Anna Hartz
Houseplants are often seen as a simple way to make a home healthier.
Houseplants look good, bring some nature indoors and are often said to clean the air. But can a few plants really remove harmful pollutants from your home?
Research too broad
The idea became popular after a 1989 NASA study. Researchers found that certain plants could reduce levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, in sealed chambers. These chemicals include substances such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene, writes Videnskab.
The research was useful, but a sealed laboratory chamber is very different from an ordinary home.
In real buildings, fresh air is constantly moving in and out through ventilation systems, windows and small gaps. This natural air exchange already removes many pollutants.
A 2019 study looked at what would happen in real indoor conditions. Researchers found that between 10 and 1,000 plants would be needed per square metre to match the air cleaning achieved through normal ventilation.
That does not mean the earlier NASA research was wrong. It means its findings have often been applied too broadly.
Homes are also much more complicated environments. Pollutants can come from cooking, cleaning products, furniture, heating systems and outdoor traffic. Some sources release pollutants continuously, while others do so only at certain times.
Temperature, humidity, ventilation and the number of people in a room can also change throughout the day. All these factors affect indoor air quality.
Be mindful of products used at home
For cleaner air, experts recommend dealing with pollution at its source first. This can mean using fewer products that release strong fumes, fixing moisture problems and improving ventilation.
Opening windows and using kitchen and bathroom fans can help when outdoor air quality is good. Portable air cleaners can also reduce airborne particles such as dust, pollen, smoke and pet dander.
For this purpose, a purifier with a genuine HEPA filter is a useful choice. These filters are designed to capture at least 99.97 percent of very small particles. People who also want to reduce gases and smells should look for a model with an activated carbon filter.
Plants still have a place in the home. They can make rooms feel more comfortable and may support mental well-being. They also add colour and make a space feel more pleasant.
Just remember that plants need care. Overwatering can create moisture problems and encourage unwanted microorganisms.
So keep your houseplants if you enjoy them. They can make your home nicer, but they should not be treated as a substitute for proper ventilation or an effective air purifier.
