Should You Put Plants in Your Airbnb?

We break down the pros + cons of keeping live plants in your short-term rental property.

If you operate an Airbnb or short-term rental of any sort, you may have considered whether placing plants in the home is the right move. While plants can certainly provide many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before deciding. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using plants in a short-term rental property and help you determine whether or not they are right for your space.

At Open Air Homes, we’ve gone back and forth on this issue over the years. Plants add life to a space, but they also require more work from both you and your guests.  We list the pros and cons below, so you can make the best decision for yourself!

Advantages of Plants in an Airbnb

1. Plants Purify the Air

One of the biggest advantages of using plants in a short-term rental property is that they help improve air quality. Plants are natural air purifiers, and they can remove harmful pollutants and chemicals from the air. This can be especially beneficial in a short-term rental, where guests may check in back-to-back. Hosts may not have time to properly air out the space. By adding plants to the rental, you can help ensure that your guests have access to clean, fresh air during their stay.

2. Plants Set the Mood + Create Atmosphere in Your Airbnb

Plants create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere in your Airbnb or short-term rental property. The presence of lush plants can make a space feel alive and vibrant and create a sense of calm and tranquility. This can be especially beneficial for guests who are looking to unwind and relax during their stay. By adding plants to your Airbnb, you can create a welcoming and comfortable environment for your guests.

3. Plants Make Gorgeous Interior Decor Items

Another advantage of using plants in a short-term rental property is that they can add visual interest and beauty to the space. With a wide variety of plants to choose from, you can select ones that complement the existing decor and add pops of color and texture to the space. This can help make your rental property stand out and give it a unique, personal touch.

Related: Make Your Airbnb Stand Out With These Expert Design Dos + Don’ts

Drawbacks to Consider

1. Plants Require Regular Care & Maintenance 

Plants require regular care and maintenance, which can be difficult to manage in a short-term rental. If you can’t regularly water and care for the plants, they may die or become overgrown, which can be unsightly or even create safety hazards for guests.

2. Plants are Susceptible to Damage

Plants can be fragile, especially at a property where they may be handled by multiple guests. If a plant is accidentally knocked over or damaged, it can be difficult or costly to replace, which could result in an unpleasant experience for your guests.

3. Plants Can Cause Damage

Some guests may have allergies or other sensitivities to plants, which could make for a negative experience during their stay. It’s also crucial to ensure that any plants you choose for your home are pet-safe!

Additionally, if a plant becomes infested with pests, it can be difficult to safely and effectively remove them without causing further damage to the plant or the surrounding environment.

Choose plants for your Airbnb wisely

Whether or not to use plants in your short-term rental property is a personal decision that depends on your unique situation and preferences. If you’re willing and able to properly care for the plants, they can provide many benefits and even be a great conversation piece. However, if you’re unable to commit to regular plant care or if you are concerned about potential drawbacks, it may be best to forgo using live plants in your rental property.

Looking to ignite your short-term rental with thoughtful design? Contact Open Air Homes.

Open Air Homes is a boutique property management company in Southern California. We’ve managed vacation rentals since 2012 and have used thoughtful design to set up countless luxury homes for success.

From our expert photographers to reliable vendors to our masterful interior design team, we go to great lengths to ensure every one of our homes is a top-notch vacation rental property.

Click here for a 30-second estimate of your investment rental property’s earning potential. From there, start your journey to a beautifully-designed home that attracts bookings and 5-star reviews.