In today’s world, where we spend a significant amount of time indoors, the quality of the air we breathe has become increasingly important. Fortunately, nature has provided us with a beautiful and effective solution: indoor air purifying plants. These green powerhouses not only add a touch of natural beauty to our living spaces but also work tirelessly to clean the air we breathe.
This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the 11 best indoor air purifying plants, categorized to suit various needs and living situations. We’ll explore NASA-approved plants, options for bedrooms and bathrooms, and provide essential care information to help you create a healthier home environment.
The NASA Clean Air Study
Before we dive into our list of the best indoor air purifying plants, it’s important to understand the science behind their air-cleaning abilities. In the late 1980s, NASA conducted a groundbreaking study called the Clean Air Study, in collaboration with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA). The study, led by Dr. B.C. Wolverton, aimed to find ways to purify the air in sealed space stations. The researchers discovered that certain plants were remarkably effective at removing common indoor air pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.
While the study was initially conducted with space exploration in mind, its findings have significant implications for improving indoor air quality in homes and offices on Earth. The plants identified in the NASA study are now widely recognized for their air-purifying properties and are often recommended for use in indoor spaces.
Top indoor air purifying plants
Let’s start our list with some of the best indoor air purifying plants identified by the NASA Clean Air Study.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a hardy and adaptable air purifier that’s perfect for beginners. How it works: The Snake Plant is particularly effective at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. It also has the unique ability to convert CO2 into oxygen at night, making it an excellent bedroom plant.
- Ease of Maintenance: Very easy
- Safety: Mildly toxic if ingested, keep away from pets and children
- Cost: $15 – $50, depending on size
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is not only beautiful but also a powerhouse air purifier. How it works: Peace Lilies are excellent at removing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia from the air. They’re particularly effective in bathrooms and laundry rooms due to their ability to reduce mold spores.
- Ease of Maintenance: Easy to moderate
- Safety: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
- Cost: $20 – $70, depending on size
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is a popular choice for its air-purifying abilities and pet-friendly nature. How it works: Spider Plants are effective at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and carbon monoxide from the air. They’re also known to reduce indoor ozone levels.
- Ease of Maintenance: Very easy
- Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Cost: $10 – $30
Best indoor air purifying plants for bedrooms
Choosing the right plants for your bedroom can help improve air quality and promote better sleep. Here are some of the best indoor air purifying plants for your sleeping space.
4. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is not only an excellent air purifier but also has medicinal properties. How it works: Aloe Vera is effective at removing formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It also releases oxygen at night, making it an ideal bedroom plant.
- Ease of Maintenance: Easy
- Safety: Non-toxic for humans, but can cause digestive issues in pets if ingested
- Cost: $10 – $30
5. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender not only purifies the air but also promotes relaxation with its soothing scent. How it works: While not as potent an air purifier as some other plants, lavender helps remove formaldehyde and is known for its calming properties, which can aid in better sleep.
- Ease of Maintenance: Moderate
- Safety: Non-toxic to humans, but can cause mild digestive issues in pets if ingested
- Cost: $15 – $40
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Plant is a striking and low-maintenance option for air purification in bedrooms. How it works: Rubber Plants are effective at removing formaldehyde from the air. Their large leaves also help to increase humidity and improve overall air quality.
- Ease of Maintenance: Easy
- Safety: Mildly toxic if ingested, keep away from children and pets
- Cost: $20 – $80, depending on size
Best indoor air purifying plants for Bathrooms
Bathrooms often have high humidity and limited light, making them perfect for certain air-purifying plants. Here are some of the best indoor air purifying plants suited for bathroom environments.
7. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The lush Boston Fern is not only safe for pets but also an excellent air purifier for bathrooms. How it works: Boston Ferns are particularly effective at removing formaldehyde from the air. They also act as natural humidifiers, which can help improve overall air quality in bathrooms.
- Ease of Maintenance: Moderate
- Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Cost: $15 – $40
8. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is an excellent choice for bathrooms due to its ability to thrive in humid environments. How it works: English Ivy is particularly effective at removing airborne fecal particles and formaldehyde, making it ideal for bathrooms.
- Ease of Maintenance: Easy to moderate
- Safety: Toxic if ingested, keep away from children and pets
- Cost: $10 – $30
9. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
The Bamboo Palm is a tropical plant that thrives in humid environments like bathrooms. How it works: Bamboo Palms are excellent at removing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air.
- Ease of Maintenance: Moderate
- Safety: Non-toxic to humans and pets
- Cost: $20 – $100, depending on size
Additional best indoor air purifying plants
To round out our list of the best indoor air purifying plants, here are two more excellent options that work well in various settings.
10. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese Evergreen is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of indoor conditions. How it works: Chinese Evergreens are effective at removing benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
- Ease of Maintenance: Very easy
- Safety: Toxic if ingested, keep away from children and pets
- Cost: $15 – $50
11. Dracaena (Dracaena spp.)
Dracaena plants come in many varieties, all of which are excellent air purifiers and relatively low-maintenance. How it works: Dracaenas are particularly effective at removing formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene from the air.
- Ease of Maintenance: Easy
- Safety: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested
- Cost: $20 – $100, depending on size and variety
Embracing the power of air purifying plants
Incorporating these best indoor air purifying plants into your home can significantly improve your air quality and overall well-being. The NASA Clean Air Study has provided us with scientific evidence of their effectiveness, and countless homeowners have experienced the benefits firsthand.
When choosing plants for your space, consider factors such as light availability, humidity levels, and your ability to care for them. Start with one or two plants and gradually increase your indoor garden as you become more comfortable with plant care.
Remember that while these plants are effective air purifiers, they work best in combination with good ventilation and regular cleaning practices. By bringing these natural air purifiers into your home, you’re not only improving your air quality but also creating a more vibrant, lively space that connects you with nature.
Embrace the power of plants and breathe easier in your healthier, greener home. With these best indoor air purifying plants, you’re well on your way to creating a cleaner, more invigorating living environment for you and your loved ones.
