Do indoor plants really purify the air?

The common belief that indoor plants can purify the air

The idea of plants cleansing the surrounding air might sound like something out of a science-fiction movie. However, many people believe this to be true - that indoor plants are capable of purifying the air in our homes! 

Whether it's due to special enzymes they produce or simply just the power of nature, it appears indoor plants can help make our living spaces healthier. Some say adding a few varieties to your home can even help reduce stress and anxiety levels. How amazing is that? 

Despite many people thinking that indoor plants can improve air quality, there are ways to prove it yourself. One of them is grabbing a portable air quality monitor and tracking the progress in your home before and after you introduce some plants. There's sure to be a noticeable improvement, making your living space both beautiful and healthy.

The air-filtering ability of plants

Who says plants are only for brightening a room? Having a pot of greens in your living room can indeed help to lift the mood and give off some killer retro vibes. But did you know it could also be really good for your health? 

Plants don't just create oxygen; they can help to filter out harmful toxins from the air. What might end up on our skin and in our lungs can sometimes have long-term effects on our health.

The evidence supporting that indoor plants can purify the air

Imagine being able to breathe in some fresh air from your own home! That may sound too good to be true. But, believe it or not, there is scientific evidence that suggests indoor plants can purify the air and remove harmful pollutants! 

Studies have found that in areas with a lot of indoor plants, measurably lower levels of carbon dioxide and other contaminants can be detected. Plants are living organisms, so they absorb CO2 and release oxygen - which we all need to survive! Some scientists have even gone as far as to say “houseplants are nature’s vacuum cleaners.” 

The research that denies the claim

On the other hand, recent reports indicate that certain common houseplants may not be as amazing at purifying the air as some may have thought. It’s true that having a few plants still looks great and can add to the home decor. However, it turns out they might not be scrubbing the air of pollutants in quite the same way. 

A bit of a bummer, maybe, but no need to worry about creating a jungle indoors! Keeping your interior clean by dusting and vacuuming is still one of the best ways to make sure you're breathing easy inside.

The benefits of having indoor plants in your home

As you could see, there’s no concluding evidence that confirms or denies that plants can purify the air in indoor spaces. However, there are so many reasons why having indoor plants in your home is a great idea! 

Some studies have indeed shown that plants can even remove toxins from your environment. If you want to check if it really happens with your plants, you can do it with any of the portable air quality monitors available on the market. By using one, you can easily keep track and check if the air in your home gets better by just adding some greenery! 

On the other hand, bringing in some houseplants will surely heighten your spirits as well. What could be better than feeling connected to nature while being safe and comfortable at home? So if you're looking for a natural atmosphere and high spirits, consider getting yourself some indoor plants!

Tips on how to care for houseplants, so they thrive indoors

Caring for houseplants can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be that way! To ensure your houseplants are flourishing indoors, proper lighting is key. Place them near windows or other areas of your home that get ample natural sunlight. 

Also, consider investing in a portable air quality monitor. They offer readings of temperature and humidity levels in your home. That way, you can make sure your houseplants have just the right environment to thrive! And most importantly, don't forget to water your plants. Water when the soil turns dry, so you can keep them growing happy and healthy!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, it’s up to you whether you want to indulge in some indoor plants. If having a green thumb is something that interests you, and you have the time to care for plants, then go out and get yourself some! Not only will your home look nicer, but who knows – maybe your air quality will improve too.

Originally published at:  https://luftiaq.com/blogs/news/do-indoor-plants-really-purify-air