When you think about purifying the air in your home, it’s likely that Spathiphyllum and Chlorophytum comosum don’t immediately come to mind. Instead, you probably think about using exhaust fans, air conditioners and dehumidifiers. While power-driven mechanical devices are effective at improving air quality, why not try the organic solution? Air purifying plants work overtime to remove toxins, poisons and trace pollutants from the air inside your home.
Peace Lily
Consider the striking peace lily Spathiphyllum, a houseplant that makes easy work of removing benzene and formaldehyde from your home. According to a 1989 NASA study on the use of air purifying plants for indoor air pollution abatement, the peace lily successfully removed more than 80 percent of benzene from the air.
If you think your home doesn’t contain traces of benzene or formaldehyde, think again. Household products containing benzene are all-too-common in your home, likely to be found in the garage and under your kitchen sink. Are you surprised to know that formaldehyde is found in common hygiene products like hair straighteners and cosmetics?
Spider Plant
The prolific, leggy spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is an efficient air purifying plant, scrubbing carbon monoxide and other impurities right out of the air. This easy-to-grow houseplant absorbs xylene, a pollutant found in craft paints, solvents and adhesives. You’ll find products that contain xylene in closets and cubbies in all four corners of your house. You can strategically place the hard-working spider plant in your kitchen and near the fireplace and garage, where carbon monoxide (CO) accumulates.
Here’s a list of other air purifying plants that can improve your indoor air quality:
- Aloe – Sun-loving succulent for your kitchen and windowsill
- Snake plant – For low-light and humid conditions found in the bathroom and shower
- Chrysanthemum – Brilliant, colorful flowers thrive near an open window
- Weeping fig ficus – Large, branching houseplant filters odors and impurities
- Azalea – Cool-weather indoor shrub absorbs formaldehyde in damp areas such as your basement or garage
When you’re ready to improve the air quality in your home or office, call the experts at HVAC & Plumbing Unlimited. We’re proudly serving Fairfax and surrounding areas.