7 NASA-Approved Indoor Plants That Clean The Air (2025 Guide)

Here’s a surprising fact – indoor air is typically 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. The EPA warns this creates a significant health risk because we spend 90% of our time inside.

The good news? NASA found that certain indoor plants can clean the air and solve this problem effectively. Their groundbreaking Clean Air Study shows these plants can remove up to 87% of air toxins in just 24 hours.

Plants make a real difference in the workplace. Offices with air-purifying plants saw amazing results – 24% fewer headaches, 52% less eye irritation, and workers’ lung capacity increased by 12%. You’ll need two large plants per 100 square feet to get these benefits in your space.

After extensive research, I’ve put together a list of seven NASA-approved plants that excel at improving indoor air quality. These plants have undergone specific tests to remove common household toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

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“Both plant leaves and roots are utilized in removing trace levels of toxic vapors from inside tightly sealed buildings. Low levels of chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde can be removed from indoor environments by plant leaves alone, while higher concentrations of numerous toxic chemicals can be removed by filtering indoor air through the plant roots surrounded by activated carbon.” — B. C. Wolverton, NASA research scientist

Peace lilies are outstanding air purifying house plants that know how to remove multiple air pollutants.These elegant plants can reduce [airborne mold by 78%](https://jayscotts.com/blog/plants-that-clean-the-air-and-remove-toxins/) in indoor environments32.

Peace Lily Air Purification Benefits

Peace lilies excel at improving indoor air quality by removing harmful compounds of all types. These plants maintain a high transpiration rate that helps humidify and purify indoor air at the same time33.

Common Toxins Eliminated

This versatile plant removes several harmful substances effectively:

Benzene (79.5% removal in 24 hours)2
Trichloroethylene (23% removal in 24 hours)34
Formaldehyde
Xylene
Ammonia8

Optimal Growing Conditions

Peace lilies love bright, indirect light, especially near east-facing windows35. The ideal temperature range falls between 65-80°F during the day36. These plants appreciate consistent moisture but handle occasional underwatering better than overwatering33.

NASA Study Results

NASA’s Clean Air Study highlighted the peace lily’s remarkable results. Each plant removed 16,167 micrograms of formaldehyde over a 24-hour period2. On top of that, it showed better performance in removing TCE compared to other tested plants34. The plant’s soil microorganisms adapt over time to break down toxins, which improves its air-cleaning abilities2.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

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Snake plants are among the toughest indoor plants that clean the air and show amazing results in removing multiple airborne toxins7.

Snake Plant Air Filtering Capabilities

These versatile plants get rid of several harmful compounds:

Benzene (1,196 micrograms per hour)8
Formaldehyde (1,304 micrograms per hour)8
Trichloroethylene (405 micrograms per hour)8
Xylene and toluene8

Scientific Evidence of Effectiveness

NASA’s Clean Air Study found that each snake plant removed 31,294 micrograms of formaldehyde in just 24 hours2. The plant’s air-purifying power gets better over time as soil microorganisms learn to break down toxins2. The roots and soil do most of the filtering work, not just the leaves16.

Care Requirements

Snake plants grow best in loose, well-drained potting soil and need water only when the soil dries out completely7. They thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F7. Too much water is their biggest enemy, and yellow leaves show that the plant is getting too much moisture7.

Best Placement Locations

These plants work best when you put them 6-10 feet from bright windows, since direct sunlight can burn their leaves10. Your home’s east or southeast areas are perfect spots that help create positive energy flow10. Snake plants are tough and can handle both low-light conditions and partial shade7.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

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“The activated carbon absorbs large quantities of the toxic chemicals and retains them until the plant roots and associated microorganisms degrade and assimilate these chemicals.” — B. C. Wolverton, NASA research scientist

Spider plants are excellent at cleaning multiple indoor air pollutants, which makes them stand out among air purifying house plants. NASA’s research found these tough plants have amazing abilities to clean the air.

Spider Plant Purification Power

A spider plant in a one-gallon pot can clean up to 62,440 micrograms of formaldehyde in just 6 hours11. The plant targets these harmful compounds:

Carbon monoxide (3,300 micrograms per hour)12
Nitrogen dioxide (8,500 micrograms per hour)12
Formaldehyde and xylene4

NASA Research Findings

NASA’s studies show that 8-15 spider plants can clean the air in an average home11. Research by Wolverton Environmental Services found that better airflow through the plant’s root system boosted the removal of volatile organic compounds11.

