Rooted & Radiant
Guide· Indoor Plants 4 min

Air-Cleaning Plants: What They Really Do + Some of My Favorites

Do air-cleaning plants really clean indoor air? Here's what the research actually means, why I still love growing houseplants, and a few things to consider before bringing another plant home.

Air-cleaning plants. You've heard the term, you've probably seen the lists, and if you're anything like me, it's another perfectly good reason to bring home another plant. 😂

But what does "air cleaning" actually mean?

Plants have shown the ability to remove certain airborne compounds in controlled environments. The part that sometimes gets left out is that the number of plants needed to significantly clean the air in an average home would be...a lot. Your snake plant in the corner isn't replacing proper ventilation or an air purifier.

Does that mean I'm getting rid of my plants? Absolutely not.

Plants bring greenery into my home, some add humidity through transpiration, and caring for them is something I genuinely enjoy. There's also something about walking into a room full of healthy plants that just makes the space feel different.

So when you hear "air-cleaning plant," think of it less as a tiny leafy air purifier and more as one piece of creating a home environment you actually enjoy being in.

And if this information has somehow convinced you that you need another plant...

I may have found something. 👀😂

Curated Find: Plant Addicts Summer Clearance

Plant Addicts has a Summer Clearance Sale, and you already know clearance plants and I have a complicated relationship.

I love finding plants at a good price—especially something I've been wanting to try—but remember: a sale is only a deal if the plant actually works for your space.

Before you invest in one, check:

  • Light requirements
  • Water needs
  • Your growing zone if it's going outdoors
  • Mature size
  • Pet safety if that's relevant in your home

Then proceed to plant shopping. 😂

Shop the Plant Addicts Summer Clearance

Anything I linked here also lives in The Market, if you'd rather browse it all in one place.

Disclosure: This post includes an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

What I use

  • Plant Addicts — Summer Clearance

    Where the clearance plants are. Check light, water, zone, mature size, and pet safety before you buy.

    See it

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