13 Air Purifying House Plants to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Plants can improve the air inside homes by removing pollutants and adding moisture. Many people choose houseplants not just for decoration but to help make indoor air cleaner and healthier. This makes plants a simple, natural way to improve living spaces.
The article highlights 13 air purifying house plants that are effective at cleaning indoor air. These plants offer a mix of benefits, including removing harmful toxins and making the environment more comfortable. Knowing which plants work best helps people decide how to bring cleaner air into their homes.
1) Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, also called Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, is a popular houseplant known for its tough leaves and low care needs. It can survive in low light and needs little water, making it ideal for beginners.
This plant can absorb some indoor toxins through its leaves. It helps remove pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene, which are common in homes. It also releases oxygen at night, which is different from many plants that breathe in oxygen after dark.
Though its air-purifying abilities are supported by some research, Snake Plants alone won’t fully clean the air. They work best alongside other plants and good ventilation. It is praised for being hardy, stylish, and functional in the home environment.
More details on its care and benefits can be found at Rainbow Gardens’ page about air purifying Sansevieria plants.
2) Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is a popular houseplant known for its easy care and air-purifying ability. It removes common indoor toxins such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. This makes it a good choice for homes and offices.
It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. The plant prefers watering every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Spider plants grow quickly and produce baby plants called plantlets. These plantlets can be easily propagated to create new spider plants. The plant also helps increase indoor humidity, which can improve air quality.
Because of its low maintenance and air-cleaning properties, the spider plant is recommended for beginners. Its cascading green leaves add a fresh look to any room.
For more detailed care tips and benefits, see this Spider Plant Care Guide and learn about its air-purifying qualities from Houseplant Alley.
3) Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its dark green leaves and white flowers. It grows well in low to medium light, making it suitable for many indoor spaces.
This plant is effective at removing common indoor air pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde. In tests, it removed nearly 80% of benzene from the air within 24 hours.
Peace Lilies need consistent watering but do not like to sit in water. They prefer warm, moist conditions but can tolerate some neglect, which makes them easy to care for.
In addition to cleaning the air, the Peace Lily adds a calm, natural look to rooms. Its white blooms symbolize peace and hope, making it a common gift for many occasions.
For more detailed care tips and its air-purifying benefits, check this Peace Lily care guide.
4) Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The Boston Fern is a popular houseplant known for its lush, arching fronds and bright green foliage. It thrives in environments with high humidity and indirect light. This plant prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
Boston Ferns help improve indoor air quality by filtering out common pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. They also add moisture to dry indoor air, making rooms feel less dry during colder months.
This fern is often placed in bathrooms or kitchens where humidity is naturally higher. Regular misting or a nearby humidifier can help it stay healthy in drier spaces.
In addition to cleaning air, Boston Ferns can reduce noise by absorbing sound waves. They are praised for both their air-purifying abilities and their decorative appeal. Proper care involves keeping the plant away from direct sunlight and avoiding cold drafts.
Learn more about Boston Fern care and its air-purifying benefits at sixdaffodils.com.
5) Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm is a popular indoor plant known for its feathery, arching fronds and bamboo-like stems. It can grow up to 6-8 feet tall indoors, making it a striking addition to any room.
This plant helps improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. It also adds moisture to the air, which can help with dryness in homes or offices.
Areca Palms thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer moderately moist, well-drained soil. They need regular watering but should not sit in water, as this can cause root rot.
This palm is relatively easy to care for and adapts well to typical indoor temperatures and humidity. Monthly feeding during the growing season supports healthy growth.
Its elegant look and air-purifying qualities make the Areca Palm a solid choice for both new and experienced plant owners. More details on growing Areca Palms indoors can be found at Improving Air Quality with Areca Palm – An Indoor Guide.
6) Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Plant, or Ficus elastica, is a popular houseplant with large, glossy leaves. It is known for its ability to improve indoor air quality by absorbing harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. This makes it a practical choice for homes and offices.
It prefers bright, indirect light and does not need frequent watering. Overwatering can harm the plant, so it is best to let the soil dry out between waterings. The Rubber Plant is relatively easy to care for and can grow quite tall indoors.
This plant adds a modern, tropical look to any room. Its tough, thick leaves help it survive in typical indoor environments. The Rubber Plant’s air-purifying quality is supported by research, including studies inspired by NASA’s plant research.
For detailed care instructions and to learn more about its air-cleaning benefits, the Rubber Plant’s role as an indoor air purifier is covered well at gardeningeasy.com.
7) Philodendron
Philodendron is a popular houseplant known for its attractive, green leaves and easy care. It can grow well in low light and does not need constant attention, making it a good choice for beginners.
This plant helps improve indoor air quality by removing harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. Studies, including the NASA Clean Air Study, have shown that Philodendrons can reduce toxins in the air effectively.
