Breathing Easy: The Top 10 Houseplants for Improving Indoor Air Quality

Breathing Easy: The Top 10 Houseplants for Improving Indoor Air Quality

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a growing body of scientific evidence shows that the air in our homes “can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities,” which means we need these plants now more than ever.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often underestimate the power of nature to enhance our living spaces. Beyond their aesthetic charm, houseplants have the incredible ability to transform the very air we breathe. These green companions not only bring life and beauty to our rooms but also act as silent, air-purifying units.

A clean air study from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) found that certain plants are capable of filtering pollutants such as:

1. Benzene (commonly found in varnishes, detergents, rubber, paints, plastics, inks, oils, detergents, dyes, gasoline, and floor finishes)

2. Trichloroethylene (commonly found in printing inks, varnishes, adhesive, and lacquer)

3. Formaldehyde (commonly found in paper towels, facial tissues, tobacco smoke, gas stoves, adhesive binders in floor coverings, carpet backing, and grocery bags)

4. Ammonia (commonly found in cleaning products)

Toluene (commonly found in stain removers, oils, paints, paint thinner, paint brush cleaner, nail polish, and inks)

5.Carbon monoxide (commonly found in vehicle, fireplace, stove, and furnace fumes)

6. Styrene (commonly found in carpet backing, fiberglass, packaging, home insulation, wiring insulation, and drinking cups)

Cleaner air, reduced stress, and a healthier you - let's delve into the lush world of greenery that does more than just adorn our homes.

1. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Aloe Vera isn't just your go-to for soothing sunburns; it also provides air purifying abilities to help some common chemicals founds in household detergents, paint & glue. Aloe Vera works by releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide during the night – which means the air is being cleaned while you sleep! it's also a natural air filter, removing pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. Placing one on your windowsill not only purifies the air but also adds a touch of desert beauty.

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are gorgeous, sprawling greens that clean the air and are pet-friendly!

With its long, arching leaves adorned with white stripes, the Spider Plant is a master at removing airborne toxins like formaldehyde and xylene. NASA's study found that spider plants were able to remove 95% of chemicals from the air in 24 hours. Spider plants also filter the dangerous carbon monoxide. It's the perfect hanging houseplant that doubles as a living air scrubber.

3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Snake plants are incredibly easy to grow and maintain. The are also happy in all kinds of lightning.

The Snake Plant is a superstar of air purification. It excels at removing formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide, benzene, xylene and other pollutants. Its elegant, vertical leaves make it a stylish addition to any room.

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

Peace Lilies are a symbol of serenity and purity, and they also purify the air by eliminating ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde. Their beautiful white blooms and glossy leaves provide both aesthetic and health benefits.

5. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

Whether in burgundy or regular green, rubber trees (also known as rubber plants) will produce lots of oxygen—more than any other plant, in fact! Rubber Plants aren't just  excellent at eliminating indoor air pollutants(particularly formaldehyde), the rubber plant is also effective at removing bacteria and mold spores from the atmosphere (by up to 60%). Their large, dark green leaves also add a touch of elegance to your living space.

6. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston Ferns are a lovely choice for removing pollutants like xylene and formaldehyde from the air. Their delicate, feathery fronds are a refreshing addition to any room.

7. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is a low-maintenance air-purifying plant that is particularly skilled at reducing carbon monoxide and formaldehyde levels. Its trailing vines make it a versatile decoration.This leafy vine can be hung in midair or set on a shelf to climb all the way across it. Also known as the Devil’s Ivy, it grows steadily in low light or fluorescent light.

8. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

The Bamboo Palm is an air-purifying powerhouse that targets indoor pollutants like benzene and trichloroethylene. Its tropical appeal brings a touch of paradise into your home.

9. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Lavender isn't just about its soothing aroma; it can also enhance indoor air quality. It helps reduce stress and anxiety while promoting better sleep.So this will be an awesome fit for your bedroom.

10. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)

These vibrant, cheerful flowers aren't just pretty; they help remove trichloroethylene and benzene from the air. They bring color and vitality to your living space. Incorporating these top 10 houseplants into your home not only brings nature closer but also ensures that the air you breathe is cleaner and healthier. These green companions are more than just decor; they are your allies in the quest for a fresher, more vibrant living space. So, let's invite these air-purifying champions into our homes, and together, we'll breathe easier and live better.