When a new object enters your space, whether it’s a home decor, a sculpture, or a plant, it’s the epitome of perfection. However, with time, the impact of dust and grime becomes evident. While cleaning household items like carpets, furniture, and patios are part of our routine, what about the artificial plants in your indoor space?
These faux plants seldom accumulate a lot of grime, but a routine dust-off and an in-depth cleansing once or twice a year will keep them looking fresh. Here’s how you can maintain your indoor faux plants’ pristine appearance.
1. A Duster Might Be All You Need
Numerous types of dusters are available in the market, ranging from traditional cotton cloths to anti-static ones. Depending on the size and fragility of your faux plant, choose the most suitable duster. For example, a soft cloth might work wonders on a petite and delicate plant, whereas a long-handled duster may be more suitable for larger and sturdier plants.
Start the cleaning process from the top, making your way down. This method ensures that any displaced dust won’t settle on the already cleaned areas. The type of duster, the plant’s size, and the amount of dust may sometimes require outdoor cleaning to avoid an indoor mess.
2. The Humble Brush Works Too
An anti-static dusting brush or a regular paintbrush can also get the job done. Like the duster method, start from the top and work your way down, adjusting the brush size according to the plant size. For example, a large cheese plant would benefit from a four-inch brush, while a delicate, smaller plant may require a more petite brush.
3. Your Vacuum Cleaner Can Come Handy
If your vacuum cleaner comes with a soft brush attachment and an upholstery setting, it can be an efficient dust-removal tool. However, caution is required to prevent damage due to inappropriate attachment use or excessive suction. This method is typically suited for more robust plants and trees.
4. Try the Hairdryer Technique
A hairdryer can effectively remove dust from your plant, but remember, you’re merely relocating the dust. Hence, follow up with vacuuming or, if you’re using this method outdoors, sweep or mop the area to prevent dust dispersion. Set the hairdryer to a cool setting and don’t linger in one area for too long to prevent overheating.
Blasts of compressed air, like keyboard cleaners, can be an alternative, particularly for smaller, delicate plants.
5. Cleanse with a Damp Cloth
Starting from the top, working down leaf by leaf, a damp cloth can give your artificial plant a good clean. But ensure the fabric is colorfast to avoid color transfer, and dry it off with a towel or paper towels afterwards.
6. Caution with Water
While outdoor artificial plants can handle a water rinse, indoor ones may react differently. Some may withstand the water, but others might face color fading, water damage, or distorted shape. Be careful with the pot too, as its contents may not be water-resistant.
If water cleaning is a viable option, wrap the pot to protect it, then gently shower the plant with cool water either indoors or outdoors. Avoid soaking the plant, opting for gentle rinsing instead.
Immersing the plant in a sink or bathtub, or running it through a dishwasher cycle, may not be a good idea, even if it seems convenient. Some materials may survive the process, while others, like silk, could be damaged or discolored.
For those confident about the dishwasher method, ensure the plant, pot, and its contents are waterproof, the plant fits well without bending, and a cool, quick wash cycle without detergent is selected. Once washed, let the plant dry outside direct sunlight, and re-shape it as required when it’s nearly dry.
7. Salt Shake – It Works!
For silk flowers that can’t handle damp cleaning, try a salt shake. Add half a cup of salt into a sealable plastic bag with the flowers and give it a gentle shake. The salt acts as a mild abrasive to dislodge the dust and dirt. Remove the flowers from the bag afterwards, shake them gently or use a cool hairdryer to get rid of any remaining salt grains, then reshape the flowers as necessary.
Maintaining the aesthetics of your indoor artificial trees and plants requires a bit of work, but with the techniques mentioned above, your faux flora can stay fresh and vibrant all year round. Cleaning artificial plants is an art that requires delicacy and patience, but the end results are worth it.
At Elegant, we take pride in offering top-notch artificial plants that not only enhance the aesthetics of your indoor spaces but also ensure easy maintenance and long-lasting vibrancy. Catering primarily to importers, distributors, and chain stores, we are committed to delivering cost-effective, high-quality solutions to meet your decorative needs.
Remember, regular maintenance of your artificial plants not only keeps them looking their best but also extends their lifespan, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. Choose Elegant for your artificial plant needs and enjoy a touch of nature’s beauty without the hassle.
