Stop Breathing Toxins: 10 Air-Purifying Houseplants

4. Aloe Vera

An Aloe Vera plant, a well-known succulent and one of the effective air purifying house plants, sits in a terracotta pot on a wooden windowsill overlooking a sunny beach and ocean. Next to the plant is a glass with an iced beverage. A handwritten note stuck to the window reads, 'My Sunburn Savior (and MY Apartment's Air Hero),' highlighting the plant's dual benefits for skin care and improving indoor air quality in a bright, coastal setting.

My Sunburn Savior (and My Apartment’s Air Hero)

I’ll never forget the time I forgot sunscreen at the beach and came home looking like a lobster. My skin was raw, and I was seconds away from crying into my iced coffee.

That’s when I remembered my little Aloe Vera plant sitting on the windowsill—looking all calm and green while I was melting down. I snapped off a leaf, squeezed out that jelly-like goo, and slathered it on my sunburn. Within minutes? Instant relief. Like magic.

But guess what? That same plant wasn’t just there for my skincare emergency—it was also quietly cleaning the air in my apartment, absorbing formaldehyde and benzene like a champ. Two jobs, one tiny plant. That’s efficiency!

Drought-Tolerant and Totally Low-Maintenance

Let’s be honest: not everyone has time to water plants every week. I sure don’t. But Aloe Vera is built for busy people like me. It stores water in its thick, spiky leaves, so it can go weeks without a drink and still look fresh.

I keep mine on a sunny windowsill in my studio apartment and only water it when the soil feels totally dry—which, let’s face it, is maybe once a month. And even then, it forgives me if I forget. Total MVP status.

If you live in an apartment or work in a small office space, this plant fits right in. It doesn’t need much room, loves the light, and adds that clean, natural vibe to any desk or counter.

Skincare Meets Air-Purifying Perfection

If you’re into beauty, skincare, or experimenting with natural remedies, you’re going to love this plant. I’ve used my Aloe Vera gel on everything from bug bites to dry patches—and yes, even as a makeup primer.

And beyond topical use, it’s comforting to know it’s pulling double duty by improving my indoor air quality. It’s like having your own personal spa and air filter rolled into one easy-to-care-for plant.

Quick Tips From a Plant-and-Skincare Geek

Only water when the soil is completely dry
Place in direct sunlight or bright windows for best results
Keep away from cold drafts or AC vents
Break off a leaf for DIY skincare fixes

Seriously, if you want something that looks good, works hard, and gives back—this is your plant.

Now that we’ve covered the ultimate skincare plant, let’s move on to one that’s perfect for anyone who’s ever dealt with… well, poop particles in the air. Yes, really. Click the ‘Next’ button below to check it out!