How to Get a Heavy Layer of Dust Off of Dried Flowers
Dried flowers used to create floral arrangements, centerpieces, a wreath for the door or swag for the mantle, whether homemade or purchased pre-made, make a colorful addition to a home's decor. Over time, an issue affecting the beauty of dried flowers is the accumulation of dust on the arrangements. Using three items, cleaning the delicate buds and stems of dust build-up quickly and efficiently is possible with little to no damage to the flowers.
Place flowers outside on a bench or table. Use an extension cord to plug in a hair dryer. Set the hair dryer temperature to cool on the lowest speed setting.
Beginning at the top of the arrangement, use the hair dryer to blow the dust from the flowers and stems. Move the tip of the hair dryer in and around the flowers to remove dust lodged between the stems.
- Dried flowers used to create floral arrangements, centerpieces, a wreath for the door or swag for the mantle, whether homemade or purchased pre-made, make a colorful addition to a home's decor.
- Move the tip of the hair dryer in and around the flowers to remove dust lodged between the stems.
Spread the flower stems apart, if applicable, to direct the air from the hair dryer into crevices to remove dust accumulated near the base of the flowers.
Remove dust from flower containers using a combination of the hair dryer and sable brush to clean the ribs of wreath and swag bases and wicker and woven baskets.
Remove any remaining dust that has settled along stems and around flower heads by lightly brushing over the flowers using the soft sable brush.
Dislodge dust from hard to reach areas where the dust has accumulated and become thick by directing short bursts of air to the affected area utilizing the can of compressed air.
Tip
When using dried flowers in craft projects, spray the flowers ahead of time with a clear sealant. The sealant helps protect against deterioration of the flower and makes the cleaning process easier.
If necessary, remove individual stems from centerpieces, vases and arrangements for cleaning. Clean stem and flower head individually using the hair dryer and brush, then reinsert into the arrangement.
Warning
Dried flowers are extremely brittle and delicate to the touch. When cleaning, handle the flowers as little as possible.
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Tips
- When using dried flowers in craft projects, spray the flowers ahead of time with a clear sealant. The sealant helps protect against deterioration of the flower and makes the cleaning process easier.
- If necessary, remove individual stems from centerpieces, vases and arrangements for cleaning. Clean stem and flower head individually using the hair dryer and brush, then reinsert into the arrangement.
Warnings
- Dried flowers are extremely brittle and delicate to the touch. When cleaning, handle the flowers as little as possible.
Writer Bio
Ferguson began freelancing in 1998 and hasn't put the pen down since. Her editorial stints have included working as a reviewer, managing editor and senior managing editor. She writes for several websites and covers a range of topics, including travel guides, gardening, home decor, crafts, pets and wildlife. Ferguson specializes in flower craft articles and has worked in the flower craft business for some time.
