Transform Your Home: The Power of NASA-Approved Air-Purifying Plants

NASA research confirmed that certain common houseplants can naturally purify indoor air.
These “NASA-approved” plants are effective at removing common indoor pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Bringing these green companions into your home can help combat “sick building syndrome” and enhance your overall well-being.
While plants work differently than air purifiers, combining them can create the ultimate clean air environment.

Imagine walking into a home that feels fresh, vibrant, and full of life – not just visually, but in the very air you breathe. Our modern homes, sealed for energy efficiency, can sometimes trap pollutants from furniture, cleaning products, and building materials. This can lead to what’s sometimes called “sick building syndrome.” But what if the solution was as simple as adding a few beautiful plants? Believe it or not, NASA researched this very idea and found that certain houseplants are remarkably effective at filtering the air. Their groundbreaking Clean Air Study identified specific plants that excel at removing common indoor toxins. These findings have given us a wonderful roadmap for choosing NASA-approved air-purifying plants to create healthier, happier living spaces.

Diagram summarizing NASA's Clean Air Study results showing effective air-purifying houseplants

Why NASA Looked to Plants for Cleaner Air

Back in the late 1980s, NASA scientists were exploring ways to create self-sustaining environments for future space stations. A key challenge was maintaining breathable air quality in a closed system. This led them to investigate the potential of common indoor plants. Their Clean Air Study aimed to test how effectively various popular houseplants could remove specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. The results were promising, showing that plants aren’t just pretty faces – they are natural air filters! This research provided compelling evidence that bringing the outdoors in, through select greenery, could significantly improve indoor air quality right here on Earth.

Your Guide to NASA-Approved Air Purifying Plants

Based on NASA’s findings and subsequent research, several plants stand out for their air-purifying prowess. Adding these green companions to your home is a delightful and effective way to naturally cleanse your indoor air. Let’s get acquainted with some of the top performers:

Spider Plant

Scientific Name: Chlorophytum comosum
Common Name(s): Spider Plant, Airplane Plant
Zone: 9-11
Light: Indirect bright to moderate light
Humidity: Average to high humidity
Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Tolerates some drying out but prefers consistent moisture.

These easy-going plants are famous for their “spiderettes,” or baby plants, that dangle from the parent. Spider plants are champions at filtering formaldehyde and xylene. They are incredibly resilient and forgiving, making them perfect for beginners. Place them in hanging baskets or on shelves where their plantlets can cascade down.

Snake Plant

Scientific Name: Sansevieria trifasciata (now commonly classified as Dracaena trifasciata)
Common Name(s): Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Zone: 10-12
Light: Tolerates low light but thrives in bright, indirect light
Humidity: Tolerates low humidity
Water: Water infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake.

With their striking, upright leaves, Snake Plants are architectural beauties. They are legendary for their ability to purify air, removing formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides. They are incredibly low-maintenance and can handle neglect better than most plants, making them ideal for busy plant parents or low-light corners. An added bonus? They release oxygen at night!

Peace Lily

Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum
Common Name(s): Peace Lily
Zone: 10-11
Light: Low to bright indirect light (brighter light encourages more blooms)
Humidity: Prefers high humidity, but adapts to average home levels
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. They will dramatically droop when thirsty, letting you know it’s time to water!

Graceful and elegant, Peace Lilies are known for their beautiful white “flowers” (which are actually modified leaves called spathes). They are powerful air purifiers, tackling formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia – common in cleaning products and paints. They love humidity, so misting or placing them near a humidifier is a plus.

Aloe Vera

Scientific Name: Aloe barbadensis miller
Common Name(s): Aloe Vera, Medicinal Aloe, Burn Plant
Zone: 10-12
Light: Bright indirect sunlight
Humidity: Low to average humidity
Water: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

More than just a first-aid plant for burns, Aloe Vera is a succulent powerhouse that helps clear formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It’s relatively easy to care for, provided it gets enough bright light and isn’t overwatered. The gel inside its leaves is a famous natural remedy.

