Do 160 House Plants Actually Make Your Air Cleaner?

Houseplants do play a role in improving indoor air quality, but their impact may not be as significant as many would like to believe. This article explores the realities of how effectively houseplants contribute to air purification and whether your 160 house plants truly make the air cleaner and more oxygen-rich.

The Science Behind Houseplants and Air Quality

One common belief is that houseplants can significantly enhance air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. However, scientists have conducted studies to evaluate the efficacy of indoor plants in removing ozone, one of the most common air pollutants.

According to a study by the University of Missouri, houseplants may offer a modest contribution to ozone removal, with effectiveness ranging from 0.9 to 9%. This percentage, while positive, is rather limited and does not justify the claim that houseplants are a primary method for air purification.

Expert Opinions on the Impact of Outdoor Plants

Several experts in the field, such as Elliott Gall from Portland State University, Michael Waring from Drexel University, and Richard Corsi, a long-time air-pollution researcher, have expressed skepticism regarding the air-cleaning capabilities of houseplants.

"It’s such an alluring and enticing idea," said Elliott Gall, a Portland State University professor, indicating that the appeal lies in the idea but not in the reality.

"My view is even harsher than that. I do not think that houseplants clean the air," stated Michael Waring, an engineering professor at Drexel University.

"A resounding 'no'," agreed Richard Corsi. He believes that houseplants' contribution to air purification is negligible, comparing them to a pair of old socks or a baseball cap hanging on the wall.

Why Houseplants May Not Make Your Air Cleaner

While houseplants do produce oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis, the impact on the overall oxygen levels in your home is minimal. The amount of oxygen produced by 160 house plants is not sufficient to noticeably increase the air quality or oxygen content of a large space.

Moreover, the presence or absence of oxygen does not directly correlate with the cleanliness of the air. Air quality is influenced by various factors, including pollutants, humidity, and temperature, not just the presence of plants.

Benefits of Houseplants

Even though 160 house plants may not make your air cleaner, they still offer a variety of other benefits:

Psychological Benefits: Houseplants can reduce stress and improve your mood. Aesthetic Appeal: They add beauty and elegance to your home. Improved Humidity: Plants can help maintain optimal humidity levels, which can be beneficial for your overall health.

Conclusion

While houseplants do produce oxygen and may provide some psychological benefits, they are not a significant contributor to improving indoor air quality. However, this does not diminish the enjoyment and benefits of keeping houseplants. If your primary goal is to improve air quality, you may want to consider additional methods, such as air purifiers, ventilation, and natural ventilation techniques.