Best indoor plants for Oxygen: Top 20 in 2023

Indoor air can often be more polluted than outdoor air, containing harmful gases, chemicals, and particulates that can negatively impact health and well-being. Bringing plants indoors is an attractive and natural way to help purify the air by increasing oxygen levels while removing airborne toxins and pollutants.

Through the processes of photosynthesis and transpiration, certain houseplants are particularly effective at absorbing indoor air contaminants into their leaves and soil while releasing clean oxygen into the surrounding environment. With careful plant selection and proper placement, indoor gardens can reduce harmful pollutants and create healthier indoor spaces.

This article explores the top 20 indoor plants for improving air quality by increasing oxygen levels and removing airborne toxins. For each plant, you’ll learn its specific air-purifying benefits along with tips for maximizing its effectiveness in your home or office.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant is highly touted by NASA and multiple studies as one of the best houseplants for filtering indoor air. Here’s why it’s so effective:

Removes 4 major indoor toxins – According to NASA studies, it removes formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and benzene from the air. These chemicals are found in many common household products.
Releases oxygen at night – Unlike most plants that only produce oxygen during the day, the snake plant also converts CO2 into oxygen at night, helping regulate healthy airflow.
Fights allergies – By adding moisture to dry air, the snake plant helps reduce airborne allergens and irritants. This makes it great for people with allergies.
Easy to care for – The snake plant requires little water or maintenance and is highly tolerant of different lighting conditions.

To maximize air purification, place several snake plants together in rooms where you spend a lot of time. The bedroom is an ideal location to benefit from its nighttime oxygen production.

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

With its airy leaves and hanging plantlets, the spider plant is one of the most popular and effective air purifying plants. NASA studies confirmed its excellent air cleaning abilities:

Removes formaldehyde – Spider plants efficiently eliminate formaldehyde, a common indoor air pollutant found in things like furniture and household cleaners.
Increases humidity – Its natural transpiration adds moisture to dry indoor air, helping combat allergens and cold-weather illnesses.
Produces oxygen – Through photosynthesis, it constantly generates oxygen while removing carbon dioxide from the air.
Easy care – Spider plants are durable, propagate easily, and don’t require much maintenance. Let the soil dry between waterings.

Place spider plants near pollution sources like kitchens, bathrooms, or work areas with electronics. Hanging plants maximize air circulation around the leaves and roots. Group them together to increase effectiveness.

3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The lush green leaves and bright white flowers of the peace lily make it both an effective air purifier and a decorative indoor plant. Some key benefits include:

Removes VOCs – Peace lilies absorb volatile organic compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Absorbs mold – The plant’s leaves and roots help reduce airborne mold spores, which are common in humid areas.
Filters allergens – Peace lily leaves trap many common allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen.
Adds moisture – Its large leaves give off substantial moisture to humidify dry indoor air.

While exaggerated claims of its air purifying prowess persist, the peace lily does provide meaningful air quality benefits. Place several around areas prone to mold and allergens.

4. Red-Edged Dracaena (Dracaena marginata)

With its colorful red-edged green leaves, this popular dracaena plant also makes NASA’s list of top air-purifying plants:

Removes formaldehyde – The Red-edged Dracaena is excellent at removing formaldehyde, a carcinogenic VOC found in many household products.
Absorbs other toxins – It helps remove trichloroethylene, benzene, and xylene found in glues, varnishes, solvents, and gasoline.
Increases humidity – Its transpiration increases indoor humidity levels, which helps counteract dry air.
Low maintenance – Only needs occasional watering and tolerates low indirect light, making it an easy care houseplant.

Place the Red-edged Dracaena near furniture, household cleaning supplies, and decorative elements that contain formaldehyde and other VOCs.

5. Chrysanthemum

With its bright, daisy-like blooms, the florist’s chrysanthemum is an excellent natural air purifier. Here are some of its top benefits:

Removes benzene, ammonia, xylene, and formaldehyde – This plant is highly adept at eliminating many hazardous VOCs that accumulate indoors.
Affordable and accessible – Chrysanthemums are inexpensive, commonly available, and easy to grow indoors.
Low maintenance – Requiring just moderate sunlight and weekly watering, chrysanthemums are easy to care for.
Provides air purification 24/7 – Unlike some plants, chrysanthemums filter pollutants continuously, both day and night.