Boston Fern

Scientific Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Common Name(s): Boston Fern, Sword Fern
Zone: 9-11
Light: Indirect bright light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity
Water: Keep soil consistently moist. Does not like to dry out.

Boston Ferns bring lush, feathery foliage to any space. They are particularly good at removing formaldehyde and xylene. These ferns thrive in humid environments, making bathrooms or kitchens ideal spots, or they appreciate regular misting in drier rooms. They need consistent moisture to stay happy and avoid dropping leaves.

English Ivy

Scientific Name: Hedera helix
Common Name(s): English Ivy, Common Ivy
Zone: 5-11
Light: Moderate to bright indirect light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity
Water: Keep soil evenly moist.

This classic trailing plant is incredibly versatile, looking great in hanging baskets or climbing trellises. English Ivy is effective against formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and toluene. It prefers slightly cooler temperatures and consistent moisture. Note that English Ivy can be toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets and children.

Rubber Plant

Scientific Name: Ficus elastica
Common Name(s): Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree
Zone: 10-11
Light: Bright indirect light
Humidity: Average to high humidity
Water: Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry.

With its bold, glossy leaves, the Rubber Plant makes a striking statement. It’s known for its ability to remove formaldehyde. It’s relatively low-maintenance once established, enjoying consistent conditions and moderate watering. Wipe the large leaves periodically to keep them dust-free and maximize photosynthesis.

Golden Pothos

Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum
Common Name(s): Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, Hunter’s Robe
Zone: 10-11
Light: Low to bright indirect light
Humidity: Tolerates low humidity
Water: Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Very tolerant of infrequent watering.

Golden Pothos is incredibly popular for good reason – it’s super easy to care for and a vigorous grower with beautiful trailing vines. It targets formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and toluene. Its tolerance for low light and forgiving nature make it an excellent choice for almost any indoor space.

Bamboo Palm

Scientific Name: Chamaedorea seifrizii
Common Name(s): Bamboo Palm, Reed Palm
Zone: 10-11
Light: Indirect light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity
Water: Keep soil evenly moist.

This elegant palm adds a touch of the tropics and is a powerhouse for purifying air, effectively removing formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene. It thrives in indirect light and appreciates consistent moisture and humidity. It can grow quite large, making it a wonderful floor plant.

Dracaena

Scientific Name: Dracaena spp. (various species like Marginata, Warneckii, Janet Craig)
Common Name(s): Dracaena, Dragon Tree (for D. marginata)
Zone: 10-12 (varies by species)
Light: Bright indirect light (low light tolerant for some varieties, but growth slows)
Humidity: Tolerates low humidity
Water: Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Susceptible to fluoride toxicity in water.

Dracaena species come in many shapes and sizes, often featuring striking foliage patterns. They are excellent air filters, removing formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. Care varies slightly by species, but generally, they prefer indirect light and moderate watering.

Areca Palm

Scientific Name: Dypsis lutescens
Common Name(s): Areca Palm, Butterfly Palm, Golden Cane Palm
Zone: 10-11
Light: Bright indirect light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity
Water: Keep soil evenly moist.

Another beautiful palm for adding tropical vibes, the Areca Palm is a strong performer against formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. It prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity to prevent brown tips on its fronds. Consistent watering is key, but avoid soggy soil.

Gerbera Daisy

Scientific Name: Gerbera jamesonii
Common Name(s): Gerbera Daisy, Transvaal Daisy
Zone: 8-10 (usually grown as an indoor annual or perennial in pots)
Light: Bright light, including some direct sun indoors
Humidity: Average humidity
Water: Keep soil consistently moist, but well-drained.

Bright and cheerful, Gerbera Daisies are more than just pretty flowers; they are effective at removing benzene and trichloroethylene. Unlike many of the foliage-focused plants, these require bright light to bloom well indoors. Provide good airflow and well-drained soil.

