Are Peace Lilies Toxic to Babies? Key Facts & Safety Tips

By Emma Johnson · January 23, 2026

Yes, peace lilies are toxic to babies if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in infants and young children.

Understanding Peace Lily Toxicity in Households with Babies

Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum spp.) are popular indoor plants due to their lush green foliage and elegant white blooms. However, they pose a health risk to babies and toddlers if accidentally chewed or ingested. The plant's toxicity stems from microscopic calcium oxalate crystals found in its leaves, stems, and flowers.

When a baby chews on a peace lily, these needle-like crystals are released, causing immediate pain and swelling in the mouth, lips, and tongue. In more severe cases, it may lead to nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. While fatalities are rare, medical attention should be sought promptly if ingestion occurs.

Symptoms of Peace Lily Exposure in Infants

Babies cannot verbalize discomfort effectively, so recognizing early signs of exposure is crucial. Watch for the following symptoms after suspected contact:

Excessive drooling
Facial swelling, especially around the mouth
Crying during feeding or refusal to eat
Hoarseness or difficulty breathing
Vomiting or gagging

Why Are Calcium Oxalate Crystals Dangerous?

Calcium oxalate crystals act as a natural defense mechanism in many houseplants. Upon contact with soft tissues, they penetrate and release irritants, triggering inflammation and pain. In infants, whose airways are narrow, even mild swelling can compromise breathing.

Comparing Peace Lily Toxicity to Other Common Houseplants

Not all houseplants carry the same level of risk. Below is a comparison of common household plants and their toxicity levels, particularly relevant for homes with babies.

Plant Name	Toxicity Level	Poisonous Part	Symptoms in Babies	Pet-Safe?
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)	Moderate	Leaves, stems, flowers	Oral irritation, vomiting, dysphagia	No
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)	Moderate to High	All parts	Severe mouth burning, swelling	No
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)	Non-Toxic	None	None	Yes
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)	Low	Seeds	Rare, mild GI upset	Yes
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)	High	Stem, leaves	Severe swelling, temporary speech loss	No

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while peace lilies are not the most toxic houseplants, they still present a moderate risk to infants. Unlike non-toxic options like spider plants, peace lilies require careful placement out of reach. Dieffenbachia and pothos pose higher risks, but peace lily exposure remains medically significant due to its widespread presence in homes.

Prevention and Safety Measures for Parents

Keeping your baby safe doesn’t mean giving up houseplants altogether. Consider these actionable steps:

Elevate or hang plants: Place peace lilies on high shelves or hanging planters beyond baby’s reach.
Use physical barriers: Install baby gates or playpens to restrict access to rooms with toxic plants.
Choose safer alternatives: Opt for non-toxic plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, or parlor palms.
Supervise closely: Always monitor infants during floor play near indoor greenery.
Label plants at home: Keep a list of plant names and toxicity levels for emergency reference.

What to Do If Your Baby Chews a Peace Lily

Immediate response can reduce complications:

Remove any plant material from the mouth gently.
Rinse the mouth with cool water to soothe irritation.
Offer small sips of milk or water to dilute toxins.
Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or seek medical help immediately.

Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peace Lilies and Baby Safety

Are peace lilies dangerous for babies to touch?

Skin contact with peace lilies usually causes mild irritation or redness, especially if the sap is exposed. While less severe than ingestion, wash the area with soap and water and monitor for allergic reactions.

How much peace lily is toxic to a baby?

Even chewing a small leaf can release enough calcium oxalate crystals to cause painful symptoms. There is no safe amount—any ingestion warrants medical evaluation.

Can peace lilies affect babies through the air?

No, peace lilies do not release airborne toxins harmful to babies. Their danger comes only from direct contact or ingestion of plant parts.

Are there non-toxic plants that look like peace lilies?

Yes, the moth orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.) and cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) offer similar elegance and are non-toxic to humans and pets, making them safer alternatives.

Is it safe to have a peace lily in a baby’s nursery?

No, it is not recommended. Nurseries are confined spaces where babies spend extended time unattended. Even if placed high, falling leaves or accidental grabs pose a risk. Choose non-toxic plants instead.