Let’s face it: with the frigid temperatures of the winter months, many of us hole ourselves up inside our warm, cozy homes. With more time spent hibernating inside, improving indoor air quality is a must. Houseplants offer a natural fix by purifying the air and brightening up our living spaces. Here is a roundup of some of the best air-purifying plants out there.
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Snake plant – This low-maintenance houseplant is highly effective at eliminating toxins commonly found in household products, such as nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde, from the air. At night, this plant converts carbon dioxide into oxygen. The plant should be placed somewhere with indirect sunlight. It needs time for its soil to dry between waterings and requires sporadic pruning of dead leaves.
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Dracaena – Recognized for enhancing air quality, this plant can remove several toxins from the air, including benzene and trichloroethylene. Dracaena also absorbs xylene, a chemical released from cigarettes and paints. Its uniquely-patterned, elongated leaves make it a perfect decorative houseplant. The plant thrives in places with indirect sunlight and needs to be watered regularly. Allow at least half of the soil to dry before watering again.
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Peace lily – The peace lily, characterized by white spathes and dark green leaves, successfully draws out benzene, formaldehyde, alcohols, acetone, and trichloroethylene, improving respiratory health. It releases oxygen throughout the day and soaks up some of the excess moisture from the air, which can help prevent mildew. Peace lilies prefer indirect sunlight and should be lightly watered. The plant’s leaves should be occasionally wiped down with a damp cloth to keep them fresh.
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Rubber plant – With the help of its large leaves, the rubber plant absorbs airborne toxins, transforms them into clean oxygen, and removes formaldehyde, a common indoor pollutant, from the air. The plant can grow to an impressive height, making quite a statement in any room with touches of greenery. To care for the plant, keep it in a space with bright, indirect light and the soil moist.