How Often to Clean Wallpaper
Wallpaper should be dusted at least every two months—monthly if you live in a high-dust area. Smudges and grease splatters should be cleaned away immediately and mildew treated as soon as it is evident.
Before You Begin
Before you move beyond dusting, it is essential to know what type of wallpaper you have in your home so you can avoid damage from cleaning methods and products.
Vinyl
Vinyl wallpaper and vinyl-coated fabric and papers are some of the most durable and easiest to clean. Resistant to water damage and most cleaning products, these are often found in bathrooms and kitchens.
Fiberglass
Ultra-durable, flame-resistant, and fade-resistant, fiberglass wallpaper is often found in commercial settings. It will hold up well to scrubbing and repeated exposure to moisture.
Nonwoven
Part of the latest trend in wallpapers, nonwoven papers are a blend of synthetic and natural fibers similar in production to coffee filters. While they are tear-resistant and allow walls to breathe, they are non-washable and stains are extremely difficult to remove.
Traditional, Foil, and Flocked Paper
Made of cellulose fibers, traditional wallpaper can be single or double-layered. It is affordable and readily available but it tears easily and will not stand up well to moisture or most cleaning products. Foil and flocked papers have cellulose foundations with a thin layer of metallic foil or a velvet-like fiber applied to the paper.
Natural Grasses and Bamboo
Made from natural components like jute, sisal, hemp or reeds, grasscloth is woven and highly textured. Bamboo wallpaper is handcrafted from natural bamboo that is glued to a paper backing. Neither will stand up to water or traditional cleaning products.
What You Need
Supplies
Dishwashing liquidWaterCornstarch (optional)Plastic wrap (optional)Distilled white vinegar (optional)Paper towels (optional)Chlorine bleach (optional)Cotton swabs (optional)
Tools
Long-handled microfiber duster or vacuum with an upholstery attachmentBucketSpongeMicrofiber clothGum eraser (optional)Dull-edged knifeIron (optional)
Instructions
For grease stains on vinyl or fiberglass wallpaper, mix one-half cup of distilled white vinegar with one cup of warm water. Dip a sponge in this solution and apply it to the stained area. Towel dry and repeat if needed.
