The Top Plants for Enhancing Home Air Quality
In our quest for cleaner air within the confines of our homes, we often turn to technology and various air-purifying devices. Fotunately, all Jubilee homes come with advanced air purification and an Airplus certification through the EPA. However, Mother Nature offers her own set of solutions for homeowners, many of which are effective and add a touch of green elegance to living spaces. Numerous studies, including the famous NASA Clean Air Study, have demonstrated the ability of certain houseplants to purify air by absorbing toxins and producing oxygen. Here’s a list of the best plants you can keep in your home to naturally improve air quality:
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is renowned for its hardiness and ease of care, making it a perfect start for those new to indoor gardening. This plant is a champion at absorbing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene. Place it in a room with bright, indirect light, and you'll have a fast-growing friend that also happens to be safe for pets.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Often referred to as the Mother-in-Law's Tongue, the Snake Plant is almost indestructible and has a striking appearance. It's exceptional for filtering out formaldehyde, which is common in cleaning products, toilet paper, tissues, and personal care products. Plus, it releases oxygen at night, making it ideal for bedrooms.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is not only beautiful, with its lush, white blooms, but it's also a powerhouse for removing air pollutants, including ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. They thrive in shady areas, making them perfect for rooms with less natural light. However, be cautious if you have pets, as Peace Lilies are toxic if ingested.
4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are fantastic humidifiers and can help restore moisture in the air, making them ideal for those who suffer from dry skin and other dry weather problems. They're particularly good at removing formaldehyde and xylene. Keep these in a cool place with high humidity and indirect light.
5. Aloe Vera
Not only is Aloe Vera great for burns, cuts, and other health needs, but it's also an effective air purifier. It helps clear formaldehyde and benzene, which can be a byproduct of chemical-based cleaners and paints. Aloe Vera loves sun, so a sunny kitchen window is a perfect spot.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Plant is another toxin-buster and is particularly adept at eliminating formaldehyde from the air. It requires less light than many other plants and thrives in cooler temperatures and indirect light. Its large leaves absorb and break down more toxins in the air.
7. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is known for its ability to mold and formaldehyde. It's a versatile plant that looks great in a hanging basket or as a ground cover if you have a plant shelf. English Ivy prefers moderate temperatures and medium sunlight.
Incorporating these plants into your home can significantly improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost your mood. Remember, while these plants are beneficial for indoor air quality, ensuring proper ventilation in your home is also crucial; that's why we take air quality so seriously in our new construction homes at Jubilee.
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