These plants take abuse without much complaint,.I have been caring for them in a public library. Use good quality potting mix as described above, pots with holes, and a dish under so you can see if water has drained all the way through AND discard any that is sitting in the dish. I water once a week; if I see a dribble into the dish, I consider it done and let the dribble evaporate.
(Ditto )Sanseveria of course
Aglaonema aka Chinese evergreen
Schefflera arboricola aka Umbrella plant
Pothos (Epipremmnum aureum)- This plant was in a pot much too large, but it worked out. I watered very sparingly. It's grown huge.
Spathiphyllum, aka Peace lily, can look good but must be kept moist, so I do recommend that if you tend to overwater. They look happy for me as long as I do NOT let them dry out.
It seems that many beginners also have plants in pots that are bigger than needed. That actually makes it easier to overwater if you are not very careful. purpleinopp mentioned the potbound myth. I think part of that is that many people have had plants in tight pots that thrive. They use the moisture in the soil quickly, thus avoiding the soggy problem condition.
PS I have terrible luck with spider plants!
