Improve Air Quality In Your Home With These 7 Plants

Think you’re already safe from air pollutants once you’re inside your home? Well, think again.

In a recent Smart Parenting article, interior designer Nini D. Falcon busted the myth by saying “Sorry to burst your bubble, but your home’s indoor air is likely more toxic than the air outside.”

According to Falcon, the main culprit is volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are “emitted as gases from ingredients found in many synthetic products you have in your home.” This usually comes from aerosol sprays, cleaners, insect repellants, paints, varnishes, stored automotive products, adhesives, markers, vinyl floors, and many more.

The scary thing here is that VOCs can actually affect our health and constant exposure may lead to dizziness, respiratory tract infection, or even kidney and liver damage.

Fortunately, there are plants that can improve your home’s air quality.

Here are some houseplants you should have if you want to enjoy fresher, cleaner indoor air:

1. Aloe Vera

Photo credit: Pixabay

Photo credit: Pixabay

Aloe Vera fights formaldehyde (found in cosmetics, dish detergent, etc) and benzene (plastics, fabrics, pesticides) which makes your air safer for your family to breathe.

2. Sansevieria Mikado

This houseplant has the ability to absorb air pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide. Best of all, the plant grows on its own even with minimum care and supervision.

3. Snake Plant

Photo credit: via SmartParenting

Photo credit: via SmartParenting

Usually placed in bathroom, the snake plant filters formaldehyde which may be found in some toilet papers, paper towels, and personal care products.

4. Pothos

For your garage, pothos would be most appropriate. This also filters formaldehyde from car exhaust. Be sure, however, to keep the plant out of children’s reach because it can be harmful when eaten. Ideally, you should put the plant in a basket and then hang it on the wall.

5. Boston Plant

Known as a great air humidifier, this common houseplant is considered by experts as the most efficient formaldehyde fighter.

6. English Ivy

Photo credit: via SmartParenting

Photo credit: via SmartParenting

People with allergies or asthma will benefit the most from having an English Ivy at home. This plant combats carcinogens found in smoke and pesticides.

7. Spider Plant

This plant absorbs absorbs xylene, the solvent used in the leather, rubber and printing industries.

With these 7 plants, you can be sure you’ll be able to enjoy fresher air when you’re at home.

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