How to Clean Your Houseplants the Right Way—Plus, Martha's Best Tips

Cleaning your houseplants doesn't just improve their overall appearance; it also keeps them healthy and happy. When plants accumulate dust, it can interfere with oxygen exchange and their ability to photosynthesize. Removing dust and debris from the foliage ensures your plants get enough access to sunlight and can even keep pests at bay. Ahead, we're sharing the best ways to clean your houseplants, including tips from experts and Martha.

How Often to Clean Houseplants

Aim to clean your houseplants once a month, depending on how quickly dust accumulates. You may need to clean them more often if you have pets or if your home doesn't have adequate airflow. "To keep your houseplants happiest, you’ll want to clean them just before or as you see a visible layer of dust begin to form," says Justin Hancock, horticulturist with Costa Farms.

Benefits of Cleaning Houseplants

The biggest benefit of cleaning your houseplants is that it gives them more light. "A layer of dust acts like a filter, reducing the amount of light that reaches the chlorophyll in plant leaves," says Hancock. "Since the plant’s energy to grow and thrive comes from chlorophyll, it’s important your plant get as much light as it can if you want it to grow lush and healthy."

Additionally, cleaning your houseplants can help with pest control, as dust can harbor unwanted insects, says Andrew Bunting, vice president of horticulture for the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

How to Clean Houseplants in the Shower

Cleaning houseplants in the shower is ideal for larger plants. To do so, wrap the pot in a plastic bag, tying it off around the trunk. "I’ve found that is an easy way to reduce the mess, both by reducing the amount of potting mix that spills out and reducing the amount of dripping from the drainage holes," says Hancock. Run the water so it's room temperature, then place your plant in the shower, turning it to ensure the spray of water gets to all leaf surfaces, including the undersides. Once the plant is thoroughly rinsed, shake it off, remove the bag, let it air dry, then return it back to its home.

How to Clean Houseplants With a Spray Bottle

For smaller plants or those that don't like the heavy waterfall from the shower, use a spray bottle instead. "Fill a spray bottle with lukewarm water and mist the leaves thoroughly," says Bunting. "You can add a few drops of mild dish soap for stubborn dirt, but be sure to rinse well afterward." Let the leaves air dry or wipe with a soft cloth.

How to Clean Houseplants Without Water

There are a few ways you can clean houseplants without water. For plants with hardy, shiny leaves, Martha says to gently wipe both the sides of your plant's leaves with a soft, damp cloth. "Avoid rough cloths that can scratch, and be careful not to pull or bend any fragile leaves," says Bunting.

Another way to clean houseplants without water is by using a can of spray air, which works great for removing dust or other buildup from fuzzy leaves like African Violet, Panda Plant, or Moon Valley Pilea. Spray air is also an effective method for removing dust and debris trapped between cacti spines, Martha says.

How to Keep Your Houseplants Clean for Longer

To keep your houseplants clean for longer, reduce the amount of dust in your home by regularly vacuuming and dusting furniture and other surfaces. says Bunting. Additionally, if you live in an area with a lot of pollen or next to a gravelly road, keep your windows closed as much as possible to reduce the amount of dust entering your home, says Hancock. Enhancing airflow can also help prevent dust buildup.