Are these spots contagious to my other plants?

If the spots are caused by thrips, then yes, they can easily spread to nearby plants. Isolate your Monstera immediately if you see any insects.

Can I use leaf shine on my Monstera?

It is better to avoid commercial leaf shine products, as they can clog the pores. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is enough to keep the leaves clean.

Swiss cheese plant: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving insects.
Check if the spots are soft or if they feel dry and papery.
Ensure the leaves are not touching a cold window or a heat vent.

Likely causes

Thrips
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny, slender insects and silvery or bronze streaks on the leaves. These pests suck the sap and leave behind small black dots of excrement.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove as many as you can. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7 days for at least 3 weeks.
Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: These appear as dark brown or black spots often surrounded by a yellow halo. They usually occur when the leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Increase air circulation around the plant and avoid misting the leaves. Remove the most heavily affected leaves to stop the spread of spores.

Find out what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Small, isolated spots are usually manageable, but you should worry if the spots are spreading rapidly across the foliage. A few tiny marks are often just minor cosmetic damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves clean and dry, and inspect your plant every time you water it. Good airflow is the best way to prevent fungal issues.

Keep your swiss cheese plant healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these spots contagious to my other plants?: If the spots are caused by thrips, then yes, they can easily spread to nearby plants. Isolate your Monstera immediately if you see any insects.
Can I use leaf shine on my Monstera?: It is better to avoid commercial leaf shine products, as they can clog the pores. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is enough to keep the leaves clean.

Why does my Monstera have spots on its leaves?