The Houseplant You Should Be Sleeping Next To And Why

If you thought houseplants were just for the living room, think again — you'll want this one on your bedside table. The snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata), also known as mother-in-law's tongue, isn't just any green companion; it's a natural air purifier shown to filter pollutants with impressive efficiency. Those tall striped leaves don't just look pretty, they can pull toxins from the air and produce oxygen in the evening, when most other houseplants aren't, helping to promote healthy sleep. Indoor air pollution can impact health in countless ways, and given how much time we spend sleeping, fresh air makes a world of difference.

Snake plants aren't just for the bedroom, either. Studies show that houseplants can reduce stress and sharpen your focus, making them perfect for any spot you spend a lot of time in, like a home office. Snake plants will brighten up any space with their year-round greenery, though, while they tolerate low light, they still need some illumination. If you want your snake plants in a dark room — such as a bedroom with heavy curtains — you could consider moving them during the day or investing in a lamp like this GooingTop LED Grow Light. If you're still wondering the best place to put a snake plant in your home, it's important to note that pet parents should be wary of growing this popular houseplant. According to the ASPCA, snake plants are toxic to both dogs and cats. Wherever you put them, you'll want to make sure they're out of reach of your furry friends. 

Snake plants make a perfect bedroom companion. Not only do they make your bedroom decor more warm and homey, as a succulent, the snake plant operates in reverse of most houseplants: it conserves water by keeping its stomata closed during the day and opens them at night to release oxygen — making it the perfect breathe of fresh air while you sleep. It both creates a beautiful aesthetic and boosts your air quality. For more plant inspiration, learn about these houseplants that will make your bedroom cozier.

Not only can the snake plant make the air in your home healthier, but it's an easy houseplant to take care of. Snake plants don't need a lot of light, and in fact can even burn in direct sunlight. It's best kept indoors where both sunlight and temperature can be controlled, as snake plant does well above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. As a succulent, snake plants are perfect for people who often forget to water their plants. In fact, you're more likely to kill it by overwatering than by neglect, as it can go up to two months without a drink. Even better, with minimal care, these resilient plants can thrive for up to 25 years. If your thumbs are more brown than green, your snake plant won't care.