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A good option for beginning gardeners, the spider plant reproduces quickly, growing long, grassy leaves as well as hanging stems, which eventually sprout plantlets—hence its arachnid-inspired name. Place 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. If you've got a dim office that's just screaming for cleaner air and a little touch of nature, try a rubber plant or Janet Craig. Both will tolerate very little sun—although they may grow more slowly—and are at the top of the list for formaldehyde removers, which is particularly important in offices where most furniture is made from particleboard held together by formaldehyde-based glues. Janet Craigs will tolerate more abuse and neglect than rubber trees, but rubber trees are more aesthetically pleasing. Spider Plant Rubber Plants & Janet Craigs Among the few air purifiers that flower, the peace lily adapts well to low light but requires weekly watering and is poisonous to pets and children. This year-round bloomer 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. Though not high on the list of formaldehyde removers, this plant is a tough one to kill. It tolerates a lot of neglect, is forgiving when over- watered, is relatively effective at removing many air pollutants, and it a great starter houseplant for people without much indoor-gardening experience. Golden Pothos are often mistakenly sold as philodendrons, which are related plants that are equally good at removing formaldehyde and are almost as forgiving to newbie houseplant tenders.For the best results, put as many plants as you can care for in the rooms you use most. That means you'll want at least two plants (in 10- to 12-inch pots) per 100 square feet of space; if you're in the middle of major renovations, aim for more plants. One tip: Be sure not to overwater, as too much soil moisture can lead to mold growth. Peace Lily Golden Pathos