We also breathe chemicals at home, even if we don’t feel it.
Many people think the biggest air problem is outside—smog, exhaust fumes, and street dust. However, things can get tough at home, too, especially after painting the walls, buying new furniture, or intensive cleaning with strong detergents.
The US EPA has been reminding us for years that levels of some volatile organic compounds may be higher indoors than outdoors.
That’s why the topic of air-purifying plants is coming back like a boomerang. And the peace lily, or Spathiphyllum, often crops up here. It’s a pretty plant, quite popular, and easy to place in a living room or bedroom. Online, it’s sometimes called “NASA-approved,” though it’s worth clarifying what that really means.
Where did the spathiphyllum get its fame and what was NASA studying?
The popularity of the spathiphyllum stems, in part, from a well-publicized 1989 NASA study of plants in enclosed spaces. The study tested the ability of selected plants to remove certain chemicals, such as benzene and formaldehyde, in test chamber conditions. The spathiphyllum was one of the species that caught the researchers’ attention.
This sounds great, but honesty is key. These tests were conducted in specific, enclosed conditions, not in a typical apartment with daily airing. Subsequent analyses emphasized that plants alone cannot replace ventilation or an air purifier in a normal home. And this is the key to a sensible approach.
What can a spathiphyllum give in practice and what should not be expected?
It’s best to treat peace lily as a support, not a magic solution. It’s a plant that enhances the feel of a space, adds a touch of moisture, and reminds us that the quality of air in our home matters. If you place it next to your desk or in the living room, you might simply feel that the room is more pleasant. And sometimes that’s valuable, especially if you work from home a lot.
From my own experience, the mere presence of plants can change the atmosphere of a home. People open windows more often, keep things tidy, and are less likely to overuse “heavy cleaning chemicals.” These may seem like small things, but it’s these kinds of things that often make a difference in everyday comfort.
How to care for your peace lily so that it looks and serves you well
Spathiphyllum prefers a bright spot, but without harsh sunlight. It thrives in diffused light and a relatively warm room. The soil should be slightly damp, but not wet. If the leaves are dusty, it’s worth gently wiping them down; a clean surface simply looks better and provides the plant with better living conditions.
An important consideration that many people overlook is home safety. Spathiphyllum can be toxic to pets and small children, so it’s best to place it in a location that’s harder to reach. This simple step allows you to enjoy your plant without stress.
The best effect is achieved by combining a few simple habits.
If you want to improve the air in your home, don’t just go for it. Spathiphyllum can be a nice addition, but the most beneficial effects come from regular airing, using cleaning products judiciously, and avoiding products with strong odors. The EPA clearly states that indoor pollutant sources have a significant impact on air quality.
Spathiphyllum won’t work miracles overnight, but it can be a great start to change. And sometimes, a single plant can be the beginning of more conscious care for your home, health, and daily breathing comfort.