Navdeep
Here are NASA’s top 10 air-purifying plants and why they’re worth bringing home. In India, we know most large cities are suffering from severe air pollution mainly because of rapid urban growth, heavy traffic, and increasing industrial activity.
But if you think of indoors also, we face the same problem because furniture, paint, cleaners and electronics release invisible pollutants into the air.
To tackle this, NASA once ran a study to find the best plants that can filter toxins and improve air quality naturally. Hopefully results are incredibly useful today.
The list of plants below will help you plan to build your own cleaner and greener indoor space.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
A tough plant that doesn’t mind low light, doesn’t mind less water or neglect. It removes toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. It also releases oxygen at night, making it great for bedrooms.
Care tip: Water only when the soil is fully dry.
2. Peace Lily
With its glossy leaves and white flowers, this plant looks elegant while fighting pollutants like ammonia and trichloroethylene. It also helps reduce mold spores in the air.
Care tip: It likes humidity, so mist the leaves occasionally.
3. Spider Plant
Perfect for beginners. It grows fast, produces baby plants (spiderettes), and removes carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
Care tip: Keep it near bright, indirect light.
4. Aloe Vera
Known for its soothing gel, Aloe Vera also filters harmful chemicals found in household cleaners and detergents.
Care tip: Needs lots of sunlight and very little water.
5. Boston Fern
This leafy plant absorbs indoor air pollutants and also adds moisture to dry rooms. It’s especially helpful in spaces with air conditioning.
Care tip: Keep the soil moist and place it in a cool spot with indirect light.
6. Bamboo Palm
A natural humidifier and a purifier of air from toxins like benzene and trichloroethylene. It can grow tall and gives a tropical feel to any room.
Care tip: Avoid direct sunlight and don’t let the soil dry out.
7. Rubber Plant
I call it a serious air-cleaning champion, known for absorbing formaldehyde very efficiently. It’s also a bold decorative plant.
Care tip: Prefers indirect sunlight and slightly moist soil.
8. Areca Palm
One of the best for adding humidity indoors. It filters common toxins and looks stunning in living rooms and offices.
Care tip: Water regularly but make sure the pot drains well.
9. English Ivy
Great for reducing airborne mold and allergens, which makes it useful in bathrooms or damp corners.
Care tip: Needs regular trimming and medium sun-light.
10. Chinese Evergreen
Popular for its beautiful looking leaves and air-cleaning ability. It tackles formaldehyde and other indoor pollutants.
Care tip: Keep it away from cold drafts and water moderately.
How Many Plants Do You Need to Breathe Fresh Air?
One plant won’t change the air quality overnight, but NASA suggested having at least one plant per 100 square feet for noticeable results. Mixing different types is even better, since each plant filters different toxins.
Final Thoughts
We love Air-purifying plants because they do more than decorate your home. Breathing becomes easier, we feel calmer, and they bring a bit of nature into our routine. With NASA’s recommended list, you are good to go with the ones that fit your lifestyle and grow your own little indoor jungle over time.
Share photos of the indoor plants you’ve welcomed into your home. Send them to [email protected].
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