Top 5 Air-Purifying Hanging Plants Perfect for Small Apartments

Paramjeet Dhillon
Oct 17
3 min read

Updated: Oct 18

Hanging plant in a white pot by a window with sunlit green leaves. Text reads "Top 5 Hanging Plants for Apartments" in bold.

Living in a small apartment can feel cramped, but bringing in plants can change everything. Hanging plants not only save floor space but also create a lively atmosphere and provide numerous health benefits. Many of these plants are champions at purifying the air. Here, we’ll look at five excellent air-purifying hanging plants that are perfect for small apartments.

At Harit Mantra, our goal is to educate, inspire, and guide plant lovers—especially those living in compact spaces.

1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos, often called Devil's Ivy, is a favorite for indoor gardening due to its resilience and ease of care. This trailing vine can grow in various lighting conditions, from low light to bright indirect sunlight.

Pothos is particularly effective at removing common toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. Research suggests it can remove up to 80% of these pollutants within 24 hours. Its heart-shaped leaves feature numerous shades of green, with some varieties displaying beautiful patterns.

Close-up view of lush green Pothos leaves hanging in a bright room

Care for Pothos is straightforward; water it only when the top inch of soil feels dry. This makes it a top choice for busy individuals or those new to plant care.

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The Spider Plant is perfect for small spaces and brings a unique charm with its arching green leaves and spider-like offshoots.

Spider Plants are proven to remove pollutants like carbon monoxide and xylene from indoor air. A study by NASA found that they can remove approximately 90% of these toxins within two days. They thrive in bright, indirect light but are adaptable to lower light levels, making them versatile for many apartment layouts.

High angle view of a Spider Plant cascading from a hanging pot

Caring for a Spider Plant is simple; just ensure it has well-draining soil and water it when the top inch feels dry. With minimal effort, you'll enjoy this beautiful plant's aesthetic and health benefits.

3. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

If you seek a lush, green addition to your apartment, consider the Boston Fern. Its feathery fronds create a lovely cascading effect when hung.

Boston Ferns are excellent at removing formaldehyde and other harmful toxins from the air. Reports indicate that they can increase indoor humidity, enhancing overall air quality. They thrive in humid environments, so placing them in a bathroom or kitchen is beneficial.

Eye-level view of a Boston Fern hanging in a bright, airy space

To care for a Boston Fern, keep the soil consistently moist and provide indirect sunlight. Regular misting of leaves can help maintain the humidity needed for this plant to thrive.

4. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)

The String of Hearts features delicate, heart-shaped leaves on long, cascading vines. This charming plant brings a unique touch to your decor and works perfectly for hanging baskets.

String of Hearts also helps purify the air by removing toxins. This low-maintenance plant thrives in bright, indirect light and is known to tolerate periods of neglect.

Close-up view of String of Hearts plant with cascading vines

Water the String of Hearts when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. Its stunning appearance and air-purifying qualities make it a delightful addition to any small apartment.

5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English Ivy is a classic choice for hanging plants. Its elegant, trailing vines adapt well to various environments and contribute significantly to clean air.

This plant excels at filtering airborne toxins, including formaldehyde and mold spores, contributing to a healthier indoor space. English Ivy can reduce airborne mold by up to 94% in just 12 hours, according to studies.

Wide angle view of English Ivy cascading from a hanging planter

To care for English Ivy, maintain moist soil without overwatering. Regular pruning can help keep its shape and encourage fuller growth, allowing your plant to thrive.

Learn & Grow with Harit Mantra

At Harit Mantra, our goal is to educate, inspire, and guide plant lovers—especially those living in compact spaces. Whether you're styling your apartment, planning a balcony setup, or just exploring indoor greenery, we’re here with the right tips and ideas.

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