The Best Indoor Plants to Clean the Air in Your Space
I’ve always believed that our homes should feel like sanctuaries. For me, it’s the little things — a cozy throw blanket, soft light, or a cup of calming tea — that transform a house into a place where I can breathe and rest. And speaking of breathing, one of the simplest ways to shift the energy of your space (and actually clean the air you breathe) is by adding plants.
Indoor plants don’t just look beautiful; many of them are natural air purifiers. They can help remove toxins, balance humidity, and create an environment that feels fresh, alive, and supportive of your well-being.
If you’ve been looking for the best indoor plants to clean the air in your space, here are my favorites — with care tips and styling ideas so you can actually enjoy them for years to come.
Why Indoor Plants Are So Powerful
Before diving into the list, let’s pause for a second. Why do plants matter for air quality?
NASA actually did a study back in the 1980s to see how plants could purify air in space stations. The results showed that certain plants can filter out toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene — all things commonly found in indoor air from furniture, paint, or cleaning products.
Of course, you don’t need a NASA lab to notice the difference. Adding a few plants can make your home feel lighter, fresher, and even calmer.
For me, plants also bring something more subtle — they remind me to slow down. When I water my monstera or wipe down the leaves of my peace lily, I feel more grounded and connected. It’s a ritual as much as it is decor.
The Best Air-Purifying Indoor Plants
Here’s a curated list of plants that are both powerful air-cleaners and doable for everyday plant lovers.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant is basically indestructible — which makes it a perfect starter plant. Its tall, sword-like leaves bring structure and calm energy to a room.
Air-cleaning power: Removes formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Care tips:
- Tolerates low light but thrives in indirect bright light.
- Water sparingly; let the soil dry completely between waterings.
- Great for bedrooms because it releases oxygen at night.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
If you want a plant that feels soothing, the peace lily is your match. With glossy leaves and elegant white blooms, it brings a softness that calms a room instantly.
Air-cleaning power: Filters mold spores, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Care tips:
- Loves indirect light but can handle some shade.
- Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Wipe leaves regularly to help it “breathe.”
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is playful, low-maintenance, and great for hanging baskets. Its arching leaves and baby offshoots bring movement and life to any corner.
Air-cleaning power: Removes carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene.
Care tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water once a week, letting soil slightly dry out in between.
- Pet-friendly (safe for cats and dogs).
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe is more than a skincare staple. This desert plant also works hard to purify the air while being low-maintenance.
Air-cleaning power: Clears benzene and formaldehyde.
Care tips:
- Loves sunny windowsills.
- Water deeply but infrequently — about every 2–3 weeks.
- Bonus: Cut a leaf to use the gel for burns or dry skin.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are lush, feathery, and perfect if you want a touch of wild greenery indoors. They do need a little extra care, but the reward is a vibrant, air-purifying plant.
Air-cleaning power: Removes formaldehyde and xylene.
Care tips:
- Loves humidity — perfect for bathrooms.
- Keep soil moist; mist leaves regularly.
- Prefers indirect light.
6. Monstera Deliciosa
This Instagram-famous plant isn’t just pretty; it’s functional. The giant split leaves give a tropical vibe while filtering toxins from the air.
Air-cleaning power: Removes formaldehyde.
Care tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water weekly in summer, less in winter.
- Wipe leaves to keep them glossy and healthy.
7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
With thick, glossy leaves, the rubber plant feels bold and grounding. It can grow into a small indoor tree if you let it.
Air-cleaning power: Removes formaldehyde.
Care tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Needs occasional pruning to stay shapely.
8. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Also known as the butterfly palm, this one adds a soft, tropical touch. Its arching fronds create a breezy, calming atmosphere.
Air-cleaning power: Removes xylene, toluene, and carbon monoxide.
Care tips:
- Loves bright, indirect light.
- Water when soil is 50% dry.
- Adds humidity to the air naturally.
9. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is the ultimate low-effort plant. It cascades beautifully from shelves or hanging baskets and is almost impossible to kill.
Air-cleaning power: Removes benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene.
Care tips:
- Survives in low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water when soil dries out.
- Grows quickly — perfect for filling empty spaces.
10. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is sleek, modern, and highly tolerant of neglect. If you’re new to plants or travel often, this is your best friend.
Air-cleaning power: Removes xylene, toluene, and benzene.
Care tips:
- Can handle low light.
- Water sparingly — only when soil is completely dry.
- Naturally glossy leaves add polish to a room.
Styling Tips for Air-Cleaning Plants
- Cluster plants: Group 3–5 different plants together for a layered, lush effect.
- Play with height: Mix tall plants (snake plant, rubber plant) with trailing ones (pothos, spider plant).
- Use natural pots: Terracotta, rattan, or ceramic pots enhance the calming vibe.
- Place them strategically: Add ferns in bathrooms, snake plants in bedrooms, and palms in living spaces.
A Few Words of Caution
- Some of these plants (like peace lily and pothos) are toxic to pets if ingested. If you have furry friends, stick with safe options like spider plants or Boston ferns.
- Plants won’t replace good ventilation. Think of them as a complement to fresh air, not a substitute.
Final Thoughts
I used to think of plants as just “decor,” but now they feel like roommates. They’re living reminders to breathe, slow down, and create a home that supports health and peace.
Whether you choose one snake plant for your nightstand or fill your living room with monstera and palms, know that every plant is doing quiet, healing work for you.
So go ahead — bring one (or three) home, and let your space breathe easier. 🌿
