How to Clean Dried Flowers: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Blooms Beautiful
Dried flowers are a timeless and sustainable way to bring beauty into your home. They last far longer than fresh blooms and require minimal maintenance—but they do need a little care now and then. Over time, dried arrangements can collect dust and lose their luster if not looked after properly.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to clean dried flowers safely and effectively, so your arrangements stay gorgeous for months (or even years!) to come.
Why Do Dried Flowers Need Cleaning?
Unlike fresh flowers, dried blooms don’t benefit from water or pruning—but they’re still exposed to air, dust, and sunlight. If left unattended, that beautiful bouquet on your shelf can start to look a little dull. Cleaning your dried flowers regularly keeps them looking fresh, natural, and display-ready.
How to Clean Dried Flowers: Step-by-Step
1. Use a Soft Brush (Best for Delicate Blooms)
Gently sweep a clean, soft-bristled brush (like a makeup brush or artist’s brush) over your flowers to remove surface dust. This method works well for fragile flowers like lavender, statice, and baby’s breath.
Tip: Always brush in the direction of the petals and stems to avoid breakage.
2. Try a Hairdryer on a Cool, Low Setting
A quick blast of air can be surprisingly effective for cleaning dried flowers. Hold a hairdryer about 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) away, and set it to the coolest and lowest speed. Gently blow away the dust.
Warning: Too much pressure or heat can damage delicate flowers, so test carefully.
3. Use Compressed Air (With Caution)
For fuller arrangements or hard-to-reach spots, you can use a can of compressed air (like the kind used for cleaning keyboards). Use short, gentle bursts to avoid damaging the petals.
4. Prevent Future Dust Buildup
• Display your arrangements away from vents, fans, and high-traffic areas.
• Store seasonal arrangements in a lidded box when not in use.
• Consider covering long-term displays with a glass dome or cloche for added protection.
What Not to Do
• Don’t use water or cleaning sprays. Moisture will damage or mold your flowers.
• Don’t shake the flowers. This can break petals or stems.
• Don’t use rough cloths or feather dusters. These can snag delicate materials.
How Often Should You Clean Dried Flowers?
We recommend giving your arrangements a gentle dusting every 1–2 months, depending on where they’re displayed. High-traffic or sunny areas may require more frequent care.
Final Thoughts
With just a bit of TLC, your dried flowers can look stunning season after season. Whether you’ve picked up a bouquet from The Dry Decor or dried your own blooms, cleaning them the right way ensures they remain a beautiful, long-lasting part of your space.
Looking to refresh your display or build your collection? Explore our full range over on www.thedrydecor.co.uk