When you have kids in three bedroom apartments in center city, it's important to be mindful of the plants you choose for your indoor space, as some common houseplants can be toxic or pose other hazards. While plants add a touch of nature and help purify the air, certain varieties are not suitable for homes with children. Curious little hands tend to explore everything, and some plants can cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, or even serious health issues if touched or ingested.

One plant that’s particularly dangerous for homes with children is the peace lily. While this plant is popular for its striking appearance and air-purifying abilities, all parts of the peace lily are toxic when ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract if a child chews on the leaves or flowers. Ingesting even a small part of the plant can result in severe discomfort, and in extreme cases, medical attention may be required. Similarly, pothos, often referred to as devil’s ivy, is another plant to avoid in a kid-friendly apartment. Pothos is easy to care for and widely used in homes, but it also contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, pothos can lead to intense irritation in the mouth and throat, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. The plant’s long, vine-like structure can be particularly tempting for kids.

Philodendrons, another common houseplant, also pose risks in households with children. Like pothos, philodendrons contain toxic crystals that can cause discomfort if ingested. Additionally, contact with the plant’s sap can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. Because philodendrons come in various shapes and sizes, they are a favorite among plant enthusiasts. However, they should be avoided in homes with young kids who are more likely to grab, chew, or come into contact with the plant's leaves. The dieffenbachia plant, also known as dumb cane, is another attractive but dangerous houseplant for apartments with kids. Its large, variegated leaves make it an eye-catching addition to any space, but this plant is highly toxic when ingested. The toxins in the plant can cause intense burning in the mouth, throat, and tongue, leading to swelling and difficulty speaking or breathing.

Aloe vera, while often touted for its medicinal properties, should also be used with caution around children. The gel inside the leaves is commonly used to soothe burns and skin irritation, but when ingested, aloe can act as a powerful laxative, causing stomach cramps and diarrhea. If you do choose to keep an aloe vera plant in your apartment, it’s crucial to keep it out of reach of children and educate them on its proper use.