bedroom Plants That Boost Air Quality and Help You Sleep Better

Are you not sleeping well? You’re definitely not alone. Whether it’s racing thoughts, stuffy air, or the blue glow of your phone, a lot can get in the way of a good night’s sleep. But one thing that often gets overlooked is bedroom greenery.

According to RHS, adding the right plants for sleep to your room can have a powerful effect, not just on how you sleep, but also on how you feel during the day.Some plants purify the air. Others help calm your mind. And a few even release oxygen while you sleep.

This article will look at ten of the best low-maintenance bedroom plants that improve air quality, ease anxiety, and help you switch off. If you’re building a healthier sleep environment, this is an excellent place to start.

Do plants really improve air quality while you sleep?

Yes, certain houseplants can genuinely improve air quality while you sleep, making your bedroom a healthier place to rest. According to studies, including NASA’s Clean Air Study, plants like snake plant, peace lily, and aloe vera can filter out common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. Some, like the snake plant and aloe vera, are especially useful because they release oxygen at night—unlike most plants that only do so during the day. This can lead to better airflow, fewer sleep disturbances, and a generally calmer breathing environment, particularly in modern UK homes where windows are often kept shut. While plants won’t replace a ventilation system, they’re a simple, natural, and visually calming way to support cleaner air and better sleep.

Why do plants help with sleep?

Let’s break it down. Plants aren’t magic, but they do a few simple things well:

They clean the air – Certain varieties remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and even mould spores. You’ll breathe easier, especially in modern homes where windows stay shut most of the year.

They give off oxygen – Some houseplants release oxygen at night, improving airflow in your bedroom and reducing sleep disturbances.

They ease stress – Just being near greenery can be calming, according to Mind.org.uk. Plants reduce cortisol levels, and some even give off scents that naturally lower your heart rate.

And let’s be honest—coming home to a room that feels fresh, clean, and alive makes it easier to relax.

The Sleep-Boosting Plant List (No Green Thumb Required)

These plants were picked not just for their sleep benefits, but also for being realistic. You don’t need a background in botany to keep them alive.

1. Snake Plant

Why it helps: It emits oxygen at night and removes toxins

Good for: Busy people, forgetful waterers

Care level: Practically bulletproof – water once every couple of weeks

With its upright leaves and sculptural look, the snake plant fits into any style of room. It’s a brilliant pick if your bedroom doesn’t get much sunlight—perfect for UK winters.

2. Jasmine

Why it helps: Its natural fragrance reduces anxiety and promotes deep sleep

Good for: Light sleepers, stress-prone minds

Care level: Medium – likes regular misting and indirect light

One study even found that jasmine helps people fall asleep faster and feel more alert in the morning. A proper multitasker.

3. Lavender

Why it helps: Calms the nervous system with a subtle scent

Good for: Those who struggle to unwind at night

Care level: Needs bright light and good drainage

Lavender is often used in pillow sprays and bath oils, but having the actual plant by your bed adds an extra layer of calm to your sleep setup.

4. ZZ Plant

Why it helps: Cleans indoor air and tolerates pretty much anything

Good for: Low-light rooms and people who forget to water

Care level: Easy – water sparingly and let it do its thing

It doesn’t flower or scent the air, but the ZZ plant earns its place by being low-effort and visually striking—great for modern spaces.

5. Peace Lily

Why it helps: Purifies the air and boosts humidity

Good for: Those with allergies or dry skin

Care level: Medium – keep the soil damp and avoid direct sunlight

This one’s great if you live in a flat with dry air. Its air-purifying abilities are well-documented, including by NASA’s Clean Air Study.

6. English Ivy

Why it helps: Reduces mould and airborne allergens

Good for: Smaller bedrooms or shared rooms

Care level: Needs occasional pruning and a bright spot

Hang it from a shelf and let it trail down for a gorgeous, cottagecore touch. A favourite in older UK homes where damp is a concern.

7. Aloe Vera

Why it helps:It emits oxygen at night and looks sleek

Good for: Minimalist bedrooms

Care level: Very easy – water every few weeks, give it some sun

Aloe does double duty: it purifies air and acts as a natural remedy for burns or dry skin. Plus, it never clashes with your decor.

8. Spider Plant

Why it helps: Fights indoor pollution and increases oxygen

Good for: First-time plant parents

Care level: Super low maintenance – tolerates neglect

It also produces little “baby” plants you can snip off and pot elsewhere. Very satisfying.

9. Areca Palm

Why it helps:It adds humidity and clears carbon dioxide

Good for: Dry homes with central heating

Care level: Moderate – likes regular watering and bright light

This one adds a lush feel to any room. Think calming, resort vibes—without the price tag.

10. Valerian

Why it helps: The scent of its flowers has a sedative effect

Good for: People who struggle to stay asleep

Care level: Slightly fussy – needs full sun and good drainage

It’s less common indoors, but definitely worth a try if you want something beyond the usual lavender and jasmine.

Styling Tips: Make It Work in Your Space

Your bedroom shouldn’t feel like a greenhouse. Even one or two well-chosen plants can completely change the feel of the space.

• Go vertical: Use floating shelves or hang ivy to save space
• Choose calming colours: Pair green plants with soft beige, grey, or white pots
• Keep it tidy: Don’t overdo it. You want serenity, not a jungle
• Pair with proper sleep gear: Plants can’t fix an uncomfortable bed

Speaking of which, if your mattress is old, noisy, or just not cutting it, it might be time to upgrade. At LuxeMattresses, we design sleep surfaces that support deeper rest and look great in any bedroom. Explore our mattress collection for calm environments or check out our guide to improving sleep quality.

Why Plants + Mental Health Go Hand in Hand

This isn’t just about sleep. The act of nurturing a plant—watering it, seeing new leaves—can be grounding and therapeutic. Mind.org.uk encourages nature connection as a way to manage stress, depression, and overwhelm.

You don’t need a garden to benefit. Even a single plant on your windowsill gives you something to connect with. And when it’s part of your bedroom, it reinforces the idea that the room is for rest, not scrolling or stressing.

Combine with a Thoughtful Sleep Routine

Plants are one piece of the puzzle. To make the most of their benefits, combine them with good sleep habits:

• Switch off screens an hour before bed
• Keep lighting soft in the evenings
• Use blackout curtains or an eye mask
• Stick to a consistent sleep time
• Choose a supportive mattress that suits your sleep position

LuxeMattresses offers solutions tailored to all of the above—whether you sleep hot, need back support, or just want something that fits your minimalist, plant-filled haven. Find your perfect mattress here.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a few plants for sleep into your bedroom won’t solve everything, but it can absolutely help. Cleaner air, a calmer mind, and a cosier space are all steps in the right direction.

Start simple. Add one plant. See how it feels. Then layer in more when you’re ready.

Because in the end, better sleep doesn’t always come from big changes. Sometimes it starts with something as small as a single leaf.

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