6 Air Purifying House Plants

Did you know that the air we breathe is pretty toxic. It is! There are many toxic and noxious chemicals that fill our lungs each time we take a breath both inside and outside. It is, therefore, important that we filter and purify the air we breathe as much as possible. One of the easiest places we can do this is within our homes. And one of the easiest ways we can do this is with house plants.

NASA tested popular plants for their ability to create oxygen and filter common toxins like trichloroethylene (found in varnishes, paints, and adhesives), formaldehyde (present in carpets, furniture, and foam insulation), and benzene (found in plastics, synthetic fibers, and detergents) to purify the air astronauts breathe. NASA recommends having 15 to 18 good-sized houseplants in an 1,800-square-foot home.

1. Bamboo Palm

It removes formaldehyde and is also said to act as a natural humidifier.

2. Snake Plant

It absorb nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde.

3. Areca Palm

One of the best air purifying plants for general air cleanliness.

4. Spider Plant

Great indoor plant for removing carbon monoxide and other toxins or impurities. Spider plants are one of three plants NASA deems best at removing formaldehyde from the air.

5. Peace Lily

Peace lilies could be called the “clean-all.” They’re often placed in bathrooms or laundry rooms because they’re known for removing mold spores. Also know to remove formaldehyde and trichloroethylene.

6. Gerbera Daisy

Not only do these gorgeous flowers remove benzene from the air, they’re known to improve sleep by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving off more oxygen over night.