11 Best House Plants to Clear the Air

Whether you are looking to purify your home or just brighten your space, house plants are one of the best ways to do both! Here are 11 house plants to bring into your home.

Most people spend the majority of their free time at home indoors. Yes, there is yard work and the occasional backyard barbecue. Maybe you even have a pool. Regardless, when you factor in sleeping, cooking, eating and watching TV, we are naturally indoor creatures. So what type of environment have you made for you and your family inside? Have you thought about the air quality in your home? Sure, something as simple as adding houseplants can add color and life. But the best part? Some plants even clean the air you are breathing. Let’s look at what pollutants might be indoors — and the best plants for keeping the air in your home clean and free of those pollutants.

What You’re Breathing In

You know how new carpet has that distinct smell? Well, it comes from the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including benzene and formaldehyde — both of which are known to be carcinogens. Other building materials that make up your home and furniture contain VOCs, including pressed-wood products (such as particle board, plywood and paneling) and spray foam insulation. Likewise, most of your upholstered furniture has flame-retardant treatments, glues and stain finishes that all emit harmful pollutants.

What’s more, you may be contributing to the polluted air by using air fresheners and cleaners made with toxic chemicals. Commercial air fresheners, in particular, can interfere with your ability to smell by using a nerve-deadening agent or coating the nasal passages with a film. And certain household cleaners give off ammonia fumes — which cause watery eyes, burning nasal passages and possible respiratory problems.

Sure, you can (and should) switch to eco-friendly cleaning products, but you can’t easily rebuild your house and all of its components, right? Fortunately, that’s where plants come in.

Both indoors and outdoors, plants have a unique ability to absorb harmful chemicals from the air — and give off oxygen to boot. In fact, they can actually clean many of those pollutants by absorbing them through their leaves and roots. Add these plants to your decor, and you’ll be breathing easier in no time!

11 Beneficial House Plants

1. Chrysanthemum

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde and xylene

2. English Ivy

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene

3. Spider Plant

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Formaldehyde, benzene and xylene

4. Chinese Evergreen

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Benzene and formaldehyde

5. Dracaena

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene and xylene

6. Wax Begonia

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Benzene and toluene

7. Peace Lily 

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene

8. Boston Fern

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Formaldehyde and xylene

9. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue (Snake Plant)

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene

10. Lady Palm 

Harmful air pollutant that it removes: Ammonia

11. Golden Pothos

Harmful air pollutants that it removes: Formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide

Who knew that a few common (and not-so-common) plants could bring so many health and wellness benefits? If you decide to get one — or all — make sure you follow care instructions and keep them watered.  American Home Shield® can help ensure that your plumbing system is in good working condition so that you're able to keep your new plants happy and hydrated.

Sources:
https://greatist.com/connect/houseplants-that-clean-air
https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/interior-remodel/10-best-plants-for-cleaning-indoor-air-pictures
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/9-clean-air-plants-your-home
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/a20706146/air-purifying-indoor-plants/