10 Houseplants to Avoid if You Have Kids

Houseplants add freshness and beauty to any home, but not all of them are safe for families with young children. Many common plants contain toxins that can cause skin irritation, stomach upset, or more serious reactions if touched or ingested.

Kids, especially toddlers, are naturally curious — they touch, squeeze, and sometimes even chew on leaves. To keep your home both beautiful and safe, here are ten houseplants you should avoid if you have kids.

1. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)

A popular indoor plant with large patterned leaves, but highly irritating if chewed or touched.

Toxic Risk:

Its sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause burning, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.

Safer Alternative:

Choose peace lilies or calatheas for a similar aesthetic without the harsh toxins.

2. Philodendron

Known for its trailing vines and glossy leaves, but dangerous if ingested.

Toxic Risk:

Can cause mouth irritation, vomiting, and breathing issues in children.

Safer Alternative:

Pothos or heartleaf hoya provide the same hanging effect.

3. Oleander

Beautiful but extremely toxic — even small amounts can be harmful.

Toxic Risk:

Contains cardiac glycosides that affect heart rhythm.

Safer Alternative:

Use hibiscus or mandevilla for colorful, kid-friendly blooms.

4. Peace Lily

Although stunning, it can cause discomfort if kids handle or chew its leaves.

Toxic Risk:

Causes mouth irritation, drooling, and skin reactions.

Safer Alternative:

Try a white anthurium for a similar elegant look without the risks.

5. Sago Palm

A trendy decor plant with one of the highest toxicity dangers for households.

Toxic Risk:

All parts — especially seeds — can cause severe vomiting, liver damage, or worse.

Safer Alternative:

Opt for a small indoor palm like areca palm.

6. Caladium

Eye-catching heart-shaped leaves but unsafe for curious children.

Toxic Risk:

Causes burning sensations, swelling, and stomach upset if ingested.

Safer Alternative:

Try coleus for bright, patterned foliage with low toxicity.

7. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

Loved for its fast growth and resilience, but mildly toxic.

Toxic Risk:

Can trigger skin irritation or oral discomfort when handled or chewed.

Safer Alternative:

Neon philodendron offers the same trailing brightness.

8. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Stylish and low-maintenance, but can cause stomach distress if eaten.

Toxic Risk:

Its saponins cause nausea and vomiting when ingested by kids.

Safer Alternative:

Spider plants are equally hardy and completely safe.

9. English Ivy

Charming on walls and shelves but not ideal for homes with young children.

Toxic Risk:

Can cause rash, abdominal pain, and breathing difficulty if ingested.

Safer Alternative:

Boston fern gives a similar cascading greenery effect safely.

10. Aloe Vera

Although useful for adults, it isn’t child-safe when eaten.

Toxic Risk:

The latex inside the leaves can cause diarrhea, cramping, and irritations.

Safer Alternative:

Succulents like haworthia or echeveria offer a similar look without the risk.

Conclusion

Indoor plants can transform a space, but safety should always come first when children are involved. Many popular houseplants contain toxins that cause discomfort or serious reactions when touched or ingested.

By choosing safe alternatives and understanding plant risks, you can enjoy a beautiful indoor environment without compromising your child’s well-being. A little awareness goes a long way toward creating a home that’s both stylish and secure.