Many of us know that houseplants release oxygen, but did you know some can also help purify the air in your home? Certain varieties go beyond decoration — they absorb toxins, reduce mold, and neutralize indoor pollutants, creating a healthier living environment.

According to a NASA study, specific houseplants are especially effective at improving air quality indoors. These plants can help filter out harmful chemicals often found in paint, furniture, cleaning products, and building materials.

6 Houseplants That Clean the Air and Boost Oxygen

1. Aloe Vera
Not just for burns, aloe vera is known to increase oxygen levels while absorbing carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. It’s easy to grow and perfect for bright spots in your home.

2. Ficus (Ficus Elastica)
This hardy plant is great at filtering formaldehyde from the air and doesn’t require much care. However, its leaves can be toxic to pets and small children if ingested.

3. English Ivy (Hedera Helix)
Fast-acting and powerful, English ivy can remove nearly 60% of airborne toxins and fecal particles in just a few hours, making it ideal for improving indoor air fast.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
This adaptable plant thrives even in low light and is known to eliminate pollutants like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and gasoline fumes. A single spider plant can help clean large spaces.

5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
Also called the “mother-in-law’s tongue,” this plant is perfect for bedrooms as it releases oxygen at night. It needs very little water or light, making it ideal for beginners.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
A beautiful addition to any room, peace lilies are highly efficient at filtering out toxins such as trichloroethylene and formaldehyde. They also boost humidity and help reduce airborne microbes.

How Many Plants Are Enough?

NASA recommends placing around 15–18 air-purifying plants throughout a 500-square-meter home — or roughly 3–4 plants per 80 square meters. Be sure to include one in your bedroom, where clean air at night can improve sleep quality.
Adding these plants to your home not only enhances your décor but also supports better health and well-being through cleaner indoor air.