Breathe Easy: The Surprising Benefits of Houseplants in Your Home

Houseplants are an excellent addition to any home. But did you know that, besides looking great, they can improve your health and well-being?

From cleaner air to reduced stress, adding a little greenery to your space is a simple way to create a more comfortable home. However, unless you have a green thumb it can be challenging to know where to start.

To help, we’ve gathered the top three house plants you should consider adding to your home.

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Known for its arching green-and-white leaves, the spider plant is more than just pretty. It’s one of the best air-purifying plants out there. According to a NASA Clean Air Study, spider plants can remove up to 90% of potentially harmful indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. They’re also non-toxic to pets, making them a safe choice for homes with furry friends.

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue (no need for details here!), the snake plant is incredibly low-maintenance and powerful when it comes to improving air quality. It’s unique in that it converts CO₂ into oxygen at night, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms. Research has shown that indoor plants can reduce airborne toxins by up to 87% in just 24 hours—making the snake plant both beautiful and beneficial.

3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies are not only elegant but also effective at reducing indoor toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. In addition to purifying the air, peace lilies increase humidity levels, which can help reduce the incidence of colds, dry skin, and respiratory issues. According to a study by the University of Vermont, increased humidity from houseplants can lower dust levels by up to 20%.

The Bottom Line

Adding houseplants is an easy, affordable way to improve your living environment. While no single plant is a miracle cure for poor indoor air quality, simply adding just a few well-chosen varieties can make a noticeable difference. Plus, the calming effect of greenery is a bonus we could all use these days.

So, whether you're looking to breathe cleaner air or simply bring a little life into your space, these three houseplants are a great place to start.