Wallpapers are at risk of damage as any other textile in your home. Common examples include food stains and crayon marks, and like all soft furnishings, wallpapers require regular attention in order to remain attractive. A thorough wipe-down with a clean cloth will prevent dust and dirt from building up, but there are times when your wallpaper may need more than just surface cleaning.
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A Guide to Cleaning Wallcoverings
It's important to understand how to clean different types of wallpapers, so let's discuss the three main classifications:
1. Scrubbable
Heavy-duty vinyl wallcoverings are ideal for high-traffic areas and can withstand scrubbing to remove dirt.
2. Washable
Coated papers, (light weight vinyl), can be wiped with mild detergent and water. They should not be used in high traffic areas because they will not withstand frequent cleaning, and stains generally cannot be removed without damage.
3. Spongeable
These delicate wall coverings are most often used for decorative effect. To clean them, use a dry sponge or eraser and lightly dampened cloth using minimal water.
Before you begin decorating, we recommend researching which type of wallpaper is best suited to the space. Is it a bathroom that will need to withstand wet conditions? Or a wall in your bedroom where decoration matters more than durability?
Always check the wallcovering's label to ensure you’re using the correct care method. Do not use household cleaners or abrasive materials as this can cause further damage.
TIPS FOR STAINS:
Stains are easier to remove when they are fresh, so you should try to clean them as soon as possible. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to get rid of.
To remove splatters:
- Blot the surface.
- Apply talcum powder to a grease stains (i.e. oil, crayon, lipstick). This will help absorb the spot from the surface of the wallcovering.
Not quite enough to remove it? Holding a piece of brown paper or paper towel and applying a warm iron will further absorb grease marks.
There are several different types of lining fabrics, each with their own ideal applications. The follwing identifies how to choose the right type for your project and interior requirements.
