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Flower Arranging and Floral Art
How to Clean Silk Flowers Download Article Co-authored by Laura Smith
Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Approved
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Using Dry Cleaning Methods
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Cleaning Your Flowers with Liquids
|
Maintaining Clean Silk Flowers
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Expert Q&A
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Tips
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This article was co-authored by Laura Smith. Laura Smith is a House Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of All Star Cleaning Services. With over 16 years of experience, her team specializes in providing natural and eco-friendly house cleaning services. All Star Cleaning Services has earned the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International’s (ARCSI) Seal of Approval and maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 146,581 times.
Silk flowers and other types of artificial blooms and greenery can enhance the look and feel of a room. Like other accessories, there is a need to clean silk arrangements from time to time in order to keep them looking vibrant and new. For deep cleaning, you can wash your flowers in water or vinegar. To remove built-up dust, things like compressed air work well. Light dusting can help keep flowers clean on a regular basis. Vacuuming and blow-drying your flowers regularly can keep them clean and fresh.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Using Dry Cleaning Methods
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1 Use a bag of rice. Rice can help pull unwanted dirt and grime off of flowers that have been sitting in storage for long periods. Place a cup of uncooked rice in a paper bag. Then, add your flowers. Give the bag a few good shakes and then remove the flowers. Some of the dust and dirt should come off this way.
This can work great with dried flowers and wreaths as well.
2 Shake your flowers in cornmeal. Cornmeal can help remove dust and grime from very dirty flowers. Fill a Ziploc bag with four to five tablespoons of cornmeal. Cornmeal can act as a tiny sponge and remove unwanted grime from flowers. Place the flowers in the bag and seal it. Shake the bag for about 60 seconds. When you remove the flowers, shake them lightly to remove excess cornmeal and then remove the flowers. Dust and dirt should be removed.[1]XResearch source Advertisement
3 Try compressed air. Compressed air can be used to remove small amounts of dust and dirt from silk flowers. You can buy compressed air at most department stores and then use it to remove dust and dirt from silk flowers.[2]XResearch source
You can use the compressed air to blow light coverings of dust and dirt off the flowers.
However, you should avoid compressed air on very delicate silk flowers. It may cause petals to crumble.
4 Use a hairdryer on low speed. If you have a hairdryer, you can use this on silk flowers. This may work on very delicate compressed flowers that would not respond well to compressed air. Turn the hairdryer to a low setting and use it to blow any unwanted dirt and grime from the flowers.[3]XResearch source
This is very effective with very light layers of dust. Heavier dust or dirt may not respond as well to a hairdryer.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Cleaning Your Flowers with Liquids
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1 Wash your flowers in water. If silk flowers have been in storage for a while, they may build up dirt and grime. In this case, you can wash flowers in water with dish soap in a sink full of warm water, mix in two to three tablespoons of gentle dish soap. You can then gently swish your flowers in the water. This should remove any unwanted dirt and grime.[4]X Expert Source Laura SmithHouse Cleaning SpecialistExpert Interview [5]XResearch source
When you're done, set your flowers on a towel. Allow them to air dry.[6]X Expert Source Laura SmithHouse Cleaning SpecialistExpert Interview
Make sure to add water to a small portion of the flowers first to make sure it does not damage them.
2 Use vinegar. Take a spray bottle and fill it halfway with distilled vinegar and halfway with water. From there, shake the bottle until the water and vinegar are mixed together. Spray the flowers with a light amount of the mixture and then let them dry.[7]XResearch source
If you've never exposed your flowers to water before, spritz a light amount of water on a small corner of the flowers to see if it causes damage first.
3 Try cleaning sprays. Many cleaning sprays are sold specifically for silk flowers. Some of these sprays can work well, but use discretion. Make sure the spray is designed for silk flowers, as sprays made for artificial flowers in general may not work on silk.
You should also keep in mind flower sprays may be more expensive than other methods.
