Breathe Easy: Five houseplants that purify the air—NASA-backed green fighters
Formaldehyde leaks from furniture and building materials; benzene comes from plastics and paints; ammonia from household cleaners. Five houseplants actively fight these toxins while enriching the air with oxygen. NASA even named the spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) as one of the best air-cleaning plants for space stations.
In This Article:
Spider Plant: a record-breaker against formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a record-breaker for absorbing formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene. It also releases phytoncides that help kill bacteria. Care is simple: it is undemanding, tolerates shade, and prefers generous watering in summer and moderate watering in winter.
Snake Plant: absorbs nitrogen oxides and gives oxygen by night
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) absorbs nitrogen oxides produced by gas stoves and, unlike many plants, releases oxygen at night. Care is easy: it thrives with minimal attention and needs only infrequent watering (about every two to three weeks). Placement is ideal in bedrooms or kitchens.
Peace Lily: neutralizes ammonia and reduces mold spores; thrives in shade
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) neutralizes ammonia from cleaning products and lowers mold spores in the air. Care favors humidity—spray the leaves, and it can bloom even in shaded conditions. Bonus: the peace lily is said to bring harmony to the home.
Dracaena and Ficus: more air-cleaners in one room
Dracaena marginata and Dracaena fragrans are effective filters that help neutralize formaldehyde and phenol emitted by furniture and linoleum. Care prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering, but avoid direct sun. Note: Ficus can cause allergies in sensitive people. Ficus also removes trichloroethylene and can absorb tobacco smoke. To maximize air cleaning, place 4–5 plants in a room about 15–20 m², wipe dust from leaves, and use a variety of species to cover more pollutants. Have you tried these plants at home? Share in the comments.
