How To Clean Wallpaper

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Tips For Cleaning Wallpaper

The designer's dream, wallpaper now comes in a plethora of "duplexes" - fabrics, acrylic & vinyl, colors, and patterns! "Duplex" wallpaper doesn't mean it's only used in duplex houses! "Duplex" (meaning "two") actually refers to materials used in the manufacture such as a vinyl coating, or fabric, over paper backing. The vinyl or fabric is actually bonded to paper by using a heat treatment method or with a contact agent.

Vinyl coated wallpaper

Vinyl coated wallpaper (vinyl bonded to wallpaper) has an acrylic or vinyl coating over the surface. It's pretty resistant to stains of grease and moisture and more tolerant of cleaning. It accepts light scrubbing but never use an abrasive cleanser, rough surfaced sponge, or pumice on your wallpaper. While suitable for most any area, it is commonly used in children's areas, the kitchen, bathrooms or the laundry room.

Coated fabric wallpaper

This duplex wallpaper is fabric bonded to paper and is very popular with interior designers. It may also have a vinyl or acrylic coated surface and is often expensive but more prone to moisture and staining. Generally, it is quite durable but should not be used in the bathroom, kitchen, or areas when children are likely to be at work with markers!

Solid vinyl wallpaper

Solid vinyl wallpaper is just what the name implies. It's really great for playrooms, pet areas, laundry rooms and mudrooms but can be used anywhere since it resists water, grease and other stains. It can be washed and scrubbed, just avoid an abrasive cleaner that might wear holes or cause tearing.

Plain paper wallpaper

Plain wallpaper can be the most beautiful with subtly embossed modern or Victorian designs and a full palette of colors. It is also the most delicate. Some come with a light protective covering, but check with the manufacturer to be sure. It is prone to moisture stains and can be destroyed by the artistic child!

Wallpaper Care

Most manufacturers provide in-depth instructions on how to clean their product. It depends completely on the type of materials it is made of . Always follow the manufacturer's instructions first! However, if none are available, most home improvement stores carry a line of cleaners to choose from (Absorene® claims to be the original "dry cleaner" - we haven't tried it). If you prefer to "do it yourself," we have some suggestions that might help. The first thing to remember is to always test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area!

Follow these steps when cleaning washable wall coverings:

1. Washable wallpaper can be washed infrequently with warm water, soap and a soft sponge.
2. Dust first!
3. Always start from the bottom of the wall and work up.
4. Using a light touch, sponge with a mild detergent in warm water.
5. DO NOT USE ABRASIVE MATERIALS!
6. DO NOT USE ABRASIVE CLEANERS!
7. DO NOT USE PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN BLEACH!
8. Rinse thoroughly with a clean sponge, dipped in clean warm water
9. Always wipe with the seams (usually up and down)
10. Dry with a soft, absorbent lint-free cloth.
11. For wallpaper that is not washable or delicate, you should clean your wallpaper with a dry cleaning sponge or a dry cleaning eraser.
12. Specific cleaning instructions, including durability and stain-resistance are included on every roll of wall covering and should always be read

Scrub able Wallpaper

Waterproof and stain-resistant wallpaper, such as vinyl or acrylics, can be washed with warm water, a mild soap, and wiping with a cotton cloth or a soft sponge. Never use abrasive materials on any wallpaper!

How To Clean Wallpaper

It's usually a major job to clean wallpaper. Don't risk ruining your beautiful wall! Always check with the manufacturer first for instructions on the proper care of wall paper. Dusting is easy. Beginning at the top, use an extended duster (a Swiffer® duster is great for this) or an electrostatic dry dust cloth, and wipe down, left to right. Then spot clean by wiping off fingerprints and smudges around light switches with a damp cloth. Splash marks can be avoided while you're washing baseboards or woodwork by masking wallpaper with a wide ruler, a Venetian blind-slat or a piece of rigid plastic. Avoid masking tape with sticky backing as that can damage your wallpaper.

Cleaning wall paper is not necessarily as easy as falling off a log and there are no fail-safe guarantees for doing it yourself. We appreciate your feedback on any of the methods or products mentioned here. Please go to our Cleaning Forum and let us know!