4 Use the dishwasher. If you have a dishwasher that can be a set to a gentle cycle, you can wash your flowers on the top rack without detergent. A mild amount of water will wash off set-in dirt and dust. However, make sure the manufacturer's instructions first as some silk flowers are not dishwasher friendly. This can result in your dishwasher getting stained and flowers getting damaged.[8]XResearch source
As always, make sure your flowers respond well to water by adding a small amount to the flowers before washing them.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Maintaining Clean Silk Flowers
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1 Use a duster. A regular duster, such as a feather duster, can be used on flowers on a regular basis. This does not work well for removing built-up dust or debris, but can remove a light gathering of dust. During your regular dusting, make a habit of lightly dusting silk flowers.[9]XResearch source
If some of the dust is stuck on, use a soft bristle brush instead of a regular duster and brush them flower by flower. Do this outside to prevent getting dirt and dust on your floor.[10]XResearch source
2 Vacuum your flowers. If you vacuum regularly, you may want to use a vacuum on silk flowers. Use a detachable hose and hold it a few inches away from your flowers. The vacuum cleaner should collect some of the dust.[11]XResearch source
3 Try a blow dryer. A blow dryer can be used as part of your regular cleaning regimen in addition to removing set in dust. If you clean regularly, try blowing dust off your flowers each time you clean. This will prevent dust from becoming set in and difficult to remove.[12]XResearch source
Question Can you wash fake flowers? Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist Laura Smith is a House Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of All Star Cleaning Services. With over 16 years of experience, her team specializes in providing natural and eco-friendly house cleaning services. All Star Cleaning Services has earned the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International’s (ARCSI) Seal of Approval and maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist Expert Answer Sure you can! My personal tip is to actually rinse them off in the shower, and then set them out to air dry. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 5
Question How can I clean mold from silk roses? T. Chinsen Top Answerer Depending on how severe the mold layer has penetrated the fabric, shampoo with conditioner works on the silk fibers to lift off dirt and add conditioning layer onto the fibers. Use a natural fiber paint brush to scrub the wet silk. Synthetic bristles will damage silk by catching and tearing the fibers. Rinse well, as it may take several scrubs to completely clean the silk. Use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water will cause the flower to lose its shape. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 8
Question Can I use kitty litter to clean my silk flowers? T. Chinsen Top Answerer Kitty litter is designed to absorb liquids. It does the same as the rice and cornmeal described in the article. Test a dry flower first; it may not pull off all the dirt, as the litter is not as small as cornmeal. Next, wet the flower thoroughly and add kitty litter. The litter should pull the surface dirt off as it absorbs the liquid. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 3
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Tips
Always pat and air dry silk flowers rather than rubbing them dry. This will minimize damage to silk products that are somewhat delicate and allow the flowers to retain their original appearance. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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About This Article
Co-authored by: Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Laura Smith. Laura Smith is a House Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of All Star Cleaning Services. With over 16 years of experience, her team specializes in providing natural and eco-friendly house cleaning services. All Star Cleaning Services has earned the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International’s (ARCSI) Seal of Approval and maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. This article has been viewed 146,581 times. 11 votes - 100% Co-authors: 13Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 146,581 Categories: Flower Arranging and Floral ArtArticle SummaryX
If you need to clean silk flowers, place them in a bag with uncooked rice or cornmeal, then shake the bag to loosen dust and dirt. You can also spray the flowers with a can of compressed air to remove light coverings of dirt or dust, but this can damage extremely delicate flowers. If the flowers are very dirty, gently swish them in a mixture of warm water and gentle dish soap, then allow the flowers to air dry on a towel. You can also purchase commercial cleaning sprays especially for silk flowers. If you want to learn how to regularly care for your silk flowers by dusting and vacuuming, keep reading the article!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Anonymous
Jan 25, 2018
"I am moving into my 1st home and have a wide variety of silk flowers, ranging in age and types. 3 of the methods I found to be perfect for my needs: wash in mild dish soap, dishwasher method and portable vacuum. Dust is my biggest allergy, so thank you."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist Co-authors: 13Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 146,581100% of readers found this article helpful. 11 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote
Anonymous
Jan 25, 2018
"I am moving into my 1st home and have a wide variety of silk flowers, ranging in age and types. 3 of the methods I found to be perfect for my needs: wash in mild dish soap, dishwasher method and portable vacuum. Dust is my biggest allergy, so thank you."..." more
Pierrette Weir
Sep 17, 2016
"I just rescued my white silk flowers from storage, and they were gray. Used the tepid water and soap method, and they came out great. Thank you for the tip not to use hot water as it might dissolve the glue."..." more
Julia Wilson
Feb 19, 2017
"Tepid water and patting dry helped. Some of the dark red dye came out of the chrysanthemums but they dried beautifully. Thank you."..." more
Emma Saucedo
Jun 6, 2016
"I never knew this was possible and I love it! Thanks. "
Mary
Jan 16, 2017
"Philosophy of flower arrangements. " Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Co-authored by Laura Smith 
How toPreserve Dead Flowers 
3 Ways to Dry & Preserve Flowers in a Jar: Air-Drying, Silica & Wax 
How to Preserve Flowers, According to Professional Florists 
How to Save Flower Petals: Pressing, Air-drying, & Dehydrating 
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Co-authored by: Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Laura Smith. Laura Smith is a House Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of All Star Cleaning Services. With over 16 years of experience, her team specializes in providing natural and eco-friendly house cleaning services. All Star Cleaning Services has earned the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International’s (ARCSI) Seal of Approval and maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. This article has been viewed 146,581 times. 11 votes - 100% Co-authors: 13 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 146,581 Categories: Flower Arranging and Floral Art Article SummaryX
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1 Use a bag of rice. Rice can help pull unwanted dirt and grime off of flowers that have been sitting in storage for long periods. Place a cup of uncooked rice in a paper bag. Then, add your flowers. Give the bag a few good shakes and then remove the flowers. Some of the dust and dirt should come off this way. 
