Spring is nearly upon us, and while we're waiting for the world outside to burst into flower, a vase of vibrant blooms can add a cheerful splash of colour to your home.
If you opt for roses or daffodils, you may not have to worry about pollen stains. But if you can't resist a bunch of tulips or a bouquet of lilies, you may end up with hard-to-remove yellow stains on your carpet or clothes.
Pollen stains can be tough to remove, but the faster you act, the better chance you have of shifting them. Here's what you need to know.
Use sticky tape to remove pollen stains
The worst thing you can do when removing a pollen stain is to push the powder deeper into the fabric. This can be avoided using the sticky tape method: wrap the tape around your fingers sticky-side-out and lightly pat it on the pollen to remove as much of the powder as possible from the affected area.
Alternatively, use your vacuum cleaner's crevice nozzle to gather up the pollen. Whatever you do, don't rub in or wet the pollen.
GHI Tip: You can use the sticky tape method to remove other powdery, delicate things such as spider webs and crumbs from fabric. It's also good for lifting pet hairs from upholstery, soft furnishings or clothes.
Treat stains on washable fabrics
It's possible to remove pollen from your clothes, cushion covers or table cloths, but don't delay!
- For washable cotton or synthetic fabrics, spot-treat any remaining traces of the stain with Dr. Beckmann's Stain Devils Nature and Cosmetics, then either hand wash or machine wash at as high a temperature as the item's care instructions allow.
- For washable silk or wool fabrics, machine-wash at 30°C on the delicates cycle or hand wash with a detergent for delicates and wool.
Spot-treat stains on carpets
After vacuuming or using the sticky-tape method to remove as much pollen as possible from carpets, treat any remaining traces with Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover, following the instructions on the bottle. Remember to dab your carpet rather than scrubbing, and avoid over-wetting it.
Prevention is better than cure!
To avoid getting pollen on clothes, carpets or soft furnishings, remove the pollen-laden stamen of cut flowers such as lilies before you arrange them in a vase.
The National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies advises holding each flower in turn over the sink and pinching out or snipping off the stamen using fine, sharp scissors. Ideally, do this before the pollen reaches its powdery, stain-producing peak!
The best flower vases for your home
Best flower vases for 2022
LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS Kuza Ceramic Amphora Vase, La Redoute, £48
The double-handle on this Kuza Ceramic Vase from La Redoute takes inspiration from the ancient Greek amphora - historically used as a storage jar or painted and given as a prize. Showcase your gifted flowers in this natural coloured vase, perfect for any interior.
Guaranteed to be the Best of M&S, this classic glass Bouquet Vase is fit for purpose and the ideal shape for presenting a large bouquet as a centrepiece in your home. The vase is also available in small and medium sizes.
This Kourtney stoneware vase from Anthropologie is beautifully hand-painted. It's great if your interior is inspired by a mediterranean look.
Best flower vases for 2022
Oliver Bonas Miete Pink Glitter Glass Vase, Oliver Bonas, £34.50
Made from glass, this pale pink vase from Oliver Bonas is adorned with a spot design in gold glitter for a shimmering finish. It is sure to add a pop of colour to the room when placed on the bedroom or kitchen window sill.
Best flower vases for 2022
John Lewis & Partners ANYDAY Honey Vase, John Lewis, £18
This handmade Honey Vase from John Lewis is ideal for your dried flowers. The vase is made from earthenware, has muted blue and grey tones and finished with a glaze to add a soft sheen.
We love how this Stoneware Vase from H&M reflects a growth mindset. It would make a lovely congratulatory gift when paired with a bouquet of flowers, or can simply be used as a statement piece for your home.
Best flower vases for 2022
Graham and Green Retro Glass Vases, Graham and Green, From £35
If you're inclined towards deeper colours, choose between these Retro Glass Vases from Graham and Green which are two-toned and textured to bring warmth to any room. These would make the perfect housewarming gift.
A bunch of peonies would look gorgeous by your kitchen window in this rustic ceramic vase by Dibor. It's leafy print makes it ideal for indoors and outdoors.
Best flower vases for 2022
The White Company Filby Jar Vase, The White Company, £20
Arranging your bouquet in a simple and sophisticated vase can give your flowers the wow factor they deserve. This Filby Jar Vase from The White Company does exactly that. It's the ideal size for placing on your dining or console table.
This beautiful, blue decorative Palm Vase from John Lewis would look great anywhere around the home. It has a wide opening, making it perfect for fitting larger dried flowers. Why not present it as a gift?
Best flower vases for 2022
THE WHITE COMPANY Portobello stoneware jug, Selfridges, £20
Don't underestimate the uses of a jug. A bouquet placed in a jug can bring a cottage feel to your interior and create a relaxed look for your home. A bunch of sunflowers or daffodils would be sure to stand out in this Portobello Stoneware Jug available from Selfridges.
This ancient Greek inspired statement piece is perfect for displaying all year round. It looks great on its own placed on a shelf as well as with a bunch of flowers in the hallway.
Available in four different colours, this impressive vase from MADE is created using 3D printing. It would look great placed on a sideboard or mantel and has a glass insert for fresh or dried flowers.
The blue hues and stylish design of this Zen Round Vase from Dunelm makes it an attractive centrepiece and the perfect addition to any room around the house.
Your pampas grass will look beautiful paired with this uniquely shaped Ceramic Vase from H&M. It is a bestseller at the store with a number of 5-star reviews to back it up.
This super cute 'Bee You' Logo vase from New Look is perfect for your spring flowers. With the bee detailing and honeycomb design, a bunch of tulips are sure to stand out against the off-white vase. It would also make a lovely gift for a close friend or loved one.
This Seletti Love in Bloom Vase would definitely make the perfect gift for a loved one. Designed by Italian designer Marcantonio, the veins and arteries of this heart vase allow you to arrange the buds in place.
Best flower vases for 2022
Lisa Angel Personalised Ceramic Speckled Trophy Vase, Not On The High Street, £22
Make your home decor more personal with this personalised Ceramic Trophy Vase available from Not On The High Street. Mark a memorable occasion or anniversary with a special message and prize your flowers in the best way.
