From bacteria that tracks in with you from your daily life, to mold, pesticides and household chemicals, the air we breathe indoors isn't always as clean as we'd like. And in the winter, when we spend more time than ever indoors, it's important to pay mind to your air quality. While cleaning your HVAC system regularly can help, another secret weapon for clean air - and a splash of lively color - are indoor plants. 

Whether you're looking for a little green to brighten your days, or plantlife to boost your indoor air quality, the following plants are hardy and easy to care for.

Spider plants. These green and white plants are easy to care for. They thrive on bright, indirect sunlight. When they're happy, they send out shoots with flowers that eventually grow into baby spider plants, easy to propagate.

Snake plants. These plants are nearly impossible to kill, so they're a great pick for busy homeowners. The plant prefers drier conditions with infrequent watering, and can thrive in nearly any light situation.

Dracaena. These palm-like plants come in over 40 varieties, so it's easy to find one you like. However, they are toxic to pets, so choose a different plant if you have a dog or cat. They like lots of space (think large, deep pots) and misting rather than direct watering.

Bamboo. Fun and beautiful, bamboo is a great choice for homes with tall ceilings, as they can reach up to 12 feet. However, the plants are slow growing - it will likely be several years before you have to repot.

Aloe. These succulents are easy to care for, can grow well with minimal watering, and are said to remove formaldehyde from the air. An added bonus: the plant's healing properties. Keep it in the kitchen for instant relief from small burns.

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