Wondering how to improve the air quality in your home or office? Houseplants can be your natural air filter. According to research from the US Environmental Protection Agency, we spend as much as 90% of our lives indoors. The problem is, the air quality in these spaces is five times worse than outdoors. Fortunately, nature has an effective solution for you. Air-purifying plants capture and neutralize volatile organic compounds—harmful substances like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. They act as a natural filter, removing toxic chemicals from the environment. If you feel tired, lack energy, or have trouble concentrating at home, you may be dealing with sick building syndrome.
In our guide, you'll learn how houseplants purify the air , which species are most effective at combating pollution, and how to choose the right plants for different rooms. This will help you create a healthier space for yourself and your family.
Why the air in your home can be harmful
The air in your home may be much more polluted than the air outside. 
According to studies, indoor air is up to 60% more polluted than outdoor air, and some sources indicate it may be 2-5 times more polluted. Since you spend most of your life indoors, the quality of this air has a huge impact on your health.
Chemical pollution in rooms
The sources of pollution in your home are numerous and varied. They come from building materials, interior furnishings, household appliances, and even everyday activities like cooking and cleaning. The most common harmful substances found indoors include:
- Formaldehyde – found in particleboard, plywood, paper towels, napkins, and textiles. It causes irritation of the nose, mouth, and throat, and in severe cases, leads to laryngeal and pulmonary edema.
- Benzene – a carcinogenic compound found in adhesives, paints, furniture waxes, and tobacco smoke. Short-term exposure causes eye irritation, drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches.
- Toluene – found in paints, floor adhesives, and plumbing mortars. It causes dizziness, drowsiness, and, with prolonged exposure, is toxic to the lungs.
- Xylenes – present in printing materials, leather products, and paints. They can lead to heart, liver, and kidney problems.
- Ammonia – found in window cleaners and floor waxes. It causes eye irritation, coughing, and sore throat.
In addition to the substances mentioned, carbon monoxide, nitrogen and sulfur oxides, and radon may also be present in your home. Studies have shown the presence of multi-component mixtures of chemical compounds at concentrations that contribute to the occurrence of sick building syndrome.
How Houseplants Clean the Air
Your green friends act as natural air filters, using complex biological mechanisms to remove harmful substances. Learn the secrets of their operation and discover why it's worth inviting them into your interiors.
The process of photosynthesis and the filtration of pollutants
The basis of plants' air-purifying abilities is the process of photosynthesis. Plants extract carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and convert it into glucose and oxygen, which they release into the environment. However, it's not just leaves that filter the air.
Potted plants use several mechanisms to fight pollution:
- Photosynthesis – absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen
- Phytoremediation – the process by which plants absorb pollutants through their leaves and roots and then break them down into harmless substances
- Transpiration – the release of water by leaves, increasing humidity and reducing the concentration of pollutants
- Root microbiome – bacteria living in the soil around roots help break down organic pollutants
Interestingly, true air purification occurs primarily through the roots and microorganisms in the substrate, not through the leaves. Air is transported to the substrate and roots, where filtering plants neutralize harmful substances.
The influence of plants on humidity and microclimate
Houseplants also play a crucial role in maintaining the appropriate humidity level in rooms. Through transpiration, they release water into the environment, improving air quality, especially during the heating season, when indoor air becomes dry. Higher humidity facilitates breathing and reduces respiratory irritation. In dry rooms, low humidity can cause dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.
To ensure your plants have optimal conditions for effective air purification, consider using an automatic watering dispenser . This system provides your plants with the right amount of water, which is crucial for their health and air filtration. Automatic watering is especially useful if you often forget to water your plants regularly.
8 Houseplants That Purify the Air 
Looking for the most effective air-purifying plants for your home? When choosing your green allies, choose species with proven filtering properties. Here are eight houseplants that will not only enhance your interior but, above all, improve the quality of the air you breathe.
1. Spathiphyllum – filters benzene and acetone
Spathiphyllum , also known as peace lily, is an elegant plant with white flowers and lush green leaves. It effectively filters the air of harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide, ammonia, and acetone. Thanks to these properties, it improves air quality, which can help reduce allergy symptoms, headaches, and sleep problems. To enjoy its purifying properties, place it in a partially shaded location with good access to indirect light. It prefers moisture and requires regular watering – once a week in winter is sufficient, and every 2-3 days in summer. It performs best in bathrooms or bedrooms.
2. Sansevieria – produces oxygen at night
Sansevieria, also known as "mother-in-law's tongue," has a unique feature: it produces oxygen at night. It continues photosynthesis even after dark, making it perfect for your bedroom. In addition to producing oxygen at night, Sansevieria effectively removes harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. It ensures optimal oxygen levels during sleep and purifies the air of toxins and allergens . Furthermore, it is exceptionally easy to grow, tolerant of both excess and deficiency of light and low temperatures. It doesn't require frequent watering, making it ideal for busy people.
3. Epipremnum aureum – removes formaldehyde
Golden vine ( Epipremnum aureum ) is one of the most popular houseplants . Do you value evergreen vines? They can reach heights of up to 5 meters. Epipremnum effectively purifies the air of benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene. It's a true adaptability king – it can thrive in almost any conditions. Although it prefers a bright location, it will adapt to more shaded areas. It also grows very quickly – new leaves can appear as often as every week. Experts consider epipremnum, along with sansevieria, among the most effective natural air purifiers. Studies have shown that it effectively eliminates benzene, toluene, and carbon monoxide from the air.
