Certain houseplants can naturally filter indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, while also adding greenery and improving indoor humidity.
How Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality
Plants clean indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Many houseplants also remove harmful chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from furniture, paint, cleaning agents, and carpeting. Through their leaves and roots, plants absorb these pollutants and convert them into harmless compounds, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Much of this information is from The Old Farmers Almanac and my mom, whom I call the Plant Whisperer!
Studies have shown benefits ranging from improved lung capacity and reduced headaches to fewer respiratory issues in plant-rich environments
While large-scale purification requires many plants, even a few can enhance indoor ambiance and air quality.
Top Air-Purifying Houseplants
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – Known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, this hardy plant filters formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. It uniquely performs air purification at night and thrives in low to bright indirect light with minimal water
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – Effective at removing formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and xylene. Spider plants are non-toxic, propagate easily, and do well in hanging baskets
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) – Removes ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, and helps combat mold spores. It prefers medium indirect light and consistently moist soil
English Ivy (Hedera helix) – Reduces airborne mold and fecal particles, while filtering benzene and formaldehyde. Ideal for bathrooms or small spaces with moderate light
Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) – Absorbs formaldehyde effectively. Fast-growing vining varieties are versatile for shelves or climbing supports
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) – Filters toxins like toluene and xylene and adds humidity to dry indoor air. Thrives in bright, indirect light with regular moisture
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) – Removes formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide while increasing indoor humidity. Suitable for low to medium light conditions
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) – Targets formaldehyde and other pollutants, tolerates dim light, and grows slowly into a decorative indoor tree
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) – Filters formaldehyde and benzene. Requires direct sunlight and infrequent watering, with the added benefit of medicinal gel in its leaves
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – Excellent for humidity and removal of formaldehyde and xylene. Prefers moist soil and indirect sunlight
Other effective air-purifying plants include ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Chrysanthemum, Anthurium, Dracaena varieties, and Gerbera Daisy
These options balance low-maintenance care with air-cleaning potential, making them suitable for various indoor environments.
Practical Tips
Light and Water: Always match species with appropriate light levels and watering frequency to optimize health. Most air-purifying houseplants do best with indirect or low light and moderate watering
Placement: Kitchens, bathrooms, and near sources of chemical exposure are ideal. Hanging baskets or elevated shelves help maximize purification area
Quantity: Meaningful VOC removal in real homes typically requires many plants; however, even a few plants improve aesthetics, humidity, and calmness
Pet Safety: Some plants, including Peace Lily, English Ivy, and Philodendron, are toxic to pets. Consider non-toxic alternatives like Spider Plant and Areca Palm if you have animals
By incorporating a mix of these plants, you can enhance indoor air quality while creating a greener, more vibrant living space.