If you've heard the statement about houseplants improving air quality, you might be wondering: are those potted plants doing more than just looking pretty? The short answer is yes - but there's a bit more to it.

If you've ever wondered whether your spider plant is secretly working overtime to clean the air in your home, the answer might surprise you!

Do Plants Really Clean the Air?

Back in the 1980s, NASA ran an experiment to see if plants could purify air in tightly sealed space stations. The results were promising! Certain plants, like Peace Lilies, Snake Plants, and English Ivy, were found to remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air​. However, more recent studies suggest that while plants do remove pollutants, their impact on an average household is limited.

To see a significant improvement in air quality, you would need a large number of plants - potentially one for every square foot of space​. Still, adding a few plants can certainly make a difference, especially when placed in areas with poor air circulation.

Best Plants for the Job

If you're looking to freshen up your space and breathe a little easier, here are some top contenders:

- Snake Plant: Known as the "bedroom plant," the Snake Plant is great for producing oxygen at night. It's like having your very own oxygen factory while you sleep!

- Peace Lily: This elegant plant not only adds beauty to your home but also helps remove airborne pollutants.

- Spider Plant: One of the best for removing carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, making it perfect for improving air quality in the kitchen​.

How Plants Absorb Pollutants

Plants absorb toxins through their leaves, sending them to the roots where they are neutralized by microorganisms in the soil. This process, called phytoremediation, makes plants mini-air purifiers. While the effect in homes is subtle, the benefits increase when several plants are grouped together​.

How to Maximize Your Plant Power

While you probably won't turn your home into a space-age air filtration system with just a few plants, there are ways to maximize their benefits. Group several plants together in a room, and make sure they're well-taken care of. Healthy plants = healthier air! Also, be aware of the space. The larger the room, the more plants you'll need to make a noticeable impact​.

Can Plants Improve Humidity?

In addition to cleaning the air, plants can also improve indoor humidity levels through a process called transpiration. This is when plants release moisture vapor through their leaves, which can slightly raise humidity levels in a room. This helps combat dry indoor air, which is especially useful in winter months when heaters tend to dry out the air​.

While you won't be replacing your air purifier with a fern anytime soon, adding a few potted plants can certainly help freshen the air in your home. Plus, they add that much-needed touch of greenery that makes any room feel more alive. So, why not let your plants do double duty as air purifiers and decor?