Air pollution has quietly become one of those everyday problems we cannot fully escape. As EDF notes, most of us, roughly 9 out of 10 people, are breathing air that is not exactly ideal. While we do not have much control over outdoor conditions, the story is different inside our homes. Since many of us spend a good chunk of our day indoors, improving indoor air quality is one of the easiest wins for our health.
With that in mind, here is a closer look at the surprising benefits of certain house plants that purify air. These plants are more than simple decorations. Many of them require little watering, look great, and genuinely help filter pollutants. If you enjoy growing things, you might also like our earlier guide on backyard gardening. Now, let us look at the plants that can make a real difference indoors.
How do house plants purify the air?
Most of us grew up knowing that plants release oxygen, but their air-purifying abilities go deeper than that. Plants naturally absorb certain chemicals from the air around them, something they have always done long before we began keeping them indoors.
According to research on phytoremediation, plants use their leaves, roots, and even microorganisms in their soil to draw in pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene. Once absorbed, these substances are either broken down or stored safely within plant tissues.
Combined with the oxygen they release during photosynthesis, house plants help create a fresher and more balanced indoor atmosphere.
This natural process is one reason house plants remain a simple yet effective addition to any living space.
What house plants purify the air?
There are many options to choose from, but here are some common and easy-to-find house plants that purify air. Most of them grow happily without much attention or special care.
Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is a common sight in many homes, and for good reason. With its arching striped leaves, it adds a lively touch to any room without demanding much upkeep. It even drew the attention of NASA during studies on indoor air quality.
It is known for helping reduce pollutants such as formaldehyde and xylene. If you want something reliable for your office or living room, this plant is a solid pick.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, sometimes referred to as Mother in law’s Tongue, is incredibly hardy. It is one of those plants that stays healthy even in low light or forgotten corners of the home.
It absorbs pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. One useful trait is that it releases oxygen at night, which makes it a great addition to a bedroom for better nighttime air quality.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a favorite for people who want something attractive and easy to maintain. Beyond its clean white flowers, this plant helps remove pollutants such as ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde. It may also help reduce acetone vapors from everyday household products.
Since it adapts well to most indoor lighting conditions, a Peace Lily works nicely in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is widely known for its soothing gel, but it also works as a natural air purifier. It helps reduce formaldehyde and benzene, two common indoor pollutants found in household materials.
It is easy to maintain and fits well in kitchens or areas with appliances that may release small amounts of chemicals.
Boston Fern
The Boston Fern brings a soft, lush burst of green to any room. It is known for helping remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. It also increases humidity, which can be helpful in dry indoor environments such as office spaces and living rooms.
Conclusion
As more people pay attention to their health and surroundings, natural solutions like house plants have become increasingly popular. Bringing house plants that purify air into your home is a simple way to improve indoor air quality while adding some personality and life to your space.
There are many more house plants that purify air beyond this list, but even introducing a few of these options can help create a more inviting and comfortable home environment.
