Finding the best air-purifying plants for your home can be a game-changer for any indoor space. Not only do they look great, but they can also help improve the air you breathe.
But which plants actually live up to the hype – and are they as easy to care for as they are beautiful?
Stick around to discover my picks for the best plants that can freshen up your air and your home.
Table of Contents
Quick Care Guide for Most Common Houseplants 💚
⭐ How to start? Easy, hard-to-kill plants like Monstera or Pothos are usually a great starting point.
💧 Water: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, but avoid letting them sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
🌱 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants - I personally use this one. A mix with peat, perlite, or coco coir is great for avoiding soggy roots.
☀️ Light: Most houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light. Too little light can cause leaf drop, while direct sun may scorch the leaves.
🌡️ Temperature: Keep them between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and away from drafts, heaters or air conditioners.
🌿 Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (my top pick is this Miracle-Gro one) once a month during spring and summer. Hold off during fall and winter.
1. Spider Plant
The spider plant is a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. It’s known for its ability to remove pollutants such as formaldehyde and xylene. This hardy plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal attention.
It features long, arching leaves with white and green stripes. The plant often produces small, white flowers, leading to new plantlets that dangle from the parent plant. These plantlets can be repotted, making it easy to propagate new spider plants.
Originating from Southern Africa, it thrives in a wide range of conditions. Spider plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light levels. They should be watered regularly but not excessively, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
This plant is safe for pets, so it’s a great option for homes with animals. It can also survive in many temperature conditions, making it versatile for various indoor environments. With its air-purifying qualities and ease of care, the spider plant is a great addition to any home.
2. Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are popular indoor plants known for their ability to remove toxins from the air. They’re tolerant of low light, making them perfect for indoor spaces. These plants are also appreciated for their elegant white flowers and lush green leaves.
Peace Lilies thrive in humid environments and prefer to be kept moist, but not overly wet. Regularly misting the leaves can help maintain the humidity they need. It’s advisable to place them in a spot that receives indirect light to prevent leaf burn.
These plants are effective at filtering common pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. They’re great for improving air quality in homes and offices. Although easy to care for, it’s important to know that Peace Lilies are toxic to pets if ingested.
Repotting may be necessary every couple of years, as they can outgrow their containers. Fertilize them occasionally during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Their striking appearance and air-purifying qualities make Peace Lilies a favorite choice for those looking to enhance indoor environments.
3. Boston Fern
The Boston Fern is known for its lush, arching fronds that can reach up to two to three feet. It’s a popular choice for improving indoor air quality, particularly known for removing pollutants like formaldehyde. With the right care, it thrives in homes, providing a fresh, green appearance.
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Boston Ferns prefer high humidity and indirect sunlight. They flourish in environments where they can maintain consistent moisture. So, it’s important to keep the soil evenly damp without waterlogging it.
These ferns are sensitive to dry air, making them a great choice for bathrooms or kitchens where humidity levels are naturally higher. Regular misting or a nearby humidity tray helps them thrive if your home is on the drier side.
They also benefit from occasional feeding with a diluted houseplant fertilizer. Every couple of months during the growing season can keep them healthy and vibrant. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when they’re not actively growing.
Boston Ferns are non-toxic to pets and humans. This makes them safe for households with curious animals or children. Despite needing a bit of care, they’re a resilient and rewarding addition to an indoor plant collection.
4. Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, also known as Sansevieria, is a popular choice for air purification in homes. Known for its resilience, it thrives in various conditions, making it ideal for beginners. It’s capable of removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air.
In addition to its purifying capabilities, this plant is appreciated for its sleek, upright leaves. These leaves can vary in color, with shades ranging from dark green to yellow-edged varieties. It doesn’t require frequent watering, preferring to dry out between waterings.
They’re also tolerant of low light conditions but grow best in indirect light. This makes them perfect for places in the home where other plants may not thrive.
Due to its forgiving nature, the Snake Plant is often recommended for those who want to add greenery without the high maintenance. They’re not just practical – their architectural form adds a modern touch to any room.
Overall, incorporating a Snake Plant in your space can contribute not only to the aesthetics but also to healthier air quality.
5. Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos is a popular houseplant known for its air purifying qualities. It’s easy to care for and is a great choice for beginners. This plant thrives in various lighting conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sunlight.
