Cleaning Tips and Tricks for Every Day Clean | Dirt2Tidy

Artificial plants are becoming a mainstay in many homes. After all, is there a greater way to add greenery to your home or office? And it gets even better, you can enjoy the soothing visual sans the hassle of constant watering, pruning, or sunlight.

However, this is not to say you install and forget. Just like real plants, your artificial plants too can collect dust and lose their charm over time. If you want to keep that stunning look shiny, you have to properly and regularly maintain them.

Artificial Plants

The good news is that keeping these plants looking fresh and vibrant is easy. All you need is a little, simple routine care. Now that you’re here, it’s most likely because you’re looking for the best ways to give your plants some tender loving care. Just like regular dusting and surface cleaning in your home, maintaining artificial plants should be part of your domestic cleaning routine. A consistent approach not only keeps your space looking polished but also reduces indoor dust and allergens. Here are five simple steps to help your artificial plants maintain their lifelike appeal—without the need for harsh chemicals or excessive effort.

1. Dust Regularly

Dust is the number one enemy of artificial plants. It settles on the leaves and stems, dulling their vibrant colours and making them appear faded or dirty. To keep your faux greenery looking fresh and realistic, regular maintenance is essential. Start by using a soft microfiber cloth or a feather duster to gently remove surface dust once a week. For deeper cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment on a low setting to lift off more stubborn debris.

If your plants have accumulated grime or sticky residue, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and gently wipe each leaf and stem. Avoid soaking the plant, as excess moisture can damage the internal structure or base. For intricate areas or hard-to-reach spots, a clean paintbrush or a can of compressed air can help dislodge dust without harming the material.

For added shine, you can also use a silk plant cleaner spray, which not only cleans but restores the plant’s original lustre. By incorporating this simple cleaning routine, you can extend the lifespan of your artificial plants and keep them looking brand new all year round.

How to dust properly:

Use a soft feather duster, microfiber cloth, or a soft-bristled paintbrush to gently remove dust from the surface. For smaller or more intricate plants, consider using compressed air. The kind that is used to clean keyboards can be an effective way to blow away dust without damaging delicate parts.

How often:

Aim to dust your artificial plants once a week – more so if they are in high-traffic areas. Otherwise, if they’re in less-used rooms, once every two weeks should suffice. Remember, consistency is key to preventing buildup.

2. Give Them a Gentle Wash

While dusting works for regular upkeep, your artificial plants can definitely do with a deeper cleaning every once in a while. A gentle wash helps remove any grime, or built-up residue that dusting alone may not be able to remove.

How to do it:

First, check to be sure that your artificial plant is water-safe. This information should be displayed on the label or manufacturer’s guidelines. If it is, give it a quick rinse under lukewarm water or wipe it down with a damp cloth.

Add a small drop of dish soap (or use vinegar and water mixture) if needed to remove sticky dirt. Then rinse thoroughly to avoid soap residue.

Pro tip:

Hold the plant upside down while rinsing to prevent water from collecting at the base or in its containers. Always let the plant air dry completely before returning it to its spot. This will help avoid damage from mildew or moisture.

Artificial Plants

3. Refresh with UV Protection Spray

The best thing to do is keep your faux plants out of direct sunlight. Your plants will thank you for this. However, this can be easier said than done. Artificial plants Australia, especially those placed near windows or outdoor areas, can fade over time due to sun exposure.

This is where UV protection sprays come in. They are specially designed to shield faux greenery from harmful UV rays and help maintain their charm.

How to do it:

Purchase a UV protectant spray made for artificial plants or outdoor fabrics. Spray a light, even coat over the entire plant. Make sure to hold the bottle about 12 inches away from your body. Allow it to dry completely before placing the plant back in the sun.

Bonus tip:

Even with UV protection, consider rotating your plants every few weeks. This should ensure it gets evenly distributed exposure. As a result, you’ll be able to minimize the risk of uneven fading – which is even more noticeable.

4. Reshape and Fluff the Leaves

Even the cleanest artificial plant can look off if it’s flattened, misshapen, or awkwardly posed. Over time, plants may get squished or their branches may bend unnaturally. This is especially the case after they have been moved around or stored. Thankfully, most artificial plants have wires inside the stems, allowing you to reshape them easily.

How to do it:

Take a few minutes every month to “fluff” your plants. Gently bend the stems, leaves, and flowers into a more natural arrangement. Make sure each leaf faces outward and that the overall shape mimics how a real plant would grow. This simple step helps your artificial plants look lively and realistic.

Styling tip:

Group your artificial plants with real decorative elements like pebbles, pots, or natural wood bases. This enhances the realism and gives your space a balanced, lively feel.

5. Refresh the Pot or Base

Even the most realistic plant can look tired if it’s sitting in a dusty, outdated pot. Over time, dirt and dust not only gather on the plant but also accumulate around the pot and base, diminishing the overall aesthetic of your space. A quick wipe-down of the pot with a damp cloth and some all-purpose cleaner can instantly refresh its appearance.

Consider upgrading the container to match your home’s interior style—perhaps a modern ceramic pot, a rustic basket, or a sleek metallic planter. Add some fresh decorative stones, pebbles, or natural moss to the base of the plant to cover any exposed foam or filler. Before doing so, make sure to clean the area around the plant stand or shelf—vacuuming or mopping up any dust or cobwebs that may have settled there.

A clean setting enhances the plant’s appeal, making your artificial greenery look more polished and natural. Small touches like these, combined with regular dusting and home cleaning, can transform your living area into a vibrant, tidy sanctuary.

Bonus Idea: Rotate your artificial plants seasonally for a fresh look. It will also help reduce visual monotony in your space.

Artificial Plants

Final Thoughts

Artificial plants are low maintenance but not completely maintenance free. Thankfully all it takes is a little effort to keep them looking fresh and beautiful. Regular dusting, gentle cleaning, protecting from sunlight, and occasional reshaping are key steps to maintaining their lifelike appearance. While these simple tasks can be done at home, professional cleaning services can provide a thorough refresh by removing stubborn dust and grime that regular cleaning might miss. This ensures your artificial plants and your home décor remain vibrant and inviting for many years.

Source: Dirt2tidy.com.au

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