Houseplants are supposed to make your home look fresh and vibrant, not like they’re doubling as dust collectors. There are some plants seem to attract dust like a magnet, making cleaning them a bit of a chore.
No need to worry if you have these seven plants—here’s how to keep them dust-free and thriving.
1. African Violets (Streptocarpus ionanthus)
African violets are beloved for their velvety leaves and stunning blooms, but that soft fuzz isn’t just for looks—it’s a dust trap. The fine hairs covering the leaves hold onto particles, and because this plant hates getting its leaves wet, cleaning can be tricky.
- Avoid water to protect delicate leaves.
- Use a soft brush like a makeup or paintbrush.
- Compressed air works, but use sparingly.
2. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The iconic fiddle leaf fig, with its large, glossy leaves, is notorious for attracting dust. Since each leaf has a slightly textured surface, dust settles in quickly, dulling its vibrant green color.
- Wipe with a damp cloth, supporting the leaf.
- Rinse large plants, then dry excess moisture.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants might be low-maintenance, but their long, arching leaves create the perfect surface for dust buildup. Since they often produce baby offshoots, they end up with even more nooks and crannies for dust to settle in.
- Wipe with a damp cloth or use microfiber gloves for easy cleaning.
- Rinse in the sink or shower if dust buildup is heavy.
4. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Monstera’s dramatic, hole-filled leaves may give it a stylish jungle vibe, but they also make cleaning more difficult. Dust collects not only on the broad surfaces but also in the fenestrations (those distinctive leaf holes).
- Wipe large leaves with a damp cloth.
- Use a small sponge or soft brush for tricky holes.
- Mist lightly, then wipe down if needed.
5. Swiss Cheese Vine (Monstera adansonii)
A smaller cousin of the Monstera deliciosa, this vining plant has delicate leaves full of natural holes. While it’s a beauty, those holes make it a little harder to keep clean.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and use a small brush or air duster for fenestrations.
- Rinse lightly, then dry leaves to prevent water spots.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants have thick, waxy leaves that seem smooth, but they actually attract a surprising amount of dust due to their slight stickiness. Over time, this buildup makes the leaves look dull and blocks sunlight.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap.
- Rinse with a clean cloth to remove residue.
- Lightly rinse small plants in the shower.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are known for their lush, dark green leaves, but those slightly ribbed surfaces make them prime dust collectors. Because of their dense foliage, dust also settles in the small spaces between leaves.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or rinse in the shower for heavy dust.
- Avoid leaf shine products to prevent clogged pores.
Whether you go the microfiber route, the paintbrush method, or the occasional shower rinse, keeping your plants dust-free will keep them looking fresh and thriving.
