Most people know that houseplants release oxygen, but some do much more—they can actually help clean the air inside your home. Beyond simply being decorative, certain plants absorb harmful substances, lower mold levels, and neutralize indoor pollutants, leading to a fresher, healthier living space.

NASA research has shown that particular houseplants are especially effective at improving indoor air quality. These plants can help remove dangerous chemicals commonly found in everyday items like paint, furniture, cleaning agents, and construction materials.

6 Houseplants That Purify the Air and Enhance Oxygen Levels

1. Aloe Vera
Famous for soothing burns, aloe vera also helps boost oxygen in your home by absorbing carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. It’s simple to care for and thrives in sunny areas.

2. Ficus (Ficus Elastica)
Low-maintenance and resilient, the ficus plant is excellent at filtering out formaldehyde. However, its leaves are potentially harmful if eaten by children or pets.

3. English Ivy (Hedera Helix)
Quick and effective, English ivy can eliminate nearly 60% of airborne pollutants and even fecal particles within just a few hours, making it a strong option for fast air improvement.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
This hardy plant does well in dim conditions and removes various pollutants such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and gasoline vapors. Just one spider plant can help purify air in larger areas.

5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
Also called “mother-in-law’s tongue,” this plant is perfect for bedrooms as it gives off oxygen during the night. It’s very easy to care for, needing minimal water and light, which makes it ideal for first-time plant owners.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Elegant and effective, peace lilies are excellent at removing toxins like trichloroethylene and formaldehyde. They also help increase humidity and reduce airborne bacteria and mold spores.

How Many Plants Should You Have?

NASA advises placing about 15 to 18 air-purifying plants in a home that’s roughly 500 square meters, which works out to around 3 to 4 plants per 80 square meters. Be sure to include one in your bedroom, where clean nighttime air can support better sleep.

Incorporating these plants into your home doesn’t just improve the look and feel of your space—it also contributes to cleaner air and better overall health.