How to Clean Artificial Plants

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Many artificial plants on the market are produced with such life-like details, that it is often difficult to spot an imposter. That is, unless there is a two-inch thick coat of dust and dirt on the leaves and flowers. While maintaining artificial plants is much less difficult and time consuming than maintaining live plants, there is still a moderate amount of upkeep required to keep them looking their best.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Feather duster
Water hose
Spray nozzle attachment
Tap water

Step1

Use a feather duster regularly on your plants. This will help keep dust to a minimum and make big cleanings less of a hassle.

Step2

Pull off a leaf or flower from the back of the arrangement, where it won't be missed. Run water over the piece to see how it reacts. You don't want to drench your entire arrangement with water and then find out it can't handle moisture

Step3

Take your plants outside all at once, if possible, and place them preferably on a cemented area.

Step4

Remove the plants from any containers that are copper or brass, as these often tarnish with repeated water exposure.

Step5

Spray the plants gently with a water hose. A spray nozzle attachment set on "gentle spray" will work best. The main thing to remember is not to drown your artificial plant with water and ensure that the water pressure is moderate, not high. Water pressure that is too high can easily knock off leaves.

Step6

Shake the plant to remove excess water and allow the plant to dry naturally in the sun for a few hours.

Step7

Repeat this process at least every 3 to 6 months.

Tips & Warnings

This process is applicable to most plastic plants and many silk arrangements.
If you don't have access to a water hose, you can also clean your artificial plants in a bathtub or shower.