Artificial plants are a popular choice for homes, offices, and commercial spaces thanks to their long-lasting beauty and low maintenance requirements. However, to ensure they continue looking vibrant and realistic, they still require occasional care. Just like any decor element, fake plants can gather dust, fade in sunlight, or become misshapen over time. This guide outlines practical ways to keep your artificial greenery fresh, clean, and appealing all year round.
Regular Dusting
Dust can settle quickly on artificial leaves and surfaces, dulling their appearance. A light dusting every one to two weeks helps keep your plants looking clean and natural. Use a microfibre cloth, feather duster, or a soft paintbrush to gently remove dust. For more intricate plants or tight spaces, a can of compressed air can be helpful. Consistent light cleaning will reduce the need for more intensive washing later and helps maintain the texture and detail of each leaf.
Deep Cleaning
Every few months, artificial plants benefit from a deeper clean. Depending on the materials, you can wipe leaves with a damp cloth or gently wash plastic-based plants with mild soapy water. Always test a small section first to avoid discolouration. For silk or fabric plants, use a soft cloth or brush and avoid soaking. Compressed air or handheld vacuums on a low setting can also remove fine particles from delicate leaves. Once cleaned, allow your plants to air-dry completely before returning them to display.
Deep cleaning also presents a good opportunity to inspect the plant for any areas where dirt builds up, such as the junction between leaves and stems. For stubborn grime, use cotton swabs dipped in diluted vinegar or mild detergent solution. Ensure these tools are only lightly dampened, as over-saturation can damage more delicate materials. With regular upkeep, your fake plants will continue looking crisp and fresh without requiring replacement.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Even though artificial plants don’t require sunlight, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause colours to fade or materials to weaken. Avoid placing them in windowsills or spots that receive constant direct sun. If sunlight exposure is unavoidable, consider rotating plants occasionally to distribute light exposure more evenly. Using window coverings or positioning plants near indirect light sources can also help preserve their vibrant colour and texture.
If your artificial plants are placed outdoors or in semi-covered balconies, consider purchasing those made with UV-stabilised materials. These are specifically manufactured to resist fading and damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Combining UV-resistant materials with careful placement will significantly extend the life of your greenery.
Rotate Plants Occasionally
By rotating your artificial plants every few weeks, you can ensure even exposure to light and air. This prevents uneven fading or dust accumulation on one side. It also gives you the opportunity to refresh the look of your space and inspect the plant for any signs of wear or damage. Subtle changes in placement can keep your decor feeling dynamic and well-maintained.
This rotation also applies to grouped arrangements. If several plants are displayed together, occasionally changing their order or spacing can help maintain a sense of natural randomness. It also allows you to clean and dust more thoroughly around and behind the plants, especially in built-in or corner settings.
Use Protective Sprays
Several commercial sprays are available to enhance the longevity of artificial plants. UV-protectant sprays can shield your plants from sunlight-related fading, especially if they’re placed in bright or semi-outdoor areas. Dust-repellent sprays are also available to slow the buildup of fine particles on leaves and stems. Be sure to check that the spray is suitable for your plant’s material. Always apply in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Before applying any spray, clean the plant thoroughly to ensure the protective product adheres evenly. Some protective sprays are also formulated to add a light sheen or mattify overly shiny plastic, improving overall realism. For frequently handled plants, such as those in waiting areas or product displays, applying a protective barrier can help reduce fingerprints and maintain a cleaner appearance.
Check for Damage
Over time, even artificial plants can experience wear and tear. Stems may bend out of shape, leaves may detach, or pots may crack. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage and address issues as they arise. Bent stems can often be reshaped gently by hand or with warm water, while detached leaves can be reattached with clear adhesive. Ensuring pots are clean and undamaged also helps maintain a polished overall look.
For freestanding plants, check whether the base is still balanced and stable. If needed, add weight to the pot with sand or stones to prevent tipping. When plants become dusty or are moved frequently, adhesive or filler around the base may loosen. Topping up faux soil or replacing pot filler every year or two can keep the plant looking newly installed.
Storage Tips
If you're rotating artificial plants seasonally or storing them for temporary use, proper storage will preserve their condition. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use soft packing materials like bubble wrap or tissue paper to cushion delicate leaves and petals. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of stored plants to prevent bending or crushing. Labelling boxes by plant type or location can simplify future use and minimise unnecessary handling.
Large artificial plants should be stored upright when possible to avoid deforming stems and branches. Consider using garment racks, tall boxes, or purpose-built storage bins that accommodate the full height. For smaller items, plastic tubs or cardboard cartons with dividers are ideal. Always clean plants before storage to prevent long-term dust and dirt from settling in.
Conclusion
Artificial plants offer a timeless greenery solution, but they still benefit from regular care to stay at their best. Light dusting, occasional deep cleaning, and protection from sunlight can all contribute to their long-term appearance. Proper rotation, damage checks, and storage will help maintain their value and appeal. By incorporating simple maintenance into your cleaning routine, you’ll ensure your plants continue to brighten your space with minimal effort and long-lasting beauty.
Contact Evergreen Walls
Looking for artificial plants that are designed to stay beautiful with minimal maintenance? Evergreen Walls provides a curated selection of premium artificial greenery that combines lifelike appearance with durability. Whether you're refreshing your home decor or styling a large-scale commercial fit-out, our collection offers long-lasting plant solutions that are easy to care for. Explore our range today and find out how simple it is to keep your greenery looking its best all year round.
