Written By:
Table of Contents_
Comparing an air purifier vs house plants requires you to digest the differences between what each option offers. The biggest difference is in the level of care and thought. Air purifiers are set-and-go for the most part. Plants require special attention, sometimes several times a day. Some people don’t have the time to take care of plants at all, and that’s fine. Just make sure you find the best air purifier for your indoor spaces.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
When comparing an air purifier vs house plants, consider the amount of time you have to dedicate. There are several plants that require low maintenance. However, they might not clean the air effectively enough. Most households should consider having both an air purifier and plants to achieve better air quality. Although, you can also check out activated carbon filters vs HEPA filters, and air filters vs air purifiers for even cleaner air. If you love natural methods for air cleaning, look into the comparison between an air purifier vs a Himalayan salt lamp.
Houseplant newbies should choose a hearty plant that requires little maintenance. Plant care can be difficult to learn and maintain. A healing aloe plant is a great choice if you’re just starting out. If you want an all-natural way to clean common household toxins, plants are a great option. If you’re wondering about other natural options for high air quality, check out our article comparing an air purifier vs an open window.
Insider Tip
Use an automatic watering system with your houseplants to save time on their care.
Houseplant newbies should choose a hearty plant that requires little maintenance. Plant care can be difficult to learn and maintain. A healing aloe plant is a great choice if you’re just starting out. Bamboo plants might be the answer if you’d like big, green leaves on ornamental plants. Looking for waxy leaves? Baby spider plants will spruce up any space.
But, if you want the added benefit of cleaner air, use your houseplants along with a purifier, like the one in our Airocide air purifier review.
You’ll want to consider whether your plant needs indirect light, direct sunlight, or a combination of both. Light conditions are crucial. Before investing, talk to a plant care professional, specifying whether you need an easy-care plant or can handle fussy plants. Some plants are easier than others. For example, the Peace Lily requires moist, well-drained soil and bright, indirect light to thrive. This makes it a popular houseplant for beginners.
There are a couple of important areas to consider when figuring out which method is ideal for your needs. The best option is to have a combination of both houseplants and an air purifier. This will give you high clean air delivery rates while providing a long-term natural solution.
An air purifier is your best bet if you’re serious about removing airborne toxins. Some common houseplants can help indoor air pollution abatement. However, houseplants’ benefits can’t compare to the health benefits offered by air purifiers. Also, be sure to read about the benefits of a room vs a whole house air purifier.
Comparing prices between air purifiers and common houseplants is tricky. An air purifier will have an upfront cost to swallow but requires little maintenance besides replacing air filters. Plants will cost time, energy, and money to maintain. Even with a low-maintenance plant, you’ll need to know whether they need direct sunlight or indirect light, how many feet tall they might grow, and if they need regular misting. Air purifiers are the clear winner if you need a cost-effective solution for cleaning indoor air pollutants.
Warning
Pet owners should be aware of what plants could be toxic to their animals before bringing anything home.
F.A.Q.S
Do plants really help indoor air quality?
Different plant species have varying effects on indoor environments. While some indoor plants can be effective air cleaners, others won’t help much at all.
Which houseplants should I buy to help purify the air?
Having an effective plant is important. Try any of the following plant species:
How do plants supplement air purifiers?
Indoor houseplants process air more slowly than air purifiers. They remove carbon dioxide from the air and release low levels of oxygen. This is far different from indoor air purifiers which consistently remove indoor air pollution.
How many plants do I need to purify the air?
That depends on how many feet of floor space you have. You don’t want your living space filled to the brim, after all. Having a couple of potted plants in each room should be fine.
STAT: According to the source, an estimated 33.1 million U.S. households participated in indoor houseplant gardening in 2019. (source)
REFERENCES:
