Best Plants for Indoor Air Purification

Did you know that certain plants can work as natural air purifiers in your home? Not only do they add a bit of color and life to your home, but they also help clean the air that you breathe in daily. For those of you who are especially concerned about your indoor air quality, you may want to consider getting a plant to assist in some indoor air purification. Listed below are a few of the best plants for indoor air purification. 

Natural Air Purification Plants

English Ivy (Hedera helix) 

Most commonly seen as a form of ground-cover, English ivy is one of the top air purifying house plants. Because of its long-lasting vine, English ivy is great at reducing airborne particles. According to a clean air study done by NASA, ivy is effective at cleansing things like benzene, formaldehyde and xylene from the air in your home. It also prevents mold from accumulating in your home. 

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) 

Ammonia and benzene, the toxic air particles most commonly found in things like detergents and plastics, are most commonly fought off by the power of chrysanthemums. As a plant that loves direct sunlight and a medium amount of water, it doesn’t take much to take care of these beautiful flowers. While they are fun to have around the house, keep in mind that they are toxic to animals. If any consumption by a pet has happened, contact the vet immediately. 

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) 

Also known as the Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, this plant is also great for natural air purification. This yellow and green succulent is helpful by releasing oxygen at night, which in turn helps you breathe better while you’re sleeping. According to the same NASA study mentioned earlier, it is one of the best plants for absorbing airborne toxins. By being able to endure a long amount of light, it is a great plant for inside or outside. Take the same caution with pets, as this may also be toxic if ingested. 

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) 

As one of the easier plants to care for, this plant requires very little light or water to stay alive. Since it doesn’t require very much light or water, be careful about placing the plant in direct sunlight, as it may cause the leaf to burn. The best way to use this plant is by placing it in a dark corner and give it water once a week. Just like the chrysanthemum and the snake plant, this plant can potentially cause harm to your pets, so take caution. It is mildly toxic to humans, as well, so be careful not to ingest this plant. 

Weeping Fig (Ficus Benjamina) 

What can be also known as a Ficus tree, weeping figs are popular in homes mostly due to the low maintenance that the plant requires. If you plan on using it as a house plant, make sure it is placed in an area that has a good amount of indirect natural light. According to NASA, the weeping fig was most effective at cleansing airborne toluene, formaldehyde, and xylene. Take caution with this plant, as well, as it is poisonous to animals. 

 More IAQ Questions For Efficient Systems?

All of the plants listed above, including many more, are great natural air purifiers for your home! Most of them are easy to care for and add a good amount of color and life to your home. Remember to pay attention to what plants could be potentially harmful to your pets or even yourself. For any of your air purifying needs, contact Efficient Systems.