Growth and Maintenance

Spider plants do best in bright, indirect sunlight at temperatures above 8°C13. Keep the soil moist during growing season and reduce water in winter13. Yes, it is amazing how these plants adapt to different light conditions, from semi-shady spots to areas with some direct sun4.

Propagation Tips

Spider plants grow spiderettes that you can propagate in several ways. The best results come when plantlets have at least five leaves and roots about 2-3 inches long14. You can plant them in soil directly or root them in water before moving to soil15. With good care, these new plants establish themselves in 1-3 months14.

Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

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The bamboo palm stands out as one of the best air purifying house plants due to its remarkable adaptability. NASA’s Clean Air Study recognized this tropical beauty for knowing how to convert indoor pollutants into nutrients within two weeks of exposure 16.

Air Quality Impact

The bamboo palm shows excellent air purification capabilities through its high transpiration rate. Water vapor released through this process acts as a natural humidifier17. You can optimize indoor air quality and maintain ideal humidity levels by placing these plants in strategic locations.

Toxin Removal Efficiency

NASA’s research showed these impressive toxin elimination rates in a 24-hour period:

Formaldehyde: 76,707 micrograms per plant 2
Benzene: 34,073 micrograms per plant2
Trichloroethylene: 16,520 micrograms per plant2

Growing Requirements

Bamboo palms adapt to different light conditions but flourish best in indirect light settings1. The plant needs rich, well-draining soil mixed with peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite to grow optimally. A temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) will give a healthy growth environment1.

The soil’s top third should dry between waterings to care for the plant properly18. These palms thrive in moderate humidity, making them perfect for most homes. Spring and summer fertilization promotes strong growth, but you should stop feeding during fall and winter1.

Dracaena (Janet Craig)

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The Janet Craig (Dracaena fragrans) is one of NASA’s best air purifying house plants. Studies show it removes 38,938 micrograms of toxins per plant2.

Dracaena Air Cleaning Properties

This powerful air purifier removes several airborne pollutants:

Benzene: 1,082 micrograms per hour8
Formaldehyde: 1,361 micrograms per hour8
Trichloroethylene: 764 micrograms per hour8
Xylene and toluene8

Placement Recommendations

The Janet Craig runs on medium to bright indirect light6. Direct sunlight can damage its glossy dark green leaves. The optimal placement is 6-10 feet from windows19. Room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) work best, and the plant should stay away from cold drafts and heating vents19.

Maintenance Guidelines

This resilient plant needs minimal care to maintain its air-purifying abilities. Let the soil dry between waterings, especially the top 2 inches6. The plant does well in average household humidity levels of 25-49%6. With proper care, the Janet Craig can grow up to 8 feet and live 10-15 years20. Yellow leaves or brown tips usually point to watering problems. Underwatering causes crisp edges, while overwatering results in soft, drooping foliage20.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

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NASA’s tests show the Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) stands out with remarkable air-cleaning abilities. This plant removes 1,863 micrograms of formaldehyde per hour 8.

Fern Air Purification Benefits

This Victorian-era favorite excels at eliminating multiple airborne pollutants21. The plant removes these effectively:

Formaldehyde
Xylene
Toluene3

Humidity Requirements

Boston ferns flourish in environments with humidity levels above 80%5. We tested these plants and found they need consistent moisture to maintain their air-purifying capabilities. The pot should sit on a water-filled pebble tray or near a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity22. Misting the plant with tepid, soft water helps maintain proper moisture levels, and avoiding fluoridated water proves beneficial23.

Care Instructions

The fern needs bright, indirect sunlight but should stay away from direct rays that could damage the fronds24. The soil should remain moist without waterlogging – add water once the top inch feels dry24. Room temperatures should stay between 60-75°F (15-24°C)24. The plant thrives in rich, well-laid-out soil with half-strength fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season25.

Dead or yellowing fronds need regular removal to ensure healthy growth3. Repotting benefits the plant every 1-2 years in spring with fresh potting mix24. Avoid placing near heaters or air-conditioning units as sudden temperature changes stress the plant24.

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

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The weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is a vital air-purifying powerhouse that removes 940 micrograms of formaldehyde per hour8. This beautiful indoor plant shows amazing versatility and keeps your indoor air clean.

Air Filtering Capabilities

The weeping fig cleans out several harmful compounds:

Formaldehyde (main pollutant)
Xylene
Toluene26

You just need one weeping fig per 100 square feet of space to purify air27. Studies show that air purification happens slowly, which makes long-term placement significant28.

Growth Requirements

Pick a spot with bright, indirect sunlight a few feet from windows29. The plant thrives in temperatures between 65-70°F at night and 75-85°F during the day30. Use well-draining potting soil that has perlite, sand, and vermiculite30.

