Best Air Purifying Plants

Your home is your space to relax, unwind and take a breather from the stresses of daily life.

It’s hard to imagine that there could be anything wrong with the air in our homes; it seems so natural and clean. Yet indoor air can be more toxic than outdoor air and we unknowingly bring in more contaminants every day.

The good news is there is an easy, inexpensive and good-for-you way to detox your home and make it the safe haven it was always meant to be.

Just add plants! Even better, add the BEST air purifying plants!

That’s right, adding some plants that clean the air will bring the outdoors in, improve air quality, and help rid the environment of toxins. Plus, houseplants are proven to make you happier, reduce stress and boost creativity.

Not all plants are created equal, though. Houseplants, like peace lilies and ferns, absorb up to 87 percent of volatile organic compounds and are easy to grow. Finding indoor plants that clean the air and remove toxins can be tough, so we’ve created a list of the top seven air purifiers.

7 Best Air Purifying Plants

1. Peace Lily

Spathiphyllum, also known as the Peace Lily, is one of the most popular houseplants. It’s low-maintenance, hardy and will let you know when it’s thirsty by its drooping leaves.

Benefit: It’s one of the most efficient plants for filtering indoor air – making it a great choice for any room. It also has a high transpiration rate that humidifies air.

2. Palms

A ‘plant it and forget it’ variety because it needs such little attention. As long as you don’t overwater, the plant is practically indestructible.

Benefit: NASA gives this plant a high purifying score because it removes many indoor air toxins. So place it around any upholstered furniture. As a bonus, its playful leaves are safe for pets.

3. Orchid

Moth orchids are easy. These flowers bloom for months and you’ll be surprised at how little care these blossoms need. Ideal for areas where they receive indirect sun, orchids offer a delicate touch to any space.

Benefit: Orchids rid the air of xylene—a pollutant found in glues and paints—so they make wonderful housewarming gifts. Unlike some other plants, orchids give off oxygen at night, so they’re some of the best air purifying plants for bedroom use

4. Sansevieria "Snake Plant"

Also known as ‘Snake Plant’ or ‘Mother’s-in-Law’s tongue,’ these sharp, sword-like leaves have an architectural nature. It is an extremely low-maintenance plant that is a slow grower and will last for years.

Benefit: Place in the bedroom because it works best at night, filtering air and converting carbon dioxide to oxygen (a task most plants do during the day.) Also known to increase overall energy levels, help with headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory issues.

5. Anthurium

Also called flamingo flower for its glossy heart-shaped leaves and tropical-looking flowers, anthuriums add a touch of romance to any room. This show-stopping plant blooms on and off all year. To get them to flower continuously, place in a filtered-light location and fertilize once in spring.

Benefit: Their large, dark leaves suck up ammonia, formaldehyde, toluene, or gasoline fumes, and xylene, so they’re a thoughtful present for any workplace – especially when placed around copiers and printers.

6. Pothos

An ideal plant for beginners, this is one of the easiest plants to grow and a champion at cleaning the air.

Benefit: It breathes in toxins such as formaldehyde from the air and exhales the good. Trailing, vining leaves make this a great plant for high shelves in the kitchen.

7. Money Tree

This cute little potted tree has lively green leaves and an unusual braided trunk. It is low-maintenance and thrives when placed in bright, indirect light.

Benefit: This little tree can remove toxins, especially those from synthetic cleaning products. It is also used by Feng Shui experts to reduce stress and anxiety, and even help prevent arguments and sleeping disorders.