Indoor Plants that Detoxify Your Home

                                                    

Did you know that formaldehyde and benzene, common air pollutants are lurking in your home? Indoor air pollution is most commonly caused by synthetic building materials but cleaning products and personal care products are culprits as well. Symptoms of exposure to formaldehyde and benzene include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and they have also been linked to asthma. So if you’re looking for some natural ways to detoxify your home, while beautifying it at the same time, check out this list of house plants that will help to clean the indoor air.

Aloe- Aloe is a plant that helps to clear formaldehyde and benzene from the air, but the gel on the inside of the plant can help to heal cuts and scrapes. It’s perfect for a kitchen window where it will thrive in the sun. It only needs to be watered once every week or so. Aloe can also be used to help soothe a sunburn and can even be used as a hair conditioner.

Areca Palm- Areca palms are one of the easiest palms to grow indoors. It is one of the top air purifying plants, so it not only looks good but is good for you as well. The Areca Palms require bright, indirect light; near a window is best and it only needs to be watered when the soil feels dry. This plant is safe if your home has pets.

English Ivy-  Also helpful at filtering out formaldehyde, this plant can reduce air borne fecal matter as well. It grows best with about 4 hours of direct sunlight daily and moist soil.

Peace Lily- This plant is at the top for filtering out formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene, a solvent that is toxic to human and wildlife. Caring for the Peace Lily is easy- when it droops it needs water. It does well in shady areas.

Rubber Plant- Also great at removing formaldehyde, the Rubber plant grows in little sun. It only needs to be watered well about once a week, and the leaves may require a light misting of water.

Snake Plant- We love snake plants! It is one of the best plants for getting rid of formaldehyde and other air pollutants. These plants don’t require much light and only need to be watered when the soil feels dry. They also absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen at night.

Spider Plant- The spider plant is great at eliminating benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene. They like bright indirect sunlight; they do best in cooler temperatures and like drier soil. They are safe if you have pets in the home.

So if you are wondering what would make a great closing gift for your customers, you my want to consider one of these plants.

I am a realtor working in South Florida. If you need help buying or selling a home, please contact me. Also, please view my website where you will also be able to search the MLS. http://www.lindatabaskygoldberg.keyes.com/