4. Spider plant – has antibacterial properties
Chlorophytum comosum , commonly known as "grass," is a true air filter among houseplants. Its exceptional health benefits stem from the active production of phytoncides—substances with antibacterial, protozoic, and fungicidal properties. These inhibit the survival of up to 80% of pathogenic microorganisms. One medium-sized plant can purify the air in an area of up to 200 m²! It effectively removes toxic substances such as formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, carbon monoxide, acetone, ammonia, and heavy metals. Additionally, spider plant reduces harmful electromagnetic radiation, so place it near a computer or television. It is completely safe for children and pets and is also an ideal plant for allergy sufferers.
5. Dracaena – absorbs cigarette smoke
Dracaena is one of the most powerful houseplants for air purification. It effectively filters toxins such as xylene, toluene, and trichloroethylene, as well as formaldehyde and benzene. It is particularly effective in combating cigarette smoke. It can reach up to 2 meters in height, but you can limit its growth with proper care and planting in a smaller pot. It prefers a bright location with diffused light and room temperature. Remember, it doesn't like excess water—its roots need adequate oxygenation.
6. Common ivy – reduces benzene and xylene
English: English: Common Ivy ( Hedera helix ) - It can remove pollutants by up to 80 percent. It primarily absorbs formaldehyde, but also benzene, ammonia, trichloroethylene, and xylene. It's ideal for rooms where you want to remove cigarette smoke. A huge advantage of ivy is its low sunlight requirements – you can place it in a bright room, a dark hallway, or a bathroom. It prefers partial shade and well-drained, humus-rich, and constantly slightly moist soil. However, remember that the plant is poisonous, so exercise caution if you have small children or pets in the home.
7. Aloe – purifies and moisturizes the air
Aloe vera has dual benefits – it not only purifies the air but also possesses healing properties. It absorbs toxins and environmental pollutants from the air thanks to its gel-filled leaves. It effectively filters substances like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, which are found in cleaning products, paints, and plastics. It also helps reduce ambient humidity, preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi. Uniquely, aloe releases oxygen at night, making it an ideal natural air purifier for your bedroom. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce the symptoms of respiratory allergies.
8. Boston fern – perfect for a child's room
Boston fern ( Nephrolepis exaltata 'Bostoniensis' ) is a popular houseplant that, with proper care, can grow for up to a dozen years. It has a very positive effect on the air, purifying it of formaldehyde and xylene. The large leaves of the Boston fern can absorb significant amounts of pollutants. It is an effective regulator of ambient humidity and helps neutralize static electricity caused by electronic devices. It reduces formaldehyde and other chemical contaminants found in paints and varnishes on furniture and walls. Most importantly, Boston fern is completely safe for children and pets, making it an ideal choice for a child's room. It also helps improve air humidity.
How to choose plants for your rooms 
Choosing air-purifying plants for your home? Remember that not every plant will work in every room. Choosing the right one is crucial to air purification effectiveness and your comfort.
Plants for the bedroom – what to choose and what to avoid
Looking for plants for your bedroom? Choose plants that produce oxygen even at night. Sansevieria, also known as "mother-in-law's tongue," is an ideal choice – it generates oxygen at night and requires little maintenance. Aloe vera also releases oxygen at night, further removing formaldehyde and helping to humidify the air.
Ferns, clover, and Christmas cactus also work well. Avoid plants with strong scents like oleander, lily, or hyacinth—they can irritate the respiratory system. If you're decorating a child's room, avoid poisonous plants and choose safer alternatives: ferns, sansevieria, or rosemary.
Plants for the office – resistance and aesthetics
Do you work in an office and want to improve air quality? Studies have shown that employees who have at least six plants within sight of their office experience higher productivity, lower stress levels, and are less likely to get sick. Choose species that are resistant to various conditions and easy to care for.
Spacious offices benefit from impressive plants like Strelitzia Nicolai, Chamaedora elegans, banana plant, or Monstera deliciosa. Have a darker space? Choose Zamioculcas Zenzi, Hedera helix 'Wonder,' or Epipremnum aureum – they tolerate shade and purify the air.
Plants safe for children and animals
Do you live with children or pets? Safety is a priority. Avoid plants with prickly thorns and toxic species such as Aglaonema, Dieffenbachia, Dracaena, Ficus, Philodendron, Spathiphyllum, and Poinsettia.
Safe choices include: Spider plant, Chamaedorea, Calathea, Maranta, Peperomia, and Pilea. Do you like flowers? Orchids are completely safe for both children and pets. Spider plant, commonly known as "grass," is not only safe but also an excellent air purifier – one medium-sized plant can purify the air in a space of up to 200m².
Houseplants are much more than just decoration for your home. They're natural allies in the fight for clean air and improved daily well-being. You spend most of your life indoors, so the quality of the air you breathe has a huge impact on your health. Remember that even a few well-chosen plants can significantly improve the air quality in your surroundings. The right combination of plants, supported by automatic irrigation, is a natural way to create a healthier living space.