Cleaning dried flowers?

Question

I have a dried flower arrangement that has been in storage for awhile and it has dust and cobwebs all over it. What is the best way to clean dried flowers?

Answer 1

Well, it may be beyond help, but here's a couple of things to try.

First, get your vacuum cleaner, set it on the lowest setting, and maybe put some pantyhose over the opening (remove the carpet beater -- just use the hose). See if you can remove the dust without removing the flowers.

Second, put a cup of salt in a large trash bag. Put the flowers in there, and close the bag. GENTLY shake. The salt will "grab" the dirt, and fall off. I've had great luck with artificial flowers this way. But dried flowers may be too delicate.

It might be time to say goodbye to your arrangement, go for a hike, and grab some materials for a new arrangement. Next time, be sure to store the flowers in a dust-proof container. A cardboard box sealed in a plastic bag might work.

I hope something works for you.

The water/swishing may work. I wouldn't use this method with artificial flowers because the dyes might "bleed." But if your flowers are all natural, it may be OK. GENTLY is the key word.

Answer 2

Have you tried a feather duster or canned Air? You can purchase canned air which is typically used for cleaning keyboards. It's worth a try. I wouldn't think that putting your dried flowers in water would be a good thing.
Good Luck

Answer 3

Swish gently in water and hang upside down to dry.