Place several potted chrysanthemums around interior rooms and open office spaces to improve overall air quality. Their bright colors and cheery blooms also boost mood.

6. Philodendron

As its name suggests, the heartleaf philodendron has distinctive glossy, heart-shaped leaves that give it an exotic look. But it also has some great air purifying properties:

Removes formaldehyde – Philodendrons effectively eliminate formaldehyde, a common VOC found in many household products and building materials.
Releases oxygen – Through photosynthesis, philodendrons generate oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide.
Increases humidity – Its transpiration adds needed moisture to dry indoor air.
Low maintenance – Philodendrons adapt readily to indoor conditions with moderate water and low light.

Place philodendron plants in bedrooms, living rooms, and offices to benefit from their continuous oxygen production and humidity. Water weekly and mist leaves regularly.

7. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

In addition to being a popular groundcover outdoors, English ivy makes an excellent low-maintenance houseplant that purifies indoor air:

Removes airborne particles – Studies confirm English ivy removes airborne mold, dust, pet dander, and other particles.
Absorbs VOCs – Its large leaves absorb harmful VOCs like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Low maintenance – Requires only moderate water and can tolerate low indirect light, making it ideal for dim corners.
Always green – Evergreen leaves maintain an attractive appearance year-round without special care.

Place English ivy plants on shelves, desktops, and other surfaces around rooms. Periodically wipe leaves to remove any trapped particles. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.

8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

The Chinese evergreen is a tropical plant known for its striking variegated leaves that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It’s also one of the most effective air purifying plants:

Removes toxins – Chinese evergreen filters out benzene, formaldehyde, and other VOCs that are byproducts of common household items.
Increases humidity – Its substantial transpiration boosts indoor humidity levels, which enhances air quality.
Produces oxygen – Through photosynthesis, it constantly generates oxygen.
Very low maintenance – Thrives in low light and with minimal water, making it perfect for beginners.

Place Chinese evergreen plants in rooms where you spend a lot of time. Their lush, variegated leaves will help purify the air while adding visual interest.

9. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

With its iconic heart-shaped leaves, golden pothos is one of the most popular houseplants. It’s also quite effective at improving indoor air quality:

Removes VOCs – Golden pothos helps eliminate benzene, trichloroethylene (TCE), formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and other VOCs.
Increases humidity – Its transpiration releases moisture into the air which helps remove airborne viruses and particles.
Produces oxygen – The plant generates oxygen through photosynthesis.
Very low maintenance – Its durable leaves can tolerate low light and inconsistent watering.

While its air purifying effects may be limited, golden pothos remains a top choice for its hardiness, easy care, and attractiveness. Let it trail or climb to maximize leaf surface area.

10. Azalea

Commonly grown outdoors, azaleas also make excellent houseplants that double as air purifiers:

Removes formaldehyde – Azaleas absorb formaldehyde emitted from sources like plywood, insulation, and synthetic materials.
Provides wide coverage – Just 2-3 azalea plants can effectively clean the air in an average-sized living room.
Highly effective – Lab tests give azaleas top marks for air purification ability, especially the Christine variety.
Adds humidity – Azaleas release moisture into the air, improving humidity levels.

Place azalea plants in rooms with formaldehyde sources like pressed wood furniture or new carpets. Water whenever the soil dries out and mist leaves frequently.

11. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

With its tropical frond-like leaves, the bamboo palm not only looks decorative but also filters indoor air:

Removes VOCs – Bamboo palm is excellent at eliminating formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from indoor air.
Beautiful foliage – Its arching leaves create a graceful presence while increasing visual appeal. Can reach 12 feet tall.
Low maintenance – Only requires occasional watering and tolerates low light once established.
Increases humidity – As a tropical plant, it releases soothing moisture into the dry indoor air.

Situate bamboo palms near pollution sources to maximize air filtration. The bedroom is an ideal spot to take advantage of its humidifying effects and exotic look.

12. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston fern is one of the best air filtering plants according to NASA studies and universities. Here are its top benefits:

Removes formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and toluene – The Boston fern absorbs these hazardous VOCs found in many household items.
Humidifies air – Its natural transpiration increases indoor humidity, which can help combat illnesses.
Low maintenance – Only requires weekly watering and indirect light once established, making it great for beginners.
Provides lush greenery – With fronds up to 5 feet long, Boston ferns create tropical ambiance indoors.

