“Houseplants contribute to a healthier indoor environment in addition to adding a touch of greenery to our living spaces.” However, regular maintenance and care include cleaning houseplant leaves, which is necessary to keep them flourishing. You might wonder if cleaning them is necessary. Yes, keeping the leaves clean helps plant respiration be faster. Over time, dust, dirt, and grime can build up on the foliage, limiting photosynthesis and bringing in bugs, significantly decreasing the plant’s growth.
Effective houseplant cleaning starts with gently wiping down the leaves with a soft, damp cloth or sponge; harsh chemicals or cleaning products can damage the leaves. To deal with tougher dust or tough spots, make a homemade cleaning solution by diluting water with a small amount of mild liquid soap or insecticidal soap.
In this article, theHplants team will discuss the significance of cleaning houseplant leaves and practical techniques for keeping your plants looking happy and healthy. So, come along to learn how to ensure your plants have enough air to breathe.
How do you clean houseplant leaves?
First, to learn how to Clean the Leaves of Houseplants, you should pay attention to these points:
- The type of plant leaves: Is the leaf of your plant leathery or hairy?
- Plant leaf size: Are the leaves of your plant large or small?
- Plant sensitivity: Plants are different from each other in terms of sensitivity.
But you can clean your plants at home with easy methods; note that you should not use polishes and chemicals to clean houseplants because they will cause damage to your plants
Why should we clean houseplant leaves?
The most important reason for cleaning houseplants is the dust and dirt on their leaves, which also gives an inappropriate appearance to the decoration of our houses. To solve this problem, we must clean our plants regularly and thoroughly. In addition to the fact that our plants need to be cleaned due to dirt, there are other reasons for cleaning plants’ leaves. One of these reasons is that the materials that cover the leaf’s surface block the Stomata (leaves’ pores), which are very similar to the pores of human skin. The plant breathes and sweats through these stomates.
Also, the plant uses the leaves to produce energy from sunlight, and the leaves and dust do a large amount of the plant’s respiration. Blocking these pores can interfere with photosynthesis and plant respiration. Plants’ leaves are more than a beautifying part of the plant. _ their function is vital. Dirty leaves can jeopardize the plant’s health and growth. Just like your own body, keeping Leaves of Houseplants is very important.
Functions of Plants leaves
Plants leave have Three Main functions, i.e., Producing Food through Photosynthesis, exchanging Gas exchange between the plant and the atmosphere, And evaporating water through sweating. Dirt and dust covering the leaves’ surface will prevent these functions and consequently impact the plants’ health and growth.
1 Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is one of the essential biological processes of plants. Through this Chemical process, Carbohydrates that can be used for plant nutrition will be produced. In this process, the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere combines with the water that enters through the roots. Sunlight is absorbed by the leaves and drives the process of producing oxygen and glucose.
The dust that covers the leaves prevents the absorption of sunlight energy and slows down photosynthesis. When photosynthesis gets slow, the plant won’t be capable of producing the needed Carbohydrates for growing, blooming, and repelling insects and disease.
2 Exchanging Gas and Steam
The Little Pores of the leaves, called stomates, open and close based on environmental Conditions (e.g., temperature, and relative humidity) to allow the exchange of gas and steam.
The Pores open to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during photosynthesis. They also open to allow water to evaporate, a process known as transpiration, to facilitate the cycle of moisture that enters through the roots and moves through the plant.
Anything that clogs the stomatal mouth, especially dust and oils, impedes gas and water vapour exchange, slowing plant processes and affecting growth.
By regularly cleaning the houseplant leaves using the method we will mention, you can eliminate the dust and oil covering the leaves’ surface. As a result, plant processes on the leaf surface, such as photosynthesis and gas and steam exchange, will be optimized, resulting in average plant growth.
The most common method on how to Clean the Leaves of Houseplants
The most common and easiest way to clean houseplant leaves is by using water. You can use water spraying for plants that are sensitive or have small leaves, and for plants that have bigger leaves and can be washed, you can wash them with lukewarm water. Washing plants with water can prevent the spread of pests under the leaves. Do not use cold or hot water for washing because it causes tension and destroys the plant.
