Lots of people know that the vibrant green snake plant can beautify a home. What they may not realize, though, is that it’s one of a number of plants that can also do wonders at clearing the air of potentially hazardous chemicals.
It was NASA that uncovered this seemingly magical ability of houseplants back in 1989, as part of a landmark study aimed at improving air quality for astronauts in space. Scientists already knew that plants absorb carbon dioxide and turn it into oxygen, of course. But this study found that some plants were able to seriously reduce the amount of airborne chemicals, too—like formaldehyde and benzene.
These chemicals and others may cause irritation and other health issues, says the EPA; and they’re also the same ones found in items you probably have in your home right now: cosmetics, fabric softener, dish detergent and other household cleaners.
So how do plants work their magic? The secret, says Susan Brandt, cofounder of the gardening website Blooming Secrets, lies in their leaves and roots. They absorb chemicals like a sponge; the roots are particularly capable, working in conjunction with soil microorganisms to neutralize hazardous gases.
Brandt became interested in the health benefits of plants after developing allergies, and she maintains a small forest of indoor plants to help clear the air. “Keeping as much pollution as possible out of my home is vital to my health,” she says.
Just note that while plants can provide health benefits for humans, some can be toxic to dogs and cats. Pet owners should consult the ASPCA’s searchable database of poisonous plants before bringing plants into the home.
Any plant you do bring in will help purify the air to a degree, but some are more effective at removing airborne chemicals. We asked Brandt to share a few of her favorite good-looking, low-maintenance indoor plants that can also help to detoxify the air we breathe.
Spider Plant
Peace Lily
Snake Plant
Ficus
Aloe
Here’s another way you could add some more green to your life: Head over to geico.com and see if you could save on homeowners and renters insurance.
Read more: Now that you’ve cleared the air, check out our tips on how to eliminate household germs.
Bonus: 3 Indoor Garden Decorations In 15 Minutes Or Less
Brought to you by Nifty
Geometric Wall Garden
Supplies
9 geometric wall vases
9 aquatic plants
Water
Hammer
Instructions
- Fill geometric vases halfway with water and add the plant.
- Hammer in the wall mounts.
- Hang the vases in whatever configuration you desire.
- Enjoy your airy new decor!
Pegboard Garden
Supplies
Pegboard
Hooks
Shelving for pegboard
Hanging plants
Small potted plants
Instructions
- Mount the pegboard on the wall.
- Add shelving in hooks where desired.
- Add hanging plants to the hooks on the pegboard.
- Place potted plants on the shelves as desired.
- Enjoy!
Plant Room Divider
Supplies
12–15 cubbies
Potted plants
Instructions
- Take the crates and arrange them in the desired location where you’d like to build your room divider.
- Stack up the crates.
- Add the pots to the crates.
- Enjoy!