Even the most conscientious cleaner can overlook wallpaper. It’s easy to manage. We usually don’t think about it until we undertake a spring cleaning or discover that an artistic child has found their first canvas.
Dirt and dust are attracted to wallpaper. As a result, most wallpaper benefits from a once-in-a-while cleaning. Depending on the condition of your wallpaper, cleaning it may include dusting and stain removal. Fortunately, this is not insurmountable. You can restore your walls to their original state with the correct materials, perseverance, and elbow grease.
How to clean wallpaper? Here are expert tips how.
Vinyl and Fiberglass Wallpapers and More!
There are different types of wallpaper available on the market, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Here is a brief overview of the most popular types and how to clean wallpaper:
Vinyl Wallpaper
Vinyl wallpaper is one of the most popular types of wallpaper. It’s durable, easy to clean, and relatively inexpensive. However, it can be difficult to remove and is not always the best choice for areas prone to moisture. Vinyl coated fabric can be cleaned with a damp sponge or microfiber cloth. You just gently rub it or use a wall brush extension to clean vinyl wallpaper.
Foil Wallpaper
Foil wallpaper is made of thin sheets of metal or plastic applied to the wall. It’s important to note that this type of wallpaper is not ideal for areas subject to moisture, as it can rust over time. This is non washable wallpaper and should not be exposed to warm water. When you clean non washable wallpaper, just use paper towels to wipe off grease stains, mildew stains, and dirt.
Fabric Wallpaper
Fabric wallpaper is made of, you guessed it, fabric. It’s a good choice for areas subject to moisture, as it’s more resistant to mould and mildew than other types of wallpaper. However, it can be more expensive than different types of wallpaper and is not onea of the more durable wallpapers.
Paper Wallpaper
Paper wallpaper is the most traditional type of wallpaper. It’s generally less expensive than other types of wallpaper and is easy to install and remove. However, it’s not as durable as other options and is more likely to tear or fade over time.
Now that you know a little more about the different types of wallpaper, you can decide which type is right for your home and how to clean wallpaper properly.
How to Remove Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. You can remove even the most stubborn wallpaper with the right tools and patience.
To remove wallpaper, you’ll need:
- A ladder or step stool
- A putty knife
- A scoring tool
- A sponge or cloth
- Water
- Mild soap (optional)
Instructions
1. Start by scoring the wallpaper. Use a scoring tool to make small holes in the wallpaper. This will help the wallpaper remover penetrate the paper and loosen the adhesive.
2. Once you’ve scored the wallpaper, it’s time to apply the wallpaper remover. There are several commercial products available, or you can make your own. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water to make your wallpaper remover.
3. Apply the wallpaper remover to the scored areas of the wallpaper. Be sure to coat the paper evenly.
4. Allow the wallpaper remover to sit for at least 15 minutes, giving it time to penetrate the paper and loosen the adhesive.
5. After 15 minutes, use a putty knife or scraper to remove the wallpaper. Start at the top and work your way down.
6. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe away any leftover adhesive.
7. Repeat these steps until all the wallpaper has been removed.
8. Once the wallpaper is gone, you may want to wash the walls with a mild soap and water solution to remove any lingering residue.
9. Allow the walls to dry completely before painting or wallpapering.
With a little bit of time and effort, you can remove even the most stubborn wallpaper. Just be sure to take your time and work carefully to avoid damaging the wall.
How to Keep Your Wallpaper Clean
To keep your wallpaper clean, you should:
- Vacuum regularly with the soft brush attachment.
- Wipe down wallpaper with a damp sponge or cloth. Be sure to use gentle pressure and circular motions.
- Remove any spots or stains as soon as possible.
What You’ll Need
To clean your wallpaper, you’ll need:
- A ladder or step stool
- A vacuum with a soft brush attachment
- A sponge or soft cloth
- Mild soap
- Water
- Stain remover (optional)
Cleaning Wallpapers Step By Step
1. Start by dusting your wallpaper.
Use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum to go over the wallpaper. If you don’t have a vacuum with a soft brush attachment, you can use a feather duster. Be sure to dust in gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging the wallpaper.
2. Once you’ve dusted the wallpaper, it’s time to wipe it down.
Dip your sponge or cloth in a mixture of mild soap and water. Wring it out so that it’s damp but not dripping wet. Gently wipe down the wallpaper in circular motions.
3. If you have any spots or grease stains on your wallpaper, treat them now.
You can use a commercial spot and stain remover or make your own. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water to make your spot and stain remover. Apply the mixture to the stain with a sponge or cloth and blot until the stain is gone.
4. Once you’ve finished cleaning the wallpaper, allow it to air dry.
Once dry, vacuum or dust it again to remove any soap residue.
5. Repeat these steps as necessary to keep your wallpaper clean.
For best results, vacuum and dust it once a week and wipe it down with a damp sponge or cloth every other week.
With a little bit of regular maintenance, you can keep your wallpaper looking new. Just be sure to use gentle pressure and circular motions when cleaning to avoid damaging the paper.
The Most Common Mistakes When Cleaning Wallpaper
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning wallpaper is using too much water. Using too much water can cause the wallpaper to swell and loosen from the wall, leading to wrinkles, bubbles, and even tears. To avoid this, be sure to use a damp sponge or cloth and wring it out well before cleaning.
Wrong Cleaning Solution
You should also avoid using cleaners that contain ammonia, as this can also damage the wallpaper.
Using the wrong cleaning solution is another common mistake. Many people think that using vinegar or other harsh chemicals will help remove dirt and stains from wallpaper, but these can damage the wallpaper in reality.
To avoid this, be sure to use a mild soap or detergent and test it in an inconspicuous area before using it on the entire wall.
Cleaning Tools
Another mistake people make when cleaning wallpaper is using the wrong tools. For example, using a rough brush or scrubber can damage the wallpaper and cause it to fade or peel
Instead, opt for a soft sponge or cloth, and use gentle strokes.
Too Much Pressure
Applying too much pressure when cleaning is another mistake that can damage the wallpaper. Be sure to use light pressure and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can cause the wallpaper to fade, peel, or tear.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning wallpaper is a simple process, but it’s essential to do it carefully. Be sure to vacuum and dust regularly, and wipe down the wallpaper with a damp sponge or cloth. If you have any spots or stains, treat them soon.
With a little bit of care, you can keep your wallpaper looking new for years to come.
