The Benefits of Spider Plants You Didn’t Know About (And Why Your Home Needs One Now)

With their arching green leaves and playful “babies” (known as spiderettes), spider plants have been a household favorite for decades. But while they’re undeniably attractive, these hardy plants do more than just look good. The benefits of spider plants go far beyond aesthetics, offering a combination of health perks, environmental improvements, and even stress-relief qualities that make them one of the most valuable houseplants you can bring into your home.

Spider plants are native to tropical and southern Africa but have found their way into homes around the globe thanks to their resilience and easy care. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a total beginner, they’re nearly impossible to kill—making them the perfect starting point for anyone who wants to dip their toes into the world of indoor greenery.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the key benefits of spider plants and explain exactly why they deserve pride of place in your living room, bedroom, or even your office. You’ll also learn how to take care of them so they thrive for years to come.

1. Benefits of Spider Plants: Natural Stress Relief

Studies have shown that just being around plants can lower stress levels, and spider plants are no exception. Their long, flowing leaves create a calming, almost meditative visual effect, and watching them produce new offshoots brings a sense of life and growth into your space.

Bringing a spider plant into your home can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even promote mental clarity. Unlike high-maintenance plants that can cause frustration if they wither or die, spider plants are forgiving. They bounce back easily, which removes the stress of worrying about “getting it wrong.”

If you spend long hours working from home, keeping a spider plant near your desk could help create a more soothing and productive environment. Even a small amount of greenery is proven to boost focus and encourage creative thinking.

2. Benefits of Spider Plants: Cleaner Indoor Air

One of the most celebrated benefits of spider plants is their ability to purify the air. They’re among the best natural air filters, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide—pollutants commonly found in household items like furniture, carpets, and cleaning products.

In fact, research from NASA’s Clean Air Study revealed that spider plants are particularly efficient at reducing airborne toxins, making them a natural solution for fresher, healthier indoor air.

This makes them especially beneficial in city apartments or homes with limited ventilation. Placing a spider plant in your bedroom, living room, or kitchen can help ensure you’re breathing cleaner air every day. Unlike plug-in purifiers, spider plants don’t require electricity, filters, or costly upkeep.

3. Benefits of Spider Plants: Better Sleep Quality

If you struggle with restless nights, a spider plant could be a surprising solution. Because of their air-purifying properties, spider plants contribute to cleaner oxygen levels in your bedroom, which helps your body relax and sleep more deeply.

Additionally, their ability to increase humidity in a subtle, natural way can prevent dry skin, irritated sinuses, and sore throats—all of which can interfere with sleep. Unlike artificial humidifiers, spider plants regulate moisture without overdoing it, creating a balanced environment.

To maximize this benefit, place a spider plant on a nightstand or shelf near your bed. The calming greenery and fresh air might be the simple, natural sleep aid you’ve been looking for.

4. Benefits of Spider Plants: Pet and Child-Friendly

If you’ve ever wanted to add greenery to your home but worried about keeping your pets safe, spider plants are the answer. They are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children, meaning you won’t need to stress if curious little hands—or paws—decide to take a nibble.

While it’s not encouraged for pets to chew on them (too much could cause mild stomach upset), having a spider plant at home won’t lead to dangerous consequences the way other common houseplants might. This makes them one of the safest choices for family households.

You can display them on high shelves, in hanging baskets, or let them trail gracefully on plant stands without worrying about harmful exposure.

5. Benefits of Spider Plants: Endless Growth and Easy Propagation

One of the most rewarding benefits of spider plants is how quickly they multiply. As they mature, they send out long stems that produce baby plants, also called “spiderettes.” These can be clipped and replanted, giving you endless opportunities to expand your indoor garden—or share with friends.

This propagation process makes spider plants highly sustainable. Instead of buying multiple plants, you can create an entire collection from a single parent plant. Many families even pass spiderettes down through generations, turning them into living heirlooms with sentimental value.

Beyond their resilience, spider plants are low-maintenance. They thrive in indirect light, don’t require daily watering, and can tolerate a bit of neglect—ideal for busy lifestyles.

How to Care for a Spider Plant

To fully enjoy the benefits of spider plants, proper care is essential (though they’ll forgive you if you forget now and then). Here are some simple tips:

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is best. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.

• Water: Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry slightly before watering again. They don’t like soggy roots.

• Humidity: They love moderate humidity but can adapt well to average indoor conditions. Mist the leaves occasionally if your home is very dry.

• Repotting: Spider plants grow fast, so repot every 1–2 years or when roots begin to peek through the bottom.

• Propagation: Snip off spiderettes with tiny roots and pot them in fresh soil for instant new plants.

  
  

FAQ: Benefits of Spider Plants

1. Are spider plants good for beginners?

Yes! Spider plants are one of the easiest houseplants to grow, making them perfect for beginners.

2. Do spider plants clean the air?

Absolutely. They help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, contributing to healthier indoor air.

3. Can spider plants survive in low light?

They prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Growth may just be slower.

4. Are spider plants safe for pets?

Yes, they are non-toxic to cats and dogs.

5. How often should I water a spider plant?

Typically once a week, but always check the soil first—if it’s still moist, wait a few more days.

Final Thoughts on the Benefits of Spider Plants

From purifying your air and improving sleep to being safe for pets and kids, the benefits of spider plants make them one of the most versatile, valuable houseplants you can own. Their forgiving nature means you don’t need a green thumb to keep them thriving, and their ability to reproduce endlessly means you’ll never run out of greenery to enjoy—or gift to loved ones.

So, if you’ve been searching for a houseplant that offers more than just beauty, a spider plant should be at the top of your list.

Transform Your Home with BY Design And Viz

At BY Design And Viz, we believe every detail counts in creating a home that feels both stylish and nurturing—including the plants you choose. Our interior design services go beyond furniture and paint colors—we’ll help you select greenery, textures, and materials that enhance your lifestyle and bring balance to your space.

Whether you’re refreshing a single room or remodeling your entire home, let us design a space that feels uniquely yours. Reach out today to start your project with BY Design And Viz.