Houseplants aren’t just decorative—they can actually help clean the air inside your home. In a time when many find themselves indoors more than ever, maintaining a healthy living environment is important. Let’s look at top houseplants for improving indoor air quality, how they work, and tips for incorporating them into your home.

The Science Behind Plants and Air Purification

Plants naturally “breathe” by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. Some houseplants take this further by actively removing toxins and pollutants from the air.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Modern homes and offices often contain higher levels of air pollution than the outdoors. Some common indoor air pollutants include:

  • Formaldehyde: Found in particleboard, foam insulation, paper products, and fabrics.
  • Benzene: Present in paints, inks, plastics, detergents, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Trichloroethane: Used in adhesives, varnishes, and dry cleaning.

These chemicals can cause eye and skin irritation, headaches, allergic reactions, and potentially more serious health issues with long-term exposure.

How Plants Clean the Air

Certain plants absorb and break down airborne toxins through a process known as phytoremediation. As plants undergo transpiration, they release water vapor and draw air down to their roots. The microbes in the soil “consume” harmful chemicals, effectively purifying the air in the surrounding environment.

Dracaena deremensis ‘Warneckii’
Ficus tree (Ficus benjamin)

Top Houseplants for Air Purification

NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) have identified several plants that excel at removing indoor air pollutants. Let’s take a closer look at these top air-purifying houseplants:

NameHelps RemoveNotable Qualities
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)Pollutants such as formaldehyde and xyleneKnown for its resilience and ability to thrive in varied conditions
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)Benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethyleneConsidered one of the best for air purification
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)Ammonia, formaldehyde, and benzeneBeautiful white blooms
English Ivy (Hedera helix)Airborne fecal particles and formaldehydeA versatile climber
Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)Formaldehyde Good for beginners and thrives in various conditions
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)Benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethyleneLow-maintenance and resists many common pests
Dracaena species (such as dracaena marginata)Benzene and formaldehydeBeautiful glossy leaves
Philodendron speciesFormaldehyde and xyleneAttractive heart-shaped leaves
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)Toxins such as formaldehyde and benzeneAdaptable to low-light conditions
Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)Formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethyleneKnown for its elegant appearance

Experts recommend having at least one 6-inch plant per 100 square feet of indoor space, as this provides a balanced approach to cleaning air throughout the home.

Caring for Air-Purifying Houseplants

Proper care helps maximize the air-cleaning benefits of your houseplants. Here are techniques and tips for keeping air-purifying plants healthy.

Watering and Humidity

Most tropical houseplants prefer consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil, so we advise watering plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Many air-purifying plants flourish in higher humidity environments, between 40% and 60%. If your indoor air is particularly dry, consider using a pebble tray or placing a small humidifier near plants.

Light Requirements

Some air-purifying plants—such as snake plants and pothos—can tolerate low light, but most benefit from exposure to bright, indirect light. Position plants near windows with filtered sunlight to mimic natural conditions, or use grow lights if natural light is limited.

Soil and Fertilizer

Use a well-draining potting mix specially formulated for indoor plants to help with root health. During the active growing season—usually spring and summer—fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron scandens ‘Oxycardium’)
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)

Additional Benefits of Indoor Plants

Apart from their air-purifying capabilities, houseplants enhance your space in many ways.

Humidity Control

Plants release water vapor transpiration, which helps maintain healthy indoor humidity levels. This is especially beneficial during dry winter months. Improved humidity helps alleviate dry skin, throat irritations, and respiratory discomfort.

Improved Mood and Productivity

The presence of indoor plants has been linked to reduced stress, improved concentration, and an overall well-being boost. Studies show that adding greenery to your workspace can help with heightened productivity and creativity. 

Natural Decor

Houseplants add a touch of nature and vibrant liveliness. They serve as attractive focal points or accent pieces, softening hard edges and creating a harmonious look. The varied shapes, sizes, and colors of indoor plants make personalization options endless.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

Keep these in mind when incorporating air-purifying plants into your living spaces.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Certain people are allergic or sensitive to specific plants or pollen, so research any potential plant allergies or negative interactions before introducing them to your home, particularly if anyone living there already has allergies.

Pets

Be mindful of what plants you put in the reach of your pets because some plants are toxic to dogs, cats, or both. For example, many species of lily are toxic to pets. Use resources such as the ASPCA to research plants before you bring them into your home.

Pest Issues

Indoor plants can occasionally fall prey to pests such as fungus gnats, spider mites, or aphids. Regularly inspect your plants and follow proper care practices, including appropriate watering and humidity control, and if you notice pests, try natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Maintenance Requirements

Houseplants demand ongoing care and attention and might be challenging for individuals with demanding schedules or frequent travel. Start with hardy, low-maintenance plants, such as spider plants or peace lilies, that allow you to enjoy the benefits without adding stress.

A variegated form of English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana’)

Plants Vs. Air Purifiers: Which is Better?

Plants and electric air purifiers each have advantages when it comes to enhancing indoor air quality. Here’s our take.

Plant Advantages

Plants are not only natural and nice to look at but also offer several health and environmental benefits. They require no electricity and can improve your mood. They also help balance a home’s humidity. 

Air Purifier Advantages

Electric air purifiers provide more consistent and measurable results. They can remove a wider range of pollutants and allergens than plants alone. They’re often low-maintenance, requiring occasional filter replacements.

Combined Approach

A combined approach of both plants and air purifiers is often the most effective way to manage indoor air quality. This strategy addresses a broader spectrum of air quality concerns while simultaneously providing the additional advantages of living plants.

Further Information

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