With air pollution creeping into even the cleanest homes, your indoor air might not be as fresh as you’d hope. But here’s the good news: a few well-chosen houseplants can make a real difference.
These green companions not only liven up your space, they also clean the air you breathe, and your lungs will thank you for it.
In this list, you’ll find 10 of the best indoor plants to support healthy lungs. They filter out harmful toxins, produce more oxygen, and make your home feel more connected to nature.
Even better? They’re easy to grow with just a little care. Let’s take a look!
#1 Pothos
If you want a plant that’s easy to love and great for your lungs, Pothos checks all the boxes. It absorbs ozone, one of the silent threats to lung function indoors, and helps clean the air without needing constant attention.
The cascading vines also look beautiful on shelves or in hanging baskets. Keep it in indirect light and water when the soil dries out. It’s a powerful air purifier that fits effortlessly into any room.
#2 Aloe Vera
Image Credits: Ikea
This hardy plant does more than soothe sunburns. Aloe Vera improves air quality by removing formaldehyde and benzene, both known to irritate the lungs over time.
It’s also linked to easing asthma symptoms and boosting immunity. Place it near a bright window and water sparingly. You’ll get cleaner air and a plant that doubles as a natural remedy.
#3 Spider Plant
Image Credits: The Spruce
Bright, cheerful, and super resilient, the Spider Plant is a standout for improving air quality. It pumps out fresh oxygen and tackles pollutants like carbon monoxide, xylene, and toluene.
That means cleaner air and a little extra support for your respiratory system. Hang it in a kitchen or living room where it gets filtered light. Trim the baby shoots if you’d like more plants to share.
#4 English Ivy
Image Credits: Walterpine
This elegant vine works hard behind the scenes to support better breathing. English Ivy reduces airborne mold and cuts down on irritants that can trigger asthma or bronchitis.
It’s also known to help reduce indoor allergens. Let it climb a trellis or trail from a shelf. Just keep it out of reach of pets, as it’s not pet-safe.
#5 Peace Lily
Image Credits: Ebay
With its graceful white blooms, the Peace Lily does more than beautify a room; it quietly cleans the air of harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
By filtering out irritants that can stress the lungs, it creates a gentler environment for breathing. It thrives in low light and likes slightly moist soil. Mist the leaves now and then for an extra humidity boost.
#6 Snake Plant
Image Credits: Swansonsnursery
The Snake Plant is a lung-friendly powerhouse. It continues releasing oxygen even at night, which makes it perfect for your bedroom. It also absorbs carbon dioxide and other toxins like formaldehyde.
You can leave it alone for days without worry—it’s that low-maintenance. Just give it a sunny spot and let the soil dry between waterings.
#7 Bamboo Palm
Image Credits: Crocus
Want to bring a touch of the tropics indoors while cleaning the air? The Bamboo Palm is a solid choice. It tackles carbon dioxide, VOCs, and other air pollutants that can affect lung health.
With its feathery fronds and tall growth habit, it adds elegance and fresh energy to your space. Water regularly and keep it in indirect light for best results.
#8 Areca Palm
Image Credits: Balconydecoration
This lush palm doesn’t just brighten up a corner, it actually increases oxygen levels in your home. Thanks to its generous leaf surface, the Areca Palm can filter out airborne toxins like xylene and formaldehyde.
It’s also known for boosting humidity, which can ease a dry throat and nasal irritation. Set it near a window and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
#9 Air Plant
Image Credits: Gardeners
No soil? No problem. Air Plants grow without a pot and still help improve the air you breathe. These unique little plants may reduce radon exposure, a natural gas linked to lung cancer.
They’re perfect for creative displays, try mounting them in glass globes or on driftwood. Mist them regularly and soak once a week to keep them healthy.
#10 Rubber Plant
Image Credits: Brighterblooms
With its glossy leaves and strong filtering power, the Rubber Plant is both stylish and effective. It cleans the air by absorbing toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, making your breathing space much healthier.
This plant also boosts oxygen and can handle a variety of indoor conditions. Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the soil dries out.