Philodendron

Scientific Name: Philodendron spp. (various species like Heartleaf, Brasil, Split-Leaf)
Common Name(s): Philodendron (various common names depending on species)
Zone: 10-12 (varies by species)
Light: Low to bright indirect light (varies by species)
Humidity: Average to high humidity
Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Philodendrons are popular houseplants known for their beautiful heart-shaped or lobed leaves and often trailing or climbing habits. They are effective at removing formaldehyde. Like Pothos, many varieties are quite tolerant and adaptable to indoor conditions, thriving in indirect light and relatively standard indoor humidity.

Weeping Fig

Scientific Name: Ficus benjamina
Common Name(s): Weeping Fig, Benjamin Fig
Zone: 10-11
Light: Bright indirect light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity
Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Sensitive to changes in location or watering.

The Weeping Fig is a classic indoor tree, bringing height and elegant foliage to a space. It helps filter formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Ficus benjamina can be a bit finicky and prone to dropping leaves if stressed by changes in light, temperature, or watering. Find a bright spot and try not to move it often!

Chinese Evergreen

Scientific Name: Aglaonema spp.
Common Name(s): Chinese Evergreen
Zone: 10-11
Light: Low to indirect bright light
Humidity: Prefers high humidity, but tolerates average indoor levels
Water: Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Tolerant of infrequent watering.

Chinese Evergreens are beloved for their striking patterned foliage and their ability to tolerate lower light conditions. They are effective at removing formaldehyde and benzene. These plants are relatively easy to care for, bouncing back well even if you forget to water occasionally.

Plants vs. Air Purifiers: Which is Better? (Or Both?)

The NASA study highlighted the power of plants, but how do they stack up against modern air purifiers? It’s not necessarily an either/or situation, as they work in different ways and excel at different things.

Plant Advantages

Natural Process: Plants use biological processes (photosynthesis and transpiration) to absorb and break down certain gaseous pollutants like VOCs.
Aesthetic & Wellness: Plants add beauty, reduce stress, boost mood, and connect us to nature.
Humidity Boost: Transpiration naturally increases humidity, which can be beneficial in dry indoor environments.
Sustainable & Cost-Effective: Once purchased, plants require only water, light, and occasional feeding. They consume no electricity.

Plant Limitations

Efficiency & Speed: Plants work slower than mechanical filters and their effectiveness can vary depending on plant size, number, and room volume. They may not handle very high concentrations of pollutants effectively.
Specific Pollutants: While great at VOCs, plants don’t filter particulate matter like dust, pollen, mold spores, or pet dander as effectively as HEPA filters.

Air Purifier Advantages

High Efficiency Filtration: HEPA filters are incredibly effective at capturing tiny particles (up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger). Activated carbon filters excel at absorbing odors and a wider range of VOCs.
Rapid Action: Air purifiers actively pull air through filters multiple times per hour, quickly reducing pollutant levels in a room.

Air Purifier Limitations

Energy Consumption: They require electricity to run, impacting energy bills.
Maintenance Costs: Filters need regular replacement, adding to ongoing expense.
Noise: Many units produce noise while operating.

The Combined Approach

For the most comprehensive approach to indoor air quality, using both NASA-approved air-purifying plants and air purifiers is often the best strategy. Plants handle the natural absorption of gaseous toxins while adding beauty and humidity, while air purifiers quickly remove particulate matter and a broader spectrum of chemicals and odors. It’s a powerful team effort for a healthier home.

Choosing the Right Indoor Air Solutions

Integrating these remarkable NASA-approved air-purifying plants into your home is a simple yet impactful way to improve the air you breathe. They not only cleanse the air but also add life, beauty, and a sense of calm to your living spaces. While the original NASA study was foundational, the principle holds true: bringing specific plants indoors is a natural path towards healthier air and a happier home environment.

Start with one or two plants from this list and experience the difference for yourself. As you nurture your green companions, you’re not just caring for a plant; you’re cultivating a healthier atmosphere for everyone in your home.

Have you tried any of these NASA-approved plants? Which is your favorite for air purification or simply for adding beauty to your space? Share your experiences in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family looking to breathe easier indoors. Explore more plant care tips and inspiration right here at The Little Garden!