Can indoor plants purify the air better than air purifiers? Read to find out

What natural methods of air purification are there?

Natural air purification methods involve using natural solutions to improve indoor air quality. The most well-known approach is the addition of houseplants, which are often credited with their ability to filter toxins and increase oxygen levels.

The idea gained traction after NASA published Clean Air Researchwho suggested that certain houseplants can remove harmful pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde from the air. This study shows that indoor air quality can be improved by adding plants. However, the study was conducted in sealed chambers and under very specific conditions that do not exactly reflect the reality of most homes.

Also read: Find the perfect air purifying filter to suit your needs: detailed tips for cleaner, healthier indoor air

That’s why we take everything into consideration to determine whether using plants to improve indoor air quality is actually a good idea. Read on as we dive into a detailed comparison, exploring the strengths and weaknesses of both plants and modern air purifiers.

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How effective are indoor plants for purifying the air?

Houseplants create a calming atmosphere, but when it comes to cleaning the air, their abilities are often exaggerated.

Although plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, their ability to remove toxins under real-world conditions is minimal. According to a 2019 study published in the journal Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiologyyou’ll need an impractical number of plants to match the performance of a standard air purifier.

Additionally, plants require maintenance and, if neglected, can accumulate dust or even mold, which can worsen air quality rather than improve it.

Also read: Best Car Air Purifiers: Improve Air Quality, Remove Pollutants, and Enjoy a Cleaner Commute

Are modern air purifiers more effective?

Modern air purifiers are designed to effectively and quickly eliminate air quality problems. Equipped with technologies such as HEPA filters, activated carbon filters and UV light, they can capture a wide range of pollutants, including allergens, dust, mold spores and even some bacteria.

HEPA filters are excellent at capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them ideal for combating allergens such as pollen and pet dander. Activated carbon filters add another layer of protection by removing odors and volatile organic compounds that plants are unlikely to cope with.

In terms of speed and coverage, modern air purifiers are hard to beat. They can purify the air in minutes and cover large areas, making them a practical choice for those looking for measurable results.

Are natural methods environmentally friendly?

This is one area where natural methods such as indoor plants work best. The plants do not require electricity, and their care is limited to periodic watering and care. This is an eco-friendly option for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.

On the other hand, modern air purifiers consume electricity and often require filter replacement, which creates waste. However, many models are designed to be energy efficient, and filters can usually be recycled or disposed of responsibly.

Which option is better for allergies and asthma?

For people with allergies or asthma, modern air purifiers are usually the best choice. They are specially designed to filter out allergens such as pollen, pet dander and dust mites that plants simply cannot deal with effectively.

Houseplants, while beneficial in terms of psychological and aesthetic value, can sometimes aggravate allergies if they collect dust or form mold. For people with respiratory sensitivities, relying on plants alone may not be the best solution.

Also read: Keep Pollution Free and Fight AQI Deterioration with the Best Indoor Air Purifier: 9 Best Ways to Survive Polluted Air

What about cost and service?

Houseplants are relatively inexpensive compared to modern air purifiers. Buying several plants will not cost you much, and caring for them only involves watering, pruning and providing the necessary amount of light.

However, modern air purifiers have higher upfront costs and require filter replacement, which can increase long-term costs. But while the initial cost of air purifiers may be higher, their effectiveness in significantly improving air quality makes them a worthwhile investment.

Can air purifiers and plants be combined to improve indoor air quality?

Instead of choosing one, why not use both? A modern air purifier will do the heavy lifting of removing allergens and pollutants, while plants can add a touch of green and help boost oxygen levels in your space.

This combination approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of clean air and the calming, natural ambiance that plants bring to a room.

Check out these portable air purifiers.

Do natural air purification methods really work?

Houseplants can improve the environment and improve air quality slightly, but they can’t match the effectiveness and coverage of modern air purifiers.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing way to freshen up your space, plants are a good option. But for significant improvements in air quality—especially if you suffer from allergies, asthma, or live in a highly polluted area—a modern air purifier is a more effective choice.

Ultimately the decision depends on your needs and priorities. By combining the strengths of both approaches, you can create a cleaner, healthier indoor environment while enjoying the natural beauty that plants bring to your space.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Do indoor plants really purify the air?

Answer: Houseplants can improve air quality slightly by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, but their ability to remove pollutants is limited compared to modern air purifiers.

Question: Are air purifiers more effective than plants?

Answer: Yes, air purifiers are much more effective at removing pollutants, allergens and toxins from the air thanks to advanced filters such as HEPA and activated carbon.

Question: Can I use plants and air purifiers at the same time?

Answer: Yes, a combination of both can be beneficial: plants add natural aesthetics and some oxygen, and air purifiers actively remove harmful particles and allergens from the air.

Question: Are indoor plants beneficial for people with allergies or asthma?

A: While houseplants can improve the aesthetics of a room, they may not be the best for people with allergies or asthma because they can attract dust and mold if not cared for properly.

Question: Are natural air purification methods environmentally friendly?

Answer: Yes, methods such as plants and activated carbon are environmentally friendly, require minimal energy and have a low environmental impact compared to the electricity consumption and waste produced by air purifiers.

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Published: Nov 21, 2024 05:20 PM IST