How to Fluff Pampas Grass

Getting the most out of your dried stems — naturally and without fuss.

Pampas grass is one of those rare things that improves with age, if you know how to look after it. Fresh from the box, though, the plumes can arrive looking a little flat and deflated, pressed close together from packaging and delivery. It's a common first impression that doesn't reflect how the stem will actually look once it settles in.

The good news is that getting pampas to open up is straightforward. You don't need any special tools, and it takes less time than you'd expect.

Method one: the hair dryer

This is the quickest way to revive a flat plume. Hold a hair dryer about 15–20cm from the stem and work on a low to medium heat setting, moving steadily up and down the length of the plume. As the warm air reaches the fibres, they'll start to separate and lift.

While you're drying, use your fingers to gently coax the plume open, working from the base of the head upward. Don't rush it. Give each section a moment to respond before moving on, and check your progress as you go.

Tip: Keep the heat moving rather than holding it in one place. Too much direct heat concentrated on a single spot can cause the fibres to shed.

Once you're happy with the shape, give the stem a gentle shake to loosen any remaining fibres and let it cool for a few minutes before placing it.

Method two: sunlight

If you're not in a hurry, sunlight is the most effortless option. Place your pampas stems in a dry spot with good natural light, near a window works well, or outside on a warm day, and leave them for a couple of hours. The natural warmth encourages the plume to open gradually and evenly.

This method takes longer, but the result tends to feel a little more organic. The plume opens at its own pace rather than being coaxed, which can give it a softer, more relaxed shape.

Tip: Avoid leaving stems in direct sun for extended periods. A few hours is enough. Prolonged exposure can cause the plumes to dry out further and become brittle over time.

A few things worth knowing

Once your pampas is fluffed, keep it away from humidity and moisture. Bathrooms and kitchens with poor ventilation aren't ideal. Dry, airy spaces help it hold its shape and slow down natural shedding.

A light mist of hairspray can also help to set the plume and reduce loose fibres, particularly if your stems will be in a high traffic area. Hold it at arm's length and apply sparingly, you're sealing, not coating.