We tend to think of our indoor air as safer than the polluted air outside. But studies show that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted. One of the most underestimated sources? VOCs. What Are VOCs? VOCs stands for “Volatile Organic Compounds” – chemical substances that evaporate at room temperature and enter the indoor air. Common examples include: Formaldehyde, Benzene, Toluene, Acetone, Terpenes. These compounds are emitted by a surprising number of everyday items.

Houseplants can absorb certain VOCs and trap small amounts of PM2.5, but their air-cleaning power in real homes is minimal. Research shows plants work well only in sealed lab chambers, while electric air purifiers remove fine dust, allergens and pollutants far more effectively. Plants are a great addition, but no substitute for true air filtration.

Air exchange is key: without sufficient ventilation, carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels rise, a sign of poor air quality. A U.S. study in elementary schools found CO₂ concentrations above 1,000 ppm in most classrooms, indicating inadequate ventilation . These rooms had more respiratory viruses detected in air and nasal samples, while classrooms with higher air exchange showed about an 80 percent lower infection risk .