How to Clean Wallpaper

Are you tired of staring at dirty, stained, or dusty wallpaper? Feeling stumped on how to clean wallpaper? Do you wish you could bring back the fresh and vibrant look that your walls had when you first hung them up? Maybe you’re about to move out of your rental property and want to ensure that you get your security deposit back. If so, then you’re in luck!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll teach you how to clean wallpaper like a pro, using a variety of methods and techniques that are safe and effective for all types of wallpaper. Whether you have vinyl, fabric, or paper wallpaper, you’ll find everything you need to know to get your walls looking like new again. Grab your cleaning supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the ultimate guide on how to clean wallpaper, DIY style.

How to Clean Wallpaper

The Importance of Regularly Cleaning Your Wallpaper

Generally, high-quality wallpaper that’s properly installed and maintained can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer.

However, factors like high humidity, direct sunlight, and physical damage can all impact the lifespan of wallpaper. In areas with high humidity, wallpaper may begin to peel or discolour, and direct sunlight can cause it to fade over time. 

Fortunately, regularly cleaning your wallpaper can help extend its lifespan by preventing damage and ensuring that it continues to look great for many years. Cleaning your wallpaper offers a variety of benefits, including:

• Maintaining appearance: Over time, dust, dirt, and stains will build up on the surface of your wallpaper, leaving it looking dull and unattractive. However, regular cleaning will prevent this buildup, leaving your wallpaper looking fresh and vibrant.

• Preventing damage: Dirt, dust, and grime can be abrasive and scratch the surface of the wallpaper. If left untreated, stains can become more difficult to remove and may even cause permanent discolouration. By regularly cleaning your wallpaper, you can prevent this type of damage from occurring, and prolong the lifespan of wallpaper.

• Improving indoor air quality: Dust and allergens accumulate on wallpaper, especially in areas with high humidity or where the air is stagnant. When released into the air, these particles can cause issues for those with allergies or respiratory problems. But, with regular wallpaper maintenance, you can remove these particles from the surface and prevent them from circulating in the air.

• Reducing the risk of mould growth: In areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, wallpaper can be susceptible to mould growth. 

Additionally, wallpaper that’s left uncleaned for long periods of time can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. This can cause unpleasant odours and even impact your health. There are several ways to remove mould and other bacteria with household items.

What You Need To Know Before Cleaning Wallpaper

When it comes to cleaning wallpaper, it’s important to determine the type of wallpaper you have in order to select the best cleaning method.

Washable wallpaper is typically made of vinyl or other synthetic materials that can withstand moisture and can be cleaned with water and mild detergents. This type of wallpaper is the easiest to clean and maintain, as it can typically be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge to remove dirt and stains.

On the other hand, non-washable wallpaper is made of more delicate materials such as natural fibres or may have a special finish that can be damaged by water or cleaning agents. Instead, dry cleaning methods like using a soft brush, microfibre cloth, wallpaper dough, or a vacuum may be more appropriate.

If you’re uncertain whether your wallpaper is washable, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to avoid damaging your wallpaper.

How to Clean Washable Wallpaper

Cleaning washable wallpaper is a relatively simple process that can be done using a variety of methods. Here are some DIY methods you can use to clean your washable wallpaper:

1. Soap and Water Method

This method is ideal for removing light dirt and dust from your wallpaper.

Materials needed:

• Warm water
• Mild detergent or soap
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Clean water
• Microfibre cloth 

Steps:

1. Mix a few drops of mild detergent or soap with warm water in a bowl.
2. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water and wring out any excess water.
3. Gently wipe the wallpaper with the sponge or cloth in a circular motion.
4. Rinse the sponge or cloth with clean water and wipe the wallpaper again to remove any soap residue.
5. Wipe the wallpaper down with a microfibre cloth to remove any lint.
6. Allow the wallpaper to air dry.

2. Steaming Method

This method is ideal for removing deep-seated dirt and grime from your wallpaper.

Materials needed:

• Wallpaper steamer
• Clean cloth

Steps:

1. Fill the wallpaper steamer with water and allow it to heat up according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Hold the steamer close to the wallpaper for a few seconds to loosen the dirt and grime.
3. Use a clean cloth to wipe the dirt and grime away.
4. Move on to the next section and repeat the process until the entire wallpaper is cleaned.
5. Allow the wallpaper to air dry.

How to Clean Non-Washable Wallpaper

Non-washable wallpaper requires a gentler cleaning approach than washable wallpaper to prevent damage to the surface. Here are some effective methods:

1. Dry Cleaning with a Wallpaper Brush Method

This method is most appropriate for non-textured, delicate wallpapers that cannot withstand water or other cleaning solutions. 

Materials needed: 

• Soft-bristled wallpaper brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment

Steps: 

1. Begin by removing any loose dirt or debris from the wallpaper surface using a soft-bristled wallpaper brush. Gently brush in a circular motion, starting from the top of the wallpaper and working your way down.
2. After you have removed any loose dirt or debris, use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth to gently wipe the wallpaper surface. Again, start from the top and work your way down in a gentle, circular motion.
3. If there are any hard-to-reach areas or corners, use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove any dust or dirt.

2. Wallpaper Dough Method

This method is most appropriate for cleaning delicate and textured non-washable wallpapers. It’s also a good option for removing stubborn stains and dirt that can’t be removed with other dry cleaning methods alone.

