How to Clean Artificial Flowers Without Damaging Them

Artificial flowers don't need water or sunlight, but they do accumulate dust over time. A quick, regular clean keeps your faux roses looking as fresh as the day they arrived. Here's exactly how to do it safely.

How Often Should You Clean Artificial Flowers?

For most homes, a light dust every two to four weeks is sufficient. If you live in a dusty environment or keep your roses near a fireplace or cooking area, monthly cleaning may be needed. A quick, regular clean is far more effective — and less work — than an occasional deep clean.

The Gentle Dusting Method (Best for Regular Maintenance)

For routine cleaning, a soft, dry cloth or a clean make-up brush is all you need:

This takes around 30 seconds per stem and, done regularly, prevents dust from building up to the point where a deeper clean is needed.

Compressed Air (Best for Intricate Arrangements)

For arrangements where individual stems are difficult to access — a centrepiece vase, a wreath, or a display with foliage — a can of compressed air (the kind used for cleaning keyboards) works excellently:

What to Avoid

A few things that are commonly tried but should be avoided with real-touch foam roses:

Reshaping Petals After Cleaning

If any petals have become slightly misshapen during cleaning, real-touch foam responds well to gentle warmth. Hold the petal near (but not touching) a hair dryer on a low heat setting for 3–5 seconds, then carefully reshape it with your fingers. The foam will hold the new shape as it cools.

Keeping Them Looking New

The best way to maintain your faux roses long-term:

Looking after your artificial roses takes only a few minutes a month, and they'll reward you with years of beautiful display. Browse our full range of premium faux roses if you're looking to add to your collection.