2 Shake your flowers in cornmeal. Cornmeal can help remove dust and grime from very dirty flowers. Fill a Ziploc bag with four to five tablespoons of cornmeal. Cornmeal can act as a tiny sponge and remove unwanted grime from flowers. Place the flowers in the bag and seal it. Shake the bag for about 60 seconds. When you remove the flowers, shake them lightly to remove excess cornmeal and then remove the flowers. Dust and dirt should be removed.[1] Advertisement 
3 Try compressed air. Compressed air can be used to remove small amounts of dust and dirt from silk flowers. You can buy compressed air at most department stores and then use it to remove dust and dirt from silk flowers.[2] 
4 Use a hairdryer on low speed. If you have a hairdryer, you can use this on silk flowers. This may work on very delicate compressed flowers that would not respond well to compressed air. Turn the hairdryer to a low setting and use it to blow any unwanted dirt and grime from the flowers.[3] 
1 Wash your flowers in water. If silk flowers have been in storage for a while, they may build up dirt and grime. In this case, you can wash flowers in water with dish soap in a sink full of warm water, mix in two to three tablespoons of gentle dish soap. You can then gently swish your flowers in the water. This should remove any unwanted dirt and grime.[4] [5] 
2 Use vinegar. Take a spray bottle and fill it halfway with distilled vinegar and halfway with water. From there, shake the bottle until the water and vinegar are mixed together. Spray the flowers with a light amount of the mixture and then let them dry.[7] 
3 Try cleaning sprays. Many cleaning sprays are sold specifically for silk flowers. Some of these sprays can work well, but use discretion. Make sure the spray is designed for silk flowers, as sprays made for artificial flowers in general may not work on silk. 
4 Use the dishwasher. If you have a dishwasher that can be a set to a gentle cycle, you can wash your flowers on the top rack without detergent. A mild amount of water will wash off set-in dirt and dust. However, make sure the manufacturer's instructions first as some silk flowers are not dishwasher friendly. This can result in your dishwasher getting stained and flowers getting damaged.[8] 
1 Use a duster. A regular duster, such as a feather duster, can be used on flowers on a regular basis. This does not work well for removing built-up dust or debris, but can remove a light gathering of dust. During your regular dusting, make a habit of lightly dusting silk flowers.[9] 
2 Vacuum your flowers. If you vacuum regularly, you may want to use a vacuum on silk flowers. Use a detachable hose and hold it a few inches away from your flowers. The vacuum cleaner should collect some of the dust.[11] 
3 Try a blow dryer. A blow dryer can be used as part of your regular cleaning regimen in addition to removing set in dust. If you clean regularly, try blowing dust off your flowers each time you clean. This will prevent dust from becoming set in and difficult to remove.[12] Advertisement 
Laura Smith House Cleaning Specialist Laura Smith is a House Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of All Star Cleaning Services. With over 16 years of experience, her team specializes in providing natural and eco-friendly house cleaning services. All Star Cleaning Services has earned the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International’s (ARCSI) Seal of Approval and maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. 
T. Chinsen Top Answerer Depending on how severe the mold layer has penetrated the fabric, shampoo with conditioner works on the silk fibers to lift off dirt and add conditioning layer onto the fibers. Use a natural fiber paint brush to scrub the wet silk. Synthetic bristles will damage silk by catching and tearing the fibers. Rinse well, as it may take several scrubs to completely clean the silk. Use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water will cause the flower to lose its shape. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 8 
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