Philodendrons come in various types, some with large leaves that absorb more pollutants. They also add a natural, calming look to any room.
Because of its air-purifying abilities and low maintenance needs, Philodendron is often recommended for homes and offices. It thrives indoors and can live for many years if cared for properly.
More details about its air-purifying effects can be found at the page about Philodendrons and air purification.
8) English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is a fast-growing, evergreen vine known for its attractive trailing leaves. It adapts well to indoor conditions and can be grown in hanging baskets or trained to climb supports.
This plant prefers bright, indirect light and cool temperatures between 35°F and 60°F. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
English Ivy is valued for its ability to improve indoor air quality by filtering out toxins. It works well in smaller or enclosed spaces, helping reduce airborne mold and allergens.
Because it grows quickly, it needs regular trimming to keep its shape and size manageable. It also requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
English Ivy’s ease of care and air-purifying qualities make it a popular choice for indoor gardening. For more detailed care tips, see the indoor care guide for English Ivy.
9) Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese Evergreen, or Aglaonema, is a popular indoor plant known for its attractive, patterned leaves. It thrives well in low light, making it suitable for many indoor spaces.
This plant can help remove common indoor air pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde. Its air-purifying ability is supported by research, including the NASA Clean Air Study.
Chinese Evergreens are low maintenance. They need moderate watering and prefer indirect light. They adapt well to different indoor conditions, which makes them great for beginners.
While it helps improve air quality, the plant is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. It’s important to keep it out of reach of children and animals.
Many appreciate the Chinese Evergreen not just for air purification but also for its easy care and decorative value. It fits nicely in offices, living rooms, and bedrooms. More details on caring for the Chinese Evergreen can be found in this Chinese Evergreen Care Guide.
10) Dracaena
Dracaena is a popular houseplant known for its ability to improve indoor air quality. It can remove common toxins like formaldehyde, ammonia, and toluene from the air. This makes it a helpful addition to homes and offices.
The plant is easy to care for and adapts well to low light, making it suitable for many indoor spaces. It grows slowly but can reach several feet tall, adding a touch of green with its long, narrow leaves.
Besides cleaning the air, Dracaena can also help reduce stress and boost mood. Having plants like Dracaena indoors creates a calming atmosphere that supports mental well-being.
Its filtering power comes from specialized tissues that absorb harmful chemicals. The plant also produces oxygen through photosynthesis, which can slightly improve air freshness.
Dracaena’s blend of air-purifying ability and low maintenance makes it a practical choice for those looking to improve their indoor environment. Learn more about its benefits and care at what makes dracaena plants natural air cleaners.
11) Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
The Bamboo Palm is a popular indoor plant known for its slender stems and delicate feather-like leaves. It is valued both for its ability to clean the air and its attractive, tropical look.
This palm prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. It needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Proper humidity helps it stay healthy.
Bamboo Palm is easy to care for and grows well in homes or offices. It can reach up to six feet tall over time, making it a good option for adding vertical greenery.
It is effective at filtering toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from indoor air. It also resists common insect pests better than some other palms.
Because of its air-purifying qualities and simple care needs, many people choose Bamboo Palm to improve their indoor environment. More detailed care tips can be found on the Bamboo Palm Care Guide page.
12) Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and easy care. It can grow well in low light and needs only occasional watering, making it ideal for beginners.
This plant is effective at removing indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. NASA studies have shown that pothos helps improve air quality by absorbing these toxins naturally.
Pothos is versatile; it can climb a trellis or trail from a hanging basket. It adds greenery to any room while helping to filter the air. Its toughness means it thrives even if occasionally neglected.
For those wanting a low-maintenance plant that also cleans indoor air, pothos is a solid choice. More details about its air-purifying benefits are available at this page on Epipremnum aureum benefits.
13) Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
The Weeping Fig is a popular indoor plant known for its graceful drooping branches and shiny green leaves. It adds a touch of elegance to any space while also helping to clean the air. This plant removes common indoor pollutants, making the air healthier to breathe.
It grows best in bright, indirect sunlight and needs watering only when the top soil feels dry. The Weeping Fig prefers well-drained soil and moderate humidity. It can grow quite tall indoors, usually reaching 3 to 6 feet.
Besides air purification, the Weeping Fig has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It requires careful care to avoid leaf drop, which can happen if the plant is moved suddenly or overwatered.
For complete growing tips and benefits about the Weeping Fig, this Weeping Fig Plant Care Guide offers detailed information.
How Air Purifying House Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality
Air-purifying plants clean indoor air by removing harmful chemicals and releasing oxygen. They do this through several natural processes. However, the impact varies depending on the types of pollutants, plant health, and room conditions.
