Outdoor air pollution has long been a public health concern, but did you know your indoor air could pose an even greater risk? Per the EPA, indoor air can be anywhere from two to five times more polluted than the air outdoors, and since nearly 90 percent of our time is spent inside, we should take indoor air quality seriously.
At On Time Home Services, we are committed to helping homeowners get the clean, pure air they need to breathe easier. Some of the most common toxins in our indoor air include formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, benzene and ammonia, all of which are linked to headaches and irritated eyes. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and easy way to reduce indoor pollutants, we have just the solution for you: houseplants! Yep, that’s right. Thanks to NASA’s research, we now know the best houseplants for indoor air quality. Here are our five favorites.
1. Aloe Vera
You’ve probably used Aloe Vera gel to soothe your cuts, sunburns and other skin conditions, but did you know that this plant can also clear formaldehyde and benzene from your home? Aloe is great for homeowners who have little extra time on their hands as it requires little upkeep. It should be watered once every three weeks. The gel of this plant is non-toxic, however, if the plant itself is ingested, it can harm animals.
2. Boston Fern
The Boston fern has been a focal point of indoor landscapes since the Victorian era. Known for its ability to reduce the presence of formaldehyde and xylene, this plant is relatively easy to care for. This plant thrives in indirect light, high-humidity environment. It’s relatively easy to care for, but you should still check the soil daily to see if it needs watering and make sure it gets a nice soak once a month. If you have children or pets, this is a great choice as it’s completely non-toxic.
3. Spider Plant
If your spidey sense is tingling and you think your IAQ could use a boost, the spider plant is a worthwhile choice. Not only is it hassle-free and great for families and pet owners, but it’s also a pro at ridding your home of formaldehyde and xylene. The best location for this plant will be an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
4. Bamboo Palm
If you’ve got the extra space, consider adding a bamboo palm to your kitchen or living room. Known for its ability to reduce the presence of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, the bamboo palm can grow anywhere from four to 12 feet tall. It prefers bright, direct sunlight, and is not harmful to pets or children. It should be watered only when the soil looks dry.
5. Garden Mum
If you’re looking for a plant that will brighten up your room, the garden mum would make a great addition. A champion at removing toxins such as ammonia, formaldehyde, xylene, benzene and trichloroethylene, this plant requires minimal care. Similar to the bamboo palm, garden mums also prefer direct sunlight. It should be watered when the top inch of soil is dried. If you have pets, plant at your own risk due to its toxicity to cats, dogs, horses and other mammals.
In addition to adding plants around your house to improve indoor air quality, you might also consider our comprehensive solutions. We offer UV germicidal lights, whole-home humidifiers, air filtration systems and duct cleaning services to ensure the air you breathe is non-toxic. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (949) 649-8777
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