Ever walked into your home and thought, “What’s that smell?” Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. But before you reach for artificial air fresheners or heavy-duty cleaners, why not let Mother Nature lend a hand?
Houseplants aren’t just pretty décor—they’re natural air purifiers ready to freshen up your living space while adding a touch of green serenity.
Below, we’ve rounded up ten amazing houseplants that don’t just look good—they actively eliminate unpleasant odors and improve your home’s air quality. Say goodbye to stale air and hello to a fresher, healthier environment!
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Meet the Spider Plant, the overachiever of the plant world. This resilient green beauty not only absorbs pollutants like xylene and toluene—common compounds found in household items—but is also pet-friendly!
Its arching leaves and tiny white flowers add a touch of elegance to any room. Easy to care for and quick to grow, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned plant parents.
But that’s not all! The Spider Plant is known for producing “spiderettes,” or baby plants, that you can propagate and share with friends.
Place it in indirect sunlight, and watch it thrive with minimal attention. It’s like the gift that keeps on giving, both in style and air purification.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Looking for tranquility and clean air? The Peace Lily has you covered. With its elegant white blooms and glossy leaves, it doesn’t just add a touch of serenity, it actively tackles ammonia, benzene, and other volatile organic compounds that contribute to bad odors. It’s like having a natural air freshener that also elevates your home’s aesthetic.
The Peace Lily is also known for its low-light tolerance, making it ideal for offices and darker corners of your home. Just keep its soil moist, and it will reward you with stunning flowers and cleaner air. However, do keep it out of reach of pets and children, as it can be toxic if ingested.
3. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Dreaming of a tropical escape? Bring the Bamboo Palm into your home and transform your space into a mini-paradise.
This lush palm filters out benzene and trichloroethylene, common culprits sneaking in from furniture and building materials. Standing tall with feathery fronds, it adds vertical interest and a sense of calm.
Beyond its air-purifying prowess, the Bamboo Palm acts as a natural humidifier, releasing moisture into the air and adding a fresh feel to your surroundings.
Place it in a well-lit area but away from direct sunlight, and let it work its magic. It’s like having a little piece of the rainforest right in your living room.
4. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
Brighten up your space with the vibrant Gerbera Daisy. Beyond its cheerful appearance that can lift any mood, this plant is a pro at removing trichloroethylene (often from dry cleaning) and absorbs benzene and carbon monoxide. Imagine a plant that not only dazzles with color but also makes your air healthier to breathe.
These daisies love plenty of sunlight, so place them near a window where they can soak up the rays. With a bit of care—like well-drained soil and moderate watering—they’ll bloom in vivid hues of red, orange, pink, and yellow. They’re the perfect way to add a splash of color and a breath of fresh air.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
The classic English Ivy isn’t just for castle walls or garden trellises. This trailing plant excels at filtering out formaldehyde found in household cleaners, carpets, and furniture treatments.
Its lush, cascading vines make it perfect for hanging baskets or high shelves, adding a touch of elegance and greenery to unused vertical spaces.
English Ivy is also known for its adaptability. It thrives in various light conditions, from bright indirect light to partial shade. Plus, studies have shown it can reduce airborne mold, making it a great addition to bathrooms and damp areas. It’s both a decorative and practical choice for a healthier home.
6. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as the “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” the Snake Plant is as tough as they come. This hardy plant removes formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air, all while requiring minimal care.
Its striking, sword-like leaves add a modern touch to any décor, making it a favorite among interior designers.
The Snake Plant is practically indestructible—just the plant for those lacking a green thumb. It tolerates low light and irregular watering, so it won’t hold a grudge if you forget about it for a week (or three).
Place it in your bedroom, as it’s one of the few plants that convert carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, improving your sleep quality.
7. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Infuse your home with a refreshing citrus scent courtesy of Lemon Balm. This fragrant herb not only masks unpleasant odors but also creates a calming atmosphere, thanks to its natural stress-relieving properties. Imagine coming home to a space that smells like a peaceful lemon grove—instant relaxation!
Lemon Balm is versatile enough to thrive in both sunny and shady spots, making it a delightful addition anywhere. It’s also a great plant for aspiring chefs; its leaves can be used to add a zesty flavor to teas and dishes. Keep the soil slightly moist, and enjoy both its aromatic and culinary benefits.
8. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Famous for its healing properties, Aloe Vera is also a natural air purifier. It tackles by-products of chemical cleaning agents and paints, like formaldehyde and benzene, making your indoor air safer to breathe. Its thick, succulent leaves store water, so it doesn’t mind if you forget to water it now and then.
But wait, there’s more! Having Aloe Vera on hand is like having a first-aid kit in a pot. Got a minor kitchen burn or a pesky insect bite? Simply snip off a leaf and apply the soothing gel inside. Place it in a sunny spot, and let this multitasking plant enhance your home and well-being.
9. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
Don’t let their delicate appearance fool you. Chrysanthemums are powerhouses when it comes to air purification. They absorb ammonia and a host of other chemicals commonly found in household cleaners, making your air cleaner and your space brighter with their vibrant blooms.
These flowers love sunlight, so place them near a window where they can bask in the rays. With a variety of colors—from deep reds to sunny yellows—they can match any décor. While they require a bit more care than some other plants (like regular watering and deadheading), the payoff is a stunning display and fresher air.
10. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Often dubbed the ultimate air-purifying plant, the Golden Pothos is incredibly low-maintenance. It’s adept at eliminating odors and thrives even in low light and cooler temperatures. Its heart-shaped leaves with golden variegation add a touch of elegance to any room.
The Golden Pothos is the easy-going roommate you’ve always wanted. It can grow in water or soil and doesn’t fuss over irregular watering.
Let its vines trail from a shelf or hang in a basket to create a lush, green cascade. It’s not just a plant; it’s a statement piece that cleans the air.