Natural Air Filtration

 

I have mild asthma so look for ways to filter out the things in the air around me that can cause my lungs to close up or collect congestion. I used to have an electric air filter that ran by my chair but I got tired of buying and changing the filter, at over $20 each! So, I switched to natural air filtration. 

Sansevieria

Did you know that this plant, a sansevieria, (also called snake, tongue plant) can remove benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene and toluene, and it was even shown that one plant per 100 square feet was enough to efficiently clean the air in a space station! It was one of the plants tested by NASA in a study to find safe ways to filter the air in a space station. They don't need much water or sunlight so can be neglected and still do well. Sadly, they are toxic to pets so keep that in mind if you have one and are looking for a good place to put it. If you have one you need to find a new home for, keep me in mind. I don't have any pets or small children and keep one on the table by my chair.  :) 

Fiddle Leaf Ficus

According to studies based on NASA research, Ficus plants are among the best for improving indoor air quality. I have a small fiddle leaf ficus, (Ficus lyrata). They are recognized for improving indoor air quality by filtering toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia. Their large, broad leaves and high transpiration rates, which draw air into the root system, make them efficient at breaking down pollutants. 

 

 

Heart Leaf Philodendron

Philodendrons, all kinds including Elephant Ear, are excellent at filtering formaldehyde, a common toxin found in household materials, paints, and particle board. They are known for absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen at night, making them ideal for bedrooms. I love my philodendrons! They need so little light, but do need regular watering. i have a few different kinds of philodendrons. I also have a pothos, also called devil's ivy (I hate that name). It's not a philodendron at all. It's an entirely different plant. (Please stop calling it a philodendron.)

Spider Plant

Key plants identified for high filtration rates include the peace lily, English ivy, spider plant and dracaena. I have a huge spider plant. They don't need a lot of light but do appreciate regular watering. Cats love them. Back when I had two cats, they would always eat the spider plant to the ground and eat all the babies. It's best to hang those up, out of reach. I also have a variegated dracaena.