Love the look of artificial greenery but not sure how to keep them looking their best? You’re not alone! Faux greenery is a great, low-maintenance way to add a natural look to any room with no watering, sunlight, or pruning needed. But even the most realistic fake plants can lose their “natural” appearance and luster if dust and dirt start to build up.
The good news? Cleaning fake plants is easier than you think. In this blog, we'll guide you through the proper techniques for cleaning artificial plants, ensuring they remain a beautiful part of your home.
Most Common Methods for Cleaning Artificial Plants
Revive your dusty decor with these tried-and-true methods to help keep your artificial greenery clean and vibrant:
1. Water and Microfiber Cloth
One of the simplest ways to clean artificial plants is using plain water and a soft microfiber cloth. Room temperature or cool water works best, especially if your faux plant is delicate. For significant dirt buildup, mix a little mild soap with water, gently wipe the leaves, then rinse and pat dry with a clean towel to remove any soap residue.
2. Hair Dryer
A hair dryer works wonders to blow off dust from an artificial plant. Just be sure to set the hair dryer to a low or cool setting to prevent damage, as high temperatures could harm the plant. Alternatively, you can use a regular fan, which is a great option since it typically doesn’t produce heat. Both methods are best done outdoors or in a space where dust won’t spread throughout the home!
3. Dusting Brush
A soft-bristle dusting brush can safely sweep away dirt and debris. Hold your plant steady to keep it from tipping over and work your way through every leaf and branch. Focus on hard-to-reach areas and crevices where dust is likely to accumulate.
4. Salt
There are two ways to clean artificial flowers with salt.
Method 1: Dip the artificial flower in a mixture of 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 liter of room temperature water then rinse the flower with plain water to remove any remaining salt and dirt.
Method 2: Place the flowers in a plastic bag with a handful of salt, seal it, and give it a gentle shake for about a minute. Remove the flower from the bag and brush off any remaining salt.
The salt acts as a natural abrasive, scrubbing off dust without damaging delicate petals. This technique is a great way to rejuvenate the appearance of artificial plants.
How to Keep Artificial Plants Clean
Once your plants are sparkling clean, use these techniques to keep them that way! Here are a few tips to reduce future dust buildup:
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Regular dusting: A weekly swipe with a microfiber cloth or feather duster keeps dust from settling.
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Pick a good location: Avoid placing fake plants near vents or windows where dust and grime accumulate more quickly.
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Use protective sprays: Use a silk plant cleaner or anti-static spray made for artificial greenery. These products help repel dust and restore the plant’s original shine.
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Store smartly: If you’re rotating seasonal decor, store artificial plants in covered bins or bags to avoid dust between uses.
Get Hands-On with Specific Greenery
Some faux plants require a bit more TLC, especially when they're made from delicate materials. Here's how to handle them:
1. Artificial Trees
For large artificial trees, take them outside, shake off dust, and use a soft-bristle brush or vacuum with a brush attachment for more targeted dirt removal. For stubborn dirt, gently wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
You can also take advantage of rainy weather by placing artificial trees or larger plants outside allowing the rain to naturally wash away dirt. Once clean, dry the plants thoroughly.
2. Textile Flowers
Textile or fabric flowers can be cleaned with a feather duster or a hairdryer on a cool setting. For more stubborn grime, wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. If the flower is heavily soiled, gently wash it with soap and water. Avoid soaking silk flowers as they are sensitive and can fade or lose shape when wet.
3. Paper Flowers
Delicate and beautiful, paper flowers need a gentle hand. Avoid water entirely. Instead, dust with a clean brush or use a hairdryer on a cool, low setting to blow away dust.
Where to Buy Artificial Plants
Looking to refresh your home with beautiful greenery? Whether you’re decorating for the holidays or looking for year-round pieces, we’ve got stunning, high-quality faux plants to bring your space to life.
Explore our collections:
Each piece is designed to last and add more vibrancy to your home space.
FAQ - Artificial Plants
How often should you clean artificial plants?
Aim for a monthly cleaning to prevent buildup. If you live in a dusty area or your plant is near a window or vent, consider dusting more frequently.
How do you clean dirty artificial trees?
Take them outside, shake gently, and use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. For tough spots, wipe with a cloth dipped in soapy water, then rinse and dry.
How do you clean silk flowers?
Dust them gently with a feather duster or use a hairdryer on a cool, low setting. For more thorough cleaning, lightly wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. Use soap and water if they are extra dirty but avoid soaking or submerging in water.
How do you clean paper flowers?
Stick to dry methods. Dust them gently with a soft brush or use a hairdryer on a cool setting. Never use water or liquids.
How do you make artificial plants look new?
Clean them thoroughly, trim damaged leaves, and apply a special faux plant spray to enhance their color and shine.
How to keep artificial plants clean?
Dust them weekly, avoid placing them in high-dust areas, and use anti-static sprays to repel future buildup.
How to keep artificial plants from tipping over?
Stabilize the base with decorative stones or marbles in the planter. For larger plants, consider securing the pot inside a heavier decorative container or anchoring with adhesive pads or plant anchors.
