Put a spider plant on a pedestal or in a hanging basket close to a sunlit window and you’ll benefit from fewer airborne formaldehyde and benzene molecules.
Red-Edged Dracaena – This plant will take care of gases released by xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde, which can be introduced by lacquers, varnishes, and sealers.
Golden Pothos – Like many other vines, it tackles formaldehyde, but it also targets carbon monoxide and benzene. Place one in your mudroom or entryway, where car exhaust fumes – heavy in formaldehyde – are most likely to sneak indoors from the garage.
Boston Fern – It works especially well in removing formaldehyde, which is found in some glues, as well as pressed wood products, including cabinetry, plywood paneling, and furniture. (Some studies also show it can remove toxic metals, such as mercury and arsenic, from soil.)
Lady Palm – Targets ammonia, an enemy of the respiratory system and a major ingredient in cleaners, textiles, and dyes.
Peace Lily – Blooms year round and rids the air of the VOC benzene, a carcinogen found in paints, furniture wax, and polishes. It also sucks up acetone, which is emitted by electronics, adhesives, and certain cleaners.