Do Spider Plants Filter the Air?

Spider plants remove toxic gases from the air.

Spider plants make good houseplants because they are quick growing, very easy to care for of and, according to a NASA study, they are one of the top-ranked plants for helping to filter air.

Gases in the Air

Toxic gases are released by common household items.

Gases, such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, are released by common household items including synthetic carpeting, particleboard, foam insulation, upholstery, curtains and plastic objects. According to a 1973 NASA study, too much exposure to these gases can cause burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat, nausea, coughing and skin rash.

Filtering the Air

Spider plants remove toxic gases and replace them with fresh oxygen.

How spider plants filter the air varies depending on the plant's size, air temperature and the air pollution level. A 1989 study by B.C. Wolverton that was supported by NASA showed that they are most effective at removing formaldehyde. Once spider plants remove toxic gases, they replace them with fresh oxygen. Although spider plants will help to alleviate gases from the air, they will not help to rid the air of tobacco smoke or dust.

Spider Plants Inside

Spider plants are useful in kitchens with gas stoves.

Spider plants are especially useful in areas where carbon monoxide tends to build up like rooms with gas fireplaces and kitchens with gas stoves, especially if these rooms are enclosed.

References

• Blankees: Air Cleaning House Plants
• Plant Care: Spider Plant House Plants for Beginners
• Earth Witchery: Pollution
• Home Air Guide: House plants as a living air purifier
• NASA: Science and Technical Information: Plants Clean Air and Water for Indoor Environments