16 Plants That Clean Indoor Air
Did you know that many common houseplants are natural air purifiers?
It’s true – plants can help clean toxins and pollutants from indoor air.
From removing formaldehyde to neutralizing odors, plants work hard to breathe fresh life into our homes every day without making a peep.
In this post, I’ll share 16 top plants to consider adding to your indoor jungle to boost the air quality in your space.
These natural air cleaners will not only spruce up your décor but also help you and your family breathe a little easier.
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The Science Behind It
Ever wondered how your leafy green friends actually clean the air in your home?
Well, it’s all down to a little magic trick of nature called photosynthesis.
In this process, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen – a pretty neat trade-off for us humans.
But that’s not all; they also absorb harmful toxins from the air, effectively purifying it.
- Photosynthesis: Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to freshen up the air we breathe.
- Pollutant Absorption: Amazingly, plants can also absorb common indoor pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde, making our homes healthier.
But don’t just take my word for it. NASA’s Clean Air Study confirmed these incredible benefits.
The study found that certain indoor plants can remove significant amounts of harmful gases out of the air.
16 Plants That Clean Indoor Air
You might be surprised to know that some of the plants you already have in your home are working overtime, not just looking pretty but also cleaning your air.
Here are 16 of them that you might want to consider adding to your indoor garden:
1. English Ivy
This classic beauty is more than just a pretty face. It’s a real workhorse when it comes to purifying your indoor air.
- Known for removing harmful chemicals found in the home.
- Works well as a groundcover or a houseplant.
>>>Shop English Ivy Plants HERE.
2. Barberton Daisy
Add a splash of color and a breath of fresh air with the Barberton Daisy.
- One of the best air purifying plants for the home.
- Beautiful and beneficial.
3. Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)
Don’t let the name scare you off – the Snake Plant is a must-have in your indoor garden.
- Known for its air purifying qualities.
- Easy to care for and very resilient.
>>>Shop Snake Plants HERE.
4. Rubber Plant
Let’s not forget about the Rubber Plant, a large indoor plant that’s a real powerhouse when it comes to air purification.
- Known for removing toxins from the air.
- Prefers indirect light and requires minimal care.
>>>Shop Rubber Plants HERE.
5. Red-Edged Dracaena
The Red-Edged Dracaena is a tall, tree-like plant that can add a tropical touch to your home while purifying the air.
- Effective at removing toxins like xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde.
- Can grow up to 15 feet tall indoors.
>>>Shop Red-Edged Dracaenas HERE.
6. Weeping Fig
Despite its melancholy name, the Weeping Fig could make you very happy with its air-cleaning abilities.
- Removes pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.
- Adapts easily to any indoor environment.
>>>Shop Weeping Fig plants HERE.
7. Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is an easy-to-care-for plant that’s known for its beautiful leaves and air-purifying properties.
- Excels at removing a variety of toxins from the air.
- Thrives in low-light conditions.
>>>Shop Chinese Evergreen HERE.
8. Bamboo Palm
The Bamboo Palm, with its lush foliage and tropical appeal, can also filter out various indoor pollutants.
- Highly effective at removing formaldehyde.
- Loves bright, indirect light.
>>>Shop Bamboo Palm HERE.
9. Broadleaf Lady Palm
The Broadleaf Lady Palm is a versatile indoor plant that can thrive in a variety of light conditions and purify your air.
- Known for removing formaldehyde, ammonia, xylene and toluene.
- Can adapt to both dry and humid conditions.
>>>Shop Broadleaf Lady Palms HERE.
10. Janet Craig
Janet Craig is an elegant plant that’s also one of the easiest houseplants to grow.
- Effective at filtering out trichloroethylene.
- Thrives in low light and requires little water.
>>>Shop Janet Craig Plants HERE.
11. Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a popular houseplant that’s easy to grow and fantastic for purifying the air.
- Known for removing benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene.
- Prefers low light and high humidity.
>>>Shop Peace Lily HERE.
12. Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is a resilient houseplant that’s great for beginners and effective at cleaning the air.
- Battles benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene.
- Thrives in indirect sunlight and can tolerate artificial light.
>>>Shop Spider Plants HERE.
13. Philodendron
Philodendrons are popular houseplants that are not only attractive but also excellent air purifiers.
- Effective at removing formaldehyde.
- Prefers moderate water and some sunlight.
>>>Shop Philodendron HERE.
14. Boston Fern
The Boston Fern is a classic houseplant that’s also a natural air humidifier and purifier.
- Known for removing formaldehyde and xylene.
- Prefers a cool place with high humidity and indirect light.
>>>Shop Boston Fern HERE.
15. Dwarf Date Palm
The Dwarf Date Palm, with its feathery, arching fronds, can bring a tropical feel into your home while cleaning the air.
- Capable of removing indoor air pollutants like xylene and toluene.
- Prefers semi-sunny conditions and well-drained soil.
>>>Shop Dwarf Date Palm HERE.
16. Kimberly Queen Fern
The Kimberly Queen Fern is another fern variety that’s great at purifying indoor air.
- Excels at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Loves bright, indirect light and plenty of water.
>>>Shop Kimberly Queen Fern HERE.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Indoor Plants
Are you a plant parent who’s worried about your leafy kids?
Maybe they’re looking a little wilted, or their leaves are turning yellow? Don’t panic! We’ve all been there.
The good news is that most common plant problems are easily fixable.
Let’s dive into some common mistakes people make when caring for indoor plants and how you can avoid them.
Overwatering
Watering seems simple enough, right?
You might think that the more water your plants get, the better.
But overwatering is actually one of the most common killers of indoor plants.
- The problem: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is often fatal for plants. If the leaves of your plant are yellowing or wilting despite regular watering, overwatering could be the culprit.
- The solution: Make sure your plant’s pot has adequate drainage, and only water your plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Remember, it’s better to underwater than overwater!
Insufficient Light
Just like humans, plants need light to survive and thrive. However, not all plants require the same amount of light.
- The problem: Insufficient light can lead to slow growth, leaf drop, or pale leaves. On the other hand, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- The solution: Research the light requirements of your specific plant. Some plants thrive in direct sunlight, while others prefer indirect light. If necessary, move your plant to a brighter location, or consider using a grow light.
Improper Feeding
Plants need nutrients to grow, but it can be tricky to figure out the right balance.
- The problem: Over-fertilizing can burn the roots and leaves of your plant, leading to its untimely demise. But under-fertilizing can lead to slow growth and dull coloration.
- The solution: Again, do your research. Find out what kind of fertilizer your plant needs and how often it should be applied. When in doubt, it’s better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize.
Ignoring Pests
Indoor plants can still be affected by pests like aphids, spider mites, and fungus gnats.
- The problem: If left unchecked, these pests can seriously damage or even kill your plant.
- The solution: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests. If you spot any, isolate the affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading and treat with an appropriate pesticide or natural remedy.
Everyone makes mistakes, especially when they’re new to something.
So don’t beat yourself up if your plants are looking a little under the weather.
With a little bit of knowledge and care, you can avoid these common pitfalls and keep your indoor garden thriving.
You May Also Enjoy:
10 Easiest Vegetables to Grow Indoors
13 Easiest Houseplants to Keep Alive
Wrapping it up
And there you have it! Taking care of indoor plants isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit of knowledge and attention.
Remember, plants are living beings, too. They have their needs, quirks, and moods, just like us.
But don’t worry, with the right care and a little patience, you’ll not only keep your leafy buddies alive but thriving.
And let’s be honest, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing your plants grow and flourish!
References:
https://www.almanac.com/10-indoor-plants-clean-air
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090217141419.htm
https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19930073077
