FAQs About Silk Flowers

Silk flowers are popular for their enduring color and low-maintenance care. That said, getting the most from your silk flowers still takes some work. Read some of the most frequently asked questions about silk flowers to get an idea of how these flowers are best maintained.

Q: How long does it take a silk flower to lose its color?

A: While silk flowers never wilt, they can fade. Silk flowers are especially susceptible to sun and heat, so leaving an arrangement in a window or outside in the summer only speeds up the normal fading process. If you do not protect your silk flowers, they can fade noticeably in a matter of weeks. On the other hand, these flowers can stay vibrant for years if protected from the heat and sun.

Q: Do silk flowers smell?

A: Some silk flowers do come scented. Another alternative is to spray your flowers with your favorite floral-themed perfume. Alternately, unscented silk flowers may pick up aromas around your home, especially if they are positioned in or near your kitchen. Dusting, cleaning or even Febreezing your flowers is often a good way to ensure that they do not absorb or give off an unwelcome smell.

Q: Can you wash silk flowers?

A: Silk does not wash well, and screen-printed silk (which is how the color is applied to most silk flowers) is likely to bleed if washed or gets wet. Your best option for cleaning silk flowers is to place them petals down in a bag with some salt in the bottom, and shake the bag for a couple minutes. The salt gently works away any dust that has gathered on your arrangement.