Wallpaper Installation is one of the most amazing ways to improve your interior wall décor. It can have elegant textures, floral patterns, geometric designs, or luxury finishes; having these wallpapers will add character to your walls that a paint job won’t do. But with time, the wallpaper is bound to collect those nasty stains, fingerprint marks, dirt, and dust in homes, offices, and commercial areas. So, how to clean wallpaper safely without damaging its color? Today, we bring a detailed guide for this.

Why Wallpaper Needs Regular Cleaning?

Wallpaper surfaces will attract dust, pet hair, grease, fingerprints, smoke particles, and moisture stains. If you don’t do regular maintenance, it might start to become less bright, develop stains, look dull, and accumulate allergens.

Clean Wallpaper Safely Without Damaging Color

Clean Wallpaper Safely Without Damaging Color

Here is a guide on how to properly clean your wallpaper without damaging its color.

1. Identify the Wallpaper Type

Not all wallpapers are made to be cleaned the same. You need to first know the type of wallpaper.

(i). Vinyl Wallpaper: A vinyl wallpaper is the easiest to clean because it is water-resistant and durable. This makes it best for use in the kitchen, bathroom, and family rooms.

(ii). Fabric Wallpaper: These will require careful handling as they absorb more moisture and must be either dry cleaned or a simple dusting.

(iii). Textured Wallpaper: Textured wallpaper is going to have dust trapped within the patterns and grooves. You need to do light brushing or gentle vacuuming.

(iv). Paper Wallpaper: A traditional paper wallpaper is much more sensitive to water and those harsh cleaning products. An excess of moisture can cause it to peel or fade.

2. Start With Dust Removal

Before you use any cleaning solution, you need to remove the loose dust first. The ideal removal method will include a microfiber cloth, a feather duster, and a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. You need to clean the wallpaper from top to bottom and do it without pressure. This will prevent the dust from scratching the surface of your wallpaper.

3. Test Cleaning Methods First

Before you clean the entirety of the wallpaper, you need to first test the cleaning agent on a small, hidden corner of it. Let the cleaning agent dry a bit and check for texture change and color fading.

4. Use Mild Cleaning Solutions Only

Strong cleaning chemicals are going to ruin your wallpaper color and its texture. It’s best to make a safe cleaning solution at home by mixing warm water with a small amount of dishwashing soap. Never use bleach, harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners, or alcohol based chemicals.

How to Clean Washable Wallpaper Safely?

Washable wallpaper is a great option for places that see frequent activity, they are easier to clean. You need to dip a soft sponge or a cloth in a mild, soapy water. Wring that foam or cloth thoroughly until it’s only damp, and now wipe the area in circular motions. Do not soak the wallpaper, and it’s best to dry it quickly with a clean cloth.

How to Clean Non-Washable Wallpaper?

A non-washable wallpaper will require extra care. The best way is to dry sponge cleaning or soft microfiber wiping. You can also make use of wallpaper dough cleaning products. It’s best to not use water directly on the paper wallpaper, fabric wallpaper, or handmade wallpaper. Dry cleaning will reduce the risk of discoloration and peeling.

(i). Fingerprints & Smudges

You need to use the slightly damp microfiber cloth in a gentle circular wiping motion; don’t do any aggressive scrubbing.

(ii). Grease Stains

For the wallpaper in the dining and kitchen areas, you need to use a mild soap solution. The right way is to do botting instead of harsh rubbing, as it will remove the color.

(iii). Pencil Marks & Crayons

You can use the white eraser gently or a dry cleaning sponge, but never any rough scrubber.

(iv). Mold or Mildew Spots

Mix small amounts of water and vinegar to use carefully on your washable wallpaper only. Immediately dry the area, and if there is an issue of mold, you must get a professional treatment.

Common Wallpaper Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few mistakes that you need to avoid in order to get a proper cleaning for the wallpaper. These mistakes will include;

  • Use of too much water
  • Scrubbing too aggressively
  • Applying strong chemicals
  • Ignoring the wallpaper type
  • Skipping the spot testing
  • Using the colored cleaning cloths that might bleed dye

Final Thoughts

Wallpapers are an impressive way to add beauty, elegance, and personality to your interiors. However, maintaining their appearance will require much care. Cleaning wallpaper safely without damaging the color is about using gentle techniques, right cleaning methods, and avoiding any excessive moisture or harsh cleaning chemicals. When you understand the wallpaper type and know the right way for how to clean wallpaper safely without damaging its color; you preserve the texture, vibrancy, and durability of your walls.