Play-Doh, a popular modelling clay for kids, actually had its origins as a wallpaper cleaner in the 1930s. Although Play-Doh is no longer recommended for cleaning wallpaper, you can make your own wallpaper dough at home with a few simple ingredients. 

Materials:

• 1 cup of cornstarch
• 1 cup of water
• A few drops of dish soap

Steps:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, mix together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and forms a dough-like consistency. This should take around 5-10 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dough cool for a few minutes.
4. Add a few drops of dish soap to the dough and knead it until it’s well incorporated.
5. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
6. Take one portion of the dough and roll it gently over the surface of the wallpaper. The dough will pick up any dirt or grime on the wallpaper. If the dough becomes too dirty, discard it and use a fresh portion.
7. Repeat the process until you’ve cleaned the entire surface of the wallpaper.
8. Once you’ve finished cleaning, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining residue.

How to Remove Grease and Stains from Wallpaper

Grease stains on wallpaper can be stubborn and difficult to remove, but with the right technique, you can get rid of them without damaging the wallpaper. Here’s how to remove grease from wallpaper:

1. Baking Soda and Water Method:

This method is ideal for removing tough stains and grease from washable wallpaper.

Materials needed:

• Baking soda
• Warm water
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Clean water

Steps:

1. Mix baking soda and warm water to make a paste.
2. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the baking soda paste and wring out any excess water.
3. Gently scrub the wallpaper with the sponge or cloth in a circular motion.
4. Rinse the sponge or cloth with clean water and wipe the wallpaper again to remove any baking soda residue.
5. Allow the wallpaper to air dry.

2. White Bread and Rubbing Alcohol Method:

This method is appropriate for removing grease from non-washable wallpaper. 

Materials:

• White bread
• Rubbing alcohol
• Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Cut off the crusts of a slice of white bread and roll it into a ball.
2. Use the bread to gently blot the grease stain on the wallpaper. The bread will absorb the grease without damaging the wallpaper.
3. If the grease stain is still visible, dampen a clean cloth or sponge with rubbing alcohol.
4. Blot the grease stain with a cloth or sponge, being careful not to rub too hard.
5. Let the area dry comple

3. Vinegar and Water Method:

This method is ideal for removing stains and mildew from washable wallpaper.

Materials needed:

• White vinegar
• Warm water
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Clean water

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a bowl.
2. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the vinegar solution and wring out any excess water.
3. Gently wipe the wallpaper with the sponge or cloth in a circular motion.
4. Rinse the sponge or cloth with clean water and wipe the wallpaper again to remove any vinegar residue.
5. Allow the wallpaper to air dry.

How to Clean Crayon from Wallpaper

If your little ones have gotten creative with crayons on your wallpaper, don’t worry – there are several methods you can use to remove the marks and restore your walls to their former glory.

Materials:

• A clean cloth or sponge
• Baking soda
• Warm water
• A plastic scraper or a credit card

Steps: 

1. Scrape off excess crayon with a plastic scraper or credit card.
2. Dampen a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol or vinegar.
3. Gently rub the affected area with a damp cloth.
4. If the crayon does not come off, try using a magic eraser sponge. Dampen the sponge with water and gently rub the affected area.
5. Once the crayon has been removed, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the area and remove any remaining residue.

How to Remove Mould from Wallpaper

Mould on wallpaper is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard. If left untreated, it can spread and cause respiratory problems. Here’s how to remove mould from your wallpaper:

Materials:

• Rubber gloves
• Dust mask
• Sponge
• Bucket of warm water
• White vinegar or bleach
• Soft bristled brush
• Clean cloth
• Fan or open window for ventilation

Steps:

1. Put on rubber gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself from mould spores.
2. Mix one part white vinegar or bleach with four parts warm water in a bucket.
3. Dip the sponge in the mixture and wring it out well.
4. Starting at the top of the affected area, gently scrub the wallpaper with the sponge, working your way downwards.
5. Allow the vinegar or bleach solution to sit on the wallpaper for 10-15 minutes.
6. Rinse the sponge in clean water and use it to wipe away the vinegar or bleach solution.
7. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub any remaining mould stains.
8. Rinse the sponge again in clean water and wipe away any remaining vinegar or bleach solution.
9. Use a clean cloth to pat the wallpaper dry.
10. Turn on a fan or open a window to aid in drying and ventilation.
11. If the mould is extensive or has spread to the wall behind the wallpaper, it may be necessary to call in a professional for remediation.

Conclusion 

Note: Before using any of these methods, it is recommended that you test a small, inconspicuous area of the wallpaper to ensure that it does not cause any damage. Additionally, avoid using abrasive materials, such as steel wool or abrasive sponges, as they can scratch and damage the surface of the wallpaper.

Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you can relax and unwind after a long day. But if your wallpaper is dirty and dingy, it can ruin the peaceful ambience you’ve worked so hard to create. That’s why it’s important to know how to clean your wallpaper properly.

By following the tips and methods we’ve outlined, you can keep your wallpaper looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. 

Don’t have the time or energy to tackle the job yourself? Consider reaching out to a professional wallpaper cleaning service. At Simply Spotless, our professional and experienced team will take care of all your wallpaper cleaning needs. Say goodbye to dirt, grime, and stains, and hello to a beautiful, clean space. Book our wallpaper cleaning service today.