The Best Plants for Improving Air Quality

A lot of people like to grow plants at home. The houseplants can elevate mood, enhance creativity, promote wellness and purify indoor air. The last point of this list seems to be the most important as according to the Environmental Protection Agency, organic chemicals commonly found in your home such as paints, disinfectants, cosmetics and fuels emit chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are the leading cause of sick building syndrome, a health threat that leads to headaches, skin irritations, hypersensitivity and more.

Fortunately, there are many houseplants that will filter these chemicals and clean air naturally, as well as brighten up your living space.

So how do plants improve air quality? 

1. Plants improve air quality by combating volatile organic compounds commonly found at home.

2. Many plants can absorb volatile organic compounds through the pores of their leaves as well as process light for photosynthesis.

Below is a list of the best household plants for cleaning the toxins out of the air in your home:

1. Bamboo Palm 

It is effective at removing the formaldehyde often used in furniture, so place the palm next to chairs, couches and tables. Bamboo palm also removes 16,520 micrograms of trichloroethylene according to the scientific studies. During dryer winter months, the bamboo palm can also add some moisture to the air.

2. English Ivy

This charming vine grows in low or indirect light conditions. The leaves are poisonous, so it is important to keep them away from pets and kids. The good point is that English Ivy enjoys containers and hanging baskets. English Ivy is effective at removing benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, as well as other allergens such as mold and airborne fecal matter. 

3. Ficus

Ficus is a tropical looking evergreen with twisting roots and bright green, shiny leaves. It’s effective at removing pollutants from furniture and carpets, though it can be a bit temperamental to grow. Keep the leaves clear of dust and water moderately.

4. Dracaena

The dracaena plant is a popular houseplant, grown both indoors and outdoors in subtropical climates. It reaches a height of about three feet indoors, and has a bushy tree type of look. This plant is best for ridding the air of chemicals found in lacquers, varnishes, and gasoline.  Also known as a Corn Plant, the Dracena is a dramatic, but fairly easy plant to maintain.

5. Aloe 

Aloe is a short-stemmed shrub with excellent characteristics. It’s great at removing chemicals from paints and chemical cleaning products, and the gel inside the succulent spiked leaves can be used to relieve cuts and burns. 

6. Chrysanthemum

You’re probably already familiar with these colorful flowers. They are popular in bouquets, but as a potted plant, they are excellent at filtering out chemicals found in glues, paints, detergents, and plastics. Chrysanthemums love bright light, and add a gorgeous pop of color to any room.

The experts recommend to keep one potted plant every 100 square feet, but you really can’t have too many houseplants for good air quality. 

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