The Top 10 Indoor Plants That Clean the Air and Boost Your Mood
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Curated by Mad Plant Ladies
Hey there, fellow plant lovers! If you’re anything like us, you know that indoor plants aren’t just pretty faces—they’re total powerhouses when it comes to improving air quality and boosting your mental well-being and we are here to help you find out which are the best indoor plants. Studies have shown that having plants around can reduce stress, increase focus, and even improve sleep quality. Talk about multitasking!
So, if you’re looking to fill your space with greenery that does more than just look pretty, we've rounded up the top 10 indoor plants that purify the air and give your mental health the TLC it deserves. 🌿💚
1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why it’s awesome: Let’s kick off with a true air-purifying superstar. The Peace Lily is known for its ability to remove common toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air. Plus, the Peace Lily’s delicate white blooms and shiny green leaves bring an instant sense of calm to any room—perfect for reducing stress. Its soft, elegant appearance will instantly make your space feel more peaceful, which is a huge mental health win.
Care tips: This beauty thrives in low to moderate light, and all it asks for is a good drink of water once a week. Easy, right?
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Why it’s awesome: Snake Plants are not only air purifiers, but they also help to increase oxygen levels during the night (unlike most plants that release oxygen during the day). They can filter out toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, making them excellent bedroom companions. Plus, their upright, architectural leaves have an almost zen-like quality that promotes calmness and focus—perfect for those who need a mental boost while working from home.
Care tips: Snake Plants are notoriously low-maintenance. They tolerate low light and are practically drought-resistant, so they’re great for busy folks or plant newbies.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Why it’s awesome: The Spider Plant is a classic in the world of air-purifying plants. It’s particularly effective at removing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene from the air. These cheerful, cascading plants are also known to reduce stress and anxiety levels—making them the perfect pick for creating a peaceful, stress-free environment.
Care tips: These guys love indirect light and need occasional watering. Let the soil dry out between waterings, and you’ll have a happy, thriving plant.
4. Aloe Vera
Why it’s awesome: Aloe Vera is well-known for its healing properties for skin burns and wounds, but did you know it also purifies the air? Aloe Vera removes harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene, making it a great plant to have in kitchens or bathrooms where toxins tend to build up. Plus, tending to your Aloe’s sharp, succulent leaves can be incredibly therapeutic, giving you a much-needed mental break after a busy day.
Care tips: Aloe Vera thrives in bright, indirect light and requires very little water—just let the soil dry out between waterings.
5. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why it’s awesome: The ZZ Plant is another air-purifying legend, capable of filtering out toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene. It’s a low-maintenance powerhouse that thrives in low light and dry conditions, making it perfect for forgetful plant parents. Having this little green beauty around creates a sense of calm, and its glossy leaves have a way of uplifting your mood—even on the busiest of days.
Care tips: ZZ Plants are nearly indestructible. They can survive with little light and infrequent watering, making them perfect for those who want a fuss-free, happy plant.
6. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why it’s awesome: Pothos is an easy-to-care-for plant that’s also a toxin-buster! This trailing beauty removes formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air, making it ideal for improving indoor air quality. Plus, the act of caring for Pothos and watching it grow and cascade can boost your mood, reduce anxiety, and give you a sense of accomplishment—win-win!
Care tips: Pothos loves bright, indirect light but will do just fine in lower light conditions as well. Water it when the soil is dry, and you’ll be golden.
7. Ficus Elastica (Rubber Plant)
Why it’s awesome: Rubber Plants are not only stunning, but they’re also great at removing harmful pollutants like formaldehyde from the air. The act of tending to this plant—pruning its glossy, dark leaves—can be incredibly satisfying and grounding. Plus, with their broad, shiny leaves, Rubber Plants can help fill any space with a sense of tranquility and natural beauty.
Care tips: Rubber Plants love bright, indirect light and prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Don’t overwater—this plant likes a little space between drinks.
8. Dracaena (Dracaena fragrans)
Why it’s awesome: Dracaenas are natural air-purifiers, absorbing toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Their long, sword-like leaves create a calming, elegant aesthetic that can help soothe your mind after a stressful day. Plus, studies have shown that simply being around plants like Dracaena can improve mood and productivity—ideal for creating a more peaceful and focused atmosphere in your home office.
Care tips: Dracaenas prefer bright, indirect light and need to be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. They’re pretty low-maintenance once you get them settled in.
9. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Why it’s awesome: Calatheas are the queens of indoor plant beauty, with their bold patterns and colorful foliage. But they’re more than just a pretty face—these plants also help purify the air and create a serene atmosphere. Calatheas thrive in high humidity and low light, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. Their ability to help reduce stress while improving air quality makes them a true mental health ally.
Care tips: Calatheas like a bit of extra attention. Keep them in a humid spot, water when the soil is dry, and avoid letting them sit in standing water.
10. Philodendron
Why it’s awesome: Philodendrons are renowned for their ability to clean the air by filtering out toxins like formaldehyde. With their lush, heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, they bring a sense of ease and tranquility to any space. Taking care of a Philodendron can also help reduce stress levels and increase feelings of well-being—plus, watching them grow is incredibly rewarding!
Care tips: These beauties do well in moderate to low light and only need to be watered when the soil feels dry. They’re incredibly adaptable and thrive on a little neglect.
So, What’s Your Plant Power?
These top 10 indoor plants are more than just decoration—they’re your personal squad of air purifiers and mental health warriors. Whether you're creating a stress-free sanctuary or adding a little extra oxygen to your space, these plants will help you feel more grounded, focused, and at ease.
If you're ready to add some green goodness to your life, don’t forget to check out our shop at Mad Plant Ladies! We’ve got everything you need to start your indoor jungle, from gorgeous plants to care tips to help you thrive.
— Your friends at Mad Plant Ladies