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How to: Choose the Cleanest Houseplants

by on Oct 31, 2012

While I’m blessed to have an occupation that sees me spending a fair bit of time outdoors, most of us spend as much as 90% of our lives indoors. In fact the EPA currently ranks indoor air pollution as the number one threat to public health, but did you know that humble houseplants can reduce the levels of several of these airborne pollutants?

NASA in fact recommends that the average 2,000 square foot household have no less than 15 houseplants and has published its findings in conjunction with the ALCA on the most effective plants for absorbing common household pollutants like Formaldehyde, Benzene, and Trichloroethylene.

Formaldehyde is used in many building materials like particle board, insulation and cleaning supplies. Benzene is a common solvent in oils and paints. Trichloroethylene is used in paints, adhesives, inks, and varnishes. These pollutants are commonly referred to as VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds).

NASA’s list of the top cleaning plants include several Philodendrons, Dracaenas, Spathiphyllum (Peace Lilly) and Sansevieria (Snake Plant).

Aside for the benefits of absorbing these pollutants they also absorb carbon dioxide and put out oxygen (remember those science lessons?) and they look great to boot!

Costa Farms has a great website, 02 For You with a detailed guide on how to choose the best houseplant(s) for your needs and environment, they even offers a handy store finder.

So lets bring a little of the outdoors indoors this Fall and know that not only are you beautifying your home, but cleaning it at the same time.

Seem more at Clean Air Plant Guide [O2 For You]