How to clean plant leaves
Dust-free leaves catch more light and hide fewer pests
Why bother
Dust on leaves blocks light, so the plant makes less food, and it can clog the tiny pores leaves breathe through. Clean leaves look better and grow better.
Cleaning also helps keep insects and mites down, and it's a good excuse to look each plant over closely.
Big, smooth leaves
Wipe each leaf gently with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with plain, room-temperature water, about 60–75°F (16–24°C). Support the leaf from underneath with your other hand, and clean both the top and the underside.
Don't leave leaves soggy after wiping.
Small or many leaves
Rinse the whole plant under a gentle, lukewarm shower or sink sprayer. Check the pressure and temperature on your hand first, and let the plant drain before you put it back.
Small plants can be swished upside down in tepid water, with the soil covered so it doesn't fall out. In warm weather, a gentle spray from the hose outdoors works too.
Fuzzy leaves
Don't wipe fuzzy leaves like African violets with a wet cloth, and don't splash water on them. Brush the dust off with a soft makeup brush or a soft paintbrush instead. Cold water spots African violet leaves, so keep it away from them.
Skip the shine and soap
Leaf-shine products leave a coating that attracts dust and clogs the leaf's pores, and they should never go on hairy leaves. Dish soap and detergents can damage the waxy surface of leaves and brown them. Plain water is all a leaf needs.
If you do use a commercial shine on firm leaves, put a little on a cloth instead of spraying the plant. Once a month is plenty.
How often
Clean leaves every few weeks to every few months, or whenever they look dusty. Plants near open windows, in kitchens and in busy rooms need it most. Do it when the plant can dry quickly, such as in the morning, and look for sticky spots, cottony tufts or bumps while you work.
Related plant problems
Sources
- Iowa State University Extension: How can I clean the dusty foliage of my houseplants?
- NC State Extension: Extension Gardener Handbook, 18: Plants Grown in Containers
- Clemson HGIC: Indoor Plants: Cleaning, Fertilizing, Containers & Light Requirements
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Indoor Plants or Houseplants (factsheet)
General guidance, not a diagnosis. Written by PlantWiz in our own words from the sources above.