Create a Homemade Air Purifier Using Unwanted Garden Plants
Materials Needed
Creating a natural air purifier with items from your home is a simple and effective way to improve indoor air quality. The primary materials include:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Lemons
- Limes
- Oranges
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Star anise
- Essential oils (optional)
Method of Preparation
Onion and Garlic Method
To utilize the air-purifying effects of onions and garlic, slice them and place them in a bowl. The sulfur compounds released by these vegetables are believed to neutralize pollutants and improve air quality.
Citrus Method
Slice lemons, limes, or oranges and place them in a bowl. The oils found in the peels of these citrus fruits can help freshen and purify the air, releasing a pleasant aroma while combating odors.
Spice Method
Utilize common kitchen spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Known for their natural deodorizing properties, these spices can be set in a bowl or hung in small muslin bags where needed.
How It Works
The natural air purifiers operate by releasing compounds that neutralize or absorb air pollutants and odors:
- Onions and Garlic: Release sulfur compounds that attract and neutralize pollutants.
- Citrus Fruits: Emit citrus oils that freshen and purify the surrounding air.
- Spices: Diffuse aromatic oils which help in deodorizing and purifying the air.
Placement and Maintenance
Place the bowls or muslin bags filled with your chosen ingredients in areas where air purification is desired. Regular maintenance is crucial as these ingredients lose potency over time. Onions and garlic might require replacement every few days, while citrus slices could last slightly longer before needing to be refreshed.
Additional Tips
- Essential Oils: Enhance the purifying effect by adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus to the bowls or muslin bags.
- Combination: Mix different ingredients to create a more potent natural air purifier.
Benefits
These homemade air purifiers serve as cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternatives to commercial air purifiers. They help eliminate odors and some pollutants, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Limitations
While these approaches can help freshen and slightly purify the air, they may not match the effectiveness of commercial air purifiers in removing all types of pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter and other microscopic pollutants.
By following these simple steps, you can create natural air purifiers, utilizing items you typically have at home, and enjoy a fresher, more pleasant indoor environment.