To get rid of the dust from the leaves quickly (for plants such as lilies), gently wipe the leaves with a towel moistened with lukewarm water to clean the dust on the leaves. Do not do this at noon. For cleaning, it is better to use soft cloths to avoid damaging and scratching the leaves. To avoid damaging the leaves, hold the underside of the leaf with your other hand and prevent the stem from breaking.
Note: If spots appear on your plant’s leaves after spraying or cleaning with water, you can use demineralized water to prevent spots.
Be sure to note that: Although products advertised as leaf brighteners may seem easy to keep your plants cleaner and prettier, they can compromise your breathability and cause plant photosynthesis disorders.
What equipment can be used to clean the Leaves of Houseplants?
- First, you need a plant
- Water
- Spray
- the cloth
- Toothbrush
- bucket
- liquid soap
- Mayonnaise (for topping, optional)
1 Wash the leaves of your plants once in a while
The best cleaning and preventive Action you can take to avoid dirt and dust on the leaves is to wash their leaves with lukewarm water. Avoid using cold water, which causes spots on the leaves and shocks the roots. Keep in mind that houseplants are often from tropical regions and are used to warm rains.
- To wash small houseplants, place the plant on the kitchen sink. If you have a high-intensity water sprayer, spray lukewarm water on the plant.
- Move larger houseplants to the bathroom. Flexible and movable showers are more suitable for this work. Allow the plant to dry, and then replace it.
2 Clean the leaves of houseplants with milk
You can use milk to clean and shine the leaves of the plant, milk can make the leaves shine because of its fat, like all kinds of oils, but this shine is temporary unless you use fat-free milk. Milk can be helpful for plant leaves due to having some vitamins and minerals; also, a small dose of calcium is good for leaves. Using milk to clean the leaves can disinfect the surface of your leaves to some extent (due to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties). Using a 50/50 mixture of milk and water (half water and half milk) can effectively clean leaves and provide nutritional benefits. Now, you may wonder: Doesn’t milk cause our plant to smell bad or attract insects to the plant? In answer to these questions, it should be said that mixing milk with water at a ratio of 50/50 or 40/60 will prevent your plant from smelling bad. Still, in the case of insects, it is better to use a dry and clean cloth to have the leaves dry.
Tip: Do not use flavoured milk to clean plants with milk.
3 Cleaning the leaves of houseplants with lemon juice and vinegar
Both lemon and vinegar are acidic substances, so you should be very careful when using these two substances so as not to burn the plant. These two substances can cause the loss of mineral deposits on the leaves and clean the leaves of your plant, but in case these two substances are appropriately diluted, you can use them to clean the; eaves of the plant; but don’t use this method for sensitive plants with thin and soft leaves.
Dilution: In the vinegar case, adding half a teaspoon in 2 litres is better. You can dissolve half a lemon in a cup of water in the lemon juice mixture.
4 Clean the leaves of the plants with a damp cloth
One of the easiest ways to clean houseplant leaves is to use a damp cloth. To do this, gently wipe the leaves with a cloth moistened with lukewarm water to clean the dust on the leaves. Do not do this during the noon.
- Paper towels and lint-free cloths are acceptable, but they can cause damage to plant leaves over time. It is better to choose a very soft fabric.
- To avoid damaging the leaves, hold the underside of the leaf with your other hand and support the stem to prevent it from breaking.
5 Clean the dust of hairy leaves with a toothbrush
It is better to use soft brushes to clean hairy plants such as African violets. How do you use a toothbrush to clean plants? To avoid damaging the leaves, hold the leaves with your hand and clean them with a gentle movement using the toothbrush.
- To avoid damaging the leaf, hold it with your free hand and clean it gently with the toothbrush. Clean the leaf from beginning to end.
- To remove dust from the hairy leaves, you can use a small painting brush and the toothbrush.
6 Use water and a liquid pan to clean houseplant leaves
Plants with small leaves are called plant nerves, and cleaning each leaf (like Serratula) is time-consuming. These plants can be cleaned using lukewarm water and washing thoroughly. Add a few drops of washing liquid to help clean the plant leaves.
- Hold the pot and the soil with your hand. Turn the pot upside down and immerse the leaves in a bucket of water. Move it slowly in the water and place it where it dries completely. This drying should be done slowly; do not put it near the heater.
