Wallpaper is often displayed on a wall for years, which means that it attracts a lot of dirt and dust. While most wallpaper can withstand occasional cleanings, you need to be gentle to avoid tearing the paper. Consider these tips on how to clean wallpaper, and ensure that the surface gets clean without being damaged.
1. Vacuuming
The best thing you can do to keep the wallpaper in most rooms looking pristine is by vacuuming it. Start at the top of the wall and work your way down, doing a couple of panels at a time. A cloth on a long-handled sweeper or on the end of broom will also work on flat, non-textured wall coverings.
2. Testing
This is an important step which helps you determine whether your wallpaper is washable or not. Squirt a little dishwashing liquid in water and dab some on the wall, and if your wallpaper darkens or absorbs water or if the colours run, it is not suitable to be washed.
3. Wallpaper Dough
For wallpapers which aren’t washable, use wallpaper dough, sold at paint stores and home centers. Take a handful of dough, roll it into a ball, and then roll it across the wallpaper or wall coverings to lift the dirt. When the dough gets dirty, knead the dirt into the center of the ball to expose a fresh surface.
4. Washing
If your wallpaper is washable, carefully wipe down the wallpaper to remove smudges and areas of heavy dirt before they stain. Use water and a soft sponge and wipe the walls with gentle pressure. When washing the seam areas, wipe straight down to avoid catching one side of the seam on your sponge and causing it to peel.
Every month or so, vacuum wallpaper walls using the soft-brush attachment so that you may never need to wash them.