Mechanisms of Air Purification
Plants absorb air pollutants mainly through their leaves. They take in gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, which pass into the plant’s system. Inside, microbes in the soil and roots break down these toxins.
Photosynthesis also helps. While taking in carbon dioxide, plants release oxygen, which improves air freshness. Some plants produce moisture too, which can slightly increase humidity and reduce dust.
The root zone is crucial. Beneficial microbes living there assist in decomposing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Together, leaves and roots work to improve air quality naturally.
Types of Indoor Pollutants Addressed
Houseplants target common indoor pollutants such as:
- Formaldehyde: Found in furniture and fabrics
- Benzene: Emitted from paints and plastics
- Carbon monoxide: Produced by gas appliances
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Various chemicals from household products
Plants like the Spider Plant, ZZ Plant, and Weeping Fig are known to filter some of these chemicals.
They mainly reduce gases and VOCs, not larger particles like dust or allergens. This makes them useful for chemical pollutants but less effective for removing physical debris in the air.
Limitations of Plant-Based Air Filtration
Plants alone cannot replace mechanical air filters in most homes. Studies show that hundreds of plants would be needed to make a significant difference in air quality.
Their ability to purify air depends on factors like light, water, temperature, and plant health. Poor care limits their effectiveness.
Plants also do not remove all toxins equally, and they do not filter airborne bacteria or viruses effectively. Using air-purifying plants along with good ventilation or air purifiers is recommended for best results.
More details on how these plants clean the air can be found at 13 Indoor Plants That Clean the Air Better Than a Filter.
Optimal Care Tips for Air Purifying Plants
Proper care keeps air purifying plants healthy and effective at cleaning indoor air. Key factors include the right amount of water, suitable light, and avoiding common mistakes that can harm the plants. Attention to these essentials helps the plants thrive in any home environment.
Watering Guidelines
Most air purifying plants prefer soil that is moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering leads to dry, wilting leaves. A good practice is to water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch.
Plants like pothos and snake plant tolerate longer dry periods, while peace lilies need more consistent moisture. Using pots with drainage holes is crucial to prevent water buildup. During winter, many plants need less water due to slower growth.
Monitoring leaf color and firmness can help identify watering issues. Yellowing leaves might indicate overwatering, while brown edges often mean underwatering.
Light Requirements
Light needs vary but most air purifying plants do well in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves, causing brown spots or fading. Low-light tolerant plants like ZZ plants and pothos adapt well to dimmer spaces.
It’s best to place plants near a window with filtered light or behind sheer curtains. Some plants, such as snake plants, can survive in low light but grow slower.
Rotating plants regularly ensures all sides get light evenly, preventing uneven growth. Artificial grow lights can supplement natural light in darker rooms.
Common Maintenance Mistakes
One frequent mistake is inconsistent watering, either too much or too little. Another is placing plants in unsuitable light, which leads to poor growth or leaf damage. Using the wrong soil type can also affect plant health; most prefer well-draining, aerated soil.
Failing to dust leaves reduces the plant’s ability to photosynthesize efficiently. Dust buildup also weakens their air-cleaning capacity.
Ignoring pests such as spider mites or scale can cause damage if not caught early. Regular inspection and cleaning help prevent infestations.
Proper care means avoiding these pitfalls to maintain strong, vibrant air purifying plants. For more detailed care information, see 13 indoor plants that purify the air and boost your mood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Air-purifying plants vary in their ability to remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Some are easier to care for, while others work best in specific rooms such as bedrooms or bathrooms. The qualities that make these plants effective include their leaf size, root system, and their ability to convert pollutants into harmless substances.
What are the top NASA-recommended plants for air purification indoors?
The Snake Plant, Spider Plant, Peace Lily, Boston Fern, and Areca Palm are among the top plants endorsed by NASA for air purification. These plants help remove harmful toxins and increase oxygen levels indoors.
Which low-maintenance indoor plants are known for improving air quality?
Snake Plants and Spider Plants are well-known for requiring minimal care. They thrive in various light conditions and effectively filter indoor air without much attention.
Can you list the best plants for purifying the air in bedrooms?
The Snake Plant and Peace Lily are excellent choices for bedrooms. They can improve air quality while tolerating low light and helping maintain a healthy sleep environment.
What are some effective air purifying plants suitable for bathrooms?
Boston Fern and Spider Plant work well in bathrooms due to their tolerance for humidity. They help remove impurities and thrive in moist conditions.
What characteristics make a house plant good for air purification?
Plants with large, broad leaves and dense root systems are generally better at absorbing air toxins. Their ability to convert harmful chemicals into safe substances also plays a key role.
How do air purifying plants contribute to a healthier indoor environment?
These plants absorb airborne toxins through leaves and roots. They convert pollutants into harmless materials, helping reduce indoor air pollution and boosting oxygen levels.