The leaves are variegated with yellow and green patterns, adding a vibrant touch to any room. Since it grows rapidly, regular trimming is recommended to maintain its shape. Golden Pothos can be grown in soil or water, making it versatile for different setups.
This plant naturally filters toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air. It tolerates occasional neglect, so it’s perfect for busy individuals. Despite its resilience, overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Propagation is simple with stem cuttings rooted in water or soil. It’s a climbing plant, so providing a support or letting it trail from a hanging pot suits it well. With minimal effort, Golden Pothos can enhance both indoor air quality and aesthetics.
6. English Ivy
English Ivy is a popular choice for those looking to improve indoor air quality. It’s known for its ability to reduce airborne mold particles. This makes it ideal for bedrooms and areas where air circulation might not be optimal.
Caring for English Ivy is relatively simple. It prefers bright, indirect light and does well in moderate temperatures. It’s crucial not to overwater, as this plant likes its soil a little on the dry side.
Pruning helps keep English Ivy in check. Since it grows aggressively, trimming is essential to manage its spread. This plant works well in hanging baskets, allowing its vines to drape elegantly.
Besides purifying the air, English Ivy adds a touch of greenery to any space. Its versatile nature makes it a good fit for various decor styles. With proper care, it can thrive for years indoors, enhancing both the look and feel of your space.
7. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is well-known for its air-purifying qualities. It effectively removes pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene, which are common in household products. With its easy care requirements, it’s a popular choice for busy plant lovers.
This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and doesn’t need frequent watering. In fact, letting the soil dry out between watering sessions is recommended. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s safer to keep it on the drier side.
Aloe Vera is not just about air purification – it’s also famous for its soothing gel, often used for skin irritations. Having this plant around provides both aesthetic and practical benefits. It does well in pots and is a pleasant addition to any room.
Even though it’s a hardy plant, Aloe Vera should be kept away from direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 80°F. It’s a resilient option that offers both beauty and a touch of nature’s healing property.
8. Bamboo Palm
The Bamboo Palm is a popular choice for those looking to improve indoor air quality. It effectively removes airborne toxins, making it a great addition to any home. Known for its elegant, feathery leaves, this plant adds a touch of greenery to living spaces.
Preferring indirect light, it’s perfect for areas that don’t receive direct sunlight. It’s also relatively low-maintenance, which is ideal for busy individuals. The Bamboo Palm thrives in humid conditions, so occasional misting can help keep it healthy.
Watering should be consistent but not excessive; keep the soil moist without overwatering. Additionally, this plant can grow quite tall, so ensure there’s enough space for it to develop. It’s also pet-friendly, posing no significant harm to dogs or cats.
Overall, the Bamboo Palm is an attractive and functional plant for anyone looking to enhance their environment. Its ability to filter toxins and its ease of care make it a fantastic addition to any home.
9. Rubber Plant
Rubber plants are a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. Known for their large, glossy leaves, they can help remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air. These plants are relatively easy to care for and can grow well in a variety of indoor settings.
Native to Southeast Asia, rubber plants adapt well to indoor environments. They thrive in bright, indirect light, making them suitable for many homes and offices. With the right conditions, they can grow quite tall, often reaching heights of over six feet indoors.
Watering needs for rubber plants are moderate. They require watering when the top inch of soil feels dry, and they prefer slightly dry conditions over being too wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so good drainage is essential.
Pruning is important to maintain the desired shape and size. Removing dead or yellowing leaves can also promote better growth. While they are generally pest-resistant, keeping an eye out for common pests like spider mites can help keep the plant healthy.
10. Areca Palm
The Areca Palm, also known as Dypsis lutescens, is a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. It efficiently removes toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the environment. This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and prefers well-drained soil.
Regular watering keeps the Areca Palm healthy, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It’s important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The plant benefits from a monthly feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
The Areca Palm is relatively low-maintenance, making it ideal for busy households. Its feathery, arching fronds add a pleasant tropical touch to any space. This plant does well in both homes and offices, offering a natural way to freshen and liven up the atmosphere.
With proper care, the Areca Palm can grow up to six to seven feet tall, providing a significant air-purifying effect. This plant not only helps in maintaining cleaner air but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of interiors.
11. Lady Palm
The Lady Palm, known scientifically as Rhapis excelsa, is a popular choice for indoor air purification. This hardy plant thrives in low-light conditions and is known for removing common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde and ammonia. Its lush, fan-like leaves add a touch of greenery that complements any home decor.
It’s relatively easy to care for, making it ideal for beginners. They prefer indirect light, so placing them near a north or east-facing window works well. Watering is straightforward too – just let the soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot.
These plants don’t require frequent fertilization. Feeding them every two months during the growing season, spring and summer, is sufficient. They’re also non-toxic to pets, which is a relief for pet owners.
In terms of size, the Lady Palm can grow between four to six feet indoors, given the right conditions. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and encourages new growth. They can also handle a variety of temperatures, ideally between 60-80°F.
Lady Palms are versatile and can adapt to different indoor environments. With proper care, they can live for many years, becoming long-term companions in your home. Their ability to improve air quality while offering aesthetic appeal makes them a worthy addition to any plant collection.
12. Dracaena
Dracaena is known for its air-purifying abilities, making it a popular choice for homes. This plant can remove common toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. It’s also easy to care for, which adds to its appeal for both new and experienced green thumbs.
Dracaenas come in various sizes and leaf patterns, providing options for different aesthetics. They can be placed in low-light areas, but they do best in bright, indirect light. Watering should be done when the soil feels dry to the touch.
These plants don’t require frequent repotting. Repotting every couple of years helps refresh the soil. Overwatering is a common issue, so proper drainage is important.
Dracaena is non-toxic to humans, but it can be harmful to pets if ingested. The plant’s low-maintenance nature paired with its air-cleansing capabilities makes it a great addition to any home. Keeping a few Dracaenas around can help create a clean and inviting atmosphere.
13. Ficus Tree
The Ficus tree, often known simply as Ficus, is a popular choice for those looking to improve indoor air quality. It’s recognized for its ability to filter common airborne toxins, providing a fresher indoor environment. With its glossy leaves and woody stems, the Ficus adds a touch of greenery that complements most decor styles.
Caring for a Ficus tree involves moderate attention. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and prefers its soil to be kept consistently moist yet not overwatered. The tree can be sensitive to changes in environment, so it’s best to place it where conditions are stable.
Pruning can help maintain the desired shape and size, as these plants can grow quite large. Occasionally wiping the leaves will remove dust and enable better photosynthesis. Proper care can ensure a healthy plant that contributes positively to indoor air quality.
14. African Violet
African Violet is a popular choice for indoor plants, known for its beautiful flowers. It’s relatively small, making it suitable for various spaces in your home. While not the most effective plant for air purification, it still contributes positively to indoor air quality.
This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and thrives in a warm, humid environment. Watering can be a bit tricky – it’s important to keep the soil moist but not soggy, and avoid getting water on the leaves. African Violets flourish in well-draining soil specifically designed for them.
Repotting is necessary every couple of years to maintain healthy growth. They can be propagated easily, which is a bonus for plant enthusiasts. Adding a balanced fertilizer every month boosts their growth and flowering potential.
Pests like aphids and mites may occasionally pose a problem. Regularly checking the leaves helps catch any infestations early. Keeping them healthy involves not only watering carefully but also ensuring that the temperature doesn’t drop too low.
Caring for African Violets can be rewarding with their colorful blooms brightening up any room. With a bit of attention, they can thrive and bring a touch of nature indoors.
15. Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is easy to care for and great at improving indoor air quality. Known botanically as Aglaonema, this plant is adored for its broad, glossy leaves. It thrives in low light and is quite forgiving if you miss a watering.
Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, the Chinese Evergreen can adapt to various home conditions. It prefers warm temperatures and medium to low indirect light. This makes it suitable for homes and offices, even in areas without direct sunlight.
The Chinese Evergreen is effective at removing common indoor pollutants. Studies have shown that it can help reduce levels of toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. It’s a natural choice for anyone seeking to improve indoor air health.
For optimal growth, water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s good to be cautious. Fertilize it once or twice a year to keep it lush and healthy.
In addition to its air-purifying qualities, the Chinese Evergreen is visually appealing. Its variegated leaves come in a range of colors including green, silver, and red hues. It’s an attractive option that enhances any interior space with its foliage.