How to Clean and Maintain Wallpaper for Long-Lasting Beauty

Wallpaper can transform a room with color, pattern, and texture, but proper cleaning and maintenance is essential to preserve its beauty. With the right care techniques, your wallpaper can remain vibrant and intact for many years. This guide covers what you need to know about keeping your wallpaper looking fresh and beautiful.

A sophisticated reading nook with a bold peacock blue accent chair featuring a curved, plush design. The background showcases an elegant blue wallpaper with a delicate gold floral pattern, framed by white molding. A framed landscape painting adds a classic touch, while fresh flowers in glass vases bring a refreshing natural element.

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Understanding Your Wallpaper Type

Before cleaning any wallpaper, identify what type you have, as cleaning methods vary significantly:

  • Vinyl and vinyl-coated wallpaper: This is the most common and durable option, typically washable with mild cleaning solutions.
  • Non-woven wallpaper: Water-resistant and generally easy to clean.
  • Paper wallpaper: Traditional paper wallpaper requires gentle treatment and minimal moisture.
  • Grasscloth, silk, or fabric wallpaper: These delicate materials need special care and often just light dusting.
  • Peel-and-stick wallpaper: Inexpensive peel and stick wallpaper is a modern removable option that is typically wipeable.

Check the manufacturer's instructions if you're unsure about your wallpaper type.

Cleaning Different Wallpaper Types

A serene bedroom with a neutral color palette, highlighted by a soft floral-patterned wallpaper behind the bed. The upholstered headboard and wooden furniture create a warm and inviting space. Indirect lighting above the wallpaper enhances the cozy and modern ambiance of the room.

The following are different ways of cleaning wallpaper:

1. Washable Vinyl Wallpaper

  1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water
  2. Dampen (don't soak) a soft sponge or microfiber cloth
  3. Gently wipe the wallpaper in circular motions
  4. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth
  5. Pat dry with a soft towel

2. Non-Washable Paper Wallpaper

  1. A dry cleaning sponge from a hardware store.
  2. Rub gently in one direction
  3. Avoid water or liquid cleaners
  4. If you have stubborn marks, then try a small amount of white bread kneaded into a ball and gently rubbed on the spot.

3. Textured or Specialty Wallpaper

  1. Use a soft brush attachment to start in a vacuum.
  2. First, test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area.
  3. Dry cleaning is the only cleaning method to use for grasscloth or natural fibers.
  4. For fabric wallpapers, if organic stains are too big, you can get professional cleaning

Routine Maintenance

Regular light cleaning prevents dirt buildup and extends wallpaper life:

  1. Dust regularly: Use a soft microfiber cloth, clean dust mop, or vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction. Work from top to bottom to prevent dirt from settling on clean areas.
  2. Act quickly on stains: The faster you address marks or spills, the more likely you'll remove them completely without damage.
  3. Maintain proper indoor humidity: Excessive moisture can loosen adhesives and encourage mold growth behind wallpaper. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas if needed.

Tackling Common Stains

A vibrant and whimsical wallpaper featuring a detailed botanical and fauna-inspired print. The mix of pink, blue, green, and beige tones showcases intricate floral and bird illustrations, bringing a lively and artistic feel to the space.

The give section contains some stains and their solutions:

Greasy Marks

  1. Put cornstarch on a small part of the stain
  2. Place it in some oil for a few hours so it can absorb the oil.
  3. Gently brush it away and clean as directed by the type of wallpaper

Crayon or Marker

  1. A melamine cleaning sponge (such as Magic Eraser) barely dampened works well for washable wallpaper.
  2. Do it in an inconspicuous area first
  3. Try a dry cleaning sponge or art gum eraser for non-washable paper.

Mold or Mildew

  1. Put equal parts water and white vinegar together.
  2. Use sparingly on washable wallpaper with a soft cloth and dry thoroughly
  3. Recurrence is prevented by addressing the source of moisture.

Bottom Line

A close-up of a luxurious grey wallpaper with golden floral and vine-like patterns. The intricate design and subtle metallic accents create an elegant and timeless look, perfect for classic or modern interiors.

The fact of the matter is that fleur de lis wallpaper , like every other wallpaper, often gets dirty. Therefore, you need to clean it properly to avoid any permanent damage. For this, you need to understand the wallpaper type. If you have vinyl-based papers, you need to use some cleaning solutions. For non-woven wallpapers, it is recommended to scrub while applying soap. Similarly, paper wallpapers require gentle rubbing.

Try to use only a few drops of soap-water, or bleach. It is best to take the help of an expert to avoid any issues or mishandling. During routine handling, you also need to be careful with dust and act quickly on stains to remove them without any big changes.

closing signature with Photo of Mary Beth Your Homemaking Coach with a Floral Theme

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