House Cleaning Plants

Certain houseplants offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They can also contribute to a healthier indoor environment by filtering certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. These VOCs, emitted from various household products and materials, can negatively impact indoor air quality. While plants should not be solely relied upon for air purification, they can be a valuable component of a holistic approach to improving indoor air quality.

NASA's Clean Air Study, conducted in 1989, investigated the air-purifying capabilities of several common houseplants. This study, though conducted in a controlled environment, sparked interest in the potential for plants to mitigate indoor air pollution. Subsequent research has further explored the effectiveness of various plant species in removing specific VOCs.

Several factors influence a plant's effectiveness in purifying indoor air. These include the plant species, the size and health of the plant, the concentration of VOCs, and the overall air circulation in the room. It's important to note that the conditions in a typical home differ significantly from the controlled environment of a laboratory, so the air purification benefits observed in studies may not be fully replicated in real-world settings.

Among the plants identified as effective in removing VOCs, several stand out for their ease of care and availability. The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is a popular choice due to its low maintenance requirements and tolerance of varying light conditions. It is known for its ability to filter formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air.

Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are another readily available and easy-to-care-for option. They are particularly effective at removing formaldehyde and xylene. Spider plants also readily produce "spiderettes," or baby plants, which can be propagated to create new plants, further enhancing their air-purifying capacity in a given space.

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is valued for its elegant appearance and air-purifying qualities. It can filter a range of VOCs including benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and ammonia. However, Peace Lilies require more consistent watering and humidity compared to Snake Plants or Spider Plants, and their leaves can be toxic to pets if ingested.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) is known for its ability to remove mold spores and other allergens from the air. This makes it a beneficial addition to homes with allergy sufferers. English Ivy also filters formaldehyde and benzene. It requires bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), commonly known as Devil's Ivy, is another highly adaptable and effective air purifier. It can tolerate low light conditions and infrequent watering. Golden Pothos is effective at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Similar to Peace Lilies, Golden Pothos is toxic to pets if ingested.

Rubber Plants (Ficus elastica) are known for their large, glossy leaves and resilience. They can filter formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. Rubber Plants prefer bright, indirect light and consistent watering. They can also grow quite large, making them a statement piece in any room.

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) is known for its elegant, drooping branches and air-purifying properties. It can filter formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Weeping Figs require more specific care conditions compared to other plants on this list, preferring bright, indirect light and consistent watering. They are also sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.

Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) is an attractive palm variety effective in filtering formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil, but it can tolerate slightly lower light conditions. Bamboo Palms can also add a touch of tropical elegance to any indoor space.

While these plants can contribute to cleaner indoor air, it's important to maintain realistic expectations. A single plant will not dramatically improve air quality in a large room. Multiple plants strategically placed throughout the home can contribute more significantly to air purification. Regular dusting of plant leaves is also important to ensure optimal air filtration.

In addition to incorporating houseplants, other strategies for improving indoor air quality include proper ventilation, regular cleaning, minimizing the use of harsh chemicals, and using air purifiers with HEPA filters. These measures, combined with the judicious use of houseplants, can contribute to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment.