First of all, it’s good to know that the frequency of cleaning depends on the plant’s environment. Generally, cleaning houseplant leaves once a month is enough. However, if your plants are near windows, vents, or in areas prone to collecting more dust, it’s better to clean them every two weeks.
This process helps indoor plants receive the sunlight they need for photosynthesis and also prevents different types of pests.
Simple Steps to Clean Houseplant Leaves
1. Protect the Soil
Before cleaning the leaves, it’s better to cover the soil of the houseplant with plastic wrap to prevent it from becoming too wet or contaminated by cleaning solutions. You can place the plant in a sink, tray, or bathtub to catch any excess water.
2. Dust the Leaves
Start by gently dusting the surface of the leaves. For houseplants with large leaves and smooth like Monstera or rubber plants, gently wipe the surface with a dry microfiber cloth to remove surface dust. This helps the leaves breathe better.
For plants with fuzzy leaves, like African violets, use a soft brush to dust them. Avoid cleaning these sensitive leaves with water, as it can damage them; brushing is a safer alternative, but do it gently.
3. Clean the Leaves with Water
Using a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water, lightly mist the leaves. Then, wipe each leaf with a damp cloth or sponge, and remember to clean both sides of the leaf, as dust can accumulate underneath as well. While cleaning, support each leaf with your hand to prevent damage.
For smaller plants, you can dunk the entire plant in water to remove the dust. Just make sure to cover the soil with plastic to prevent it from washing away.
Tip: If you are in an area with hard tap water, it’s much better to use filtered or distilled water for cleaning the leaves.
4. Use a Plant-Safe Soap Solution
If the leaves are very dirty or sticky, add a small amount of plant-safe soap, like Castile soap, to the water. Clean the leaves with the soapy water, and then rinse them with clean water to avoid blocking the stomata.
5. Naturally Shine the Leaves
Instead of using commercial leaf shine products, which can block the stomata and attract dust, it’s better to use natural products. A solution of water with a few drops of neem oil (use very little) can be used to clean and shine the leaves without harming them. Neem oil also repels pests. Alternatively, gently rubbing a banana peel on the leaves can give them a natural shine.
Common Mistakes
– One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning houseplant leaves is using strong chemicals or household cleaners. Products like bleach, vinegar, or ammonia-based solutions are too harsh for sensitive leaves and can burn them, damage them, or block the plant’s pores (stomata). These products can also leave residues on the leaves that interfere with proper breathing and nutrient absorption by the plant.
– Scrubbing the leaves too hard or using rough cloths can cause tears or bruises, especially in delicate plants. Some people clean their plants as if they have a personal vendetta against them :)).
– Another mistake that can lead to long-term damage is using cold water directly from the tap, which can shock the plant.
– Another mistake is placing the plant in the sun to dry after cleaning it.
I tried to explain things simply and briefly, but if you have a specific houseplant or are in a unique climate, feel free to ask me in the comments. I’d be happy to help.
source:
https://u.osu.edu/why-you-should-clean-the-leaves-of-houseplants/