7 Can we use a combination of water and washing liquid to clean the leaves of houseplants?
The answer is yes. For example, cleaning each leaf in plants with small leaves is time-consuming (Serratula). You can wash these plants with lukewarm water and a few drops of washing-up liquid. When using washing-up liquid, do not use strong washing liquids. Be careful with the number of drops to avoid damaging the plant. Keep the plant and soil with your hand, turn the pot upside down, and immerse the leaves in a bucket of water. Slowly move it in the water and place it where it dries completely. This drying should be done slowly; do not put it near the heater.
Be sure to read: watering snake plant
8 Bathe your plants in a lukewarm shower
You can use this method as often as you like. It is very suitable for plants that absorb dust, such as Christmas cacti and philodendrons, especially when they are big.
- First, put your plants on a stool.
- Put the plant under a warm shower.
- Use a moveable shower. Be careful not to set the water temperature too high. Lightly spray the leaves to wash away dust and dirt. Do not spray water for a long time.
- Let it dry.
- Return the plant to its original location.
9 Use mayonnaise to make the leaves of your plant shine.
This method is not suitable for all plants, such as African violets and plants with hairy leaves.
- First, remove the dust from the leaves with a spray of hot water and dishwashing liquid.
- Put some mayonnaise on a damp cloth and apply it on each leaf separately. The oil in the mayonnaise makes the leaves shiny.
- After that, gently wipe the mayonnaise with another cloth.
Essential tips about cleaning houseplants:
- Remember that some houseplants, such as cacti and succulents, are incompatible with some of the methods mentioned. These plants should be cleaned with a dry method; for example, the toothbrush method mentioned above may be suitable.
- Using milk and water on plant leaves can make them shiny after dusting.
Warnings about clean houseplant leaves:
- Avoid using commercial products that are produced to shine the leaves of plants. These products close the plant’s stomata and reflect the sunlight that the plant needs for photosynthesis.
- Mayonnaise can attract mosquitoes and dust. Be sure to wipe the leaves with another cloth afterwards to prevent this from happening.
Post-Cleaning Care
To keep your houseplants looking and feeling good, providing them with the right post-cleaning care is crucial. Cleaning the leaves well with plain water is essential to remove any dust particles or cleaning solution residue that might still be attached to them. This cleaning procedure aids in avoiding any possible accumulation that can eventually damage the leaves or draw bugs.
Letting the leaves dry naturally is important before moving the plant to its regular spot. Avoid exposing wet leaves to intense heat or sunlight, as this may cause sunburn or water spots on the leaves. Instead, let the plant dry naturally in a well-ventilated, shady area. Once the leaves are fully dry, you can put the plant back in its original location, making sure it continues to get enough light and care for healthy growth.
Leaf Problems as a Result of Improper Cleaning
When houseplant leaves are not cleaned properly, they can develop several issues that affect the plant’s general health and beauty. One effect is the development of water marks or stains, especially if the leaves are exposed to sunshine before they are totally dry. These patches may prevent photosynthesis by obstructing light absorption and are unsightly on the plant.
Also, using abrasive products or strong cleaning solutions can cause physical harm or leaf burn. Over time, chemical waste on leaves can result in browning, discolouration, or even death. Similarly, using rough towels or brushes on delicate leaves can cause tears or scratches, increasing the plant’s vulnerability to insect or virus invasions. In addition, if the plant is not properly washed after cleaning, leftover soap or mineral deposits may remain, forming a sticky film on the leaves that draws dirt and dust and impairs the plant’s capacity to breathe and grow. It’s critical to use gentle cleaning techniques, stay away from strong chemicals, clean well, and give your houseplants the post-cleaning care they need to prevent these problems.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to clean leaves on indoor plants?
Clean the leaves of the plant with a wet cloth. Support each leaf by placing one hand under it, wiping the top of the leaf with the other hand, and moving away from the stem. Then repeat this work on the underside of the leaf, where pests like to hide in the apartment.
Should you clean the leaves of indoor plants?
Although it may seem tedious, regularly cleaning the leaves of houseplants is essential. Layers of dust on foliage block sunlight and reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize.
This article explained the best and most appropriate methods and essential points of cleaning houseplants. If you have any questions, problems, or experiences, write to us in the comments section so our experts can send your answer as soon as possible.