Your plant needs steady moisture without getting waterlogged. Check if the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry before watering9. The plant also likes higher humidity, so mist regularly or use a humidifier9.

Seasonal Care Tips

Water less often in winter, but don’t let the root ball dry out completely9. Trim the plant yearly during its dormant phase to shape it and remove dead growth29. The plant needs repotting every three to four years in spring. Check the roots and create proper drainage layers at this time9.

Note: Your weeping fig doesn’t like changes in its environment and might drop leaves after moving. Give it several weeks to adjust before you change its care routine31.

Comparison Table

Plant Name	Formaldehyde Removal (24h)	Main Toxins Removed	Light Requirements	Temperature Range	Care Requirements
Peace Lily	16,167 μg	Benzene, Trichloroethylene, Formaldehyde, Xylene, Ammonia	Bright, indirect light	65-80°F	Needs consistent moisture but survives underwatering
Snake Plant	31,294 μg	Benzene, Formaldehyde, Trichloroethylene, Xylene, Toluene	6-10 feet from bright windows	70-90°F	Requires well-drained soil, water after soil dries
Spider Plant	62,440 μg (6h)	Carbon monoxide, Nitrogen dioxide, Formaldehyde, Xylene	Bright, indirect sunlight	Above 8°C	Soil should stay moist in growing season
Bamboo Palm	76,707 μg	Formaldehyde, Benzene, Trichloroethylene	Indirect light	65-80°F	Thrives in rich, well-draining soil with moderate humidity
Dracaena (Janet Craig)	38,938 μg	Benzene, Formaldehyde, Trichloroethylene, Xylene, Toluene	Medium to bright indirect light	65-75°F	Soil should dry between waterings
Boston Fern	1,863 μg/hour	Formaldehyde, Xylene, Toluene	Bright, indirect sunlight	60-75°F	Prefers high humidity (>80%) with steady moisture
Weeping Fig	940 μg/hour	Formaldehyde, Xylene, Toluene	Bright, indirect sunlight	65-85°F	Needs well-draining soil and steady moisture

Final words:

NASA-approved plants provide a natural and effective solution to indoor air pollution. A combination of several plants works better than using just one variety to maximize their air-purifying benefits. Your home can benefit from a peace lily in the bedroom, a snake plant in the home office, and a spider plant in the living room – creating an optimal mix for whole-house air purification.

The science is clear – these plants eliminate thousands of micrograms of harmful toxins each day. On top of that, they need minimal care while providing both health benefits and esthetic appeal. Two medium-sized plants per 100 square feet will give effective air cleaning.

Your success depends on matching plants to your specific environment and care abilities. Peace lilies make great choices for people who want low-maintenance options. Boston ferns better suit plant enthusiasts who are ready for more detailed care routines. Start with one or two easier varieties like snake plants or spider plants. You can expand your indoor garden as your confidence grows.

Note that cleaner air guides to better health, improved focus, and a more pleasant living space. These seven plants are your best choices for naturally purifying indoor air, backed by NASA’s thorough research and ground results.

To Learn More Visit:

15 Ways to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly

FAQs

Q1. Which plants are most effective at purifying indoor air according to NASA? NASA’s research identified several highly effective air-purifying plants, including the Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Spider Plant, Bamboo Palm, and Boston Fern. These plants have demonstrated exceptional abilities to remove common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

Q2. How many air-purifying plants are needed to improve indoor air quality? For optimal air purification, it’s recommended to have at least two good-sized plants per 100 square feet of space. This ratio ensures effective removal of airborne toxins and improvement of overall indoor air quality.

Q3. Can indoor plants really remove mold from the air? Yes, certain plants can significantly reduce airborne mold. The Peace Lily, in particular, has been shown to reduce airborne mold by up to 78% in indoor environments, making it an excellent choice for improving air quality and reducing mold spores.

Q4. Are air-purifying plants safe for homes with pets? While many air-purifying plants are safe, some can be toxic to pets if ingested. It’s important to research each plant’s safety before bringing it into a home with pets. For instance, the Snake Plant and Spider Plant are generally considered pet-friendly, while the Peace Lily can be toxic if consumed by cats or dogs.

Q5. How do air-purifying plants impact indoor humidity levels? Many air-purifying plants, such as the Boston Fern and Bamboo Palm, can help increase indoor humidity through transpiration. This natural process can be beneficial in dry environments, helping to maintain optimal humidity levels and potentially reducing respiratory irritation.