Place Boston ferns in humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens to help purify and add moisture to the air. Mist leaves frequently to replicate its preferred tropical climate.

Want to know more about this plant? Check out our Boston Fern hub page for care tips, articles, and a guide to different types. Dive in and become a fern expert!

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Succulent Plant, Aloe Vera in a maroon plastic pot over green background

Aloe vera is a common houseplant revered for its medicinal properties. But it also works to purify indoor air:

Removes formaldehyde and benzene – Aloe vera absorbs these pollutants emitted from furniture, cleaning products, solvents, and vehicle exhaust fumes.
Increases oxygen – Through photosynthesis, aloe produces oxygen while removing carbon dioxide.
Easy to grow – As a succulent, aloe vera requires minimal watering and thrives in bright, sunny spots indoors.
Provides other health benefits – The gel inside aloe leaves can be applied topically to treat minor burns, cuts, skin irritation and inflammation.

While aloe vera may not completely purify indoor air on its own, it effectively helps remove certain chemicals like formaldehyde and provides other household medicinal benefits.

14. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)

The bright, cheery blooms of gerbera daisies aren’t just good for the soul – they also filter indoor air:

Removes formaldehyde and benzene – Gerbera daisies are surprisingly effective at eliminating these hazardous VOCs.
Releases oxygen at night – Gerbera daisies generate oxygen in the evenings to improve nighttime air quality.
Increases humidity – Its transpiration helps combat dry, heated indoor air.
Uplifts mood – The vibrant colors and flowers are known to boost happiness and well-being.

Place potted gerbera daisies in bedrooms, family rooms, and home offices for maximum air filtration and enjoyment. Change water frequently and provide plenty of light.

15. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

With its large, glossy leaves, the rubber plant filters out many indoor air pollutants:

Removes formaldehyde and benzene – The rubber plant eliminates these carcinogenic VOCs.
Increases humidity – Its substantial transpiration adds much needed moisture to dry indoor air.
Produces oxygen – During photosynthesis, it constantly generates oxygen.
Large leaves – More surface area means more air purifying potential.

Situate rubber plants near pollution sources like kitchens and bathrooms. Wipe leaves regularly to remove toxins. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.

16. Anthurium (Flamingo Flower)

Beautiful Anthurium plants with their heart-shaped red, pink, or white flowers also work hard to purify indoor air:

Removes ammonia, xylene, and formaldehyde – Anthuriums absorb these common household pollutants.
Great for bedrooms – They release oxygen at night and increase humidity.
Provides wide coverage – Just one 4-foot plant per 4 square meters significantly improves air quality.
Easy care – Requires only moderate light and weekly watering.

Place Anthurium plants in bedrooms, living spaces, and offices to benefit from their nighttime oxygen release and air cleansing effects.

17. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

The lush green leaves and braided trunk of the weeping fig make it an excellent air purifying plant. Here’s why:

Removes formaldehyde and benzene – Weeping figs filter out these VOCs emitted from furniture, carpets, and electronics.
Increases oxygen – Through photosynthesis, they constantly produce oxygen.
Traps airborne particles – Their large leaves catch dust, pet dander, and other particles.
Increases humidity – Transpiration by the weeping fig adds moisture to dry indoor air.

Maximize the weeping fig’s air purifying effects by placing it near electronics and furniture. Wipe leaves regularly to remove trapped particles. Mist often to keep its preferred high humidity.

18. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The exotic ZZ plant with its glossy leaves handles indoor pollutants with ease:

Removes VOCs – ZZ plant absorbs formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and benzene emitted by furniture, carpets, and cleaning products.
Extremely hardy – Tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it perfect for beginners.
Cleanses air 24/7 – Research shows ZZ plant purifies air continuously, day and night.
Air humidifying – Releases moisture into dry indoor air through transpiration.

Place ZZ plants in bedrooms, family rooms, home offices, and other living spaces you occupy frequently. Water sparingly and only when soil is completely dry.

19. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

With its iconic trailing vine and heart-shaped leaves, pothos is a staple indoor plant that also helps purify air:

Removes VOCs – Pothos eliminates benzene, toluene, formaldehyde and other hazardous VOCs emitted indoors.
May increase humidity – Some studies suggest it releases moisture into the air via transpiration.
Produces oxygen – The pothos plant generates oxygen through photosynthesis.
Very low maintenance – Its durable leaves tolerate low light and occasional neglect in watering.

