Adding greenery to your home does more than just brighten up a room; it can actually make the air cleaner, too. Some houseplants have the natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, helping you breathe easier indoors.
In this guide, you’ll find 11 of the best indoor plants known for their CO2-absorbing power. These plants are easy to care for, look great in any space, and can quietly improve your air quality day by day.
If you’re creating a more natural, healthy home environment, these are the plants worth growing.
#1 ZZ Plant
Source: Brecks
The ZZ plant is an easygoing choice that fits well into low-light corners. Its smooth, deep green leaves give a neat, tidy look.
It quietly helps clean the air by removing carbon dioxide and other common toxins. You don’t have to fuss over it much, which makes it perfect for busy homes or offices.
#2 Rubber Plant
Source: Greenmylife
This plant brings glossy leaves and rich color to your room. While it looks decorative, it also filters carbon monoxide and CO₂ from indoor air.
It prefers bright, indirect light and grows steadily without much effort. A great pick if you want something bold and helpful at the same time.
#3 Dumb Cane
Source: Crocus
Dumb Cane is known for its big, patterned leaves and upright growth. It’s a simple houseplant to care for, needing only moderate light and watering.
In return, it absorbs CO₂ and contributes to better indoor air. It fills an empty corner nicely without asking for too much attention.
#4 Arrowhead Plant
Source: Planterina
With its arrow-shaped leaves and fast growth, this plant adds an easy pop of green. It’s adaptable and grows well in hanging baskets or on shelves.
More than just a pretty filler, it helps take in CO₂ from the air. This one’s ideal if you’re looking for low-maintenance greenery.
#5 Succulents and Cacti
Source: Westcoastgardens
These small plants do more than decorate a sunny windowsill. Many of them take in CO₂ at night, which makes them useful in bedrooms.
They don’t need much water and are easy to rotate around your home. If you love simple plants with purpose, they’re a great fit.
#6 Pothos
Source: Bobvila
Pothos vines are flexible and easy to manage, perfect for shelves, pots, or hanging planters. They grow fast, even in low light, and help remove carbon dioxide from the air.
You’ll notice how they trail beautifully without needing much care. It’s a go-to plant for beginners and seasoned plant lovers alike.
#7 Bird’s Nest Fern
Source: Gardeningknowhow
This fern brings soft, wavy leaves and a nice texture to your space. It prefers moist air and a shady spot, which makes it ideal for bathrooms or corners.
Alongside its looks, it helps absorb indoor CO₂. If you like tropical touches, this one fits in naturally.
#8 Jade Plant
Source: Spacejoy
Jade plants are thick, compact, and tidy with a tree-like shape. They’re easy to grow and stay green for years with the right care. One bonus? They help absorb carbon dioxide at night, which is helpful in rooms where you sleep or rest.
#9 Prayer Plant
Source: Thehealthyhouseplant
The prayer plant stands out with its folding leaves and colorful patterns. It opens up during the day and folds at night, adding movement to your room.
It does its part in cleaning CO₂ from the air with consistent light and care. This one adds charm as well as function.
#10 Anthurium
Source: Moonpig
Anthurium is a bright, cheerful plant with heart-shaped flowers. Besides its look, it helps reduce indoor air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide.
It thrives in warm spots with indirect light and doesn’t take up much space. If you want color and clean air together, this is a solid pick.
#11 Snake Plant
Source: Wilbebloomin
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is upright and sturdy. It handles neglect well and is fine with little water or light. One of its best qualities is absorbing CO₂ at night, which supports better indoor air while you sleep.
Place it in your bedroom or living room for a clean, calming feel.