The air-purifying plants that every home needs
We all know that plants can fill a room with colour and life. But there’s more to them than that. Some have air-purifying superpowers. Which means that while you take care of them, they’re taking care of your home. Want to know our top air-purifying houseplants? Keep scrolling.
The Peace Lily
What’s there not to love about peace lilies? They produce the loveliest little flowers, are a dream to look after and can absorb harmful airborne toxins. And the same way they soak up moisture through their leaves (humid kitchens are their dream home), they also take in any mould spores and microbes in the air. This plant just keeps on giving.
The Chinese Money Plant
Chinese money plants are thought to bring good fortune to their owner. And it could be said that the first thing they bless their new home with is cleaner air. These plants are also very easy to propagate. So, if you wanted to, you could fill your home with lots of little air-purifying indoor plants. Or treat your friends to some too.
The Rubber Plant
One of the best air-purifying plants for newbies - caring for a rubber plant is a breeze. As long as it’s popped somewhere that gets equal amounts of sun and shade, and is watered occasionally, it’ll love any owner it lives with. Even someone who may be too busy to give it attention every day. So that it can keep pumping out lots of clean air, its leaves will need to be wiped clean with a wet cloth every so often.
The Bird’s Nest Fern
Because of their rippled edges, bird’s nest ferns are experts at soaking up pollutants in the air. Like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. But while they’re working hard to take care of your home, they need an owner who’ll keep up with their needs too. It’ll be happiest with someone who knows when to check in on the people - and plants - they love.
The ZZ Raven
Notoriously easy to look after, ZZ raven plants are the perfect pick for those that can be quite forgetful. Ever miss a watering? This air-purifying superstar won’t make you feel bad. And because they don’t mind shady spots, they’re great for home offices. We can’t think of a better desk buddy than one that can keep the air around it lovely and fresh.
The Boston Fern
Just like its cousin, The Bird’s Nest Fern, Boston ferns are thought to be some of the best air-purifying plants because of all their lush green foliage. They love humid environments, so can easily balance the moisture levels in your home too. If you were looking for a plant to pop in a steamy shower room, this is it. Not only will it give any bathroom a spa-worthy look, but it can also make showers feel that little bit more refreshing.
Q.
What are the best air-purifying plants?
A.
There are lots! But our favourites are peace lilies, Chinese money plants, rubber plants, bird’s nest ferns, raven plants, Boston ferns, and snake plants. They’ve all been shown to get rid of harmful toxins in the air and pump lots of oxygen around your home. Want to know which plants would be perfect for your - or someone else’s - home? We’ve put together this list of our favourite indoor plants.
Q.
How much do houseplants purify the air?
A.
The amount an indoor plant can purify the air depends on its size. And how many you have. But studies have shown that even one houseplant in a 4x5 metre room can improve air quality by 25%. Impressive, right?
Q.
How do plants make air pure?
A.
Plants get rid of pollutants in the air by absorbing them through their leaves. In turn, they release oxygen into the room. Some plants can even take in microbes and mould spores. These will filter through to the plant’s roots, where they’re used as food.