Indoor air pollution can come from dust, chemicals, and everyday household items. Fortunately, certain plants help purify the air by filtering toxins and increasing oxygen levels. This guide will introduce the best air-purifying plants to improve your home’s air quality.
1. How Do Plants Purify the Air?
Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis. Some also filter harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, which are found in cleaning products, furniture, and paints.
NASA’s Clean Air Study identified several houseplants that effectively remove indoor air pollutants.
2. Best Air-Purifying Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
- Removes: Formaldehyde, benzene, xylene.
- Care: Thrives in low light and requires little water.
- Bonus: Releases oxygen at night, making it ideal for bedrooms.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Removes: Ammonia, formaldehyde, benzene.
- Care: Prefers indirect light and moist soil.
- Bonus: Produces elegant white flowers.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Removes: Carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde.
- Care: Tolerates low light and irregular watering.
- Bonus: A trailing plant perfect for hanging baskets.
4. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Removes: Toxins while increasing humidity.
- Care: Needs bright, indirect light and regular watering.
- Bonus: Pet-friendly and a great natural humidifier.
5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Removes: Carbon monoxide, formaldehyde.
- Care: Grows well in indirect light with occasional watering.
- Bonus: Produces small offshoots that can be replanted.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
- Removes: Formaldehyde and airborne toxins.
- Care: Prefers bright, indirect light and occasional watering.
- Bonus: Large, glossy leaves add to home décor.
7. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
- Removes: Benzene, formaldehyde.
- Care: Needs bright light and minimal watering.
- Bonus: The gel inside the leaves can be used for skin care.
3. Tips for Maximizing Air-Purifying Benefits
- Place multiple plants in different rooms to improve air circulation.
- Dust leaves regularly so plants can absorb pollutants effectively.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent mold growth.
Breathe Cleaner Air with Houseplants
Adding air-purifying plants to your home creates a healthier, fresher environment while enhancing your décor. Choose plants based on your home’s light conditions and enjoy the natural benefits they provide.