While its air cleaning effects may be limited without adequate ventilation, pothos remains a great low-maintenance option for helping improve indoor air quality.

20. Orchid

Beautiful and elegant, orchids have the added benefit of helping purify indoor air:

Absorb xylene and toluene – Orchids eliminate these VOCs found in paints, glue, and other household sources.
Increase oxygen – They continue producing oxygen at night, making them excellent bedroom companions.
Boost mood – The graceful blooms provide natural stress relief and tranquility.
Easy to care for – Many orchid varieties adapt readily to indoor environments with weekly watering.

Place a few orchid plants around bedrooms, family rooms, and offices to benefit from their oxygen release and toxin absorption abilities.

Using Indoor Plants Strategically for Maximum Air Purification

While the plants highlighted in this article have proven air purifying benefits, proper placement and care is key to effectively improving indoor air quality throughout your home or office.

Here are some tips for strategically using indoor plants to maximize air purification:

Choose the Right Plants

Select plants that specifically remove the pollutants present in your indoor environment. For example, formaldehyde is a common VOC emitted from pressed wood products and household items, so choose plants like peace lilies, philodendrons, and chrysanthemums known to remove formaldehyde.
Consider getting a combination of plants that remove different pollutants to cover more air quality bases. Pairing a formaldehyde-fighting peace lily with a benzene-removing rubber plant creates more complete air filtration.

Place Plants Near Pollution Sources

Put plants close to known sources of indoor pollution, like bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, fireplaces, garages, and workspaces with electronics, paints, or chemicals. This allows the plants to purify before pollutants disperse.
Similarly, place plants in rooms where you spend a lot of time, like bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. Putting an air purifying plant near your workspace filters out pollutants you’d otherwise breathe for many hours a day.

Choose Larger, More Numerous Plants

Bigger plants with more leaf surface area can absorb more airborne particles and pollutants, so choose large varieties when possible.
Increase the number of plants per room to multiply air purifying effects. Shoot for 3-5 plants in smaller rooms and 8-10 plants in larger rooms.

Maximize Air Circulation

Position plants near air vents, fans, and windows to increase airflow so more polluted air gets filtered through the leaves.
For floor plants, place them on stands or pedestals to prevent leaves from being surrounded by stagnant air near the floor.
Use hanging or wall-mounted plants to purify air in locations without available floor or table space.

Maintain Healthy Plants

Remove any dried or dead leaves which detract from air purification. Prune vigorously when needed.
Check soil regularly and water appropriately to keep plants thriving. Proper moisture maximizes transpiration.
Clean leaves with a damp cloth periodically to increase light exposure and remove accumulated dust and particles.
Rotate plants occasionally so all sides get equal light exposure for robust growth.

Supplement with Technology

While plants don’t replace advanced air purification technology, combining plants with standalone air filters creates a doubly effective solution.
Use plants throughout the home to purify broadly, then add high-filtration devices to heavily polluted rooms for maximum air cleaning.

Following these placement, maintenance, and pairing tips allows indoor plants to have the greatest impact possible on improving indoor air quality.

Other Ways to Maximize Indoor Plant Benefits

Open blinds and curtains to ensure plants get adequate sunlight for photosynthesis and growth.
Group plants together to increase overall leaf surface area for better air filtration.
Add pebble trays or misters to boost humidity around plants, enhancing transpiration.
Rotate plants weekly to promote even growth towards their light source.
Remove dust from leaves using damp cloth to improve plant health.
Propagate plants from cuttings to inexpensively increase your air purifying plant population.
Focus on easy care, low maintenance varieties to ensure plants thrive with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

Indoor plants can significantly improve air quality by increasing oxygen levels and removing airborne toxins and particles. However, they are most effective when chosen carefully for your specific needs and positioned strategically in areas where you spend time.

While an indoor garden alone cannot completely purify the air, plants make a meaningful difference and provide health benefits beyond just air filtration. They add natural beauty, soothe stress, increase humidity, and boost moods with their soothing greenery and lively colors.

When combined with adequate ventilation and other air quality measures, a diverse array of thriving indoor plants can create cleaner, healthier indoor spaces for you and your family to enjoy. Just be sure to place them properly, maintain their health, and supplement with technology when needed.

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