Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a major concern for homeowners in Canoga Park and the San Fernando Valley, where outdoor pollution, wildfire smoke, and allergens can make their way inside. While proper AC maintenance from MightyServ and high-quality air filters play a big role in keeping the air clean, houseplants can also help improve air quality naturally. Some plants are known for their ability to remove toxins, filter out airborne pollutants, and even increase humidity levels, making your home a fresher, healthier place to live.
If you’re looking to enhance indoor air quality while adding greenery to your space, here are some of the best plants to consider.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – The Low-Maintenance Air Purifier
The snake plant, also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue,” is one of the easiest plants to care for while being an air-purifying powerhouse. This hardy plant thrives on neglect, needing very little water and surviving in low-light conditions. According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, snake plants remove toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide from the air.
Unlike most plants that release oxygen only during the day, the snake plant continues to produce oxygen at night, making it a great option for bedrooms. If you want an easy-to-care-for plant that contributes to cleaner air, this is a perfect choice.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – The Pet-Friendly Air Filter
If you’re a pet owner, the spider plant is a safe and effective option for improving indoor air quality. This plant removes toxins like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene while also helping to increase humidity levels indoors.
Spider plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a worry-free addition to homes with furry friends. They also grow rapidly and produce “baby plants” (or spiderettes), which can be replanted to expand your collection of air-cleaning greenery.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – The Moisture Booster
For homes that struggle with dry air, especially during winter or wildfire season, the peace lily can help add moisture to the air while filtering out toxins. This elegant plant is known for removing ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, improving overall indoor air quality.
However, peace lilies are toxic to pets if ingested, so if you have curious cats or dogs, it’s best to keep them in a safe, out-of-reach spot. With proper care, this plant rewards you with beautiful white blooms and better humidity levels indoors.
4. Aloe Vera – The Multi-Purpose Plant
Not only is aloe vera great for soothing burns and skin irritation, but it’s also effective at removing airborne toxins like formaldehyde and benzene—common pollutants found in household cleaning products and furniture.
Aloe vera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires minimal watering, making it an excellent low-maintenance air purifier. Plus, you can break off its thick leaves and use the cooling gel inside for a natural skin remedy!
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – The Humidifier Plant
For homes dealing with dry indoor air, the Boston fern is one of the best plants for adding humidity naturally. This lush, green plant is highly effective at removing formaldehyde and xylene, making it a great addition to living rooms, bathrooms, and offices.
Since Boston ferns require consistent moisture, they do well in bathrooms where they can benefit from shower steam. They’re also pet-friendly, making them a great option for households with cats and dogs.
6. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) – The Allergy-Friendly Choice
The Areca palm is a fantastic air-purifying and humidity-boosting plant that’s especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. This plant acts as a natural humidifier, reducing dryness in the air and making breathing easier.
Areca palms filter out toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, improving air quality in high-traffic areas like living rooms and offices. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require regular watering to stay healthy.
Maximizing Indoor Air Quality with Plants & AC Maintenance
While houseplants play a role in improving indoor air quality, they shouldn’t be the only solution. Wildfire smoke, pollution, pet dander, and dust can all impact your home’s air, and your AC system plays a crucial role in filtering these contaminants. Pairing indoor plants with a high-efficiency air filter (MERV 11+), regular duct cleaning, and seasonal AC tune-ups will ensure your home stays fresh and free of airborne irritants.
If you’re looking for expert AC maintenance or IAQ solutions in Canoga Park and the San Fernando Valley, MightyServ is here to help! Call us at (818) 348-4768 to schedule a consultation and breathe easier in your home.
