The single best thing about artificial plants is that they ask almost nothing of you — but "almost nothing" is not "nothing at all". Dust settles on leaves over time and, left too long, it dulls the colour and gives the game away. The good news is that cleaning faux greenery takes minutes. Here is how to keep your artificial plants looking freshly unboxed.
The weekly quick dust
For routine upkeep, a soft feather duster or microfibre cloth run lightly over the leaves is all you need. A quick going-over every week or two stops dust building up in the first place, which is far easier than tackling a thick layer later. A hairdryer on a cool setting is brilliant for blasting dust out of dense foliage and hard-to-reach inner branches.
The occasional deeper clean
Every few months, or when leaves look dull, give them a proper clean. For most plastic-leaved plants, wipe each leaf with a damp cloth, or mist with a little water and wipe dry. For a group of small plants, a lukewarm bath with a drop of washing-up liquid, a gentle swish and a rinse works well — just let them dry fully before returning them to their pots.
Caring for fabric and flowers
Silk and fabric flowers should not be soaked. Instead, dust them gently, or pop them in a bag with a spoonful of salt or dry rice and shake — the abrasion lifts dust without wetting the fabric. Then shake out the residue.
Don't forget the pot
A grubby pot undoes a clean plant. Wipe the outside of the planter, refresh any decorative moss or stones on top, and check the base is still weighted and stable. This finishing touch makes the whole display look cared-for.
Keep colour lasting longer
To reduce fading between cleans, keep non-UV plants out of harsh direct sun, and choose UV-stabilised designs for the brightest spots. A little routine care and the right placement will keep your greenery convincing for a decade or more. Browse durable, easy-clean designs across our artificial trees and plants, with free UK delivery over £30.
