My home has always been my sanctuary. I have carefully crafted my little space so no matter what is happening in the outside world, my home is a cozy cocoon of pure love and good vibes. Living in rainy Washington State, unless you don't mind getting wet and cold, it can be difficult to get out into Mother Nature for most of the year. So I've always endeavored to bring some of her beauty into my space. Although, it was only recently that I learned how important it is to have plenty of plants around my home...

Plants PROTECT us and can help us HEAL

Plants are vital for our overall health. Not only are they great to look at and add ambiance to our homes, they actually make us happier! Moreover, they can lower levels of anxiety and stress while improving productivity and they can make your house lest dusty. They bring life into our spaces - but they can do so much more than that. Plants are essential for removing toxins in the air.

In the 1980s NASA conducted a landmark study on how plants can clean the air in space stations. While the majority of us are not currently living on a space station, I think that the science of NASAs Clean Air Study still provides valuable insight on how important nature is to our overall well-being. We no longer live IN nature. We live and work in enclosed spaces that can easily accumulate toxins, especially in urban environments and/or without proper ventilation.

Indoor air pollution is a silent and sneaky threat to our health, which has been correlated to disease-like symptoms. The toxins that create indoor air pollution come from a variety of sources, but the main emissions that can impact our health include formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. In addition, molds, viruses, and bacteria also tend to hang out in airtight spaces. Disheartening, right? Thankfully, Mother Nature is always looking out for us!

Plants are natural air-purifiers. They take care of us and make sure the air we breathe is clean. Some varieties are better than others at removing pollutants from indoor air, but as far as I am concerned, the more plants the merrier! You can sleep better knowing that these gifts from the Earth are watching over your health.

Admittedly, my thumb has not always been that green. Despite my best intentions, (especially in the beginning) some of my beautiful plants met an early grave because I did not know how to properly take care of them. Before welcoming one of these plants into your home, make sure you are able to take care of it the way it needs so it can take care of you in return. If you're not ready for a plant that requires plenty of attention, the majority of these plants are beginner-friendly options.

6 Toxin Reducing Houseplants

🌱 Snake Plant

AKA Mother-in-Law's Tongue. This plant is one of the most popular for homes because it is nearly indestructible. Plus, it is one of the best for air purification. What makes it unique is Snake Plants are known for producing oxygen at night. These are ideal to place in a bedroom for an oxygen boost while you sleep!

Pollutants Removed: Formaldehyde, benzene, decreases carbon dioxide

Growth Factor: EASY

Light: Indirect Sun (although it can tolerate a variety of light conditions)

Water: Allow soil to dry between watering, be careful not to overwater

Temperature: Adaptable to cool and warm conditions

Pro Tip: Fertilize during growing season with all-purpose plant food for extra oomph!

🌱 ZZ Plant

This plant is not named after ZZ Top, but I like to pretend it is! The ZZ is also among the hardy when it comes to house plants. This plant is known to increase oxygen in your home even when it does not get adequate water or light!

Pollutants Removed: Benzene, toluene, xylene

Growth Factor: EASY

Light: Indirect Sun, adaptable to low or bright light

Water: After top inch of soil is dry (Optional mist daily to increase humidity)

Temperature: Room Temperature

Pro Tip: Fertilize at beginning of summer

🌱 Rubber Plant

Aesthetically, this is one of my favorite plants ever. The deep green of the leaves is super soothing and looks like it is almost made of rubber! This large, tropical plant got its name because it can produce natural latex, which was once used to make rubber.

Pollutants Removed: Airborne toxins and parasitic diseases

Growth Factor: Moderate

Light: Bright indirect sunlight ideally, can tolerate limited light

Water: Minimal, prefers dry soil

Temperature: Room Temperature

Pro Tip: Wipe leaves occasionally with a moist towel to maximize air purification

🌱 Philodendron

This fast-growing, easy, vining plant is beautiful for growing on a totem, up a trellis, or in a hanging basket. Many philodendrons have vibrant green heart shaped leaves, which I think adds an extra splash of love to any room.

Pollutants Removed: Formaldehyde and airborne toxins

Growth Factor: EASY

Light: Bright indirect sunlight, avoid direct sun

Water: After top inch of soil is dry, careful to avoid over watering

Temperature: Room Temperature

Pro Tip: These tend to get long vines fast so make sure they have room to grow!

🌱 Peace Lily

As its name implies, the peace lily is known for bringing peace! This is the perfect plant to add into a room that needs an extra boost of tranquility. The peace lily is a superhero when it comes to air purification, she can literally do it all.

Pollutants Removed: Airborne toxins, airborne mold, benzene, formaldehyde, acetone,

trichloroethylene, xylene, toluene, and ammonia

Growth Factor: EASY

Light: Filtered sunlight

Water: Weekly, when top inch of soil is dry

Temperature: Prefers humid warmth, avoid cold drafts

Pro Tip: Blooms more often with brighter light!

🌱 Dracaena

Known as the "plant with the heart of a dragon", the dracaena is the ultimate guardian. The sword like leaves and glossy texture are something straight out of a chivalrous knightly tale. Place this plant around your house and sleep well knowing that it is there protecting you.

Pollutants Removed: Airborne toxins, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde

Growth Factor: Moderate

Light: Moderate to low light

Water: Weekly, do not soak

Temperature: Room Temperature

Pro Tip: These plants can grow rather tall so make sure they have lots of vertical room

🌱 Golden Pothos - BONUS #7

This flexible, fast-growing vine is like the cousin of the beautiful philodendron. Plant these two vines together and get a broad range of detoxification. The golden pothos, is an eye-catching addition to any room, known for its dark green leaves with golden marbling and streaks.

Pollutants Removed: Formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide

Growth Factor: EASY

Light: Medium, indirect sunlight

Water: Allow to dry out between waterings

Temperature: Room Temperature with low humidity

Pro Tip: Place close to doors that lead to places where carbon monoxide is present,

like the garage

P.S. Remember, if you have children or pets make sure to check if these plants are safe for your home. Some plants are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if touched/consumed - the last thing we want is to unintentionally have an emergency trip to the hospital or vet on our quest for clean air.