Combat Indoor Air Pollution with These five hardy air-purifying plants; What benefits can this provide for you and your family?
Not everyone was born with a green thumb and a knack for taking care of houseplants. Thankfully, there are several popular plants that require very little maintenance to thrive indoors. One of the easiest and most natural ways that you can combat indoor air pollution is by purchasing several of these low maintenance houseplants and placing them in various rooms throughout your home. When I perform Indoor Air Quality tests for clients, I am constantly looking for solutions to these often difficult and mysterious situations. Surprisingly this is one solution that should be considered. I also recommend that home inspectors continue to grow their knowledge of air quality-related problems and solutions to be in a better position to help their clients.
These five air purifying plants are easy to care for and will work around the clock to help clean your home air by removing toxic pollutants:
Spider Plants
Spider plants have a reputation for being easy to maintain. They also are great at removing formaldehyde, which is one of the most commonly found indoor air pollutants. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen; it can cause nasal and eye irritation, increased risk of asthma and allergies, and neurological effects. It is found in numerous household products such as paint, drywall, adhesives, cosmetics, disinfectants, wood laminate flooring and furniture, and cigarette smoke.
Peace Lilies
Peace lilies are another hardy plant effective in removing formaldehyde from the air along with the chemical benzene. Benzene is commonly found in exhaust from vehicles, detergents, cigarette smoke, building materials, furniture, as well as heating and cooking systems. Exposure to small levels of benzene may cause dizziness, headaches, confusion, and unconsciousness. Benzene is also considered to be a known carcinogen.
Boston Ferns
Boston ferns help filter out formaldehyde and xylene from the air. Xylene is a poisonous solvent used in paints, nail polish, lacquers, adhesives, rust preventers, thinners, gasoline, and permanent magic markers. Exposure to this chemical may cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and throat irritation. Long term exposure or exposure to larger amounts can result in liver damage, unconsciousness, and respiratory failure.
Snake plants
Snake plants are another low maintenance plant. They are effective in removing formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and trichloroethylene from your indoor air. Trichloroethylene can be found in wood stains, varnishes, finishes, lubricants, adhesives, paint removers, degreasers, and cleaners. It is a known carcinogen that may cause genetic defects and central nervous system damage. Exposure to lesser amounts of this chemical may cause throat irritation, headache, nausea, dizziness, and confusion.
Bamboo palms
Bamboo palms require minimal sunlight and water but will grow larger when placed in direct sunlight. They have been proven to successfully remove formaldehyde, xylene, and trichloroethylene from the air.
I obtained this list from a chemist at a laboratory that I work in performing VOC testing, MVOC testing, and Formaldehyde testing. I thought this was such great information I wanted to share it with everyone possible. So remember, when decorating the interior of your home, think of small touches that not only can beautify but can maintain clean indoor air for you and your family. If you have any air quality concerns or questions feel free to leave a comment or send an email or call my office.