They look great. Some even smell great. And best of all, they work hard. Houseplants do much more than beautify your home. They can actually improve your health by making indoor air fresher and cleaner. For generations, plants have been used as a secret weapon against allergies and asthma as a source of air purification, and even a natural way to reduce carbon monoxide and other harmful pollutants.
At MTB Mechanical, we understand the importance of maintaining optimal indoor air quality, offering a variety of air purification systems to help our customers breathe easier. This winter, with everyone indoors, consider placing houseplants around your home as a simple, decorative and inexpensive way to further enhance the purity of your indoor air.
Which houseplants should you choose? Here are some suggestions:
- Spider plant – One of the best plants to place in the kitchen or near fireplaces where carbon monoxide accumulates, the spider plant helps remove harmful gases, formaldehyde and xylene.
- Boston fern – As a natural humidifier, the Boston fern releases moisture into the air while removing pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde and xylene.
- English ivy – This plant removes benzene, formaldehyde and various chemicals released by synthetics, and is one of the best air-purifying plants for those with asthma and allergies.
- Areca palm – This humidifying plant removes formaldehyde and xylene from the air.
- Aloe vera – Known for its soothing properties for skincare, the aloe vera plant also helps filter gases from harmful toxic materials.
- Chinese evergreen – One of the most effective air-purifying plants, the Chinese evergreen removes benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
- Snake plant – This plant was studied by NASA scientists, and is proven to have the ability to absorb formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides and a variety of other airborne chemicals.
- Peace lily – As beautiful as it is hard-working, the peace lily is one of the best plants for reducing harmful indoor pollutants and absorbing excess carbon monoxide.
- Marginata – This plant removes benzene, formaldehyde and other toxins from the air. BUT BEWARE: It can be poisonous to dogs.
As you can see, there are many options to consider when choosing the right houseplants. But of course, the best way to ensure optimal indoor air quality is with a well-maintained heating and cooling system. If it has been a while since you’ve had your system inspected by a professional, sign up for MTB’s Priority Comfort Agreement, complete with a 57-point maintenance tune-up. And if you’re interested in a high-quality air purification system, now is the time to save, with a special discount on the HALO-LED™ Air Purifier. Depend on MTB to stay comfortable this winter, and all year long. Schedule an appointment online or call (704) 459-4066 .
