Indoor plants do more than just add beauty to your home—they can also purify the air by removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. In apartments, where air circulation is often limited, having air-purifying plants can help create a healthier and fresher environment.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best air-purifying plants, how they improve air quality, and the easiest ways to care for them.
1. How Do Plants Purify the Air?
Plants filter toxins from the air through a process called phytoremediation. They absorb pollutants like:
- Benzene (found in plastics, detergents, and synthetic fabrics).
- Formaldehyde (from cleaning products, furniture, and carpets).
- Trichloroethylene (present in paint and adhesives).
- Carbon dioxide (exhaled by humans and pets).
NASA’s Clean Air Study identified several plants that effectively remove toxins from indoor air. Let’s take a look at the best options for apartments.
2. Best Air-Purifying Plants for Apartments
2.1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
- One of the best air purifiers.
- Removes benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide.
- Releases oxygen at night, improving air quality while you sleep.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Thrives in low to bright light.
- Water only once every 2-3 weeks.
- Tolerates neglect and is nearly indestructible.
2.2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Excellent at filtering formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
- Helps increase humidity, making it great for dry apartments.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Prefers indirect light.
- Water once a week (wilts when thirsty, making it easy to care for).
- Keep out of reach of pets, as it can be toxic if ingested.
2.3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Fast-growing and removes toxins like benzene and formaldehyde.
- Ideal for hanging baskets or training along shelves.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Thrives in low to bright light.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Grows quickly with minimal maintenance.
2.4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Filters carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
- Safe for pets and children.
- Produces small “baby” plants that you can propagate.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Keep in bright, indirect light.
- Water once a week.
- Trim dead leaves to keep it looking fresh.
2.5. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
- Absorbs toxins like formaldehyde from furniture and paint.
- Has large, glossy leaves that add a stylish touch to your home.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Prefers moderate to bright light.
- Water once a week.
- Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust.
2.6. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Boosts oxygen levels and increases indoor humidity.
- Filters benzene, carbon monoxide, and xylene.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Needs bright, indirect light.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
2.7. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- Naturally removes formaldehyde and improves humidity.
- Ideal for bathrooms or kitchens due to its love for moisture.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Keep in medium to bright indirect light.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist.
- Mist daily for best growth.
2.8. Aloe Vera
- Purifies benzene and formaldehyde.
- Its gel has medicinal benefits for burns and skin care.
🌿 Care Tips:
- Needs bright, indirect light.
- Water only once every 2-3 weeks.
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
3. How Many Plants Do You Need for Air Purification?
NASA’s study suggests having at least one air-purifying plant per 100 square feet. In a small apartment:
- 1-2 plants per room can make a noticeable difference.
- Larger plants like the Areca Palm are more effective in purifying the air.
4. Additional Tips for Maximizing Air Purification
- Group plants together to improve oxygen levels.
- Rotate plants every few weeks for even light exposure.
- Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and keep them absorbing toxins effectively.
Final Thoughts
Adding air-purifying plants to your apartment is a simple way to improve indoor air quality while enhancing your space. Whether you choose a low-maintenance snake plant or a lush Areca Palm, these plants will help create a fresher, healthier home.
Are you ready to breathe cleaner air? Start by adding one of these plants to your apartment today! 🌿💨